A Pastoral Visit Of Faith And Fellowship At The Vineyards And California Armenian Home

On April 29, 2026, the Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, accompanied by Diocesan Council Chairman Mr. Derik Ghookasian, Rev. Fr. Mashdots Keshishian, and Rev. Fr. Yessai Bedros, paid a pastoral visit to The Vineyards and California Armenian Home.

The delegation was warmly welcomed by Board President Lucy Kazanjian Grayson and Chief Executive Officer Dennis Bacopulous, who graciously guided the visitors through the senior living community and its facilities.

During the visit, Archbishop Derderian spent meaningful time meeting and conversing with the residents, offering words of encouragement, spiritual comfort, and paternal care. Gathering with the elders, His Eminence read passages from the Holy Gospel and offered prayers and blessings, bringing joy and spiritual solace to all in attendance. Archbishop Derderian also expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the devoted staff and caregivers, commending their compassionate and God-pleasing ministry in serving the elderly with dignity, love, and respect.

Mr. Derik Ghookasian likewise conveyed words of gratitude on behalf of the Western Diocese, thanking the administration and staff for their gracious hospitality and for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of the residents entrusted to their care.

The pastoral visit concluded with a group photograph in the chapel, marking a memorable occasion of fellowship, prayer, and shared commitment to honoring and caring for the senior members of our community.