On Saturday, May 20, 2017, the Parish Council and Ladies Society joined together to make the 40th Anniversary celebration of St. John Garabed a wonderful success.

Over $20,000 was raised by San Diego community members in honor of the anniversary. Emilia Arutunian served as Mistress of Ceremonies, Suren Chamian entertained guests with his beautiful piano playing during dinner, DJ Tatool got the crowd on the dance floor until the end of the evening, and Taline Tokatlian and Gohar Militonyan led the ladies in the kitchen.

(The Klijian family was presented with a group plaque and each child received a personalized plaque with their name on it for their dedicated service.)

(Parish priest, Very Rev. Fr. Pakrad Berjekian, and the Parish Council with the spectacular 40th Anniversary cake lovingly prepared by Anoush Militonyan)

In attendance was Noubar Markarian, Godfather of St. John Garabed, and his wife Maida. Along with their family, both have been strong supporters of St. John Garabed since the beginning. Noubar shared stories of how, 40 years ago, San Diego Armenians came together to form a church and the events leading up to the purchase of the current church location. Harry Krikorian, Parish Council, Trust Fund, and Building Committee member gave an update on the progress towards building a new church campus on the new property purchased in Del Mar, CA.

(ACYO members volunteered to serve at the event. Here are a few finally taking a break to eat dinner.)

(Very Rev. Fr. Pakrad Berjekian with several long-time St. John Garabed San Diego community members.)

The highlight of the evening was St. John Garabed’s very first “Family of the Year” award presented to Dr. & Mrs. Ara and Sosi Klijian and their five children. Their love for our church and selfless dedication to our community is an inspiration to us all.  Karse, Kail, and Kyan serve on the altar and Hoorie and Serre are members of the choir.