ARCHPRIEST REV. FR. ZAREH ZARGARIAN RECEIVES THE BLESSINGS AND ENCYCLICAL OF HIS HOLINESS, KAREKIN II, CATHOLICOS OF ALL ARMENIANS

Harutyun Tersakyan

The 90th anniversary of the establishment of the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church parish was celebrated by religious and social functions.

On Sunday, December 2, Holy Liturgy was celebrated by the Primate, His Grace Bishop Abgar Hovakimyan, assisted by Rev. Archpriest Fr. Zareh Zargarian, Vicar of the Armenian Holy Apostolic Church Diocese of Canada. Serving on the altar were deacons Krikor Tozakian, Garbis Cicekian, Roy Kucukatesh, Nurhan Ipekian and Darius Gumushjian. The choir's rendition of the Liturgy, under the baton of Shahe Altounian and organ accompaniment of Sona Artinian, was very uplifting.

Vicar of the Armenian Holy Apostolic Church Diocese of Canada and Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church of Toronto, Archpriest Rev. Fr. Zareh Zargarian also received an encyclical from His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of all Armenians, in appreciation for his years of service to the Church. His Grace Bishop Abgar Hovakimyan read the encyclical, which said, “For decades now you have served in the Holy Trintiy Armenian Apostolic Church of Toronto with dedication, by implanting the word of God with honest faith and inspiration. Through your efforts you have been able to bring the children of our nation together, pass on to them our religious and cultural values. Today many organizations operate within Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church, who contribute to the spiritual and community life and thus strengthen the image of the Armenian Apostolic Church. It is with special gratification that we reflect on your contribution to the well-being of our compatriots in Armenia. We have highly appreciated your service, your love for your nation and church.”

Following Liturgy, a special requiem service was offered for the repose of the souls of former parish pastors, godfathers and benefactors, former members of parish councils, as well as deceased members of the parish. The 90th anniversary celebrations came to an end by the rendition of “Ov Hayots Ashkharh” by the choir.