Dear Friends,

There is deservedly much excitement in the air as we celebrate today’s Divine Liturgy in our newly renovated sanctuary! Since the last Sunday of December 2007 we have been conducting the holy sacraments in the Egavian Hall. Thanks be to God after several months of demolition and construction we have returned to our beloved sanctuary, consecrated almost 100 years ago in the name of and under the spiritual patronage of Saints Sahag and Mesrob of the land of Armenia.

I know that all of you have been eagerly following the progress of this project and expect that you are pleased with the results. As I reflect on the occasion of our spiritual “home-coming” the following Psalm (127) has come to mind: Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.

Over the last few months I have seen many people coming and going – contractor, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, painters, carpet layers, stone workers, sound engineer, gold-plater, hardwood floor refinishers, chandelier cleaners, general cleaners, dumpster people, etc. The list goes on and we are most grateful to all.

A special word of deep appreciation is fitting to Mr. Ken Kazarian, who not only served as our general contractor, but also personally made the renovations of our bema and main altar and together with his brothers, Robert and Edward, dedicate the altar renovations in loving memory of their dear mother Mary.

We are also extremely thankful for the generosity of Mr. Jasper Der Ananian in authorizing his late brother George’s capital fund bequest of $100,000 to be used for the project. May the Lord enlighten the soul of George Der Ananian.

I am also most pleased to announce a “Matching Gift Program in Memory of George and Mary Kazarian by their sons Robert, Kenneth and Edward,” according to which all cash received specifically for the Sanctuary Restoration and Improvement Campaign, between May 12 and November 30, 2008 will be matched dollar for dollar up to $100,000.

On this day of our spiritual home-coming I pray that our Heavenly Father continue to bless our parish family; and that all we think, say and do reflect His presence among us. Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Much sacrifice and effort has been given to make this day possible. How sad it would be if we fail to take advantage of this opportunity for renewal and for rededicating ourselves to the true worship of the all Holy Trinity.

Each of us can show that indeed the Lord has been the wise architect of this day and that all of this labor has not been in vain. We will best demonstrate this by an increase in love, toleration, forgiveness, respect, sincere worship and by contributing generously according to our means.
    

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With prayers.
Hayr Simeon
June 15, 2008