The Diocese
Posted: 05/11/2018
On Thursday, May 3, 2018, the Primate presided over a Youth Appreciation Dinner at the hall of the Khenteer Tajirian Educational Center of St. Geragos Armenian Church of Las Vegas. In his welcoming remarks, the Very Rev. Fr. Sasoon Dz. V. Zumrookhdian, pastor of the host parish, greeted the clergy and delegates.
Guests enjoyed the dinner prepared by the Ladies Society of St. Geragos Armenian Church and served by the members of the ACYO. Saturday School Students delighted their audience with their wonderful renditions of the Armenian national anthem and traditional Armenian folk songs.
During the evening, the Primate honored a devout parishioner of the Las Vegas parish and ACYO Director Dr. Viken Giragosian with the Diocesan Hye Spirit medal. His Eminence commended Dr. Giragosian’s dedication and zeal in guiding the youth, the future parishioners of St. Geragos Armenian Church. Archbishop Derderian encouraged the members of the ACYO to renew their calling to service and to uphold the sacred values of the Armenian Christian family.
The Primate also honored the Ladies Society for their selfless service and outstanding organizational efforts in hosting the youth appreciation dinner and presented each member a gift as a token of his gratitude. The Parish Council, under the leadership of Mr. Hovsep Shatarevyan, was recognized by Archbishop Derderian for their vision in making St. Geragos Armenian Church, the religious, educational and cultural beacon of the Armenian-American community of Las Vegas.
In recognition of her loyalty to the Armenian-American community and her commitment to service, long-time parishioner Mrs. Shakeh Andreassian was honored by the Primate with the prestigious Archbishop’s Award.
The Primate extended words of appreciation, gratitude and commendation to the Very Rev. Fr. Sasoon Dz. V. Zumrookhdian, the energetic pastor of the community whose leadership and guidance has been graciously welcomed by the community. A commemorative souvenir plate of St. Leon Armenian Cathedral was presented to Fr. Sasoon as a token of the Primate’s gratitude for his exemplary pastoral service.
