April 17, 2018

AGBU MHS & MDS Students

On Thursday, April 12, 2018, the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America hosted the Inaugural Graduation Communion for the graduating classes of the AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian School and the AGBU Vatche and Tamar Manoukian High School. Over 200 students, family, and friends gathered at St. Leon Armenian Cathedral for this newly established, spiritually uplifting tradition.

His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian began the evening with a very meaningful message, “You are high school graduates. Remember, however, that life in itself is a greater institution where learning does not cease, and its offerings are boundless. By opening the door to life, you will be met with challenges, trials, surprises, and successes. And as long as you are guided by the Almighty, heed to a life of prayer, and promote the sacred moral values which we commonly hold in reverence, you will not be frail.”

Following Archbishop Derderian’s opening remarks was the evening’s keynote speaker, the Honorable Judge Armenuhi Amy Ashvanian, who was introduced by Stepan Khzrtian, AGBU Alumni and Young Professionals member. Judge Ashvanian echoed Archbishop Derderian’s message in her own inspiring words, connecting education with spirituality.

“Hard work, determination, and having confidence in your abilities will make everything in life possible…You need to have an educated mind and an educated soul. The two combined together will benefit you immensely in your entire life and it will help you benefit humanity,” said Judge Amy Ashvanian.

Following the distribution of Holy Communion, each senior received a gift bag with a copy of the Holy Bible, as a parting gift from the Primate.