On Sunday, December 7, the 67th anniversary celebration of Sts. Joachim and Anne Church of Palos Heights, IL, began with an Episcopal Badarak celebrated by Diocesan Primate Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan.
In his homily, Bishop Mesrop spoke with warmth and conviction about the nature of the Christian life. Our spiritual journey, he reminded us, is not meant to be a solitary path. It is a corporate journey, one we walk together as the Body of Christ. Christians do not grow in isolation; we grow by supporting one another, encouraging one another, and lifting one another up. Our walk with God is strengthened when we share the burdens and the blessings of our faith with our brothers and sisters. This theme of unity—of being one family rooted in Christ—would echo throughout the entire celebration.
Following the Divine Liturgy there was the ordination of two dedicated young men, David Ter-Akopov and Ayk Krikorian, to the order of tbir. The ordination service was a beautiful reminder that the Holy Spirit continues to raise up new servants within our parish, strengthening our worship and elevating our life in Christ.
Following the liturgy, parishioners gathered for an evening of fellowship and celebration. The event opened gracefully with words of welcome from Anniversary Committee co-chair Deana Bargamian. Areen Krikorian led the guests in the singing of the The Star-Spangled Banner and Mer Hayrenik. Bishop Mesrop then offered a heartfelt invocation, giving thanks to God for the blessings of this parish and for the unity we share.
Dinner and dessert were enjoyed in a warm, joyful atmosphere, made possible by the tireless work of countless volunteers. Special appreciation was expressed for co-chairs Syuzanna Bradford, Deana Bargamian, and Susan Mardoian.
The program continued with a meaningful fundraising appeal delivered by Parish Council chair Susan Mardoian. In a musical program, Syuzanna Bradford sang “Hey Yergir Arax,” with “Giligia” sung by Areen Krikorian accompanied by her mother Arax on violin. Three energetic jazz selections followed, by Ayk Krikorian and the Sandburg High School Jazz Band.
Gratitude for the Past, Optimism for the Future
Fr. Tavit offered reflections on the blessings God has poured on our parish family. He spoke of gratitude—for our founding families, for those who sacrificed to build this parish, and for the ongoing faith and generosity of our present community. For 67 years, our church has stood as a place where we encounter Christ and walk together in holiness, service, and fellowship, he said.
A significant moment of the evening was the unveiling of a new Endowment and Investment Plaque, honoring 20 funds created between 2003 and 2025. Some were established in memory of beloved family members. Others were created out of gratitude for blessings received.
To highlight this legacy, the parish heard from two speakers representing the first and most recent endowments. Brian Nigohosian spoke in honor of the Stuart and Gloria Nigohosian Endowment Fund, established in 2003. His words beautifully reflected his parents’ faith and generosity. Myron Boyajian then shared heartfelt remarks about the fund he established in memory of his wife, Carol—the newest endowment created in 2025.
The names of all 20 funds were read, honoring the families and benefactors whose faith-filled gifts continue to bless our parish. Bishop Mesrop came forward to offer a special prayer of dedication, asking God to bless the plaque, the benefactors, and all who will be strengthened by their generosity.
The evening concluded with closing comments and a benediction by Bishop Mesrop, who encouraged us to continue supporting one another in our shared journey of faith. His blessing sent us forth uplifted, grateful, and renewed.