On Sunday, March 30, 2025, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, presided over the celebration of the Feast of the Forty Martyrs at Forty Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church in Orange County. On this special occasion, the Prelate celebrated Divine Liturgy, delivered an inspiring sermon, and blessed the traditional offering (Madagh). Following the Divine Liturgy, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian consecrated, with Holy Muron, a newly installed Holy Icon depicting the forty young soldiers who remained faithful to Jesus Christ. The Holy Icon, an expression of deep faith and devotion, was generously donated by Mr. Michael Dwyer, a devoted member of the church, in loving memory of his parents.
Rev. Fr. Karekin Bedourian, Pastor of Forty Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church, along with Rev. Fr. Hrant Yeretsian, deacons, and acolytes, served at the altar. The Divine Liturgy was attended by a large and devoted congregation, including Mr. Garo Madenlian, Chair of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation Western USA Central Committee, church founders, community and affiliated organization members, national delegates, and benefactors.
The celebration provided a spiritually uplifting experience for the Armenian community of Orange County. In his sermon, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian delivered a heartfelt sermon emphasizing the Christian calling to seek heavenly treasures rather than earthly wealth. Drawing from Biblical teachings, the Prelate encouraged the faithful to focus on true spiritual values in life rather than wasting an entire lifetime in pursuit of material wealth.
Referencing on the lives of the saints, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian explained that upon discovering the promise of eternal life, the saints sacrificed their earthly existence to be worthy of attaining eternal life. The Prelate also reflected on the Armenian people’s enduring Christian heritage, stating, “Since the days of the apostles Thaddaeus and Bartholomew, who first preached in Armenia, our nation has discovered the eternal treasure of the Kingdom of Heaven. To this day, we continue to uphold these national and collective principles, remaining faithful to eternal values, even at the cost of every sacrifice.”
Following the Divine Liturgy, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian blessed the traditional offering and presided over a requiem service for the souls of the departed, joined by the church’s founding members. The Prelate then proceeded to Gugasian Hall, for a celebratory luncheon in honor of the church’s name day. Sharing a meal with the faithful, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian further enriched the occasion with words of encouragement, filling the hearts of those serving the church with renewed dedication and love.
In a moment of gratitude, Rev. Fr. Karekin Bedourian expressed his appreciation to H.E. Archbishop Khacherian and presented him with a commemorative group photograph from the closing ceremony of the church’s 2024 Bible Camp, which the Prelate had presided over.
The name day celebration of Forty Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church of Orange County was a testament to the unwavering faith and unity of the community, marking a day of spiritual renewal and collective devotion.
