Entries by Diocesan Assembly

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HISTORIC GALA BANQUET AT MILWAUKEE’S PFISTER HOTEL CELEBRATES FAITH, SERVICE, AND ARMENIAN HERITAGE

MILWAUKEE, Wis. — On May 1, 2026, the Eastern Diocese held a Gala Banquet at The Pfister Hotel, honoring leaders embodying the Armenian Church’s spirit. Ara Cherchian and John Kaishian were named Armenian Church Members of the Year for their transformative service, including St. Vartan Cathedral renovations and hosting Hye Camp. Dr. Robin Darling Young received the Friend of Armenians Award for her scholarship in Armenian theology. Cultural performances enriched the evening, while Bishop Mesrop likened the Church to an inland lighthouse. The Hoan Bridge lit in Armenian colors celebrated heritage, resilience, and hope.

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2026 CLERGY CONFERENCE INSPIRES UNITY AND SPIRITUAL RENEWAL IN MILWAUKEE

From April 28–30, clergy from across the Eastern Diocese gathered in Milwaukee for the 2026 Clergy Conference hosted by St. John Armenian Church of Greater Milwaukee. The conference fostered spiritual renewal, fellowship, and collaborative dialogue under the leadership of Bishop Mesrop. Events included gatherings at The Pfister Hotel, a visit to St. Josaphat Basilica, and the Divine Liturgy led by Fr. Vardan Hayrapetyan. The conference concluded with prayer, remembrance, and fellowship, celebrating the enduring unity and mission of the Armenian Church.

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EASTERN DIOCESE CELEBRATES FAITH AND LEADERSHIP

At the 2026 Diocesan Assembly in Milwaukee, the Yeretzgins’ Breakfast united women in fellowship, faith, and inspiration. Dr. Elizabeth Kalendarian, dean of Marquette University School of Dentistry, spoke on “Daily Challenges,” reflecting on leadership and modern life. Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan later offered remarks and a blessing. The gathering concluded with a visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum.

The Women’s Guild Central Council also held its annual meeting and WOW Luncheon, honoring Ramelann Kalagian of St. John Armenian Church for her faithful service and lasting impact on her church and the wider community.

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ROBIN DARLING YOUNG, PH.D.

Robin Darling Young, Ph.D., this year’s distinguished “Friend of the Armenians” award recipient, is Ordinary Professor Emerita of the History of Christianity at The Catholic University of America. An internationally respected scholar of eastern Christianity, she specializes in Armenian, Greek, and Syriac traditions, with a focus on asceticism and St. Evagrius of Pontus. Professor Young has taught at leading institutions including Notre Dame and the University of Chicago, translated significant Armenian theological works, and dedicated decades to advancing Armenian language, history, culture, and ecumenical scholarship in the United States and abroad.

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A LIFE OF LEADERSHIP, ENTERPRISE, & SERVICE: ARA CHERCHIAN

Ara Cherchian, born in Tehran to a close Armenian family, built a life centered on family, education, and cultural identity. He earned degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Accounting/Finance, leading to a distinguished career in management and entrepreneurship, including Northland Stainless and Cherchian Investments. Ara’s philanthropy spans Armenia and the U.S., supporting education, healthcare, culture, and community projects. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he also enjoys lapidary, fishing, golf, travel, and the arts. His legacy reflects leadership, generosity, and enduring community impact.

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FROM GENEROSITY TO LEGACY: THE KAISHIANS’ HYE CAMP STORY

John and Lynn Kaishian were pivotal in founding Hye Camp and strengthening the Armenian church community in the Midwest. Beginning in 1963, they offered their Pleasant Lake property, hosting the camp for 30 years and providing land and food free, enabling low tuition for all children. Their generosity nurtured future clergy, leaders, and lifelong bonds. Beyond the camp, they supported church construction, held key leadership roles, and inspired community service. Their vision, commitment, and selflessness created enduring spiritual, cultural, and educational legacies still felt today.

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ARMENIAN CHURCH DIOCESAN ASSEMBLY COMES TO MILWAUKEE

The Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America will convene its 2026 Clergy Conference and 124th Diocesan Assembly in Milwaukee from April 28 through May 3, 2026. This marks the first time the Assembly — the governing body of the Armenian Church in the eastern half of the United States — will be hosted in Milwaukee.

The Diocesan Assembly brings together hundreds of clergy and lay delegates from across the country for a week of meetings, workshops, fellowship, and worship. Sessions will take place at the Pfister Hotel and at the host parish, St. John the Baptist Armenian Church (7825 W. Layton Ave.).

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DIOCESAN ASSEMBLY TO MEET IN MILWAUKEE

St. John Armenian Church in Milwaukee, WI, will host the upcoming 2026 Clergy Conference and the 124th Diocesan Assembly, bringing together clergy, delegates, and faithful from across the Eastern Diocese.

The Diocesan Assembly sessions will convene from Thursday to Saturday, April 30 to May 2, 2026, preceded by the Clergy Conference on April 28-30. The same weekend will include the Women’s Guild Assembly, and its annual “Women of Wonder” luncheon, organized by the Women’s Guild Central Council.

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ST. JOHN ARMENIAN CHURCH OF MILWAUKEE TO HOST 2026 ARMENIAN CHURCH DIOCESAN ASSEMBLY

St. John the Baptist Armenian Church of Milwaukee is honored to announce that it will serve as the host parish for the 2026 Diocesan Assembly of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America. The Assembly will bring together clergy, delegates, and lay leaders from Armenian parishes across the Eastern United States for several days of worship, governance, and fellowship.

The 2026 Diocesan Assembly will take place in Spring 2026, with dates, program details, and registration information to be made available in December 2025.

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ST. JOHN OF MILWAUKEE NAMED PARISH OF THE MONTH

We’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on St. John the Baptist Armenian Church in Milwaukee, Wisconsin!

This feature comes just in time for their Milwaukee Armenian Fest on Sunday, July 20: a beloved annual tradition that brings the entire community together in a joyful celebration of Armenian culture and faith. From delicious food and lively music to traditional dancing and warm fellowship, the festival is a vibrant expression of heritage and hospitality.

Fr. Guregh Hambardzumyan, pastor of St. John the Baptist, shares how much he treasures the deeply rooted sense of community, and the welcoming, multigenerational spirit that defines the parish.

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