For St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church of Hamilton, Sunday, October 30, 2011 was a very specific cornerstone day of commemoration. It was the 35th anniversary of the establishment of the church that became a spiritual beacon of light to the Armenian community in this part of Canada.

The pinnacle of the commemoration was the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. The celebrant was His Eminence Bishop Bagrat Galstanian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church of Canada. He was duly assisted by the Rev. Fr. Serop Azarian, the pastor and a group of deacons from St. Mary and the surrounding communities. The clergy rank included the Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Gulian and Rev. Fr. Parsegh Vanlian who participated in the holy celebration. The choirmaster of the day was Maestro David Varjabedian with his choir from Toronto.

Based on a previous request by the Pastor, the Primate ordained Mr. Manuel Akjambazian into the Diaconate and Mr. Arminak Arteen into the Acolyte ranks during the Divine Liturgy. The ordinations were spiritual unique events, as they came to enrich our souls with the ancient Armenian Orthodox Church traditions, chants and prayers. Deacon Manuel and Acolyte Arminak knelt in front of God and the holy sanctuary and took the sweet burden of our Lord upon themselves, to serve the Lord with humility and honour. Following the ordination sacrament, the Primate, priests, deacons and congregation congratulated them and wished them a dedicated, smooth and sweet service into the Lord’s field.

Following the sacramental celebrations, the congregation gathered at the Alexanian Hall downstairs to complete the joy of the day. Special guests to the church were Mr. Ara Boyajian, Chairman of the Diocesan Council and Mrs. Apet Alpay, Treasurer of the Diocesan Council. There were guests from Toronto, St. Catharines and other locations. The Master of Ceremonies was Prof. Vahagn Asatryan, from Redeemeer College. Deacon Ara Siroonian gave a heartwarming and encouraging keynote speech, which was a cause of thunderous applause and appreciation.

Following the luncheon, words expressing joy, dedication, more enthusiasm and support to the clergy and the church were expressed by Father Sarkis, Father Parsegh and Father Serop the Pastor.

At the culmination of the event, Bishop Bagrat recognized the many years of service of Mrs. Lida Alexanian and Deacon Ara Siroonian and graced them with the “Holy Cross” medals for their many years of achievements. The day ended in the joyful congratulations and love among all parishioners and participants on that holy day when St. Mary turned 35 years young in its holy mission and service to the Armenian Apostolic faithful.