June 18, 2011 was a historic day for the Armenian Community in London, Ontario, with the celebration of the first Divine Liturgy, Badarak, of the Armenian Church. The community, led by Rev. Fr. Serop Azarian, gathered at the Chapel of Hope (Address, 850 Highbury Ave., London) a 100 year old beautiful building with medieval European character.
Father Azarian celebrated Divine Liturgy, assisted by Deacon Nurhan Ipekjian. The Liturgy was sung by the HTAC choir, with Shahe Altounian, the conductor, Maria Altounian, Hasmig Kurdian, Hilda Cizmeciyan, Talin Hacat and Pakrat Carkcyian.
Reverend Fr. Serop Azarian conveyed the greetings of the Primate, His Eminence Bishop Bagrat Galstanian who had appointed the following four individuals as temporary Parish council members: Mrs. Sophie Carswell, Mr. John Koyounian, Mrs. Perouz (Pearl) Seferian, and Mr. Arthur Kashikjian. This group will bring together a committee which will organize parish events for the community. Official elections will be held at a future date.
Following the Divine Liturgy, the community enjoyed the warm hospitality of Mr. & Mrs. John Koyounian at their home. It was an occasion for the group from Toronto to get to know their compatriots in London.
