Earlier this month, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), visited St. David Armenian Church of Boca Raton where he celebrated the Divine Liturgy and installed the community’s new parish council.

In a sermon on the Diocese’s theme for the year, “Legacy of Our Martyrs: A Gift to Carry Forward,” Archbishop Barsamian spoke about the importance of carrying forward the legacy of the Holy Martyrs of the Armenian Genocide.

“The faithful legacy of our martyrs is grounded in the gift of Jesus Christ,” he said. “It is our Lord who will guide our steps, comfort our hearts, and help us press forward-as he did for the Holy Martyrs, and as he does to all who honor his sacrifice.”

On Saturday, February 6, Archbishop Barsamian held a meeting to discuss goals and strategies for the year ahead with the new members of the parish council. That evening the entire community gathered for a Poon Paregentan dance and celebration in the church’s Mardigian Hall.

On Sunday, Archbishop Barsamian celebrated the Divine Liturgy, with the Rev. Fr. Paren Galstyan, parish pastor, assisting. Following services, he installed the new parish council members: Marta Batmasian (Chair), Homer Gregorian, Beatrice Babgouni, Sonia Kradjian, Ara J. Garibian, Talin Kalender, Hovig Gregoryan, Maral Khanjian, Phillip Pilikyan, Marieta Akopyan and Dr. Rosemary Mencia. Carol Norigian will continue to serve as the parish delegate to the Diocesan Assembly.