The Zvartnots Cultural Committee of the Western Diocese organized a memorable cultural evening on October 11, 2016 honoring the legendary Armenian poet Hovhannes Shiraz. The evening commenced with the welcoming remarks by Simon Simonian, M.D., who shared with the audience the mission of the committee of promoting and enriching the rich cultural heritage of the Armenian people. The cultural evening was attended by the Very Rev. Fr. Pakrad Berjekian, Vicar General, Archpriest Fr. Dr. Zaven Arzoumanian, Archpriest Fr. Hovsep Hagopian, the Very Rev. Fr. Yeremia Abgaryan, and the Rev. Fr. Yeghia Isayan.

The evening of tribute to the legendary poet featured the presentation of the poet's biography by Nune Avetisyan, a presentation by writer-comedian Zhora Karapetian, recitations by Lusine Gezalian, an 8^th grade student from Alfred and Marguerite Hovsepian School, five students from “Little Angels” Academy, as well as vocal and musical performances Salbi Mailyan, violinist Merouzhan Margaryan, Ruben Harutyunyan on the doudouk and David Kuzukian from “Little Angels” Saturday School of St. Leon (Srbots Ghevontiants) Armenian Cathedral on the shvi (fipple flute).

To the delight of the audience, Tadevos Shiraz, the son of the late legendary poet was also present at the event accompanied by his children.

The Vicar General delivered the closing remarks wherein he commended the event’s organizers for enriching the cultural life of the Armenian-American community. Fr. Pakrad conveyed his genuine wishes to the audience and closed the evening with a prayer.