Western Prelate Archbishop Kegham Khatcherian held Sunday Mass and Divine Liturgy in Pasadena’s St. Sarkis Church and had an opportunity to meet with community members impacted by the Eaton Fire that continues to devastate portions of Altadena and Pasadena.
The Prelacy announced that Archbishop Khacherian changed his original plans to conduct Sunday services at Hollywood’s St. Garabed Church, which was marking the Feast of St. John the Baptist and the church’s “Name Day,” to be close to parishioners who directly suffered losses as result of the Eaton Fire.
Prelate Khacherian presided over the Divine Liturgy at St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church and offered words of encouragement and support and comfort to the Armenian community of Pasadena and surrounding cities, where hundreds of community members have lost their homes or have been displaced due to mandatory evacuation orders stemming from the Southern California fires raging across Los Angeles County.
The Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Rev. Boghos Baltayan, Pastor of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, with deacons, scribes, and the church choir serving at the altar.
The Prelate’s sermon focused on the Gospel of Luke, chapter 12, verses 32-34, where Jesus Christ encouraged his disciples: “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Archbishop Khacherian interpreted the words of Jesus Christ, explaining their significance, and in the context of the current devastation, urged everyone to build lasting wealth grounded in the core values of spirituality, mutual love, and humanity. The Prelate offered comfort to the victims and the Armenian community, who were grappling with spiritual turmoil, and raised a prayer to God asking for the health and safety of greater Los Angeles and its residents.
Following the church services, the Prelate met with Armenian families and individuals who had sought refuge at the church. The Prelate gathered information about their living conditions and the challenges they were facing, then convened a meeting with the Board of Trustees of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, offering guidance and direction to ensure that every effort was made to support those in need and to prioritize the well-being of the Armenian community.
The Prelate also conveyed blessings to the members of the community, offering his heartfelt wishes to safely overcome this challenging period.
