On Thursday, June 16 the Holy Trinity Armenian Church hosted the annual seniors’ day
celebration. It was a beautiful, sunny morning when buses arrived bringing residents from Seven Oaks, Leisureworld and Seniors’ Health Centre. Many others came by other means or with their families.
Archpriest Father Zareh Zargarian celebrated a special Holy Mass and blessed our seniors. In his remarks, Father Zareh thanked and praised the various Armenian organizations and long term care facilities for their commitment to our beloved seniors. Following the service, all were escorted to the M. Artinian hall for lunch.
Blessing of the food was carried out by Very Rev. Fr. Elie Kirejian, Pastor of St. Gregory’s Armenian Catholic Church, and Fr. Zareh.
Ani Migirdicyan, a member of the Visitation Committee, delivered the welcoming speech and expressed words of appreciation to all who helped in this event. Music was provided by Greg Benoit and Brian Beveridge who entertained with many old familiar songs. Their friendly, easy going manner always brings pleasure to the guests. Students of AGBU Zaroukian School made a special appearance and delighted everyone with their Armenian songs and recitation.
The Seniors’ Day is an annual event that is organized by the Visitation Committee of the Women’s Guild. It usually takes place in June. Invitations and flyers are extended to all Armenian Seniors in the city and neighbouring communities. The committee members spend many hours planning, organizing and coordinating to make
this event a success.
Many thanks go to the members of the visitation committee, ladies who helped the committee in the setting of tables, decorating, preparation of the meal, serving, and cleaning. Special words of appreciation also go to all the staff and coordinators of the three long term facilities who made extra effort to bring the Armenian residents to this function, as well as to the volunteers who helped these residents with their meals.
Finally, special words of gratitude go to the principal, teachers and students of AGBU Zaroukian School who contributed to the joy of the audience. These students have performed every year in this event and have also accompanied Father Zareh and the visitation committee to different old age homes for Christmas and Easter services for many years. Their presence enriches the lives of the elderly as well as theirs.
This day was special in many ways. It was one way of showing our respect, care and love for our elders. It was also a way to celebrate them, acknowledging their worth and existence. Our efforts were rewarded by seeing them leave the church hall happy and in good spirits. (by Nora Baltayan)
