Western Diocese

On Sunday, January 20, 2008, the Stewardship Event/Reception commenced at 4:00 p.m., at Kalaydjian Hall of the Western Diocese. On behalf of His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian presented Mr. Greg Tcherkoyan with the “St. Nerses the Graceful” Medallion for his dedicated service to the Church. Mr. and Mrs. Tcherkoyan have selflessly served St. Vartan Armenian Church in Oakland, California. The Diocesan candidates for priesthood brought their participation to this event. Dn. Vahe Abovian read the encyclical of His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians in which our beloved Pontiff had lauded Mr. and Mrs. Tcherkoyan’s service to the Church. The Primate, on behalf of the Western Diocese, presented Mr. and Mrs. Tcherkoyan with two beautiful hand-painted crosses, depicting biblical themes. Dr. Vahram Biricik, Chairman of Stewardship Committee, after thanking His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian for his support and guidance, briefly outlined the important aspects of the Stewardship program to the audience. During the program, the Primate especially thanked the Vicar General of the Western Diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, who overses the progression and educational matters of the priest-students and priesthood-candidate students. Archpriest Fr. Dr. Zaven Arzoumanian and Yeretsgin Joyce, the Chancellor of the Western Diocese, Archpriest Fr. Sipan Mekhsian and Archpriest Fr. Manoog Markarian were also present during this event.