Archbishop Derderian Delivers Prayer At Installation Ceremony Of Eighth Bishop Of The Episcopal Diocese Of Los Angeles

On Sunday, July 12, 2026, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, attended the installation of the Right Reverend Dr. Antonio José Gallardo Lucena as the Eighth Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles at St. John's Cathedral.

The historic ceremony brought together ecumenical and interfaith leaders, clergy, and faithful from across Southern California in a celebration of Christian unity and shared ministry.

Accompanied by the Rev. Fr. Zaven Markosyan, Archbishop Derderian offered a prayer during the installation service, invoking God's abundant grace upon Bishop Gallardo. In his prayer, His Eminence asked the Almighty to fill the newly-installed bishop with the gifts of the Holy Spirit, granting him wisdom, understanding, strength, knowledge, piety, and reverence, so that he may faithfully shepherd Christ's flock with righteousness, serve God's Holy Church with a pure heart, and lead the faithful by the example of a virtuous life.

Following the service, Archbishop Derderian warmly congratulated Bishop Gallardo on his installation, conveying his heartfelt prayers for a fruitful and blessed episcopal ministry. He also expressed his hope that the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church and the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles will continue to flourish in a spirit of Christian love and mutual service to the people of God.

(Inscription: In Gratitude to the Episcopalian Archdiocese Celebrating the 80th Annivesary of the Armenian Church Western Diocese 1927-2007) - Mounted on the wall of St. John's Episcopal Cathedral