On Sunday, January 25, 2026, St. Peter Armenian Apostolic Church of Van Nuys celebrated its 68th anniversary with a pastoral visit by the Diocesan Primate, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian. The day’s celebrant and homilist was His Eminence, who was assisted at the Holy Altar by the Pastor of the host parish, Archpriest Fr. Shnork Demirjian, Assistant Pastor Rev. Fr. Gevork Abyan, deacons and  altar servers. The occasion brought together clergy, parish leadership, and faithful parishioners in a spirit of gratitude and thanksgiving for nearly seven decades of steadfast service to the Armenian community of the San Fernando Valley.

During the sacred service, a special moment was marked as St. Peter’s altar servers Ara Joseph Kalpakciyan, Arsen Hakobyan, Shiraz Leon, Gregory Alanjian, John Mazedzyan, Tigran Manukyan, Adrian Minassian, and Jack Balayan were granted the four minor orders of acolyte by Archbishop Derderian. This meaningful rite recognized their devotion to the Holy Altar and their growing commitment to serving the Armenian Church with reverence, discipline, and faith. The Primate encouraged the newly- ordained acolytes to remain steadfast in their service, viewing their calling as both an honor and a sacred responsibility.

The Primate also offered the blessing of the madagh, a ceremonial rite peformed by a priest. Madagh is an act of mercy, thanksgiving and alms offering. 

In recognition of his selfless and unwavering service to the parish, Mr. John Yaldezian II, a founding member of the Investment Committee for over three decades, was honored by the Primate with a Certificate of Commendation. Reflecting on the honoree’s vision, sense of responsibility, and enduring commitment, Archbishop Derderian emphasized the vital role Mr. Yaldezian has played in the growth, stability, and success of the Investment Committee and, by extension, the long-term well-being of St. Peter Armenian Church.

For nearly seventy years, St. Peter Armenian Apostolic Church of Van Nuys has been a blessing to Armenians throughout the San Fernando Valley, serving as a spiritual home and the backbone of the faithful community. Endowed with a devoted Ladies Society, vibrant Saturday and Sunday Schools, and the cherished Sound of Children Summer Camp Program, the parish continues to nurture faith, education, and fellowship across generations. The anniversary celebration stood as a testament to the enduring vitality of the parish and its mission to serve God, the Church, and the Armenian people.