St. James Armenian Church in Sacramento Celebrates a Milestone

St. James Armenian Church in Sacramento celebrated the 60th anniversary of the parish on June 29-30, 2013. On the auspicious occasion, Diocesan Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon. His Eminence was assisted by Rev. Fr. Asoghig Jamgochian, Pastor of the host parish and Rev. Fr. Datev Harutyunian, Regional Vicar of Northern California. During the service, Fr. Datev read the Encyclical of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians. His Holiness conveyed his pontifical wishes and blessings to the clergy and the faithful on this momentous occasion.

After the Divine Liturgy, His Eminence Archbishop Derderian led a procession to the main entrance of the new building and consecrated a “Khatchkar” (cross-stone) from Armenia.  Commenting on the sweltering heat, His Eminence reminded the parishioners that a century ago our martyred ancestors marched in the scorching heat of the Syrian desert of Der Zor, and that 106 degree weather should not be a hindrance in preventing us from dedicating and consecrating the Khatchkar on this auspicious occasion.

The parish was honored to have present at the event, California State Assemblymember Tim Donnelly (33rd District) and his wife. The Assemblyman extended his congratulations on the occasion of the 60th Anniversary of the consecration of St. James Armenian Apostolic Church.  Also present was Deacon Daniel Aydemian, the Primate’s representative in the State Capitol.

Guests received a commemorative booklet heralding the 60 Year Anniversary of the St. James Apostolic Church of Sacramento.  The booklet contained the history of the ancestors who settled in Sacramento and messages from His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians; His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese,  Rev. Fr. Asoghig Jamgochian, Parish Priest, Rod Jorjorian, Chair of the Parish Council, Flora Charekian, Chair of the Ladies Society, and  many congratulatory  messages from the parishioners and the Armenian faithful of the community.

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