This, is part 2, of yesterday's blog (Sons of Zebedee)

The service of ordination took place last night. We have two new priests in the Armenian Church, two new soldiers of Christ. The solemn service, took place at the St. John Garabed church on Vine St. (LA). The new priests were named Fr. Khajag (Mayis) and Fr. Avedis (Vahe). Archbishop Hovnan officiated.

The Greek Metropolitanwas in town and attended the service. Its interesting how these guest clergy are used, almost to validate or put a seal of authenticity on what the Armenian Church does. I guess that's the price we pay for our insecurities. FORTUNATELY, Metropolitan Gerasimos was asked to address the newly ordained priests and the congregation. It was a joy to hear his words. He spoke about the calling and about the response to the calling. By focusing on the response to the call - he brought home the point of personal responsibility. Its up to the person - the individual - us -  to answer God's call - which if you think about it, is much different that expecting life to follow some pattern of cosmic fatalism. He remembered the teachings of the fathers and ended with a blessings.

The kiss of peace began with the long line of clergy kissing the newly consecrated hands of the priests and then passing along the message - which was very evident: Christ is in our midst!

In the service, the ordaining bishop placed his hands upon the candidates passed along apostolic authority, to remove and drive away evil and sin. Invoking the power of the Holy Spirit several times, the Archbishop gave them full authority as priests, vesting them with the garments of righteousness. He placed upon their heads the stole, "Take the yoke of our Lord Jesus Christ. for his yoke is easy and his burden in light (Matt. 11:30). 

Let us all pray for these two special servants who received their ordination and inspired all of us who witnessed the service to strengthen ourselves in service to the Holy Church.

Photo above is from the ordination service - the two candidates are kneeling before the holy altar, facing the West and renouncing worldly desires.