PRELATE CELEBRATES FEAST OF ST. GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR CHURCH IN PHILADELPHIA

On Sunday, March 22, His Eminence Archbishop Anoushavan, Prelate, celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon at St. Gregory the Illuminator Church in Philadelphia, on the occasion of the church’s feast day and the 99^th anniversary of its founding.

In his homily, the Prelate extolled Very Rev. Fr. Boghos Tinkjian, Pastor, and the devoted service of the Board of Trustees. He highlighted the healthy organization of the community and its vitality, working with the ancillary bodies and sister organizations. Speaking of St. Gregory the Illuminator’s life and his significance, His Eminence said that he belongs not only to the past, but is also an exemplary figure for all ages, who may guide us in our individual and collective lives. As a principled person, despite expressing obedience to his king, he rejected his orders that his God-displeasing command at the price of his freedom, position, and life. Following in the footsteps of the great saint, the Prelate encouraged everyone to remain faithful to God-pleasing and patriotic values, and not to destroy the foundations of our nation’s prosperous future for the sake of the transient interests of the present.

At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, His Eminence led a procession to the parish hall, where a madagh blessing was officiated. The celebration concluded with a blessing and the singing of Giligia.