The Diocese
Posted: 10/10/2025
On Sunday, October 5, 2025, the faithful of the Western Diocese gathered at St. Leon (Ghevontians) Cathedral for a solemn and spiritually uplifting Jubilee Episcopal Divine Liturgy, celebrating the 35th anniversary of the episcopal ordination of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America. The service drew a large congregation, joined by clergy, parish representatives, and diocesan leaders, including Archpriest Fr. Manoug Markarian, Pastor of the Armenian Church of Glendale, and the Rev. Fr. Khajag Shahbazyan, Pastor of the Cathedral.
The inspiring Liturgy was beautifully accompanied by the Cathedral’s Shnorhali and Khachadourian Choirs, directed by Deacons Arthur Vardanyan and Stepan Gozumyan, respectively. Among the distinguished attendees were Mr. and Mrs. Derik and Adrineh Ghookasian, Chair of the Diocesan Council, along with representatives of diocesan organizations and a multitude of parishioners who came to extend their heartfelt congratulations and greetings to the Archbishop.
Throughout his decades-long ministry, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian has exemplified unwavering devotion to strengthening and illuminating the Armenian Apostolic Church, sharing the life-giving grace of the Holy Spirit with the faithful of the Western Diocese. From his youth, inspired by the vision of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, His Eminence has dedicated his life to the Church of Christ with tireless faith and service. A spiritual educator, visionary leader, and prolific author, the Archbishop has guided the Western Diocese into an era of renewed vitality and growth, enriching both its spiritual and communal life. His leadership and steadfast commitment have also brought great honor to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin through decades of faithful service and inspired stewardship.
During the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Derderian delivered his homily, reflecting on the Apostle Paul’s exhortation: “Examine yourselves to see whether you are living in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Jesus Christ is in you?” (2 Corinthians 13:5). His Eminence reminded the faithful that this passage is a call for every Christian to engage in sincere self-examination and prayerful renewal, living the faith not as a philosophy but as a way of life. “Wherever we are, at home or in God’s house, we must open our hearts before Him with honesty and humility, seeking spiritual renewal,” he said. Reflecting on 35 years of episcopal service, Archbishop Derderian added, “Throughout these years, we have endeavored to remain in humble service to God, the Church, and the people, offering our unconditional love wherever we have served. The greatest divine gift has been the love of the people, a treasure beyond measure and the true reward of humble service.”
Concluding the Liturgy, His Eminence called upon the faithful to live by the Apostle’s message, allowing prayer to be “the balm for suffering souls, the wisdom guiding our youth, the foundation of Armenian Christian families, and the bridge leading us closer to God.” The Western Diocese joins together in thanksgiving and prayer, asking Almighty God to bless Archbishop Derderian with many more fruitful years of health, strength, and inspiration as he continues his Christ-centered ministry with devotion and love for the Church and her people.
As part of the day’s celebration, certificates were presented to new participants in the Lay Ministry Program, an educational initiative led by Diocese's librarian and ecumenical officer Mr. Hayk Madoyan. The program aims to deepen the spiritual and theological understanding of lay members. A new session will begin on October 13, continuing to form dedicated leaders equipped to serve in the Diocese’s educational and evangelistic ministries, nurturing the faith and moral foundation of the next generation.
