The Feast of St. Ghevontiants, which is the feast day for priests, is commemorated annually within the Western Prelacy with a clergy conference and church services. This year’s commemoration was held on Tuesday, February 10, 2015, at the Armenian Apostolic Church of North Hollywood, beginning with a clergy conference held under the auspices of H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate. His Eminence had traveled to Antelias to participate in meetings of the Holy See of Cilicia Central Committee.
The conference opened with prayer led by Religious Council Chair Very Rev. Fr. Muron Aznikian. Under the direction of the Prelate, the central topic of discussion was the review of the clergy guidelines. The discussion was moderated by Archpriest Fr. Vicken Vassilian. The conference concluded with the “Disciples of Christ” hymn.
Evening service followed, at the conclusion of which a special requiem service was conducted in memory of all clergy members who have served in North America. Fr. Vicken Vassilian conveyed the blessings and greetings of the Prelate to the clergy and faithful, and invited Rev. Fr. Karekin Bedourian to deliver the day’s message. Fr. Karekin highlighted the strength and courage of faith of the Ghevontian martyrs, a timeless message and legacy which endures as an inspiration for us all to reinforce and bolster our faith.
The commemoration concluded with a fellowship dinner at the church hall, bringing together the clergy, parish Board of Trustees, delegates, Ladies Guild members, and faithful.