HIS HOLINESS PRESIDES OVER 90TH ANNIVERSARY OF HOLY CROSS CHURCH AND 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF HOLY CROSS CATHEDRAL IN MONTEBELLO
10/23/2011
LOS ANGELES, ANTELIAS – On the evening of Sunday, October 23, 2011, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I arrived at Holy Cross Cathedral in Montebello where a Canonical Prayer was held, followed by a banquet in honor of His Holiness as well as the 30th anniversary of Holy Cross Cathedral and 90th anniversary of Holy Cross Church.
His Holiness arrived at the Cathedral accompanied by H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, and was welcomed by the Parish Priests, Parish Board members, and Mesrobian School representatives.
With the singing of the “Hrashapar” hymn, His Holiness entered the Cathedral which was filled to capacity with faithful who had gathered to receive his blessings.
A canonical prayer service was held, after which the Prelate delivered his remarks, giving thanks for the Pontifical Visit of His Holiness which spanned over two weeks and was coming to a close that evening at the oldest Church in the Western United States. The Prelate noted that each year the name day of the Cathedral is held on the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, and by a wonderful coincidence His Holiness was with the parish community on the Feast of the Discovery of the holy Cross.
His Holiness thanked the Lord for the successful conclusion of the Pontifical Visit and for the opportunity to be with the Holy Cross community. He conveyed his blessings to the faithful, praying for Almighty God to fortify them all in their faith, hope, and love.
The prayer service came to a close with the singing of the Cilician and Pontifical anthems by the Sunday School students.
His Holiness and entourage then headed to “Bagramian” Hall for the celebration of the Cathedral 30th anniversary and Church 90th anniversary. Public officials and dignitaries were among the hundreds of guests in attendance.
The evening’s Master of Ceremonies was Mr. Nazareth Sadorian. Remarks were delivered by Central Executive member Mr. Khajag Dikijian, and Executive Council Chair Mrs. Rima Boghossian. Local public officials presented His Holiness with certificates and proclamations.
The cultural program was comprised of songs and recitations by Mesrobian School students.
The Prelate noted that these two milestone anniversaries are an opportunity for reflection and renewal of our pledge to serve. He once again thanked His Holiness for gracing the Prelacy with a Pontifical Visit, and affirmed that our community will continue to serve for the splendor of our Church and nation with renewed fervor and vigor.
His Holiness emphasized the great importance of our Churches and schools in the lives of our people, noting that these two institutions form and preserve the identity of our people. He urged the guests to remain true to their heritage and instill the spirit of the Armenian people in our youth. Noting that the city of Montebello has in its midst the Genocide monument, His Holiness stated that should be a constant message and reminder for the community and for all to continue their committed service for the furthering of the Armenian Cause.
