The Diocese
Posted: 05/21/2026
The Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America joyfully celebrated the 21st Annual Hampartzum Celebration on May 14, 2026, in observance of the Feast of the Ascension of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Organized by the devoted members of the Hampartzum Committee of the Western Diocese, the annual gathering brought together clergy, faithful, benefactors, and community members for a day of spiritual reflection, fellowship, and appreciation. The celebration commenced with the Divine Liturgy at St. Leon (Ghevontiants) Armenian Cathedral at 10:30 a.m., celebrated by the Rev. Fr. Yeghia Isayan. Present at the service was Her Excellency Anna Avetisyan, Consul General of the Republic of Armenia in Los Angeles.
The day’s homilist, the Rev. Fr. Vazken Movsesian, delivered an inspiring sermon on the spiritual significance of the Feast of the Ascension in the life of the Church and in the personal journey of every Christian believer. Reflecting upon Christ’s ascension into heaven, Fr. Vazken emphasized the calling of the faithful to live with renewed hope, steadfast faith, and a commitment to embodying Christ’s presence in the world. Following the Divine Liturgy, attendees gathered in the Paul Brothers Galleria, where they enjoyed fellowship and supported a variety of vendors participating in the festive occasion.
The celebration continued with a luncheon held in the Nazareth and Sima Kalaydjian Hall of the Western Diocese, graciously sponsored by Mrs. Alice Navasargian. Welcoming remarks were delivered by Hampartzum Committee Co-Chair Mrs. Araxie Boyamian, who warmly greeted the guests and introduced this year’s distinguished honorees. In his address, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the members of the Hampartzum Committee, commending them as a dedicated group of women who faithfully serve the Armenian Church with unwavering devotion and enduring affection.
Special words of appreciation and recognition were extended to this year’s honorees — Taleen Vartivarian, Susan Toumanian, Nadia Shamsi, Aida Askejian, Terry Nalbandian, Taline Tokatlian, Anahit Hovhannisyan, Ph.D., and Yn. Lydia Demirjian — for their years of gracious service, benevolence, and steadfast support of the Armenian Church and the Armenian-American community. The 21st Annual Hampartzum Celebration once again stood as a beautiful testament to the spirit of faith, unity, and service that continues to strengthen the life and mission of the Western Diocese and the Armenian faithful throughout the community.
