Archbishop Hovnan Derderian Pays Pastoral Visit To Denver Armenian Community Ahead Of Historic Church Consecration

His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, paid a pastoral visit to the Armenian-American community of Denver, Colorado, exactly one month prior to the historic consecration of the Armenian Church of Denver, scheduled to take place on Sunday, June 28.

The visit marked a significant milestone in the spiritual journey of the faithful community, whose longstanding dream of establishing a permanent Armenian house of worship has now become a blessed reality. Archbishop Derderian’s presence brought renewed encouragement and joy to the parishioners as they prepare for this sacred and momentous occasion in the life of the community.

During his pastoral visit, Archbishop Derderian met with members of the Parish Council and parishioners, touring the church property firsthand while offering his spiritual support, paternal guidance, and heartfelt blessings.

His Eminence commended the faithful community for remaining steadfast in their vision and commitment to worship in a House of God and to cultivate a unifying religious and spiritual center for present and future generations. Archbishop Derderian expressed his confidence that the Armenian Church of Denver will flourish as a beacon of faith, hope, and Christian witness in the region. Concluding his visit with words of encouragement, the Primate reflected upon the words of Holy Scripture: “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20), reminding the faithful that through unity, prayer, and unwavering faith, God’s presence shall always abide within their community.

At the direction of the Primate, the first Divine Liturgy in the newly acquired church building was celebrated on Sunday, April 5, on the Feast of the Holy Resurrection, by the Rev. Fr. Gevork Abyan, Assistant Pastor of St. Peter Armenian Apostolic Church of Van Nuys. The Easter Divine Liturgy marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Denver Armenian community, inaugurating the church as a spiritual home where the faithful may gather in prayer, worship, fellowship, and the preservation of their sacred heritage.