MIDWEST PARISHES UNITE IN FAITH AT REGIONAL SEMINAR IN GLENVIEW, ILLINOIS

On Saturday, November 1, clergy and lay leaders from across the Midwest gathered at All Saints Church in Glenview, Illinois, for the second session of the Prelacy’s Regional Seminar Series. This spiritual-educational initiative aims to deepen unity among the faithful, strengthen parish leadership, and enhance the Church’s administrative and pastoral life. 

The day began as His Eminence Archbishop Anoushavan, Prelate, offered the opening prayer and invoked God’s blessings upon the participants. In his remarks, His Eminence underscored the sacred value of such gatherings as opportunities to share faith, wisdom, and service in the name of Christ and His Holy Church. Rev. Fr. Samuel Adjemian, Pastor, together with Rafi Krikorian, chair of the Board of Trustees, warmly welcomed the nearly thirty attendees and reflected on the special fellowship that unites the parishes of the Midwest. 

Executive Council Chairman Aram Sarafian, joined by members of the Council, presented the day’s agenda, centered on fostering cross-parish collaboration, strengthening administrative practices, and advancing the mission of the Prelacy. The program included a review of the Prelacy’s mission and vision, followed by a discussion of current challenges and key priorities guiding the Executive Council’s work. 

The sessions were led by Rev. Fr. Hrant Kevorkian, Pastor of St. Sarkis Church (Dearborn, Michigan), and Aram Hovagimian, Executive Council member. A presentation explored the origin of the two Catholicosates and their enduring significance. Another session traced the rich heritage of the Armenian Church in America—from the arrival of the first Armenian immigrant in 1618 to the establishment of the Eastern Prelacy under the spiritual jurisdiction of the Holy See of Cilicia. 

Interactive discussions led by the Executive Council invited participants to share perspectives on vital topics such as parish growth, donor stewardship, Prelacy services that support parish administration, and best practices to maintain consistency and excellence across communities. 

The Prelacy will continue this initiative, with the next Regional Seminar to be held in the Mid-Atlantic Region. 

That evening, many participants joined the joyful celebration of the 82nd anniversary of All Saints Armenian Apostolic Church, giving thanks to Almighty God for His abundant grace and for the parish’s many years of faithful service to the Lord and His Holy Church.