Diocese of The Armenian Church of the United Kingdom & Ireland

12/06/2026

12/06/2026

📢Divine Liturgy at St Sarkis Church ✝️
Sunday, 14 June, 2026

The Diocese of the Armenian Church in the United Kingdom and Ireland warmly invites the faithful to join us for the celebration of the Divine Liturgy at St.Sarkis Armenian Church London Parish.Սբ Սարգիս եկեղեցու ծխական խորհուրդ:.

With the blessings of His Grace Bishop Hovakim Manukyan,
Very Reverend Fr. Movses Sargsyan, a member of the Brotherhood of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, will celebrate the Divine Liturgy and deliver the sermon.

Fr. Movses is well known for his devoted pastoral and educational ministry within the Armenian Church. A graduate of the Gevorgyan Theological Seminary of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, he also pursued further studies in the United States and in London.

Over the years, Fr. Movses has served the Armenian faithful in different parts of the world, including the Diocese of the Armenian Church in the United Kingdom and Ireland (St Yeghiche Church), the Armenian community of Kolkata (Calcutta), India, as well as the Armenian communities in Myanmar and Singapore. His ministry has combined pastoral care, theological teaching, youth formation, and spiritual guidance.

We invite all faithful members of our community, friends, and guests to join us in prayer and fellowship on this special occasion.
Sunday, 14 June
St Sarkis Armenian Church
Iverna Gardens, London W8 6TP

All are welcome!

For further information:
[email protected]

07/06/2026

The annual celebration of Araratian Week was solemnly marked at Pembroke College, Oxford, on June 7th 2026, with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy and the Feast of Holy Etchmiadzin. It gathered Armenian students, faithful of the Armenian community, scholars, and friends of Armenia in prayer and fellowship.

The service was presided over by His Grace Bishop Hovakim Manukyan, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church in the United Kingdom and Ireland, who delivered a sermon reflecting on the spiritual meaning of Araratian Week, the enduring witness of the Armenian Church, and the vocation of Christian students and scholars in the modern world.

In his address, Bishop Hovakim spoke of the profound significance of celebrating the feast within one of the world’s historic centres of learning, noting the inseparable connection between faith, wisdom, and education within the Armenian Christian tradition.

Recalling the words of the Prophet Zechariah — “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord of hosts” — the Bishop reflected upon the survival and spiritual resilience of the Armenian people throughout centuries of persecution, exile, genocide, and war. He emphasised that the endurance of the Armenian Church has never depended upon political strength or earthly power, but upon the steadfast faith preserved in the hearts of the faithful.

👉 Read more on our website at https://www.armenianchurch.org.uk/news/araratian-week-celebrated-at-pembroke-college-oxford-with-the-feast-of-holy-etchmiadzin

05/06/2026

At the gracious invitation of His Grace Bishop Hovakim Manukyan, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of the UK and Ireland, His Grace Bishop Vahan Hovhannesian of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin visited London and presided over the celebration of the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, 31 May, at St. Sarkis Armenian Church, Kensington.

The Divine Liturgy was attended by numerous faithful of the Armenian community in London, who warmly welcomed the visiting bishop from the Mother See and participated prayerfully in the sacred services. In his homily, Bishop Vahan reflected upon the prophetic witness of Elijah, emphasising his unwavering fidelity to God, his ascetic spirit, and his life of fervent prayer.

Following the Divine Liturgy, a reception and presentation were held at Gulbenkian Hall. During the gathering, Bishop Hovakim Manukyan and Bishop Vahan Hovhannesian presented several pastoral, educational, and ecclesial initiatives. Attention was given to the Summer Study Programme for Diaspora Youth organised by the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, an initiative to strengthen the spiritual, theological, and cultural bonds between young Armenians of the diaspora and their historic homeland and Church.

Read more on our website at: https://www.armenianchurch.org.uk/news/visit-of-his-grace-bishop-vahan-hovhannesian-to-the-diocese-of-the-armenian-church-in-the-united-kingdom-and-ireland

04/06/2026

His Grace Bishop Hovakim Manukyan took part in the Anglican–Orthodox Round Table held at Lambeth Palace in London, bringing together representatives of the Anglican and Orthodox Churches for discussions on ecumenical relations and contemporary challenges facing Christian communities.

The meeting gathered bishops, clergy, theologians, and church representatives from different traditions and focused on Christian witness, inter-church dialogue, and cooperation in areas of common concern, including peacebuilding, religious freedom, and pastoral life.

The event was hosted at Lambeth Palace, the official London residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury, and included discussions, informal exchanges, and opportunities for fellowship among participants.

Bishop Hovakim Manukyan, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church in the United Kingdom and Ireland, joined the conversations as part of the Armenian Church’s ongoing engagement in ecumenical dialogue and cooperation with other Christian Churches.

The Anglican–Orthodox Round Table forms part of a wider effort to strengthen relations between the Churches and encourage collaboration on issues affecting Christian communities around the world.

29/05/2026

On Sunday, 24 May 2026, on the Feast of Pentecost (Hogegalust), Bishop Hovakim Manukyan celebrated the Divine Liturgy at St. Sarkis Armenian Church in London and delivered a sermon reflecting on the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles in the Upper Room.

Drawing upon the Gospel of John and the Book of Acts, Bishop Hovakim spoke about the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, who turned fearful disciples into courageous witnesses of Christ. He explained the significance of Holy Chrismation in the Armenian Church. He reminded the faithful that Christians are called not merely to appear religious outwardly, but to be inwardly renewed by the grace of God.

Reflecting on the challenges of modern society, he described today’s world as a “new Babel,” marked by division, noise, and spiritual restlessness. In contrast, Pentecost reveals God’s desire to unite humanity through the Holy Spirit, who heals divisions and draws people together in the love of Christ.

