Wednesday, March 11, 2015, marked the midpoint of Lent. The occasion was observed in Prelacy churches with Sunrise Service followed by luncheons in various parishes. H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, presided over festivities at Holy Cross Cathedral in Montebello.
The Prelate first presided over Sunrise Service, in which Holy Cross Cathedral Dean Very Rev. Fr. Muron Aznikian and Pastor Rev. Fr. Ashod Kambourian participated. Prelacy and parish Ladies Auxiliary members and Mesrobian School Principal David Ghoogasian and high school students attended the service. His Eminence delivered the meditation on Ephesians 4:23-24, an exhortation on being renewed in spirit, to “put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness” by shunning lying, speaking the truth, living a virtuous life, and praying for the Lord to “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow” (Psalm 51:7).
Great Lent is a time to cleanse ourselves physically and spiritually, to examine and renew ourselves so that we are prepared to welcome the Risen Christ. Mid-Lent is an opportunity to reflect on our progress in the last three and a half weeks and focus on observing the second half of Lent with deeper faith and uplifted spirits so that we are worthy of receiving the Lord’s forgiveness, stated the Prelate. Addressing the students, His Eminence noted that though they might not keep Lent traditionally, observing the spirit of Lent is as important.
The annual mid-Lent luncheon organized by the parish Ladies Guild followed at “Bagramian” Hall. Montebello Mayor Jack Hadjinian and Holy Cross Board members participated in the joyous event. Mesrobian School students added to the festive atmosphere with a few musical selections.
In his address, the Prelate commended the Ladies Guild for their efforts and the students for their participation, and once again reminded all of their responsibilities as Christian faithful during Lent and beyond.
