On Wednesday, May 17, 2017, St. Sarkis Church of Pasadena hosted its 28th annual reception honoring Armenian graduates of the Pasadena Unified School District. The event was held at the Pasadena Armenian Center under the auspices of H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, and with the attendance of elected officials, members of the Pasadena Unified School District, Executive Council member, St. Sarkis Church family, parents, and friends.
The Prelate delivered his congratulatory message to the graduates and offered advice as they pursue higher education and prepare to enter the work force. His Eminence encouraged the youth to turn to God for strength, wisdom, and guidance as they go through life’s ups and downs, to always have faith, hope, courage, patience, and determination, to believe in themselves and to give their best as they reach for their dreams. He reminded them also to never forget their heritage, to uphold our ideals and traditions, and to contribute to the advancement of the Armenian-American community. In conclusion, the Prelate commended the Pastor, Board of Trustees, and organizing committee of St. Sarkis Church for hosting the annual event, as well as the principals, teachers, and parents for their unwavering support, encouragement, and guidance of our youth.
The program continued with welcoming remarks by Mr. Boghos Patatian, who served as the evening’s Master of Ceremonies. The Board of Trustees message was delivered by Chairman Mr. Koko Panossian, and the keynote address by Mr. Kevin Matossian, Founder/CEO of Film Solutions, Production Executive of the film “The Promise,” and a PUSD alumnus. Scholarships provided by Mr. and Mrs. Sarkis and Nune Sepetjian and Cynthia and Sylvia Tomboulian were awarded to students, followed by a message by PUSD Board of Education President Vruyr Boulghourjian on behalf of Superintendent Brian McDonald. St. Sarkis Church youth group members participated in the commencement ceremony by. The program concluded with the benediction by St. Sarkis Church Parish Pastor Rev. Fr. Boghos Baltayan. The evening also included performances of Armenian folk songs and dances.
