On Sunday, July 27, 2025, the faithful of St. Mary Armenian Church in Yettem received the episcopal blessings of the Diocesan Primate His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian.

As the day’s celebrant, the Primate delivered a spiritually uplifting homily, centered on the tabernacle Feast of the Transfiguration of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. “The story of Christ’s Transfiguration conveys to us a strong message related to the spiritual strength of prayer. As Christ prayed, he was transfigured. He wished for his disciples to witness the practice of prayer in the earthly ministry of their Master. Therefore, when we pray, we are empowered to hear God’s voice from the cloud exhorting us to ‘listen to Him.” When we do, we imitate Christ and fulfill the will of God,” stated Archbishop Derderian in part.

During the service, the Margosian family received a blessing for the items donated to the church in loving memory of Lucille Margosian.

Furthermore, in recognition of their steadfast service rendered to St. Mary Armenian Church of Yettem, parishoners Margie Ann Davidian and Marie Louise Menendian were honored by the Primate with the Diocesan Hye Spirit Award. Archbishop Derderian commended the ladies for their unwavering loyalty,  many years of hard work, leadership, and care for the Yettem parish.

After the service, the congregants gathered in the Majarian Hall for a fellowship luncheon. Surrounded by friends and loved ones, the award recipients shared their thoughts and memories, speaking about their love for the church and their journey of service. It was a memorable day for the faithful of St. Mary Armenian Church of Yettem, filled with blessings, gratitude and joy.