The Diocese
Posted: 08/20/2026
Delegates representing the four active parishes—Fresno, Fowler, Yetem, and Los Angeles—elected eleven representatives to serve at the Western Diocese’s inaugural Diocesan Assembly, held on January 28, 1917.
The first Chairman of the Assembly was Srapion Melkonian, who was widely known in the community for his tireless dedication and devotion to the Church. Sadly, he passed away prematurely in 1918.
Photo: Srapion V. Melkonian, Chairman of California’s inaugural Diocesan Assembly.
