On Thursday, October 30, 2025, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I presided over the consecration of the altar of the Church of the Holy Archangels in La Crescenta.
The Church of the Holy Archangels, acquired by the Armenian community of La Crescenta several years ago, has undergone extensive renovation and restoration thanks to the generosity of Mr. and Mrs. Varant and Houri Melkonian. Although renovations to the church building are ongoing, His Holiness conducted the consecration of the holy altar to enable the celebration of the Divine Liturgy.
Upon arrival, His Holiness was warmly greeted by the La Crescenta Armenian community with the hymn “Hrashapar.” Following the Canonical Prayer, the traditional rite of washing the holy altar with water and wine was performed by the priests. His Holiness then consecrated the top and front of the altar, while Archbishops Kegham, Moushegh, and Torkom, and Bishop Dajad, consecrated the right and left sections.
After the ceremony, Archbishop Kegham Khatcherian, Prelate of the Western Armenian Diocese, addressed the congregation, expressing deep spiritual joy and gratitude. Archbishop Kegham extended heartfelt thanks to the benefactors Varant and Houri Melkonian for their unwavering generosity and commitment to the Armenian Church and nation.
In his pontifical message, His Holiness Aram I commended the benefactors for their devotion, stating: “To build a church is to build the house of God, a place where our people can worship, pray, and experience God’s presence.” He also highlighted the Melkonian family’s ongoing philanthropic contributions to the Western Diocese and extended his blessings for their health and spiritual fulfillment.
After the ceremony, the Melkonian family graciously hosted a banquet in honor of His Holiness, joined by the clergy and the attendees.
