On Sunday August 6, 2017, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese paid a pastoral visit to Saint Geragos Armenian Apostolic Church of Las Vegas.

His Eminence’s visit was three fold:

First and foremost, the Primate wished to witness the progress in the newly consecrated Saint Geragos Armenian Church of Las Vegas under the leadership of the Very Reverend Father Sasoon Zumrookhdian, the Parish Priest.

Secondly, on behalf of His Holiness Karekin II, the Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, Archbishop Derderian bestowed the “St. Nerses Shnorhali (The Graceful) Medal of Service unto Mr. Zohrab Topalian in recognition of the honoree’s 35 years of selfless service rendered to the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Thirdly, His Eminence also bestowed “Hye Spirit” Medal to Mr. Ashot Sindoyan for his dedicated service and outstanding mural work on the Altar of Saint Geragos Armenian Apostolic Church in Las Vegas.

In his homily, His Eminence expressed his pleasure and satisfaction in the progress of the Church. He thanked the Parish Council for their dedicated service in the Church and also expressed his word of appreciation to all Church related organizations, Ladies Society, Seta Tajirian Armenian Saturday School staff, ACYO, Church Choir and the Altar Servers. His Eminence also thanked Fr. Sasoon for his leadership and hard work for the betterment of Saint Geragos Parish.

More importantly, His Eminence stressed the fact and importance of service in the Armenian Church. He underlined the fact that the Church is not only the building but also the living body of the parishioners who come volunteer their time and resources for the betterment of their parish and for the future of their children.

After the church service, the Ladies Society of Saint Geragos Parish hosted a beautiful luncheon at the Khnteer Tajirian Church Hall. All present at the Church had an ample opportunity to greet and receive the blessings of Archbishop Derderian.