Vancouver Hosts Anniversary Celebrations

The 50^th anniversary of the Armenian Prelacy in North America, the 40^th anniversary of the ordination as a celibate priest of His Eminence, Archbishop Khajag Hagopian, Prelate of the Armenian Prelacy of Canada, and the 25^th anniversary of Vancouver's St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic Church and community centre was marked by the Armenian community of British Columbia, on the weekend of October 31, 2008.

Art Exhibit

The celebratory weekend began on Friday evening with an art exhibit featuring the original works of Canadian artist Vatche Arakelian at the Armenian community centre’s Lazarian hall and continued until November 2, 2008.

During Divine Liturgy, Prelate Hagopian blessed and anointed six new paintings by artist Hovsep Achkarian.

This special ceremony launched a celebratory banquet in honour of these remarkable anniversaries, whereas a tribute to the Armenian community of Canada and to His Eminence Prelate Hagopian was given by Mr. Vahakn Karakachian, Horizon Weekly’s editor-in-chief.

In his address, Karakachian noted the incredible work all the different organizations and associations had accomplished throughout the years in Canada, highlighting and congratulating Vancouver’s small community for its great achievements.

Karakachian also presented a heartfelt message about His Eminence and His life. “For 40 years, He served and led Armenian communities. As the Armenian Diaspora faced its hardest years, He led his communities in the Middle East and North America through the obstacles. And for the people who followed His wisdom, He inspired them to hold onto to their faith in God and to believe in the good will of people.”

Very Rev. Fr. Housig Mardirossian, St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic Church Pastor, also took the podium to convey his personal message of congratulations to Prelate Hagopian.

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