On June 30, 2017, Cardus – the only Christian think-tank in Canada, within the framework of Faith in Canada 150 Project, organized the Gala Reception on the occasion of the 150th Anniversary of Canada, in the Governor General Ballroom at the Westin Ottawa.

The Gala was co-sponsored by the Diocese. His Grace Bishop Abgar Hovakimyan, Primate, Rev. Archpriest Zareh Zargarian, Vicar, Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Toronto, Rev. Fr. Komitas Mirzakhanyan, Parish Priest of Holy Cross Armenian Church of Laval, Mrs. Apet Alpay, Diocesan Council Chair, Mr. Jean-Philippe Tachdjian, Diocesan Council Member, Mr. Antranik Sirinyan, Chair of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Cathedral of Montreal Parish Council, Mr. Hovsep Mardian, Diocesan Delegate, Mr. Levon Isakhanyan, Diocesan Chancellor, Dr. Levon Petrosyan, Deacon of St. Mesrob Armenian Church of Ottawa, attended the Gala.

Bishop Hovakimyan was invited to bless the meal.

Mrs. Isabel Bayrakdarian, renowned soprano, opened the Gala with the national anthem of Canada “O Canada”, and conducted three pieces, including the Pontifical Hymn “Amen Hayi srditz pkhadz”, and the Lord’s Prayer.