Imagine stepping back in time to 1975. That’s when the story of St. Mary’s Armenian Apostolic Church In Glendale truly begins. It is a story woven with faith dedication and the enduring spirit of a community.
St. Mary’s Armenian Apostolic Church In Glendale proudly stands as a beacon bringing religious and humanitarian services to its community for over 50 years. All of its accomplishments are thanks to the grace of God. The church is also thankful for the faith and dedication of those who have served the church and community.
The Armenian Apostolic Church is the national church of the Armenian people. It is one of the most ancient Christian institutions. Tradition links it to the missionary work by Apostles Bartholomew and Thaddeus in the 1st century.
St. Mary’s Armenian Apostolic Church In Glendale has deep roots in history. It was founded in 1975. This was to serve Armenian immigrants who began arriving in Southern California in great numbers in the 1890s. Much of this immigration was caused by widespread massacres of Armenians by the Ottoman Empire. During that time an estimated 1.5 million Armenians were killed.
Leadership has been provided by Prelates of Western Prelacy. These include Archbishop Smbat Lapajian and Archbishop Yeprem Tabakian. Other leaders include Archbishop Datev Sarkisian, Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Bishop Torkom Donoyan, and Archbishop Kegham Khacherian. Also instrumental have been Archpriest Fr. Anoushavan Artinian and Archpriest Fr. Nareg Shrigian. Other leaders include Archpriest Fr. Razmig Khachatourian, Archpriest Fr. Vazken Atmajian, Archpriest Fr. Komitas Torosian, Rev. Fr. Ardak Demirjian and Rev. Fr. Movses Shannakian. Very Rev. Fr. Zareh Sarkissian also provided leadership.
The Church’s Board of Trustees Ladies Guild Deacons and Altar servers have a significant impact on the church. They serve alongside the clergy with complete dedication.
As the Armenian community in Glendale grew so did the needs of the church. By 1985 the original building was too small. The current building was purchased. The blessing and consecration took place on July 10 1988. His Holiness Karekin II of the Great House of Cilicia later Karekin I Catholicos of All Armenians performed the ceremony.
Today St. Mary’s Armenian Apostolic Church In Glendale continues to be a vital part of the community. Very Rev. Fr. Zareh Sarkissian serves as Dean. Archpriest Fr. Gomidas Torossian and Rev. Fr. Movses Shannakian serve as Pastors. Located on South Central Avenue the church extends a warm welcome to all. You can find out more on their website or by calling or emailing them.
St. Mary’s Armenian Apostolic Church In Glendale stands as a symbol of faith resilience and community. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Armenian people in Glendale. It is a place where history tradition and faith intertwine creating a vibrant and welcoming space for all.