His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America celebrated the Divine Liturgy at St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church of Pasadena on Sunday, July 21, 2019. During the service, Mr. Avedis Markarian and his family were led on a processional through the church sanctuary by the Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian who carried the Pontifical Encyclical of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians in a silver tray. From the Holy Altar, the Encyclical was read to the parishioners by Fr. Dajad Yardemian. Presenting the Encyclical and the St. Nerses Shnorhali medal to the honoree.

St. Nerses Shorhali, a prestigious medal, is an award bestowed by the Catholicos of All Armenians. The medal recognizes the individual’s selfless services rendered for the prosperity of the Armenian Apostolic Church.   

In the pontifical encyclical accompanying the medal, His Holiness wrote in part: “As dedicated members of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church of Pasadena, you have offered, with love, your dedication and support for the prosperity of the church. Your contributions testify to your love of church and nation.”

Archbishop Derderian congratulated the honoree and reflected on his years of dedicated and selfless service to the Armenian-American community. His Eminence conveyed his genuine wishes to Mr. Markarian and his family.

The service was followed by a luncheon and program at the Geragos Hall in honor of Mr. Markarian.