On Thursday, May 26, 2022, the Western Prelacy celebrated the Feast of the Ascension. On this occasion, H.G. Bishop Torkom Donoyan, Prelate, presided over the Divine Liturgy at St. Mary’s Armenian Church in Glendale, accompanied by the Western Prelacy clergy. Very Rev. Fr. Smpad Sabounjian, pastor of St. Gregory the Illuminator Church in San Francisco celebrated the Divine Liturgy. During his sermon, he greeted the Prelate, and reflected upon the Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ, saying; “Today’s feast opens the doors of heaven in the lives of our faithful, giving us the chance for eternal life in God’s kingdom.
Following the Divine Liturgy, Bishop Donoyan presided over the Ascension luncheon, which was organized by the Western Prelacy Ladies Auxiliary, held at “Brandview” Banquet hall in Glendale. The sponsor of the luncheon was Mrs. Zarouhi Kurkjian. Accompanying the prelate were members of the clergy, Executive Council member Mrs. Dzovig Zetlian, ladies guild members, ARS Regional Council representatives and benefactors.
The luncheon was moderated by Mrs. Sosi Geokgeozian, and the opening remarks were made by Mrs. Maral Kelejian, who explained the special traditions affiliated with the Feast of Ascension and thanked the participants for their continuous support towards the Western Prelacy.
The celebration included an artistic program which was delivered by 5th grade students from Vahan and Anoush Chamlian Armenian School, who organized a special game in accordance to traditions of the Feast.
At the end of the ceremony, Bishop Donoyan presented copies of the Bible to the students, then addressed the faithful by reflecting upon the spiritual and national meaning of the Feast. Following his remarks, the Prelate honored Mrs. Kurkdjian – the sponsor of the luncheon – with a souvenir. The Prelate also highly commended the efforts of the Ladies Auxiliary in organizing the luncheon and applauded the encouraging presence of the guests.
The luncheon continued with traditional Armenian songs performed by Hovhannes Balyan.
Encouraged by the joyous atmosphere, Mrs. Nver Samuelian expressed readiness to host next year’s Ascension luncheon.
