– “HAPPINESS IS ENHANCED BY ACTS OF GENEROSITY AND GIVING”
STATED THE PRELATE
– TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS ALLOCATED TO ANTELIAS SEMINARY
– TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS
ALLOCATED TO THE UNITED ARMENIAN SCHOOL OF LEBANON
– TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS
ALLOCATED TO KAREN JEPPE COLLEGE OF ALEPPO
On Thursday, December 7, 2023, at 11 a.m., under the auspices of H.G. Bishop Torkom Donoyan, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, the Ladies Auxiliary of the Western Prelacy held its annual New Year and Christmas Luncheon-Boutique at Anoush Restaurant in Glendale. The New Year and Christmas Luncheon-Boutique was attended by approximately 200 guests, and hosted by Mrs. Adrine Der Haroutyunian and Mrs. Hermine Der Haroutyunian. Also present at the luncheon-boutique were Archpriest Fr. Ardag Demirjian, Archpriest Fr. Razmig Khatchadourian, Executive Council member Mrs. Dzovig Zetlian, family members of the luncheon-boutique hosts, benefactors, volunteers, friends and supporters of the Western Prelacy humanitarian programs and initiatives.
On behalf of the organizing committee, Ms. Maral Keledjian delivered the welcoming remarks by expressing gratitude and extending a warm welcome to H.G. Bishop Donoyan, Archpriests, the Executive Council, the hosts, both former and new benefactors, as well as all those in attendance. During her remarks, Mrs. Keledjian highlighted the tremendous support received at the annual New Year and Christmas luncheon-boutique, under the leadership of H.G. Bishop Torkom Donoyan, motivates the members of the Ladies Auxiliary to continuously improve and excel. Additionally, Mrs. Keledjian invited the attendees to observe a moment of silence in remembrance of the victims of the devastating earthquake in Armenia that occurred on December 7, 1988.
Following the welcoming remarks, attendees took part in a prayer led by H.G. Bishop Donoyan and Priests, which was followed by H.G. Bishop Donoyan’s message. In his message, H.G. Bishop Donoyan discussed the concepts of mortal and immortal light. He explained that the sun serves as the initial source of light, as its rays descend from above to illuminate our world and its people. In contrast, the immortal light is the spiritual and divine aspects, which are embodied by Jesus Christ. This is the light, bestowed upon us by God, which serves to enlighten us, brighten our lives, and guide us to excellence. H.G. Bishop Donoyan concluded his message by urging the attendees to take inspiration from the example set by Heaven and generously contribute “to ensure that all the days of our lives are filled with joy, enlightenment, and brightness.”
H.G. Bishop Donoyan expressed his gratitude to the luncheon hosts, the Western Prelacy Ladies Auxiliary members, for their meticulous work in organizing the luncheon-boutique and for the beautiful decorations of the hall. The Prelate also thanked all the dedicated volunteers who selflessly contribute to the success of various Western Prelacy programs.
This year again, a group of high school students from Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School participated in the program of the luncheon-boutique, dressed in festive holiday outfits. With Santa Claus by their side, the students went around each table, singing Christmas carols that brought a unique warmth to the hall. The attendees were moved by the student’s performance and used the moment to join in singing Armenian spiritual songs, led by the school’s music teacher Mrs. Lusine Meliksetyan.
Varant, a talented young singer, and Meroujan Markarian, a violinist, also participated in the luncheon-boutique, sparking immense excitement. Motivated by the delightful celebratory ambiance, the guests increased their purchases and contributed by generous donations. With the ordinance of H.G. Bishop Donoyan, part of the proceeds raised will also be utilized to provide financial assistance to various Armenian educational establishments in the Middle East.
