The Central Valley Armenian Churches of the Western Diocese came together to celebrate the 35th Episcopal Anniversary of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, on Friday, January 30, 2026.

Reverend clergy including Rev. Fr. Archpriest Kevork Arakelian, Rev. Fr. Gomidas Zohrabian, Rev. Fr. Mashdots Keshishian, Rev. Fr. Yessai Bedros, deacons, and parishioners from Sts. Sahag-Mesrob Armenian Church of Reedley, St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church of Fowler, St. Mary Armenian Church of Yettem, St. Paul Armenian Church of Fresno, and Holy Cross Armenian Church of Turlock gathered at Pardini’s Restaurant in Fresno for an evening marked by gratitude, spiritual renewal, and inspiration.

Among those in attendance were Diocesan Council Chair Mr. Derik Ghookasian, accompanied by his spouse Adrineh; the Diocese’s Executive Director, Dn. Harout Markarian; and the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Armenia in Fresno, Mr. Berj Apkarian.

Welcoming remarks were offered by Dn. Michael Missakian, who reflected on Archbishop Derderian’s pastoral guidance of the community with wisdom, devotion, and a vision firmly rooted in faith and service. He expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Diocesan Primate for his lifelong commitment to uplifting hearts, strengthening the faithful, and advancing the mission of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

In recognition of the Primate’s enduring service, a special proclamation was also presented by the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Armenia in Fresno, Mr. Berj Apkarian.

In his remarks, Archbishop Derderian reflected on his pastoral service, his dedication to God, to his people and his undying love for the Armenian Apostolic Church. 

"Tonight, I stand before you with a grateful heart. Gratitude to God, who calls and sustains us. And gratitude to the Holy Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church and to its faithful people, whose lives give meaning to every ministry. 

The Armenian Apostolic Church has truly been a school in my life for many decades. From my childhood, love for the Church has been deeply rooted within me and has continued to grow beyond measure. I consider this calling a most precious gift from God, and I have never regretted entering the vineyard of service with a devoted and passionate heart," stated His Eminence in part. 

Below is the Primate's speech in its entirety. 

The Andrew Hagopian Band captivated the guests, enchanting them with superb musical performances throughout the evening.

Proceeds from the commemorative event benefited the Western Diocese Stewardship Fund. The mission of the Stewardship Program is closely aligned with the Armenian Apostolic Church’s sacred calling to be a light to all Armenian faithful, offering spiritual knowledge and nourishment that foster growth toward mature Christian life, as affirmed by the Apostle Paul: “The spiritual person judges all things” (1 Corinthians 2:15).

In this spirit, the Stewardship Program of the Western Diocese serves as a vital instrument in ensuring the continued vitality, growth, and enduring witness of the Armenian Church for generations to come.