St. Nersess Deacons’ Training Program Held in the Western Diocese
For the fifth consecutive year, a St. Nersess Deacons’ Training Program (DTP) was hosted in the Western Diocese, taking place August 10–14 at Hye Camp in Dunlap, CA. Held under the auspices of Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese, the program was organized and directed by Fr. Gomidas Zohrabian, pastor of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church in Fowler. Twelve participants from parishes across the Diocese attended this year’s session.
The program’s focus was to train deacons and altar servers in the chants of the Holy Badarak, the Sunrise and Rest Hours, the liturgical use of the censer, and the theological and biblical meaning of the deacon’s role. Each day began with Morning and Sunrise Hours, prayed with clergy and deacons serving together.
A highlight of this year’s program was the musical workshop offered by Isabel Bayrakdarian, renowned operatic soprano and Professor of Voice at the University of California, Santa Barbara. In her session, “How to Sing in the Church,” Dr. Bayrakdarian guided participants through vocal warm-ups, posture, breathing techniques, and the spiritual mindset of singing in worship.
Liturgical training was led by Fr. Gomidas, Fr. Zaven Markosyan, and Dn. Hagop Iskenyan, who instructed participants in the proper use of the poorvar (censer) and kshots (fans), along with liturgical movements carried out with precision and reverence. Bible studies were taught by Mr. Hayk Madoyan, Diocesan Librarian and Ecumenical Officer, with topics including “Introduction to Biblical Interpretation” and “The Healing of the Centurion’s Servant.” Additional sessions included Fr. Zaven’s lecture on the vital role of acolytes and Armenian language lessons for younger participants by Mrs. Kaghtsrik Madoyan.
On Wednesday, the Holy Badarak was celebrated by Fr. Gomidas, with all participants serving in different capacities. The choir, directed by Dr. Bayrakdarian, sang with beauty and harmony, even without an organist. Mrs. Anahit Garabed reflected, “This year’s Badarak was unlike any other—it was truly uplifting and spiritually moving.”
In addition to the formal training, participants enjoyed fellowship, cultural activities, and traditional Armenian singing during their free time, deepening their friendships and spiritual bonds.
The Western Diocese extends its gratitude to all who contributed to the success of this year’s program, including clergy, instructors, volunteers, and kitchen staff. Special thanks are offered to Mrs. Anahit Garabed and Mrs. Kaghtsrik Madoyan for their dedicated service in preparing meals with love.
