The Armenian Diocese of Canada convened its 39th annual assembly from May 26 to May 28, 2023, at Holy Cross Armenian Church of Laval. His Grace Bishop Abgar Hovakimyan, Primate, presided over the Assembly, while His Grace Bishop Ashot Mnatsakanyan, the Primate of the Armenian Diocese of Egypt, was invited as a guest speaker. Additionally, His Grace Bishop Ararat Kaltakjian, a member of the Brotherhood of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, graced the assembly with his presence.
On the morning of May 26, 2023, a clergy meeting took place at the Diocesan Headquarters. His Holiness Karekin II, the Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, sent Pontifical blessings from the spiritual center of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin to the entire Armenian Holy Apostolic Church community in Canada.
The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister of Canada, extended greetings and good wishes to the Assembly participants on behalf of the Government of Canada.
During the Assembly, reports from various diocesan ministries, as well as the Diocesan Council, Chancellery, and the Diocesan Endowment Fund, were discussed by the delegates. Representatives from parishes were given the opportunity to share their perspectives on the church’s activities and endeavors.
On the evening of Saturday, May 27, a banquet was organized at the Centre Arménie in Laval, under the patronage of His Grace Bishop Abgar Hovakimyan, with the esteemed presence of Her Excellency Anahit Harutyunyan, Ambassador of Armenia to Canada. The event was presided over by Mr. and Mrs. Ohan and Anita Ohanessian and was attended by clergymen, diocesan delegates, and numerous guests. Bishop Ararat commemorated the 30th anniversary of the CYMA (Canadian Youth Mission to Armenia) by presenting a brief history of the mission, while Bishop Abgar expressed gratitude and appreciation to all who contributed to its success. The guests were entertained by Mona Lissa Chanda and her band, as well as the Kilikia Folkloric Armenian Dance Group. Furthermore, a silent auction was held to raise funds in support of the Diocese’s mission.
On Sunday, May 28, His Grace Bishop Abgar Hovakimyan celebrated the Divine Liturgy at Holy Cross Church of Laval and consecrated the altar icon dedicated to Saint Mary, generously donated by Mr. and Mrs. Arden and Christine Dervishian.
