Celebrating Christmas In Fowler

The Armenian Christmas celebration came a day early at the St. Gregory the Illuminator Church in Fowler where Fr. Vazken Movsesian celebrated the Liturgy and Water Blessing with the congregation. He was assisted at the altar by a large number of deacons and altar servers of the St. Gregory parish, including Deacon Levon Asdourian who, at the Primate's appointment, will be assuming the position of Deacon in Charge at the parish.

In his sermon Fr. Vazken spoke about the need to embrace the message of the day - Christ is born and revealed - much more than a saying or greeting, but as a way of life. Highlighting the many difficulties facing us on a day-to-day basis, Fr. Vazken challenged the congregation to take the newness of the day and its message as an opportunity to heal and move forward.

Daniel Hairabedian served as the godfather of the Cross during the Water Blessing service. Daniel is the son of the late Fr. Yeghia Hairabedian, who had served as the parish priest of the congregation until his untimely death last August. During the lunch that followed, Daniel expressed his appreciation to the parish for this special honor.

Long-time members of the parish, Ron and Jane Kazarian, were the guests of honor at the Christmas celebration luncheon sponsored by the Ladies Society and ACYO of the church. Family members presented biographical excerpts which highlighted their devotion to God and the St. Gregory parish. Rev. Fr. Kevork Arakelian, former parish priest and personal friends with the Kazarian reflected about the dedication with which the Kazarians have served the St. Gregory parish, and presented some endearing stories from their many years of friendship. By way of a surprise, Yeretsgin Sandra Arakelian called up former and current Sunday School members to sing "Pass it on" (a favorite of Jane Kazarian) to the delight of all in attendance. Young ballet artist Rachel Yepremian performed selections from Tchaikovsky and a piece by Christian pop rock band The Afters, as a highlight of the program.

In his closing remarks, Fr. Vazken passed along the blessings and warm wishes of the Diocesan Primate, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, to the members of St. Gregory and wished strength and courage to Deacon Levon as he begins his new position and ministry within the parish.