St. James Armenian Church Of Los Angeles Marks 74Th Anniversary

On December 13, 2015, the faithful of St. James Armenian Church of Los Angeles took part in the episcopal celebration of the Divine Liturgy. Assisted at the Holy Altar by the Rev. Fr. Haroutioun Tachejian and the deacons of the St. James parish, the day's celebrant and homilist was His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America. The day marked the 74th anniversary of establishment of one of the oldest parishes of the Western Diocese. 

In his homily (Luke 17:1-10), the Primate called upon the faithful to strengthen their spiritual bond with the Almighty. "Establishing a sound relationship with our Heavenly Father is conditioned by our willingness to hear and abide by the Word of God. Lead prayerful lives. Read the Word of God. Encourage your children to attend Sunday School and take part in the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. Immersion in the church life can only strengthen one's bond with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, thus making it unbreakable," stated Archbishop Derderian in part. 

The Primate recognized and commended the pastoral leadership of the Rev. Fr. Haroutioun Tachejian and the collective efforts of the Parish Council and all auxiliary bodies who work tirelessly to ensure the vibrancy and livelihood of the St. James parish.   

During the service, the Primate also addressed the Sunday School students who had gathered at the nave to also receive his pastoral blessings. He encouraged the children and the youth to become exemplary students and to adhere to Christian values and principles. 

The service was followed by a celebratory banquet at the John Gogian Hall of the parish. In the exciting program, parishioners Richard Kolligan and Naomi Edison were honored by the Primate with the Diocesan "Hye Spirit" award. 

In his remarks to the honorees the Primate said "Your unwavering dedication is one most greatly appreciated. Truly, you have been a source of inspiration in your respective communities. Through your selfless service to St. James Armenian Church, you have earned the love and respect of your parish family."

Parishioners received a special commemorative Name Day booklet printed on the auspicious occasion.