On Saturday, September 23, 2022, under the auspices of H.G. Bishop Torkom Donoyan, Prelate, a gala dinner was held at “Baghramian” Hall in Montebello, on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Holy Cross Church and the 40th anniversary of the Holy Cross Cathedral. In attendance were H.E. Archbishop Yeprem Tabakian, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, clergy, Chairman of the Executive Council Mr. Vahe Hovaguimian and members, Central Executive Council member Mr. Gaidzag Zetlian, Boards of Trustees, Delegates, Principal of Mesrobian Armenian School, donors and guests.
The evening commenced with the entry of the clergy into the hall led by the Prelate. By the invitation of the master of ceremonies, Mr. Nazaret Tsadorian, the Prelate blessed the tables, which was followed by the singing of the American and Armenian national anthems. Welcoming remarks were delivered by Ms. Araxia Garabetian and Mr. Nazaret Tsadorian who reflected upon the accomplishments of the Holy Cross community and upon the circumstances of the foundation of the Holy Cross Cathedral. Then, Mr. Hamo Kasbarian, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Holy Cross Cathedral, presented a brief history of the Holy Cross Church and the mission of the Holy Cross Cathedral.
Very Rev. Fr. Muron Aznikian, Dean of Holy Cross Cathedral highlighted the historical role of the Armenian Church on the path of the nation’s existential struggle and up to the present day, noting that thousands of miles away from the homeland, the Armenian immigrants who arrived on these foreign shores more than a century and years ago, with many deprivations, built the Holy Cross Church in 1922. He then invited the Prelate to deliver his message.
The Prelate emphasized on the importance of the Nation-Motherland-Church bond in the life of the Armenians, as a symbol of belonging. Bishop Donoyan referred to the current situation in the homeland and stated; “We must face all kinds of threats to the nation and the homeland with a united fist, to always act in vigilance to move forward in the future with strength, faith and love.”
On this occasion, the Bishop congratulated the large family of Holy Cross Cathedral, which on the eve of a new era, knows how to appreciate the hundred-year past and future which is to come. He commended the past and present donors and expressed joy that the new generation of the Holy Cross Cathedral parish brings their participation in the betterment of the church. In conclusion, the Prelate handed a special memento to the hosts of the evening, Mr. & Mrs. Ron and Koharig Gabriel.
The guests enjoyed the musical performance of Alen and his band.