On Tuesday, February 5, 2013, the Armenian Church celebrated the Feast of Ghevontiants. The Feast honors the indestructible faith and sacrifices of a multitude of heroes who gave their lives in the name of their faith and nation in the first half of the fifth century.
Each year on the occasion of this Feast day, Armenian clergy join together to reflect on the life and virtues of the Ghevontiants Saints and renew their vows and commitment as clergy. The feast is commemorated within the Prelacy with an annual clergy conference and Divine Liturgy.
On this occasion, on Tuesday morning Divine Liturgy was celebrated at Vahan and Anoush Chamlian School, presided over by H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate and with the participation of clergy members. The celebrant was Pastor of Holy Martyrs Church of Encino Rev. Fr. Razmig Khatchadourian.
In attendance were Principal Mr. Vazken Madenlian, Vice-Principal Mrs. Rita Kaprielian, administrators, teachers, students, Executive Council Vice-Chair Mr. George Chorbajian, and school support committee members.
At the conclusion of the service, seventh grade student Alina Lahian presented a brief history of the Battle of Vartanants.
Addressing the students, the Prelate stated that this year’s Ghevontiants service was especially inspiring and moving because the Liturgy was being celebrated at Chamlian School for the first time with their participation. Speaking on the history of the Battle of Vartanants, His Eminence noted that our heroes and martyrs celebrated Divine Liturgy and received Holy Communion prior to their venture onto the battlefield to defend our Christian faith and our religious and national identity. The Prelate concluded his message by stressing that Vartan Mamigonian and the Ghevontiants priests were victorious in their mission and became the champions of our faith, and we, as the heirs of that faith, nation, language, and culture, must stay true to the ideal for which they gave their lives. In conclusion, the Prelate blessed and commended all those present, including the school principal and staff, Executive Council Vice-Chair Mr. George Chorbajian, and clergy members.
The service concluded with national songs dedicated to the feast, and the Cilician and Armenian national anthems, sung by clergy members and students.
The Prelate and clergy were then hosted to a luncheon by the administration, in which students joined.
