On Sunday, March 24, 2024, in observance of Palm Sunday, all Prelacy Armenian Churches celebrated the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem. The churches were beautifully adorned with tall olive branches and vibrant flowers. A significant number of worshippers congregated within Prelacy Churches, to offer praise to Almighty God for all the blessings received and to collectively pray for the salvation of Jesus Christ.
On the occasion of Palm Sunday, H.E. Archbishop Torkom Donoyan, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, celebrated Divine Liturgy and delivered a sermon at Holy Martyrs Armenian Church in Encino. During his sermon, H.E. Archbishop Donoyan praised the Son of God’s entrance into Jerusalem amid the fervor of the gathered crowd and their jubilant cries of “hosanna,” in the presence of olive branches, and vibrant spring flowers. H.E. Archbishop Donoyan reflected that amongst these jubilant cries, Jesus Christ heard the pleas of the two blind men calling “Jesus, Jesus, have mercy on us.” Jesus Christ having heard the pleas of the two blind men responded to their suffering, by restoring their eyesight. Drawing from this biblical account, the Prelate urged worshipers to open their hearts and souls, in order to behold Jesus Christ, who invites all toward eternal life. He emphasized the importance of repentance, renouncing worldly pleasures, turning towards the divine, and spreading love, respect, kindness, and forgiveness toward others in our communities and globally.
Archpriest Fr. Razmig Khatchadourian, Pastor of Holy Martyrs Armenian church, alongside deacons and scribes assisted at the altar. The Divine Liturgy was graced by the presence of H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, as well as members of the Executive Council, Central Executive, ARF Gomideh, various local organizations, generous benefactors, community members, relatives, distinguished guests, and dedicated parishioners.
After the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, Archpriest Fr. Khatchadourian performed the Opening of the portal (Terenpatsek) ceremony, urging those present to open the doors of their hearts to Jesus Christ and to embrace Him as the only true guide in both their earthly and spiritual journey.
