A Legacy Built on Faith and Community
There's something profoundly moving about watching a community gather to celebrate its roots. For 86 years, Holy Cross Armenian Catholic Church has stood as a beacon for Armenian Catholics in Massachusetts, preserving traditions, nurturing faith, and creating a home away from home for generations of families. This September, the church will open its doors for a grand anniversary celebration that promises to be as meaningful as it is entertaining.
The 86th anniversary celebration will take place on September 12, 2026, at the Nishan & Margrit Atinizian Hall in Belmont, bringing together community members under the patronage of His Excellency The Most Reverend Mikael Mouradian, Bishop of the Armenian Catholic Eparchy of Our Lady of Nareg in the U.S.A. and Canada.
Honoring Interfaith Friendship
In a beautiful gesture of interfaith solidarity, the evening will honor Rev. Fr. James M. DiPerri, Pastor of Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted Roman Catholic Parish in Waltham. This recognition speaks to the church's commitment to building bridges within the broader Christian community while maintaining its distinct Armenian Catholic identity. Such moments remind us that faith transcends boundaries and that shared values can unite different traditions in meaningful ways.
An Evening of Laughter with Kev Orkian
What's a celebration without laughter? The evening's entertainment will feature none other than Kev Orkian, the internationally acclaimed comedian, entertainer, and pianist who has delighted audiences worldwide with his unique blend of musical comedy. Born to Armenian parents, Orkian has built a remarkable career that spans continents, performing everywhere from London's West End to concert halls across Europe and the Middle East.
Orkian's comedy is distinctly Armenian in flavor—he masterfully weaves cultural references, family dynamics, and the immigrant experience into his performances, all while showcasing his impressive piano skills. His ability to make audiences laugh at themselves while celebrating their heritage has made him a beloved figure in Armenian communities globally. For those attending the Holy Cross celebration, his performance promises to be a highlight that perfectly balances reverence for the occasion with the joy that defines Armenian gatherings.
A Community Coming Together
The evening will be guided by MC Maral Der Torossian, ensuring the celebration flows seamlessly from its solemn moments of thanksgiving to its lighter entertainment segments. The Nishan & Margrit Atinizian Hall, located at 200 Lexington Street in Belmont, will provide an intimate setting for this community gathering.
For 86 years, Holy Cross Armenian Catholic Church has been more than just a place of worship. It has been a cultural anchor, a place where Armenian traditions are passed down, where the liturgy is celebrated in ways that connect present generations to centuries of faith, and where community bonds are strengthened. The church has witnessed baptisms, weddings, and memorial services for countless families, becoming woven into the fabric of their most significant life moments.
Preserving Heritage in the Diaspora
Armenian Catholic churches like Holy Cross play a vital role in the diaspora, maintaining the distinct traditions of the Armenian Catholic rite while fostering connections to the broader Armenian community. The church follows the Armenian liturgical calendar and celebrates the Divine Liturgy with the richness and beauty that characterize Armenian Christian worship, whether Catholic or Apostolic.
Under the leadership of Bishop Mikael Mouradian, who oversees the Armenian Catholic Eparchy of Our Lady of Nareg covering the United States and Canada, these communities continue to thrive. His patronage of this anniversary celebration underscores the importance of Holy Cross within the wider network of Armenian Catholic parishes across North America.
Join the Celebration
Tickets for this special evening are $150 per person and can be secured through Venmo at HCACCMA. For those interested in attending or seeking more information, Ingrid can be reached at 617-312-0805, or inquiries can be sent to holycrossbostonma@gmail.com.
As Holy Cross Armenian Catholic Church prepares to celebrate this milestone, the event serves as a reminder of the resilience and vitality of Armenian communities in the diaspora. It's an opportunity to give thanks for 86 years of faithful service, to honor those who have contributed to the church's mission, and to look forward to the future with hope and determination. Whether you're a longtime parishioner or simply someone who appreciates the richness of Armenian culture and faith, this celebration promises to be an evening worth remembering.
