On Sunday, December 21, 2025, St. Leon (Ghevontiants) Armenian Cathedral was filled with the spirit of the Nativity during its annual Christmas concert, held under the auspices of the Diocesan Primate of the Western Diocese, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian. Faithful parishioners and guests gathered in the sacred sanctuary to celebrate the joy of Christ’s birth through music, fellowship, and shared memories rooted in faith and tradition.
The Cathedral resonated with the angelic voices of the Little Melodies Children’s Choir, whose heartfelt performances of beloved Christmas favorites brought warmth and delight to the audience. Under the conductorship of Deacon Artur Vardanyan, the Little Melodies Choir—now in its third year of formation—demonstrated remarkable growth and musical maturity, capturing hearts with their innocence and joyful expression. Their presence was a beautiful reminder of the Church’s living future and the importance of nurturing young voices within the life of the Armenian Apostolic Church.
The program continued with the Shnorhali Choir, also directed by Deacon Artur Vardanyan, whose masterful renditions transported the audience down memory lane. Through their performances, listeners were taken back to their childhood years, recalling the cherished Christmas and New Year traditions of Yerevan. Well known to the faithful for regularly leading the hymns of the Divine Liturgy on Sundays at the Cathedral, the Shnorhali Choir once again affirmed its role as a vital spiritual and cultural presence within the parish community.
In his remarks, Archbishop Derderian expressed his profound spiritual joy in witnessing the radiant smiles of the children, whose performances continue to inspire and uplift year after year. As a token of his gratitude, His Eminence personally presented gifts to the children, encouraging them in their service to the Church. He also expressed his gratitude to the Rev. Fr. Khajag Shahbazyan, the Cathedral's Pastor for his resolute support and commended the outstanding leadership and dedication of Deacon Vardanyan, exhorting him to remain steadfast in his sacred calling to serve our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and the Armenian Apostolic Church. Following the concert, the children and their families gathered at the Cathedral’s Turpanjian Plaza, where they took commemorative photos in front of the Nativity scene, bringing the evening to a joyful and meaningful close.
