NORTH AMERICAN PRELATES CONVENE IN LOS ANGELES TO PLAN THE YEAR AHEAD

North American Prelates gathered in Los Angeles for a two-day working session on March 25 and 26 to address key religious and community matters. Archbishop Kegham, Prelate of the Western Prelacy, hosted Archbishop Anoushavan, Prelate of the Eastern Prelacy, and Archbishop Papken, Prelate of the Armenian Prelacy of Canada. The visiting Prelates took the opportunity to warmly congratulate Archbishop Kegham on his recent election as Prelate. 

In addition to ongoing matters, the Prelates focused on significant upcoming events, including the 30th anniversary celebrations of Catholicos Aram I’s enthronement, which will be organized within North American Armenian communities. They also discussed preparations for His Holiness’ pastoral visit to the Western Prelacy and coordinated plans for the official welcoming events. Further topics included the practical implementation of Catholicos Aram I’s proclamation of 2025 as the “Year of the Revitalization of Traditions” and the fulfillment of its goals. The Prelates also addressed various social and moral concerns affecting the Armenian communities. 

On Wednesday morning, the three Prelates officiated a Mid-Lenten sunrise service at St. Mary’s Church in Glendale. Archbishop Papken delivered the spiritual message, reflecting on the significance of the season. 

Later that day, Archbishop Kegham hosted a traditional Mid-Lenten luncheon attended by local clergy members. After a prayer of thanksgiving, the attendees shared traditional Lenten dishes and participated in a discussion on ecclesiastical and liturgical matters. Special emphasis was placed on the urgent need for modern, pedagogically sound religious textbooks for Armenian school students. Various proposals were presented and noted for further consideration.