The faithful Armenian Christians in the western United States observed a worthy milestone on December 10, when they paid tribute to Archbishop Hovnan Derderian on the 20th anniversary of his distinguished tenure as Primate of the Western Diocese.
The ceremonies at St. Leon (Ghevontiants) Armenian Cathedral began with an Episcopal Divine Liturgy, where Archbishop Derderian was the celebrant and delivered the sermon. It continued with an evening banquet, where dignitaries of the community extolled the honoree’s two decades of leadership, and the profound virtues of mind and spirit he brings to his service to God, the church, and our people. Click here to read about the splendid proceedings, and view photos and video.
Of course, Hovnan Srpazan has been a great friend of the Eastern Diocese—its primates, clergy, and people—throughout his ministry. From his days as the Primate of Canada, when he was the youngest bishop in the Armenian Church, Archbishop Hovnan has been an impressive and welcomed presence among us.
Today, as the senior arajnort of the Armenian Church in North America, his exemplary record is a model to look up to, and honor. He combines an intensity of vision and broad scope of ambition with a deep sense of spirituality and humanity, which he is able to communicate in ways that connect directly with people. As an institutional leader, he appreciates the need to do things on a grand scale, but he is never afraid to undertake the hard work required to execute such plans, and make them succeed.
The Western Diocese produced an attractive volume documenting Hovnan Srpazan’s accomplishments over these 20 years, and you can watch a video overview of its contents by clicking here.
In the meantime, the Primate and faithful of the Eastern Diocese convey their warm congratulations to Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, and offer grateful prayers to the Lord for his continuing fruitful service to the entire Armenian Church.