SAN FRANCISCO, CA — The Armenian community of San Francisco celebrated the 60th anniversary of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic Church with a banquet on Saturday, October 17, 2026, bringing together clergy, parishioners, community leaders, benefactors, and generations of families whose dedication has sustained the church for six decades.
The celebration, held at Saroyan Hall of the Khachaturian Armenian Community Center, took place under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Kegham Khatcherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America.
The anniversary marked sixty years since the church’s consecration in 1966, commemorating the vision and sacrifices of the founding generation that established an enduring center of Armenian religious, educational, and community life in Northern California.
The evening’s program featured students of the Krouzian-Zekarian-Vasbouragan Armenian School (KZV). Graduating student Zepur Kasparian delivered the opening remarks, while seventh- and eighth-grade students presented a group recitation, highlighting the important role of Armenian education in preserving the community’s heritage.
A commemorative video chronicled the church’s history, achievements, and contributions over the past six decades.
Mato Senekerimian, Chairman of the church’s Board of Trustees, addressed the gathering on behalf of the Board, reflecting on the parish’s accomplishments and the continuing responsibilities of its leadership.
Rev. Fr. Artsakh Badoyan, Pastor of St. Gregory the Illuminator Church, spoke about the generations of clergy, trustees, Ladies Guild members, volunteers, and benefactors who have devoted their time and resources to the church.
Fr. Badoyan emphasized that the parish’s achievements were the result of collective dedication, recognizing both past and present community leaders whose service has helped meet the spiritual, national, and cultural needs of San Francisco’s Armenian population. He also thanked the current Board of Trustees for its commitment and efforts.
In his remarks, Archbishop Khatcherian praised the vision of the church’s founders and the generosity of successive generations who helped build a thriving Armenian community.
The Prelate emphasized that the church’s mission extends beyond religious worship, serving as a foundation for Armenian identity, education, cultural preservation, and community solidarity.
He noted that the establishment and development of Armenian churches and schools have enabled generations of Armenians to maintain their national heritage while becoming active and accomplished members of American society.
Addressing the younger generation, Archbishop Khatcherian expressed particular satisfaction at the participation of Armenian youth in the anniversary celebration. He encouraged them to remain engaged in church and community life and to assume responsibility for carrying forward the legacy entrusted to them.
A special recognition ceremony honored two longtime contributors to the community. Archbishop Khatcherian presented plaques of appreciation to Leo Donian and Deacon Ohaness Balian in acknowledgment of their dedicated service to the Armenian Church and the San Francisco Armenian community.
The celebration concluded with a ceremonial candle lighting and closing prayer.
The anniversary observances continued the following morning, Sunday, October 18, when Archbishop Khatcherian celebrated Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon at St. Gregory the Illuminator Church.
Rev. Fr. Artsakh Badoyan assisted during the service, together with the church’s deacons, altar servers, and choir. Jack Hadjinian, Vice-Chair of the Western Prelacy Executive Council, was also present, having traveled from Los Angeles for the anniversary celebrations.
During his sermon, the Prelate emphasized the Armenian Church’s indispensable role in sustaining the faith, national identity, and moral values of the Armenian people throughout their history.
He described the church as more than a physical structure, underscoring its enduring mission as a spiritual home, a source of hope, and a guiding institution for successive generations.
Archbishop Khatcherian also commended the parish’s Board of Trustees, church committees, Armenian school and preschool administrations, educators, parents, students, and community organizations for their continued dedication.
Following Divine Liturgy, the Prelate inspected a section of the church complex that had previously suffered fire damage caused by vandalism. He received an update on the restoration and renovation work currently underway.
Six decades after its founding, St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic Church remains a vital institution for San Francisco’s Armenian community, bringing together faith, education, and national heritage.
The diamond jubilee celebration served not only as a tribute to the generations who built and sustained the parish, but also as a reaffirmation of the community’s commitment to preserving and strengthening Armenian life for generations to come.
