On Wednesday, March 13, 2019, the traditional Great Lent luncheon organized annually by the Western Prelacy Ladies Auxiliary took place at Legacy Banquet Hall in Glendale presided by H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate.
Prior to the luncheon, the Prelate presided over Sunrise service at St. Mary’s Church in Glendale. H.G. Bishop Torkom Donoyan, Vicar General, delivered the sermon on making the most of Great Lent by examining ourselves to see if we are on the right path as Christians, make time for daily prayer, and do good deeds for others.
The luncheon was attended by members of parishes’ Ladies Guilds, Hamazkayin and ARS Regional Executives and chapters, and Prelacy sponsors and friends, as well as Armenian Mesrobian School Principal David Ghoogasian and students.
In her opening remarks on behalf of the Ladies Auxiliary, Vartoug Avedikian welcomed the guests and touched on the importance of fasting for the strengthening of our faith and spirits.
A brief Sunrise service followed, after which the Prelate delivered the invocation.
The keynote speaker was Mesrobian School teacher Arpi Jierian, who spoke on the importance of observing all three elements of Great Lent, prayer, fasting, and good deeds, to renew our spiritual lives, lift our spirits and draw closer to God.
Guests enjoyed a cultural program featuring traditional songs performed by Raffi Kerbabian and songs, recitation, and dance performed by Mesrobian School students.
The Prelate began his message by commending the Ladies Auxiliary members and the program participants. His Eminence reaffirmed Mrs. Jierian’s words that Great Lent is an opportunity to reclaim our position near to God, adding that renewal is vital for all and Great Lent is an invitation to all for spiritual awakening and reformation. The Prelate also went over the Sundays of Great Lent, giving a brief summation of their specific message. He urged the faithful to always act with goodness, integrity, and virtue, pray ceaselessly to feel ourselves in the presence of God, and open our hearts to Him to receive His mercy, and concluded by wishing for the spiritual journey of Great Lent to bring us closer to God and prepare our hearts and souls to receive His triumphant Resurrection.
Throughout the luncheon, guests expressed their appreciation through gracious donations.
