On Sunday, September 23, Archpriest Fr. Zareh Zargarian celebrated Divine Liturgy at the Holy Trinity Armenian Church.
Following the Divine Liturgy, the congregation marked the 21st anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Armenia. A special procession of acolytes advanced towards the altar, with the Church Choir singing ‘Ourakh Ler’. Four students of the Sunday School carried forward the Armenian national flag. Also among the procession, and at the request of the Pastor, was Mrs. Sirvard Kurdian, who had celebrated her 100th birthday in August.
Archpriest Fr. Zargarian blessed the flag and Mrs. Kurdian while the congregation joined the acolytes and the choir.
In the sermon that followed, Fr. Zargarian reflected on the sacrifices our brothers and sisters in Armenia and Artsakh had made in order to secure independence. He then referred to the presence of Mrs. Kurdian, pointing out the hardships she had endured as an orphan of the Genocide. She is one of the few survivors who have been fortunate enough to witness the independence of Armenia and Artsakh. He then wished peaceful years to our homeland and health to Mrs. Kurdian.
Toward the end, the congregation approached the altar, paid homage to the flag of the Republic of Armenia and congratulated Mrs. Kurdian on her birthday.
It was indeed a day of celebration.