PASADENA — Saint Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church of Pasadena marked one of the most cherished occasions of the liturgical calendar with a joyous and spiritually uplifting celebration of the Feast of the Assumption of Saint Mary, commemorating the falling asleep and bodily assumption of the Holy Mother of God into heaven.
The sacred observance, rooted in centuries of Armenian Christian tradition, drew together clergy, parishioners, and members of the broader community in a powerful expression of shared faith and cultural heritage.
The celebration began with a solemn and beautifully rendered Divine Liturgy (Soorp Badarak), followed by the beloved Blessing of the Grapes ceremony — a distinctly Armenian custom in which the season’s first harvest is consecrated in thanksgiving to God, symbolizing abundance, renewal, and the enduring bond between faith and land.
Following the liturgical services, the celebration continued with a festive luncheon held at the elegant Fleur de Lis Banquet Hall in Pasadena. The event brought together more than 160 attendees, reflecting the deep sense of community and devotion that defines the Saint Sarkis parish family. Guests enjoyed a warm afternoon of fellowship, traditional cuisine, and cultural camaraderie, underscoring the parish’s vibrant spirit and its commitment to preserving and celebrating Armenian Christian heritage for generations to come.
During the luncheon program, Mr. Hagop Yedalian, Chairman of the Church Board of Trustees, addressed attendees with a detailed account of the significant achievements the church had realized over the past year, highlighting the imperative and vital renovations, upgrades, and improvements undertaken to preserve and enhance the church building.
Mr. Yedalian expressed his sincere and heartfelt gratitude to the church’s generous donors, as well as to the many volunteers and parishioners whose dedication and support have been instrumental in keeping Saint Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church in pristine condition for the community to enjoy for years to come.
“This feast day is one of profound spiritual significance for our community,” said Mrs. Cima Garabetian, Chairlady of the Ladies’ Guild of Saint Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church. “To see our sanctuary and our fellowship hall filled with so many faithful — offering prayer, giving thanks, and celebrating together, is a true testament to the strength and unity of our parish family.”
The success of this year’s Feast of the Assumption and Blessing of the Grapes celebration stands as a meaningful reminder of the enduring role Saint Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church plays not only as a house of worship, but as a spiritual and cultural cornerstone for the Armenian American community in Pasadena and throughout the greater Los Angeles area.
Saint Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church looks forward to welcoming the community to its future liturgical celebrations and parish events throughout the year.
For more information about Saint Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, its services, and upcoming events, please contact the church office.