2015 marks the 100th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Armenians all over the world will unite to commemorate this historic, tragic, and unforgettable atrocity. Under the leadership of its beloved pastor, Fr. Moushegh Tashjian, and in collaboration with the Western Diocese, St. Mary Armenian Church of Costa Mesa will host a commemorative event.
The church announced the formation of the Centennial Armenian Genocide Memorial Committee, chaired by Dr. Levon Keleshian, which held its first meeting on September 22, 2012. The Centennial Committee had two objectives: first, to erect a monument on the church grounds; and second, to organize a major commemorative event in Orange County.
The Monument
After in-depth discussion and review of nearly ten designs from six artists, the Committee selected Mr. Harout Joulhaian's Genocide/Renaissance as the monument design. Mr. Joulhaian's design expresses our sad and tragic past through a black granite foundation and two white marble pillars supporting a cross — symbolizing our strong Christian faith and belief in a brighter future. The monument will also feature a water fountain with a flame at its center, symbolizing the life and immortality of the 1.5 million Armenian Genocide Martyrs.
The parishioners of St. Mary Church responded with generous outpouring donations and the Committee has nearly reached its fundraising goal. The monument is 70% complete and will be finished by the end of December 2014.
Dedication & Commemorative Event
The monument will be blessed and dedicated on Sunday, March 8, 2015 at 12:30 PM, following church services, by His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese, with the participation of St. Mary parishioners, civic leaders, and dignitaries.
A commemorative event will follow at 4:00 PM at the Robert B. Moore Theater on the campus of Orange Coast Community College in Costa Mesa. The program will feature a keynote speaker, Armenian folk music, and poetry. The Armenian Society of the Los Angeles Chorus, with an orchestra conducted by Maestro Mikael Avetisyan, will close the event. Admission is free — all are encouraged to attend.
— Centennial Armenian Genocide Memorial Committee