On November 20, friends and families of AEBC gathered in the church social hall for a Thanksgiving Dinner, celebrating 96 years of ministry and to ring in the holidays with the lighting of the 12- foot Christmas tree inside the beautifully decorated hall.

The traditional Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings was served buffet style. The program started with Mrs. Houry Messerian reflecting on 96 years of ministry, the year that kept us apart and the joy of being able to be together once again.

The evening featured songs of thanksgiving and praise by Anna Stefanidi as well as Armenian folk songs performed by Anna Stefanidi and Yervant Keshishian.

Rev. Dikran Shanlian delivered a breif message and the importance of giving thanks in all circumstances. The honoree for the Christmas tree lighting was Mrs. Anahit Yesayan of Las Vegas, NV. Rev. Shanlian noted how Mrs. Yesayan continues to remember her home church regularly by following online and supporting the church every opportunity she can. The evening also included a slide show featuring all the activities from 2021 as well as raffle gifts beautifully wrapped.

The evening concluded with some words by Rev. Joseph Matossian. He provided some updates and reflections on ministry visits to Ararat Church in Utah with Rev. Shanlian. He continued to encourage all present to give their best as the church continues its work for the gospel of Christ. Rev. Matossian concluded the evening program with a benediction.

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