Clergy and Diocesan Delegates from across the Eastern Diocese, led by our beloved Primate Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, gathered last week for the Annual Clergy Conference and Diocesan Assembly. We were graciously hosted by Holy Archangels Church of St. Gabriel and St. Michael in Haverhill, MA, under the leadership of Fr. Vart Gyozalyan and the host committee chaired by Mark Kazanjian. It was a truly meaningful and inspiring time for our Diocese and our parish community.

From April 29 to May 1, I had the blessing of joining my clergy brothers for the Annual Clergy Conference. It was a wonderful opportunity for spiritual renewal and for strengthening our bonds as a diocesan family. During the conference, we received a message from His Holiness KAREKIN II, Catholicos of All Armenians, and heard presentations from two guest clergy from the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, Very Rev. Fr. Poghos Vardanyan and Rev. Fr. Zareh Ashuryan. We also received an inspiring message from our Primate, Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan.

Following the Clergy Conference, from May 1 to 3, representatives from St. Gregory of Narek Armenian Church participated in the 123rd Diocesan Assembly. Together with Parish Council Chair Mona Karoghlanian and Diocesan Delegate Dn. Serop Demirjian, I was honored to represent our parish and broader community. During both the Clergy Conference and the Diocesan Assembly, I delivered presentations on Diocesan Ministries in my capacity as Interim Director of Ministries.

Dn. Serop served as Chair of the Proposal Committee, and both Mona and I were elected to serve as members of the Diocesan Council. The Assembly was marked by meaningful discussions and breakout sessions held in a spirit of Christian love. Together, we also participated in an outreach service, honoring this year’s diocesan theme, “Love One Another.” Bishop Mesrop also addressed the Assembly, offering his vision and encouragement to the delegates gathered.

At the Friday evening banquet, special recognitions were given: James Kalustian was honored with the “Armenian of the Year” award, and Fr. John Delaney, Pastor of Sacred Hearts Church, was named “Friend of Armenians” in appreciation of his enduring support and friendship. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Vart, Yn. Lusine, and the entire Holy Archangels Church family for their warm hospitality, impeccable organization, and unwavering dedication in making the Assembly a truly memorable and enriching experience for all involved.

• READ MORE about the 123rd Diocesan Assembly proceedings and results.
• VIEW PHOTOS of the Assembly sessions.
• WATCH A VIDEO on the Assembly theme, “Love One Another.”