On Wednesday, July 25, 2018, the presentation of the first volume of “Journey through the Footsteps of the Armenian Monuments of Iranian Azerbaijan” authored by H.G. Bishop Krikor Chiftjian, Prelate of Azerbaijan, Iran, was held at “Isahak and Janet Kazangian” Hall of the “Krikor and Mariam Youth Center” in Glendale. The event was organized by Sardarabad Bookstore under the auspices of five Iranian-Armenian community organizations.
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, attended and delivered his message. Among the guests in attendance were H.E. Archbishop Yeprem Tabakian, H.G. Bishop Torkom Donoyan, Vicar General, and representatives of community organizations.
The program began with welcoming remarks by Mr. Ervin Yaghoubian, MC, who touched on the significance of the event for all and for Iranian-Armenians especially. Historian Dr. Garo Moumdjian presented the book, a 530-page volume detailing 95 of the nearly 238 churches which existed in the region. Dr. Moumdjian focused on the book’s significance as an eyewitness account of ancient historical sites as well as its archival value in preserving the memory of a few dozen endangered structures. He spoke also on significant periods in the history of Iranian Azerbaijan, the decline in the number of clergy conducting such scholarly work, and future volumes of the book.
Bishop Chiftjian thanked the organizers and sponsoring organizations for their hard work and support, as well as the Prelate and clergy for their presence. Through a series of slideshows, the author presented the arduous process of compiling the book, noting the lack of roads in some areas, regions which have long been devoid of Armenians and are now occupied by Turks or Kurds, and more. He spoke also on the liveliness of the Armenian community in Iranian Azerbaijan and its important position as bordering Armenia.
The Prelate highly commended Bishop Chiftjian for his diligent efforts in preparing the volume and for his devoted service within the Prelacy of Iranian Azerbaijan. He stressed the importance of the book and wished Bishop Chiftjian continued successes.
The dedication of the book with wine followed. The author was joined by the Prelate, Archbishop Tabakian, clergy, his mother, ordination Godfather Mr. and Mrs. Herair and Kohar Jermakian, Dr. Garo Moumdjian, and members of community organizations.
The program concluded with the benediction, after which the author signed copies of his book while guests enjoyed a reception hosted by the sponsoring organizations, who also presented mementos to Bishop Chiftjian.
