The Diocese
Posted: 10/03/2025
On September 28, 2005, St. Kevork Armenian Church of Portland its Name Day.
On the occasion of the celebration, the Armenian community was honored by the visit of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America. His Eminence conveyed his paternal blessings also to the students of the “Hovhannes Tumanyan” Sunday School.
During the Divine Liturgy, the Primate granted four minor orders of acolyte to David Sharyan, Samvel Isaverdyan, Artur Tsaturyan and Vinikos Harutyunyan. Altar server Allen Sahakyan was granted the rite of stole-bearer by the Primate. His Eminence congratulated the community on the occasion of their newly ordained servant and encouraged the altar servers to renew their steadfastness of their Christian faith and dedication to serving Christ, our Lord and the Armenian Apostolic Church.
In his sermon, the Archbishop addressed the newly ordained, urging them to be devoted, responsible, and service-oriented. He also expressed his appreciation to the active members of the parish, highlighting the long and difficult path the community has traveled since its founding. On this occasion, His Eminence awarded five representatives of the community with blessing certificates.
The celebration continued in the church hall, where the Ladies Society organized a festive banquet and offered the traditional madagh. His Eminence blessed the tables and the entire community.
The Archbishop’s visit brought great joy and inspiration to the faithful. The Feast of St. George became a moment of renewal and a promising beginning for a bright future for the Armenian community of Oregon.
