On Saturday, March 2, Diocesan Primate Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan consecrated the new St. Nerses Shnorhali Armenian Church in Jacksonville, FL.
“This consecration holds a special place in my heart,” he said, “as it marks my first church consecration since becoming a bishop last October.”
The Armenian Church of Jacksonville has been a longstanding, active mission parish in the Eastern Diocese for many years. Acquiring and consecrating a church of their own is a major step forward for the faithful of the community.
“I was deeply moved by the warmth and dedication of our brothers and sisters in Jacksonville, whose efforts have made this dream a reality,” the Primate reflected. “Their commitment to preserving our rich heritage and faith is truly inspiring. I am confident that this church will be a beacon of God’s grace, guiding our people in Jacksonville in their spiritual journey and serving as a home for worship and community.”
Assisting Bishop Mesrop during the ceremony was Fr. Paren Galstyan, pastor of Soorp Haroutiun Church in Orlando. Bishop Mesrop thanked him and “everyone who organized and joined us in this historic celebration: parish council members, donors, choir and altar servers, and every faithful soul in Jacksonville.”
“Your collective spirit and unity in Christ have truly made this day unforgettable,” he told the enthusiastic parishioners.
As part of the consecration ceremony and the reception that followed, the Primate bestowed two parishioners, Olivia Arslanian-Brooks and Soorin Vardanian, with the St. Vartan Medal. He offered congratulations to consecration godfather Carl Bazarian, as well as to the cross godfathers, and the parish leaders and benefactors.
In their remembrances of the community’s history, parishioners paid tribute to the determined souls who first started the parish, and to the role Fr. Tateos Abdalian played as Jacksonville’s dedicated visiting pastor for many years.
Now, secure in its home at 3900 Atlantic Boulevard in Jacksonville, our Diocese’s St. Nerses Shnorhali Church will go forward to begin a new chapter of spiritual growth and community solidarity. Congratulations to the faithful of the community. In the words of our Primate: “May God’s blessings shower upon each of you, nurturing your faith and guiding your steps in His divine light.”
Click here to view a photo gallery of the uplifting occasion.
And click the following link to view the consecration booklet, which details the history of the Jacksonville Armenian community and presents background on the day’s honorees.