Parishes
Posted: 09/24/2026
St. Apkar Armenian Apostolic Church of Scottsdale marked the 17th anniversary of its consecration on September 20, 2026, with a festive celebration presided over by Diocesan Primate H.E. Archbishop Hovnan Derderian.
Travelling to Scottsdale for the occasion, Archbishop Derderian celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon, offering spiritual reflections on the mission of the Armenian Church and the enduring responsibility of the faithful to preserve and live out their Christian heritage.
During the Divine Liturgy, George Alashanian, Hagop Kevork Alashanian, and Nazar Gulbekian were elevated as stolebearers. Congratulating the altar servers, the Primate encouraged them to remain steadfast in their Christian faith, faithful to Christ’s teachings, and devoted to the sacred traditions of the Armenian Apostolic Church.
The anniversary observance continued with a banquet at Melikian Hall, bringing together clergy, parishioners, community members, and guests to celebrate the church’s 17 years since its consecration and to recognize individuals whose dedicated service has strengthened parish life.
In recognition of their longstanding service to St. Apkar Armenian Church, Irene Arustamov, Alexis Arust, Djemile Touresian, Parandzem Nalbandian, Deacon Danny Khalafaghian, and Aida Adamyan were honored with the Diocesan “Hye Spirit” Medal.
Seven parishioners were also recognized with Certificates of Commendation for their exceptional contributions to the parish’s auxiliary organizations: Sirpouhie Capigian, Silva Sotiri, Freda Melikian, Hayg Nigogosian, Berj John Dikranian, Eleni Yeoria Smiraris, and Ani Martikian.
The prestigious Archbishop’s Award, presented in recognition of outstanding service to a parish, was bestowed upon Artin Knadjian.
During the banquet, Archbishop Derderian also expressed his appreciation to the pastor of St. Apkar Armenian Church, Rev. Fr. Zacharia Saribekyan, commending his pastoral leadership, energy, and zealous Christian spirit in shepherding the parish community.
Established in the 1960s, St. Apkar Armenian Apostolic Church was consecrated on September 20, 2009. For more than six decades, the parish has served as a spiritual and cultural hub for the Armenian community of Scottsdale and the surrounding region. Under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Fr. Zacharia Saribekyan, the parish continues to nurture the faith, heritage, and communal life of its faithful.
The 17th anniversary celebration served as both a joyful commemoration of the church’s consecration and a tribute to the clergy, parishioners, and community members whose faith and dedicated service continue to sustain St. Apkar’s mission for future generations.
