In a modification of previous plans, the upcoming 120th Diocesan Assembly will convene in a “hybrid” format, incorporating both in-person and online participation. Primate Bishop Daniel made the announcement in a directive to Diocesan leaders, dated March 25, 2022.
In an earlier message of January 28, the Primate and Diocesan Council had explained that the 2022 Assembly would be conducted virtually in its entirety, out of lingering concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic. However, given the subsequent relaxation of health restrictions, and in response to encouragement from delegates, the decision was made to open the event to in-person participation, in addition to having delegates gather online, over the Zoom conference platform, as they have during the past two assemblies.
The in-person Assembly sessions will take place at the Diocesan Center in New York City. Delegates who decide not to travel to New York for the Assembly will be able to participate fully online. The dates for the gathering remain as previously announced: namely Friday and Saturday, May 6 and 7.
Per the latest announcement, the sessions “will consist of a strictly business format with a limited agenda.” An important function of the upcoming Diocesan Assembly will involve voting for elected officers, proposals, and matters such as the approval of the Diocesan budget. The election feature has been successfully undertaken during the past two virtual assemblies using a secure, user-friendly online voting platform.
The gathering will be the occasion for an election for the office of Primate, which is held every four years in accordance with the Diocesan Bylaws. A letter to delegates from Diocesan Council chair Fr. Krikor Sabounjian announced that the slate of candidates for the election of Primate would include Bishop Daniel Findikyan, Fr. Mamigon KIledjian, and Fr. Mesrop Parsamyan.
Click here to view the announcement on the change in format for the Diocesan Assembly, or read the full text below.
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March 25, 2022
Dear Reverend Clergy, Diocesan Delegates and Parish Council Chairs,
On January 28, 2022, it was communicated to you that the 120th Diocesan Assembly would be held virtually on Friday, May 6 and Saturday, May 7, per the decision of the Diocesan Council.
In response to a number of requests to reconsider having an in person Assembly, the Diocesan Council recently revisited the issue and has modified the earlier decision, such that the 120th Diocesan Assembly will be held both in person, at the Diocese of the Armenian Church in New York City, and virtually. Delegates who decide not to travel to New York City for the Assembly will be able to participate fully via ZOOM.
The dates and times will remain as Friday, May 6, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, Saturday, May 7, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm and will consist of a strictly business format with limited agenda.
Please note that participants will need to secure overnight accommodations of their own choosing as well as ground transportation to and from airports, train or bus terminals.
More details will be provided to you in the next two weeks.
Feel free to reach out to Lisa Kouzoujian, Esq., Diocesan Council vice-chair, with your questions: lisa.kouzoujian@gmail.com or 203-536-2622, or Mona Karoghlanian, Diocesan Council secretary: Mona.Karoghlanian@gmail.com or 330-256-4955.
With my prayers,
Bishop DANIEL
Primate