On Thursday, May 13, 2021, H.G. Bishop Torkom Donoyan, Prelate, presided over Divine Liturgy dedicated to the Feast of Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ at St. Mary’s Church in Glendale with the participation of clergy members of the Western Prelacy. Very Rev. Fr. Ashod Khatchadourian, Pastor of Holy Trinity Church in Fresno, celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered his sermon.
Following the Divine Liturgy, the traditional luncheon was organized by the Western Prelacy Ladies Auxiliary at “Phoenicia” Restaurant in Glendale, which was attended by the Prelate and joined by Very Rev. Fr. Smpad Saboundjian and Very Rev. Fr. Ashod Khatchadourian.
This year’s luncheon host was Mrs. Anahid Baghdadlian-Ohanesian, whom couldn’t be present at the event. In appreciation of the host for graciously undertaking the hosting of the luncheon, a plaque by the Prelate and a bouquet by the Ladies Auxiliary will be delivered to the host.
Mrs. Vania Babikian, Chair of the Ladies Auxiliary delivered the welcoming remarks on behalf of the Ladies and the acting MC of the event, Mrs. Alvard Barseghian invited the Prelate to convey his heartfelt words on the occasion of the Ascension and “Mother’s Day” luncheon.
The Prelate congratulated the members of the Ladies Auxiliary who organized this luncheon; he praised their diligence and dedicated work, then thanked the host of the day, benefactors and all those present for their unconditional support for the Prelacy programs. He then commended all the mothers present at the luncheon and stated that the Armenian mother is the backbone of the house, the husband’s refuge, the guardian of her children and the shining example of a leader and a guardian angel of her grandchildren. “The mother brings meaning to our lives, through her love, patience and dedication” stressed the Prelate. At the end of his message, the Prelate presented a souvenir to Mrs. Seta Kejejian, a longtime Sunday school teacher, in appreciation of her merit and long service. On this occasion, roses and prayer books were also distributed to all mothers.
Very Rev. Fr. Smpad Saboundjian delivered a reflection on the Feast of the Ascension, followed by a program delivered by the 8th grade graduating students of Vahan and Anoush Chamlian Armenian school. The guests also enjoyed a traditional Armenian songs by Mr. Hovhannes Balian.
Thereafter, those present joined in the warm spirit of the day’s feast and rejoicing and participating in the traditional “Drawing.”
