First Anniversary Memorial for Dr. Ara Caprielian

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NEW YORK, N.Y.—The first anniversary memorial for Dr. Ara Caprielian was held on Sun., April 17, at the St. Illuminator’s Cathedral. Family, relatives, and friends filled the Cathedral to capacity. By a befitting coincidence, Requiem service was held also for the fallen heroes of recent battles in Artsakh.

Dr. Ara Caprielian

His Grace Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian, Vicar General of the Armenian Prelacy, presided over the Divine Liturgy and Requiem service and delivered a heartfelt eulogy during the program. Given his busy schedule, Ara’s family highly appreciated the presence of His Grace.

Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian made opening remarks and spoke about Ara Caprielian with utmost respect, appreciation and love. Behind Rev. Lakissian’s words there are decades-long proof of his praiseworthy disposition towards Ara and his family. A slide-show of Ara’s photographs, skillfully prepared by Hagop and Stella Boyadjian, reflected his rich and multifaceted life.

Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian

Hrair Baronian

Following the slide-show, a number of friends shared their substantial and emotional thoughts about Ara. Among the speakers were Hrair Baronian, representing the Central Executive of Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society, Antranig Boudakian, Dr. Herand Markarian, Chair of the New Jersey Chapter of Hamazkayin Ani Tchaghlasian-Melkonian, and Anahit Dashtents Turabian.

Ara’s son Armen Caprielian read a lovely vignette, written by Hourig Papazian-Sahagian, a much respected member of the community and an active devotee of St. Illuminator’s Cathedral.

In conclusion, Ara’s widow, Arevig Caprielian expressed heartfelt gratitude to all present and in particular to Rev. Lakissian for his constant care and attention to Ara’s memory and family. Arevig also underscored the importance and healing effect of the clear evidence of genuine respect towards Ara as a person and his innumerable accomplishments in lifelong services to his beloved nation.