At the initiative of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, an exceptional new program is being organized specifically to benefit non-baptized adult members of the Armenian community.
During the decades when Armenia existed under the Soviet/communist regime (1920-1991), Armenians were up against serious obstacles, which prevented them from being baptized. Many wanted to be baptized but were unable because of circumstances and the harsh conditions of life.
Thank God, today the reality has changed and the Armenian Apostolic Church, Western Diocese of North America is ready to fill the gap that exists by baptizing all those grown adults who have not been baptized to this day.
The Sacrament of Baptism is the first and foundational sacrament of the Armenian Apostolic Church because it is only through Holy Baptism that an individual becomes a Christian and member of the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church.
Even more, it is important to know that the Sacrament of Holy Baptism is necessary for our salvation, because our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Himself said, “Unless one is born of water and the spirit, he cannot enter the Kingdom of God” (John 3:5). This is also the reason that after His resurrection our Lord commanded His disciples to baptize and teach (Matthew 28:20-21).
Our Lord’s messages pertain to all times and to all generations. It is for that reason that the Western Diocese has organized special classes and lessons to explain and teach the Sacrament of Holy Baptism. These classes will be a prerequisite to being baptized under this exceptional initiative.
The lessons will take place during Great Lent 2022, every Wednesday evening at 7:00PM, over the course of six weeks. The classes are also open to those who are already baptized, yet would like to know more about the sacrament of Baptism. Prior registration is required. The curriculum is attached to this communique.
To participate in this program and to receive more information, you may call the Western Diocese at 818.558.7474.
Divan of the Diocese
