SAN FRANCISCO–The 35th anniversary celebrations of San Francisco’s St. Gregory The Illuminator Church–which took place on October 7–2001–became a new spiritual source for the community. On the occasion Prelate Bishop Moushegh Mardirossian and members of Executive Council of Western Prelacy arrived in San Francisco.
After the morning mass and requiem services–the official Khachkar presentation ceremony took place in the church yard–which was dedicated to the 35th anniversary of the church as well as the 1700th anniversary of Armenia’s adoption of Christianity.
The Khachkar–which was made by sculptor Kaspar Gharibian–was erected thanks to generous donations of Mr. and Mrs. Henry and Rita Khachadurians.
After blessing the Khachkar–Prelate Moushegh Mardirossian entered the church under the tunes Hrashapar–where he was serviced by church father Papken Charian.
During the mass–the Fr. Charian read a message sent by His Holiness Catholicos Aram for this very occasion.
Prelate Moushegh Mardirossian greeted the Fr. Charian and the Board of Trustees as well as members of Ladies Guild and others present at the ceremony. He expressed his gratitude toward the community members who consistently contribute to the strengthening of the community and the church. He also thanked the Shoghagat choir–which performed the songs of the mass.
After the greetings and words of gratitude Prelate Moushegh Mardirossian encouraged everyone present to live by Christian rules–and to possess God’s presence within their lives.
After the mass–a requiem ceremony took place in remembrance of those who have dedicated their lives to the church.
Rostom Aintablian chairman of the Board of Trustees concluded the ceremony by expressing the Board’s unending gratitude for the generosity shown to the Church by the Armenian community.
Following the ceremonies–everybody was invited to dinner sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. Zareh and Lusig Messirlian at the Saroyan Hall in the Armenian Center.
In appreciation for those who have contributed–a special plaque was placed on the wall of Saroyan Hall. Prelate Mardirossian closed the evening with a blessing under the tunes of Cilicia.
