Saint Peter Armenian Church

“A church for the valley.” That was the dream of the Armenian community in the San Fernando Valley in the mid-20th century. They longed for a spiritual home of their own, a place where they could nurture their faith and celebrate their heritage. This dream took root and blossomed into the Saint Peter Armenian Church in Van Nuys. The story of Saint Peter Armenian Church is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of this community. It’s a story of faith, community, and the unwavering spirit of the Armenian people. Initially, the community focused on establishing a Sunday school. In 1957, registration began, and over 100 students quickly enrolled. Classes were held at the Reseda Masonic Temple, supported by generous donations from the community. This burgeoning Sunday school signaled the need for a dedicated space, a true parish. A pivotal moment arrived on Pentecost Sunday in 1958. The Very Reverend Dirayr Dervishian, then pastor of St. James Armenian Church in Los Angeles, celebrated the first Divine Liturgy in the San Fernando Valley. This marked the symbolic birth of Saint Peter Armenian Church. The community wasted no time. They requested permission from the Western Diocese of North America to establish a church in the valley. In October 1958, the San Fernando Valley Armenian Apostolic Church was formally organized. Just two months later, a board of trustees, Diocesan Assembly Delegates, and an auditing committee were elected. The church officially adopted the name Saint Peter Armenian Church, with Father Dervishian presiding until a permanent priest could be appointed. In February 1959, Saint Peter Armenian Church was incorporated and formally admitted to the Western Diocese. Land was purchased on Sherman Way, the current location of the church. Fundraising continued, with banquets held by the Ladies Aid to support the construction of Sunday school classrooms and a Fellowship Hall. These buildings were dedicated in June 1963, becoming the new home for the Sunday school. Church services were held in the Fellowship Hall, with a temporary altar. In 1962, Reverend Father Shahe A.K. Semerdjian became the parish priest. Under his leadership, Saint Peter Armenian Church flourished. He established key church organizations that remain vital today, including the Mr. & Mrs. Society, the church choir, and the St. Peter Armenian Church Youth Organization. He also launched the “Pari Loor,” a parish publication that continues to connect the community. The final piece of the puzzle fell into place eight years after that first Divine Liturgy. The sanctuary of Saint Peter Armenian Church was completed and consecrated on Pentecost Sunday, 1966, led by Archbishop Torkom Manoogian. This marked the official completion of Saint Peter Armenian Church, a beacon of faith and community for Armenians in the San Fernando Valley.