The service was followed by a garden party and festival organised by St Sarkis Parish, with support from ACYO "Avetis" London Group.

Read more on our website: https://www.armenianchurch.org.uk/news/bishop-hovakim-manukyan-celebrates-pentecost-at-st-sarkis

20/05/2026

On Sunday, 17 May 2026, members of the Armenian Community in Dublin gathered at Christ Church Taney Parish to celebrate the Ascension of our Lord to heaven. We had the added pleasure of a retired visiting priest, Fr. Yeprem Kelegian, from Racine, Wisconsin, leading the Divine Liturgy with the blessing of His Grace Bishop Hovakim Manukyan, the Primate of the UK & Ireland.

Fr. Yeprem Kelegian, in his homily, spoke about how God exists and that when you despair or feel abandoned, you can always turn to God and find hope in his message. Deacon Adam Malkhasian also traveled from the UK to join the service. Lastly, the Dublin Parish was fortunate to witness the amazing talent of Deacon Casey O'Brien from Racine, who has learned the Badarak Liturgy despite not being born as an Armenian.

At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, a Hokehankist (Requiem service) was offered for the departed members. It was especially held in honor of a past parish member, Mrs. Isobel Manook, the wife of Dr. Paul Manook, who recently passed away on 17th April 2026. The congregation was informed of the huge contribution made by Isobel to so many aspects of the Irish Armenian community life, since the establishment of Dublin Parish back in 2010. Commuting from Belfast to Dublin for every occasion, they never wavered in their commitment to the parish and gave generously of their time, particularly in supporting efforts to commemorate the Armenian Genocide in Ireland. They both played key roles in the placement of the Armenian Khachkar - a dedicated symbol of peace - in the grounds of Christchurch Cathedral, Dublin. Everyone who had the pleasure of knowing Isoble will never forget her. On behalf of the Armenian Community in Dublin, condolences were offered to her husband, Paul, their adult children, and their extended family.

Following the service, community members, guests, and friends gathered to socialise, share Armenian traditional food and refreshments, and give Fr Yeprem Kelegian and his family the opportunity of meeting members of the congregation.

18/05/2026

On Sunday, 17 May 2026, Bishop Hovakim Manukyan celebrated the Divine Liturgy at St Yeghiche Armenian Church and delivered a sermon on the occasion of the Feast of the Second Palm Sunday.

The sermon reflected on the spiritual meaning of the feast, the heavenly Jerusalem, and the Christian calling to remain faithful to Christ in a world often distracted by temporary idols and false promises. Drawing from the Armenian Church tradition, biblical reflections, and the witness of the saints, Bishop Hovakim encouraged the faithful to renew their commitment to prayer, humility, and spiritual vigilance.

13/05/2026

IN MEMORIAM 🕊️
Mr Megerditch (Mike) Boghossian
(1939–2026)

A Hokehankist (Requiem Service) for the soul of the late Mr Megerditch (Mike) Boghossian will be held on the 40th day of his passing, at the request of his daughter, Dr Sheila Boghossian, son, Dr Shahe Boghossian, and wife, Madelene Boghossian Yalkezian.

Date: Sunday, 17 May 2026
Time: Beginning of Divine Liturgy at 11:00 a.m.
Venue: St. Yeghiche Armenian Church
Address: 13b Cranley Gardens, London SW7 3BB

With profound sorrow and Christian hope in the Resurrection, we remember the life and passing of Mr Megerditch “Mike” Boghossian, lovingly known to many as “Doc Mike,” who entered into eternal rest on 12 April 2026 at the age of 87.

Mr Boghossian was a devoted educator, mentor, patriot, and faithful son of the Armenian people. A graduate of Aleppo College in 1958, he later continued his studies at Haigazian University, graduating in 1964. His lifelong dedication to learning and education culminated in receiving his PhD from the University of Florida in 1998.

Beginning in 1971, he served as a respected Biology and Chemistry teacher at the AGBU Hovagimian-Manougian School, where he dedicated decades of his life to the education and formation of young Armenians. In addition to his service there, he also taught at the Armenian Evangelical High School and several other non-Armenian schools, earning the admiration and respect of students and colleagues alike. Through his wisdom, discipline, and commitment, he helped shape generations of students, many of whom went on to pursue successful academic and professional careers.

A descendant of Armenian Genocide survivors and deeply connected to the Armenian communities of Tel Abiad and Raqqa, Mike Boghossian carried within him the living memory of his people. He was widely admired for his remarkable knowledge of Armenian history, culture, and the experiences of Armenian Genocide survivors. To many, he was a “living encyclopedia,” preserving stories, memories, and traditions that might otherwise have been forgotten.

His love for Armenian heritage extended to archaeology, historical artefacts, and cultural preservation. He possessed a profound sense of identity and responsibility towards his nation and Church, always encouraging younger generations to remain faithful to their roots and values.

Despite enduring many years of serious health challenges, including two open-heart surgeries, he faced life with courage, dignity, and unwavering strength. Until his final days, he remained intellectually active, thoughtful, and deeply engaged with the life of his family and community.

Above all, he was a devoted husband and father who took immense pride in his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Madelene Boghossian Yalkezian, his daughter, Dr Sheila Boghossian, his son, Dr Shahe Boghossian, and all those who cherished his friendship, wisdom, and presence.

Mr Megerditch (Mike) Boghossian’s life was one of service, resilience, learning, and faith. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of his loved ones, former students, and the wider Armenian community.

“Memory of the righteous is blessed.”
— Proverbs 10:7

May the Lord grant rest and eternal peace to his soul and receive him into the light of His heavenly Kingdom.