Western U.S. Prelate Archbishop Kegham Khacherian presided over an extraordinary session of the 53rd National Representative Assembly, held on October 31 at the Toulumdjian Hall of Holy Martyrs Ferrahian Armenian School. The majority of the Western Prelacy’s National Delegates and chairmen of the Board of Regents, parish Boards of Trustees, Prelacy schools Boards and administration of Prelacy schools were in attendance.

The prelate officially convened assembly with a prayer. Having welcomed the delegates, he wished them success in their proceedings before delivering his message.

Archbishop Khacherian first underscored the canonical framework governing these assemblies, as well as the vital importance of regular and committed participation in their proceedings.

He noted that, alongside all the prelacies of the Catholicosate of the Great House of Cilicia, the Western Prelacy, through its elected delegates, reaffirms its unwavering support for the centuries-old Great House of Cilicia and its programs. Every four years, elected delegates from all the Prelacies convene at the Catholicosate of the Great House of Cilicia in Antelias, Lebanon, for the National General Assembly.

This gathering provides an important opportunity to exchange insights on the activities, experiences, and challenges of the Prelacies; review the mission and service of the Holy See across its ecclesiastical, national, cultural, humanitarian, and other areas of engagement; recognize its achievements and accomplishments; assess the challenges and difficulties encountered; deliberate on appropriate responses and solutions; and develop new programs, initiatives, and priorities for the future.

Following a group photograph, the Assembly elected 15 delegates to represent the Western Prelacy at the National General Assembly, scheduled to take place from January 27 to 29 in Antelias, Lebanon.

The following members were elected as delegates:. Vahe Hovaguimian, Elizabeth Boyajian, Jack Hadjinian, Dzovig Zetlian, Deacon Mark Shirin, Hovig Bedevian, Ronnie Gharibian, Mher Der Ohanessian, Madeleine Ashdjian, Zaven Malkhasian, Zeron Titizian, Harout Madenian, Koko Topalian, Garo Eshgian, Dr. Hagop Kouyoumjian

In keeping with tradition, the Assembly also elected three alternate delegates: Shant Parseghian, George Chorbajian, and Harout Kamberian.