| The ground breaking consecration is a very mystical and solemn ceremony, and on a cool, breezy, partly cloudy day, sixteen foundation stones carved with the symbol of the Cross were blessed and consecrated. The Prelate washed each stone with wine and water and gave them to the sixteen Godfathers of our church who were stationed around the perimeter of the building, and four at the four corners of the Altar. They stood, stones in hand, by the designated holes, and waited for Archbishop Khatchadourian to anoint the stones with Holy Muron. Each anointed stone was wrapped in a white cloth, lowered into the hole and covered with a concrete slab. With the anointed stones in place, this became the official beginning of the construction of the church. |
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The consecration of the new church building took place on October 16, 1966. The dedication services were conducted by His Eminence, Archbishop Hrant Khatchadourian and Father Shirikian, along with other attending priests, the choir, and various dignitaries. The consecration ceremonies were attended by more than 600 faithful parishioners who saw their dream realized and said that the church exists, stands, and will remain forever. In a church with only 300 families, one cannot overlook the efforts and sacrifices of the church members - one must commend them on their many achievements.
Following the consecration, a commemorative banquet was held at the Fairmont Hotel, where over 300 people attended. The people were enthusiastic and jubilant, and you could see a special glow in their eyes and a certain smile on their faces. Those present contributed generously and pledged their continual support to the church. The Building Committee accomplished its task, put on a different hat, and became the Fund Raising Committee to procure funds to pay off the mortgage of the church.
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HIS EMINENCE, ARCHBISHOP KHATCHADOURIAN CONSECRATING THE CROSSES OF THE CHURCH |
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CONSECRATION OF THE HOLY ALTAR
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CLERGY IN PROCESSION TO CHURCH
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