On Wednesday, August 14, 2013, a prayer service and the blessing of grapes was conducted at Glendale Adventist Hospital on the occasion of the Feast of the Assumption of the Holy Mother of God.
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, conducted the services, assisted by Pastors and deacons of St. Mary’s Church in Glendale. This is the 21st year that this service is being held.
Dr. Arby Nahapetian, Vice-President of Medical Affairs and Quality delivered the welcoming remarks, followed by the invocation by Chaplain Elias Molina.
In his address to the administration and staff of Glendale Adventist, the Prelate thanked them for their enduring collaboration with the Armenian community, specifically St. Mary’s Church, and for continuing this beautiful tradition of the blessing of grapes. His Eminence also expounded on the meaning behind the blessing of grapes, stating that by blessing and offering the “queen of the fruits”, the grapes from which the sacramental wine is made, we call the greatness of God’s providence and love, and offer thanks and gratitude for His abundant harvest of blessings. In conclusion, the Prelate commended and conveyed his appreciation to the Glendale Adventist family for the loving care and compassion they provide, and prayed for God to hasten the healing of the infirm and grant them all long, healthy, and joyful years to come.
Concluding remarks were delivered by Dr. Bruce Nelson, Director of Community Relations.
Following the service, the Prelate and Pastors visited patient rooms and blessed the patients, offering prayers for healing and good health.