The Primate'S Pastoral Visit To St. Andrew Armenian Church In Cupertino

The Primate travelled to the City of Carmel in Monterey County on February 5, 2016. Accompanied by Archpriest Fr. Datev Harutyunian, the pastor of St. Andrew Armenian Church in Cupertino, Archbishop Derderian met with members of the community in efforts to expand the outreach mission of the Cupertino parish.      

On February 6, Archbishop Derderian presided over the Annual Banquet held at the Amerian Hall of St. Andrew Armenian Church. 
 
The festive event is an opportunity to honor and spotlight members of the Armenian community in the Southern San Francisco Bay Area.  This year the St. Nerses Shnorhali (Graceful) Medal of Honor was bestowed upon the Honorable Joe Simitian (Saren Joseph Simitian), member of the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors.

The Pontifical Encyclical of His Holiness Karekin II Catholicos of All Armenians and the accompanying prestigious medal was conferred upon Joe Simitian, a grandson of Armenian Genocide survivors. Addressing the accomplished public official, His Holiness stated in part, "You have excelled in your political career because of your selfless and unwavering service. We commend relentless pursuit of the recognition of the Armenian Genocide and your undying commitment to the Armenian cause.  We are especially delighted to learn about your noble contribution to the prosperity of St. Andrew Armenian Church of Santa Clara Valley, earning the love and respect of the pastors and parishioners throughout the years." 

In his remarks, Archbishop Derderian called Supervisor Simitian “one of the most distinguished sons of the Armenian nation” noting that his services have “brought pride, joy and blessings on the Armenians on the West Coast and to the entire Armenian-American community.”  In closing Archbishop Derderian, thanked Joe Simitian for setting an example for the “next generation of leaders in this blessed country.”

Other parishioners were also recognized at the Annual Banquet.  The Hye Spirit Diocesan Medal was presented by Archbishop Hovnan Derderian to exceptional members of the St. Andrew Armenian Church parish who have supported, contributed and championed the mission of church. This year’s Hye Spirit Diocesan Medal honorees were  Mrs. Linda Abrahamians, Mr. Krikor Krikorian, Mr. Olivier Mardinian, Mr. Steve Ohanians and Mr. Zaven Soghoyan. His Eminence congratulated the medal recipients noting their unwavering service and selfless dedication in the Western Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

In his closing remarks, the Primate commended the St. Andrew Armenian Church parish for remaining a “beacon of the Christian faith” and home for the Armenian people in Santa Clara County.

On February 7, the Primate celebrated the Divine Liturgy at St. Andrew Armenian Church.