“Twenty years. Can you believe it?” A large crowd gathered at the Holy Cross Armenian Catholic Church in Belmont. This celebration marked two decades since its founding. The Most Reverend Bishop Mikael Mouradian attended the December 9 2017 event. He leads the Armenian Catholic Eparchy of the United States and Canada.
Many prominent Boston community members came. Faithful parishioners and clergy from other churches were also present. Maral Der Torossian served as the event’s master of ceremonies. She reflected on the church’s history. She spoke of its goals and mission. She thanked Bishop Mouradian for attending. She also thanked Monsignor Andon Atamian. He is the Holy Cross Church’s beloved priest.
Torossian praised him for leading the parish with love and dedication. She expressed gratitude to Nishan and Margrit Atinizian. These longtime benefactors have supported the church for years. They have aided its growth and advancement.
Bishop Mouradian and Monsignor Atamian addressed the guests after dinner. They thanked everyone for their support. Marcel Karian presented the clergy with a Declaration of Appreciation. Middlesex County Sheriff Peter Koutoujian issued it. Karian is a devoted parishioner and council member. He serves on the altar each Sunday.
Monsignor Andon Atamian honored Nishan and Margrit Atinizian. He gave them a commemorative plaque. It featured the Armenian khatchkar. It also showed the Narek and Archbishop Maloyan stamps. The Vatican published these on the Armenian Genocide’s 100th anniversary.
Dr. Marine Margarian Kavlakian then took the stage. She is a pianist composer and teacher. She is also the Holy Cross Church Choir’s music director and organist. Kavlakian played musical pieces on the piano. Rafael Hovanesian followed her. He is a young jazz singer from Yerevan. He sang Armenian favorites and contemporary pop songs. Gegam Margarian accompanied him on the keyboard.
The evening ended with “Yerevan Erebuni.” The audience joined in with enthusiasm. This vibrant church community in Belmont continues to thrive. The Holy Cross Armenian Catholic Church stands as a testament to faith and culture. It serves as a focal point for the Armenian community. This Holy Cross Armenian Catholic Church also provides religious instruction. Youth gather on Sunday mornings. They meet at 10:15 AM. Everyone celebrates Mass every Sunday at 10:30 AM. Refreshments follow in the Atinizian auditorium. You can find this church at 202 Lexington Street Belmont. You are welcome to join them.