Eastern Diocese

06/07/2026

Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Universal Church of Holy Etchmiadzin.
Its legacy is anchored by two monumental milestones: it is the spiritual heart of the very first Christian nation (301 CE), and is recognized as the oldest official cathedral in the world (303 CE).

Etchmiadzin translates to "the place where the Only Begotten descended." Beneath the cathedral's stone and frescoes lies the enduring anchor of Armenian identity. May we continue to hold our faith and culture dear; a foundation built to endure.

06/06/2026

The structures that define us and the convictions that ground us are often tested in the darkest depths. Today we mark the emergence of St. Gregory from the pit of Khor Virap, a moment where absolute darkness gave way to a light that has illuminated Armenian culture and faith for over seventeen centuries.

Honoring history, resilience, and an unshakeable foundation.

06/03/2026

On Friday, May 29, at St. John Armenian Church in Southfield, MI, Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan joined Fr. Aren Jebejian, hundreds of family members, friends, parishioners, and clergy to honor Rev. Fr. Garabed Kochakian on two remarkable milestones: 50 years of faithful priestly service to the Armenian Church and the 50th wedding anniversary of Fr. Garabed and Yn. Roberta.

The celebratory banquet brought together guests from across the country and beyond, reflecting the countless lives touched by Fr. Garabed's ministry over five decades. Bishop Mesrop presided over the evening and offered heartfelt remarks, joined by clergy from the Eastern Diocese, Western Diocese, Armenian Prelacy, Armenian Evangelical community, and Eastern Orthodox churches.

Among the distinguished guests were St. Nersess Armenian Seminary Board Member Michael Zeytoonian, a seminary classmate of Fr. Garabed, and former Detroit television meteorologist Chuck Gaidica, who shared reflections on their longstanding friendship. A special toast was also offered by Rev. Fr. Hratch Sargsyan in honor of the couple's golden anniversary.

In a fitting expression of their enduring commitment to the parish they have served and loved, Fr. Garabed and Yn. Roberta generously donated $10,000 to St. John's Veterans Building renovation fund.

Congratulations to Fr. Garabed and Yn. Roberta on this extraordinary celebration of faith, service, marriage, and devotion to the Armenian Church.

View the full gallery: https://easterndiocese.smugmug.com/EasternDiocese/Fr-Garabed-Kochakian-50th-Anniversary-Ordination-Banquet

Photography by: Ara Howrani

05/30/2026

What a weekend!

Nearly 300 ACYOA Seniors and clergy from across the Eastern Diocese came together in Watertown, MA, for the 2026 ACYOA General Assembly and Sports Weekend.

Hosted by the St. James ACYOA Seniors, the weekend was filled with faith, friendship, leadership, and unforgettable moments both on and off the court.

05/29/2026

We celebrate 80 years of memories, milestones, and the people who have shaped the ACYOA into the vibrant community it is today. As we honor the past, we look forward with hope to the next generation who will continue this legacy for years to come.

05/28/2026

Today is the last day to RSVP for the Evening on the Plaza event!! Get your tickets before it's too late!

https://givebutter.com/evening-on-the-plaza

A night of memories, music, and reconnecting under the stars ✨

Join us for Evening on the Plaza on June 4 at St. Vartan Cathedral NYC for cocktails, bites, and a celebration of the unforgettable years that brought our community together.

🎟 Advance ticket sales only — RSVP by May 25!

PURCHASE TICKETS: https://givebutter.com/evening-on-the-plaza

05/28/2026

Over a century ago, the Armenian people looked at the horizon of history and chose to write their own destiny. That decision—that defiance—protected the first Armenian republic, and set an example for the republic our people stand in today.
We pause to honor the memory of those who stood tall so that we may stand free. We honor the stones of our ancient land, the resilience of our culture, and the light of our faith. As we celebrate our land’s restoration, let us commit ourselves to the work of peace and the preservation of our heritage for the generations yet to come.
Our history is our strength. Our unity is our future.
Happy Republic Day 🇦🇲

05/27/2026

On Tuesday, May 26, at the special invitation of Paruyr Hovhannisyan, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Armenia to the UN, Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan and Archbishop Anoushavan Danielian visited the headquarters of the United Nations in New York.

At the entrance, they were welcomed by Movses Abelian, Undersecretary-General for General Assembly and Conference Management, who introduced them to the various departments and activities of his office. During the visit, they also discussed issues concerning Armenian and international life.

Throughout the tour, they were accompanied by Zhirayr Ananyan, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Republic of Armenia to the United Nations.

As they departed, the bishops expressed their gratitude for this meaningful and educational invitation.

05/26/2026

Catch up on the photos from the ACYOA Sunday Gala! Photos feature sports champions, words from Srpazan, and fun on the dance floor!



View the gallery: https://easterndiocese.smugmug.com/ACYOA/2026-ACYOA-General-Assembly-and-Sports-Weekend/ACYOA-General-Assembly-and-Sports-Weekend-Sunday-Gala/

05/25/2026

On this Memorial Day, we honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. May their sacrifice never be forgotten, and may we continue to remember them through prayer, gratitude, and faith.