On Sunday, October 25, 2015, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, conducted the blessing of water at St. Garabed Church in Hollywood with the Holy Muron blessed by His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia, in July. His Eminence presided over Divine Liturgy, which was celebrated by Parish Pastor Archpriest Fr. Vicken Vassilian, and delivered his sermon prior to the water blessing ceremony. Executive Council members Dr. Navasart Kazazian and Dr. Kaloust Agopian were among the faithful in attendance.
Following the Confession, the Prelate delivered his message that was followed by the blessing of water. Archpriest Fr. Vicken Vassilian carried the dove-shaped vessel containing the Holy Muron to the altar and presented it to the Prelate, who proceeded to conduct the water blessing ceremony. His Eminence spoke of the meaning of the Confession, and wished for the Holy Muron to bring renewal to the hearts and souls of the faithful. The Prelate noted that though each Muron blessing ceremony is a special one, this year’s ceremony was particularly historic and momentous as it was dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, and thus should serve as inspiration to renew our commitment to the legacy of our holy martyrs and to our Christian faith and national treasures.
The Prelate next spoke on the day’s feast, the Discovery of the Cross, highlighting the life-giving power of the Holy Cross. His Eminence gave an overview of the historic facts surrounding the discovery of the Cross and noted how the discovery of Christ’s Cross brought about great spiritual joy and rebirth for Empress Helena. Thus, he wished for the faithful to experience the same rebirth as they received the water blessed with the Holy Muron, and concluded by stressing that the Holy Cross is light against the darkness, hope and refuge from difficulties, victory from defeat, and life in the face of death.
Faithful received Holy Communion and blessed water at the conclusion of the service. Requiem service followed.