99Th Annual Diocesan Assembly Convened In Fresno

Under the presidency of the Diocesan Primate of the Western Diocese of the United States of America, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, the 99th Annual Diocesan Assembly convened on Friday, May 1, 2026, at St. Paul Armenian Apostolic Church in Fresno. The Assembly opened with prayer and the Pontifical message of blessing from His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians.

Throughout the sessions, delegates participated in presentations and discussions centered on stewardship, sustainability, parish vitality, and the future growth of the Diocese. Deacon Harout Markarian presented the theme “Stewarding Our Blessings,” while Dr. Hratch Tchilingirian led discussions and workshops focused on parish sustainability, demographic trends, and the launch of a diocesan-wide parish survey.

In his keynote address, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian emphasized the importance of moving from vision to action as the Diocese approaches its 100th anniversary. His Eminence called for renewed spiritual vitality, strategic planning, stronger preaching and educational ministries, and greater collaboration throughout the Diocese. He stressed that the Church’s mission remains centered on the transmission of faith and the strengthening of vibrant parish communities.

Special reports were also presented regarding preparations for the Diocese’s centennial celebrations in 2027, the newly established partnership between the Western Diocese and University of Redlands, diocesan construction projects, Christian education initiatives, and ongoing collaboration with St. Nersess Armenian Seminary.

Diocesan Council Chairman Derik Ghookasian presented the Council’s annual report, highlighting the administrative, pastoral, and community-building efforts undertaken throughout the past year. Dr. Varoujan Altebarmakian then delivered a presentation entitled “The Path Forward,” outlining strategic priorities for the future development of the Diocese, particularly in the areas of youth, education, and spiritual life. The Assembly also approved the 2027 diocesan budget and elected the new members of the Diocesan Council.

It was announced that the 2027 Diocesan Assembly will convene at the Diocesan Headquarters as part of the official celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of the Western Diocese.

In his closing remarks, Archbishop Derderian expressed gratitude to the clergy, delegates, and faithful for their dedicated service and reaffirmed the importance of unity, disciplined service, and faithful commitment in advancing the mission of the Church.

His Eminence also thanked the host parish, St. Paul Armenian Apostolic Church, its pastor Rev. Fr. Yessai Bedros, parish leadership, and volunteers for their hospitality and dedicated efforts in organizing the Assembly. During the assembly, parishioners Salpi Adams, Darlene Chardukian and Anton Kismetian received certificates of commendation from the Diocesan Primate in recognition for their unwavering services rendered at St. Paul Armenian Church. Mr. Jeff Markarian received the “2026 Archbishop’s Award” for his longstanding service to the Church, while Melene Ouzounian and Deacon Steve Adams were awarded the “St. Naregatsi Cross” of the Western Diocese, the highest honor of the Western Diocese bestowed upon members of the laity in recognition of their selfless and dedicated service at the parish and diocesan levels.

The Assembly concluded with the prayer and blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian.

Chancellery of the Western Diocese
May 5, 2026