76Th Annual Acyo Convention Of The Western Diocese Convenes In Los Angeles

The Armenian Church Youth Organization (ACYO) of the Western Diocese convened its 76th Annual Convention on January 16–18, 2026, at St. James Armenian Church of Los Angeles, bringing together more than 70 delegates and representatives from across the Diocese for a weekend of reflection, dialogue, and spiritual renewal.

The annual convention provided an opportunity for participants to review and reflect upon the administrative, social, religious, and spiritual initiatives of the past year, while also envisioning the future direction of the ACYO and its vital mission within the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Presiding over the opening session on Friday, Diocesan Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian addressed the delegates, centering his remarks on the enduring pledge of the ACYO: “To serve the Church through our people with courage and vision and in the faith of our illustrious forefathers.” His Eminence commended the youth for their dedication, steadfast service, and compassion, noting their meaningful contributions in serving the Armenian Apostolic Church and strengthening parish life throughout the Western Diocese.

Diocesan clergy present at the convention were the Very Rev. Fr. Pakrad Dz. V. Berjekian, Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan, Archpriest Fr. Vazgen Boyajyan, Rev. Fr. Krikor Zakaryan, Rev. Fr. Mesrop Ash, Rev. Fr. Zaven Markosyan, Rev. Fr. Gomidas Zohrabian, Rev. Fr. Khajag Shahbazyan and Rev. Fr. Nzhdeh Keshishyan.

On Saturday, Archbishop Derderian observed a workshop led by Fr. Avedis and the Central Council in which he outlined seven key principles essential for effective and Christ-centered youth service: leadership, values, patience, listening and connecting, facilitating fellowship, acknowledging diverse strengths, and maintaining focus on the Church’s core mission. These guiding points encouraged participants to deepen their commitment and enhance their ability to serve both the Church and the broader community.

In his concluding remarks, the Primate expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Rev. Fr. Avedis Abovian, Diocesan Youth Director, for his devotion and unwavering leadership; to the ACYO Central Council for their organizational excellence; to the Rev. Fr. Harioutioun Tachejian, Pastor of St. James Armenian Church, and the Parish Council for their gracious hospitality; and to all clergy whose guidance and support continue to lead the young generation closer to God, instilling in them a love for Christian values and a deep appreciation for the sacred traditions of the Armenian Apostolic Church. A celebratory banquet followed the convention, during which the Very Rev. Fr. Yeremia Abgaryan, Diocesan Vicar General, represented the Primate.

The convention concluded on Sunday, January 18, with the youth participating in the celebration of the Divine Liturgy at St. James Armenian Church. The celebrant was the Rev. Fr. Mesrop Ash, Pastor of St. John Armenian Church of San Francisco, marking a spiritually uplifting conclusion to a meaningful and impactful gathering.

This year’s convention reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to faith, service, and leadership, strengthening the bonds among its members and renewing their dedication to serving the Church with courage, vision, and faith.