The Holy Trinity Armenian Church Walk-A-Thon took place on Sunday, October 5, 2008. The organizers started registration process at 8:30 am at St. Mary’s Armenian Church surrounding. The participants gathered for a prayer before starting the walk. By the invitation of Rev. Archpriest Zareh Zargarian, V. Rev. Fathers Meghrik Parikian and Sipan Kechedjian from St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church were present to give their blessings to the group.
Rev. Archpriest Zareh Zargarian, the Pastor of Holy Trinity Armenian Church had just arrived fromArmenia, bringing the blessings from The Mother See Holy Etchmiadzin and His Holiness Karekin II Catholicos of all Armenians.
Fr. Zareh welcomed the participants to the Walk-a-thon and wished everyone best of luck with their mission.
At 9:30am by the sound of special horn the walk-a-thon officially started. You could see smiley faces everywhere waving the Armenian flag. It was a beautiful sunny day, perfect for a walk with friends, old and new and united to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of Holy Trinity Armenian Church. Seeing many young walkers was encouraging and promising. Many members of A.C.Y.O.C. (Armenian Church Youth Organization of Canada) were there with friends and family. The youngest participant, Alik, was a four year old little girl who did an amazing job inspiring all around her.
By 11:30 am the group had arrived to church and participated in the Divine Liturgy and they took Holy Communion. Great sense of satisfaction and accomplishment surrounded the participants. The prayers, the choir and the sense of belonging were incredible.
Rev. Archpriest Zareh Zargarian addressed the faithful after “badarak” by thanking God for the safe arrival of the pilgrims from the Mother See Holy Etchmiatzin and shared his experience with everyone. He praised the participants of Walk-a-thon and blessed them all at the end of the Divine Liturgy. The Choir added special joy to the end of this successful day by singing “Hayots Ashkharh” a favorite tune to all present.
The parish council of the church had organized special lunch for participants which was enjoyed by all.
At the end, special thanks and appreciation goes to Hrant Ketenjian, one of the parish council members who organized the Walk-a-thon. We appreciate the efforts of everyone involved who made this an unforgettable experience. This was a successful event thanks to the great support of our faithful who encouraged our mission by making donations or taking part in almost 10 km walk. We are looking forward to see you again in the next walk-a-thon.