V. Rev. Fr. Pakrad Bourjekian performs the “Home Blessing” service in the Ararat Home Assisted Living Facility

A delegation of Diocesan clergymen were greeted by several members of the Ararat Home staff and Board of Trustees on Monday, February 9, 2015. H.E. Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church, visited Ararat Home accompanied by H.G. Bishop Abgar Hovakimian, Primate of the Canadian Diocese, Rev. Fr. Vazgen Boyajyan from Montreal, Rev. Fr. Zareh Zargarian from Toronto, Very Rev. Fr. Pakrad Bourjekian from the St. James Brotherhood of the Armenian Apostolic Patriarchate of Jerusalem, and several other Western Diocesan clergy.

The delegation met with residents in the Skilled Nursing Facility as well as in the Assisted Living Facility, where H.E. Arch. Derderian reiterated his admiration and support for the mission of Ararat Home and guest clergy expressed their delight in visiting such an establishment. On behalf of Ararat Home, Board Chairman Joseph Kanimian, Esq. conveyed appreciation for such visits, which always uplift the spirits of residents and staff. He presented each visiting clergyman with special Ararat Home memorabilia.

In addition to performing the “Home Blessing” service, clergymen spoke with residents individually, blessed them and, in return, asked for their prayers and blessings. The guests were also impressed with their visit to Ararat-Eskijian Museum and Sheen Memorial Chapel. After enjoying a lunch reception with residents, they concluded their visit praising the valuable role Ararat Home plays within the larger Armenian community.