Although a visit to St. Sarkis Church in Pasadena was not included in His Holiness Catholicos Aram I’s busy pontifical itinerary, responding to the heartfelt wish of the faithful, His Holiness visited the parish, which he had consecrated nearly twenty years ago.
Following the Canonical Prayer, His Eminence Archbishop Kegham Khatcherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, conveyed words of welcome on behalf of the local Armenian community. He noted that the visit of His Holiness brought great joy, spiritual inspiration, and enthusiasm to the faithful of the Western Prelacy, and especially to the Armenians of Pasadena. He added that the parishioners of the region express their deep gratitude for this blessed visit.
Addressing the faithful, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I expressed his happiness at returning to St. Sarkis Church after two decades. On this occasion, he encouraged the Pasadena Armenian community to remain actively engaged in the life of the church and the broader community.
Following the church service, a luncheon was held in honor of His Holiness in the church hall. Present at the event were the church benefactors, Mr. and Mrs. Sarkis and Susan Kitsinian. During the luncheon, their daughter, Ms. Vana Kitsinian, offered remarks highlighting His Holiness’s active role in ecumenical relations. Notably, Ms. V. Kitsinian, representing the Holy See of Cilicia, has participated in various ecumenical gatherings in different countries.
