In December, the Eastern Diocese announced that Lerna Lacinian has joined the Diocesan Ministries staff, as its new Camp Ministries Coordinator.
Lerna is a lifelong member of St. John Church of Southfield, MI. She is currently in her final semester at Oakland University (Rochester Hills, MI), studying Operations Management. Having been part of Midwest Hye Camp as a camper, CIT, and counselor, Lerna spent last summer working as the camp’s office coordinator. “That opportunity opened the door to apply for the position at the Diocese,” Lerna said, “and now I’m eager to serve the St. Vartan Camp community.”
In her new role, Lerna will oversee the year-round management of St. Vartan Camp, in concert with the camp administrators and directors. She will help develop the camp curriculum and create staff training sessions. During the active summer season, she will be onsite at St. Vartan Camp to manage day-to-day operations with the directors and office coordinators.
In a directive to Diocesan leaders, Primate Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan wrote that “Interim Director of Diocesan Ministries Fr. Hratch Sargsyan, along with longtime Youth and Young Adult Ministries Program Administrator Jennifer Morris, welcomed Lerna to her new role this week. We are grateful to have her on the Diocesan Camps team.”
Bishop Mesrop continued: “As we move forward with plans for the 2024 camp season, I also wish to express my deep gratitude to Yn. Arpi Kouzouian, who last year undertook the role of St. Vartan Camp director. By generously accepting that position at a critical moment, Yn. Arpi allowed the 2023 camp season to go forward with strength and assurance.
“Our Diocese is blessed by all the people who support our camp programs and make them possible year after year. May our Lord Jesus bless them and strengthen them in their efforts. Please join us in welcoming Lerna Lacinian to this important ministry of our Diocese.”