Primate Presides Over Clergy Conference

The second clergy conference of 2017, presided by the Diocesan Primate, convened on Thursday, May 4, at the Akian Conference Room in the lower gallery of St. Leon Armenian Cathedral.

The 90th anniversary of the establishment of the Western Diocese and the planned celebratory events on the auspicious occasion were discussed. His Eminence informed his fellow brothers in Christ about the six-day pontifical visit of His Holiness Karekin II, the Catholicos of All Armenians from October 25-30, 2017 and the schedule of events planned for His Holiness’ visit.

Archbishop Derderian also informed the clergymen about upcoming summer pilgrimages to Armenia (June 4-18 - collectively organized by St. John Armenian Church of San Francisco and St. Vartan Armenian Church in Oakland) and Jerusalem (July 7 – 19 - led by the Director of the Religious Education Department Mashdots Jobanian).

The Rev. Fr. Avedis Abovian spoke about the revitalized (Christian Youth Mission to Armenia) CYMA mission which he will lead on a moth-long pilgrimage to Armenia from June 29 – July 31, 2017. Ten participants will take part in a memorable journey to the Motherland this summer to reconnect with their ancestral roots.

Rev. Fr. Haroutioun Tachejian presented the acolyte and deacons’ training program which will be held on Saturday, June 24, 2017 (9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.) at St. Leon Armenian Cathedral. Acolytes and deacons who wish to take part in the seminar are encouraged to contact Fr. Haroutioun Tachejian at prieststjamesla@gmail.com  

The highly successful Reclaim Rally and Conference held from March 10-12, 2017 at St. Leon Armenian Cathedral was presented at the conference by the Rev. Fr. Vazken Movsesian. Works are underway for the Second Annual Reclaim conference. Drawing from its immense success, taking the conference to regional levels is in the planning stages.

Archbishop Derderian also informed about the progress of the construction efforts of the Camp Chapel.

On June 19, 2017, the Primate will take part in the official dedication of the Turpanjian Seminary of Harichavank. During his trips to the Motherland, His Eminence regularly visits the seminarians offering pastoral guidance and support to the young men who have embarked on a God-pleasing journey of one day serving flock of Christ as priests. Thanks to the generosity of Diocesan Benefactors Gerald and Patricia Turpanjian, the dilapidated seminary building once in dire need of renovation has undergone intense renovation. The seminary has been named Turpanjian Theological Seminary – Harichavank by His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians.    

The following topics related to priesthood will be presented were on the agenda:

“The Pastorate”

“Implementing the Word of God within the Community”

“Ultimate Mission of Pastoral Service”

“The Graces of a Priest”

“The Priest and the Sacrament of the Divine Liturgy”

“The Priest and Spiritual Homilies”

“The Role of the Priest in the Canons of the Armenian Church”

“The Emphasis of the Priest and his role in the Church”

“The Spiritual life of the Priest”

“The Embodiment of a Priest”

His Eminence expressed his gratitude to the clergy for their attendance and participation. The conference concluded with the Primate’s closing prayer.