GLENDALE–A memorial gathering took place under the auspices of Western Prelate Bishop Moushegh Mardirossian at St. Mary’s Church on Wednesday in memory of the late Karekin I–Catholicos of All Armenia’s.
Present at the gathering were Armenia’s Consul General to Los Angeles Armen Melkonian–political–religious and organizational leaders and more than 1,000 community members.
The official Western Region choir of the 1700th anniversary of Amenia’s adoption of Christianity as a state religion commenced the program with the singing of the Hayr Mer under the direction of nd conductor Gomidas Keshishian–accompanied on the organ by Levon Abrahamian.
Noted poet Jack Hagopian recited from Krikor Narekatsi’s writings–adding a special touch to the memorial congregation.
The official speaker of the evening Archbishop Smpat Lapadjian introduced the life of the Catholicos.
"I could even say that Karekin I was one of the brightest figures in this century. With his knowledge and his ability to speak–he captured the attention of not only the Armenia’s but the attention of people all around the world," said Arch. Lapadjian.
A video documentary chronicling the life of Catholicos Karekin I was presented during the gathering.
In his closing remarks Prelate Mardirossian spoke about the late Catholicos’ accomplishmen’s at both the Holy See of Cilicia and the Holy See of Etchmiadzein,and blessed the many faithful in attendance.