Holy Archangels Armenian Church of St. Michael and St. Gabriel, in Haverhill, MA, will host the 123rd Diocesan Assembly, bringing together clergy, delegates, and faithful from across the Eastern Diocese. The Assembly sessions will convene on May 1-3, 2025, preceded by the Clergy Conference on April 29-May 1.
“We are thrilled that our parish will host the annual Clergy Conference and the Diocesan Assembly,” said Holy Archangels pastor Fr. Vart Gyozalyan. “This year’s theme, inspired by the Gospel of John 13:34, is ‘Love One Another.’ These words of Christ remind us of the transformative power of love in building a stronger Christian community and deepening our faith in God.”
Fr. Gyozalyan continued: “The Clergy Conference and Diocesan Assembly will serve as a time for reflection, prayer, and planning for the future of our Diocese. As St. Paul writes, ‘Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves’ (Romans 12:10). In the spirit of these biblical teachings, we gather to renew our commitment to Christ and one another as we celebrate our faith and heritage.
“During the same weekend, the Women’s Guild Assembly, organized by the Women’s Guild Central Council, will be hosted by the Holy Archangels Women’s Guild. This important gathering will bring together women from across our Diocese to strengthen their bonds of fellowship, share ideas, and celebrate their vital role in the life of the Armenian Church.
“Delegates and attendees will also have the opportunity to visit our newly consecrated sanctuary, Family Life and Cultural Center, and see our traditional Armenian Tonir (hearth). They can partake in the unique experience of enjoying freshly baked lahmajun and jingalov hats prepared directly from our tonir, a testament to our rich culinary traditions and warm hospitality.”
Annual Awards Banquet
A highlight of the gathering will be the gala banquet and dance on Friday, May 2, during which the Eastern Diocese will honor two remarkable individuals who embody the spirit of Christian love and service.
James Kalustian will be honored as “Armenian Church Member of the Year.” “James is a devoted servant of the Armenian Church and a champion of our culture and traditions, who has worked tirelessly to promote the Armenian heritage,” Fr. Gyozalyan said. “His dedication reflects the words of the Apostle Peter: ‘Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms’ (1 Peter 4:10).
Rev. Fr. John Delaney, pastor of Sacred Hearts Parish in Bradford, MA, will be recognized by the Diocese as this year’s “Friend of Armenians,” a title bewtowed on those who have shown unwavering support for our community. “His genuine care, friendship, and collaboration with our parish have been a blessing to us all,” said Fr. Vart.
Click here to view a two-page flyer with details of the gala banquet and dance.
Fr. Vart concluded: “We encourage all attendees to carry the spirit of ‘Love One Another’ into their lives, families, and communities. As our Lord Jesus Christ teaches, ‘By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another’ (John 13:35). May this gathering serve as a beacon of light, uniting us in faith and love as we journey together in service to our Lord and Savior.
“Let us join together in prayer and fellowship, looking forward to an inspiring week filled with God’s grace, Armenian hospitality, and the joy of being in communion with one another. May we continue to honor our heritage and build a future rooted in faith, love, and service.”
Registration for the 123rd Diocesan Assembly will open on Saturday, March 1. Clergy, delegates, and other Diocesan Assembly participants may register online via the parish website. Click the link below to register and find detailed information.
Register for the 123rd Diocesan Assembly & Clergy Conference
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