ST. GREGORY ARMENIAN CHURCH MARKS 71 YEARS WITH ORDINATIONS AND BLESSINGS

St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church in Granite City, Illinois, marked its 71st anniversary with a weekend of liturgical celebrations on December 6 and 7 that brought new clergy into service, honored devoted parishioners and highlighted recent parish initiatives. 

On Saturday, the parish welcomed His Eminence Archbishop Anoushavan, Prelate, who ordained nine new acolytes: Barbara Jean Varadian; Melanie Asadorian Keeney; Lindsey Joy Schweitzer; Gasya Celeste Berberian; Nicholas Varadian; Dominic Richard Giovando; Cecelia Rose Giovando; Nathaniel Jude Schweitzer, and Levi John Schweitzer. In the same service, His Eminence also ordained two new subdeacons, Dr. George Gordon Schweitzer, and Antranig Hagop Asadorian. 

The following day, Sunday, December 7, Archbishop Anoushavan continued this spirit of grace by ordaining a new deacon for the church, Stephen Suren Hagopian. 

After the Divine Liturgy, Deacon George Berberian served as MC for the program, guiding the congregation through an afternoon that combined music, recognition, and thanksgiving. Organist Mikayel Darbinyan enriched the celebration with masterpieces performed on the organ, adding a solemn and uplifting tone to the gathering. 

The Prelate and Rev. Fr. Taniel Manjikian, Pastor, presented certificates to the newly ordained servants of the church and conferred Prelacy awards on parishioners recognized for their dedication and generosity. Dr. George and Mrs. Lindsey Schweitzer were honored in recognition of their selfless service and commitment to the church and community. Mr. and Mrs. Steve and Susan Hagopian and family, Dcn. Jeffrey and Mrs. Lynne Hagopian and family, and Mrs. Karen Hagopian and family were recognized for their thoughtful and generous donation of their childhood and parental home, which will now serve as the parish house. 

Addressing the congregation, Fr. Taniel also spoke about the newly completed youth center and expressed gratitude to the Prelate and the Prelacy for their support and contribution to this project, which is intended to strengthen the future of the parish community.