On Saturday, October 5, 2024, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, presided over a fundraising dinner dedicated to the 61st anniversary of the founding of Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church of Encino. The fundraising dinner took place at the “Khatoun Sarian” courtyard of Holy Martyr Armenian Apostolic Church and was generously sponsored by community benefactors Dr. and Mrs. Mike and Evelina Sarian. Among those in attendance at the dinner were Archpriest Fr. Razmig Khatchadourian, Pastor of Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church, Mr. Vahe Hovaguimian, Chairman of the Executive Council of the Western Prelacy, and his wife Mrs. Hasmig Hovaguimian, church delegates, former and current Board of Trustee members, as well as representatives of the local organizations and bodies. The fundraising dinner also welcomed the widespread community of Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church, the administration and School Board members of Holy Martyrs Ferrahian Armenian School, as well as generous benefactors, friends, and guests. Over 130 guests were present at the fundraising dinner.
In his opening remarks, Archpriest Fr. Razmig Khatchadourian extended a warm welcome to the attendees and highlighted the longstanding history of service of the Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church, which has been ongoing for 61 years since its establishment. Fr. Razmig Khatchadourian emphasized that the dedicated initial founders, in conjunction with the church’s leaders and benefactors, not only upheld the sacred mission of the church but also ensured its growth and prominence within the Armenian community of the San Fernando Valley. Fr. Khatchadourian noted that just one year following the establishment of the Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church, Holy Martyrs Ferrahian Armenian School was founded through collective effort and the vision of Mateos Ferrahian, which will mark its 60th anniversary next year. In closing, Fr. Razmig Khatchadourian commended the dedication and tireless work of past generations in cultivating and enriching the Armenian community in the region, inviting H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian to bestow his fatherly blessings.
During his address, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian underscored the significance of anniversaries as the years pass, noting the accumulation of another year to celebrate the church’s anniversary. H.E. Archbishop Khacherian emphasized that for 61 years, the Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church has remained strong and prosperous, a vibrant center of Armenian identity within the community, exemplified through its cohesive community, educational institutions, and population. The Prelate shared that Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church continues to embody the essence of Armenianness in the community, serving not only as a spiritual and national presence but also as a multifaceted entity that continues to grow in scope each year. With its spiritual, humanitarian, and cultural mission, the church shines a light on the Armenian national identity and heritage, providing new generations of Armenians with a nurturing environment to embrace their cultural heritage and a steadfast sanctuary to preserve their national identity.
On this occasion, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian commended the dedicated individuals of the Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church, as well as the esteemed Mrs. Khatoun Sarian and her son, Dr. Mike Sarian, alongside his wife Mrs. Evelina Sarian, for their support and generous financial assistance towards the initiatives of the Western Prelacy of the United States and the prosperity of the Armenian community in the San Fernando Valley.
H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian’s remarks were subsequently followed by messages from Mr. Hovig Bedevian, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church, and benefactor Dr. Mike Sarian. During his message, Dr. Sarian graciously expressed his willingness to sponsor the celebration of the 62nd anniversary of the Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church.
Dr. Mike and Evelina Sarian, esteemed benefactors, were joined by H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian and Archpriest Fr. Razmig Khatchadourian for a cake-cutting ceremony celebrating the 61st anniversary of Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church. The Board of Trustees expressed their appreciation by presenting Dr. Mike Sarian with a special keepsake as a gesture of appreciation.
The evening concluded with a cultural program, during which a fundraiser was held.
