Easter Sunday Celebration at the Armenian Diocesan Centre
Picture © Zorik Gasparian
London, 5 April 2026 - On Easter Sunday, following the Divine Liturgy, members of the Armenian community, together with guests and friends, gathered at the Armenian Diocesan Centre for a joyful festive luncheon, continuing the celebration of the glorious Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The hall was filled with warmth and fellowship as attendees enjoyed a delicious meal of traditional Armenian cuisine.
While the community was enjoying the luncheon, a special children’s Easter programme was taking place in the adjacent hall. Led by Yeretskin Lusine Shahinyan, the children gathered for a joyful and creative celebration, including egg painting and festive activities. The programme brought great delight to the youngest members of the community and reflected the importance of passing on faith and tradition to the next generation.
A vibrant and engaging cultural programme further enriched the celebration. Young Sophie Inman delighted the audience with a graceful performance of Armenian dance, while Polina Sharafyan, a student of the Royal Academy of Music, offered a moving violin performance featuring works inspired by beloved Armenian melodies. The programme continued with Hovik Arakelyan, who performed traditional Armenian folk songs, joined by MC Anastasiia Shakhnazarian for several pieces, including a Ukrainian song, highlighting both cultural richness and solidarity between peoples.
A particularly meaningful moment of the afternoon was the charitable auction organised by Hasmig Topalian, who presented Easter treats to support the wife and three children in Syunik, Armenia, whose husband, Alyosha Khosrovyan, is currently imprisoned in Baku. Thanks to the generosity of those present, £355 was raised. Additional support came from Arpi Manukyan, who brought products from her small production in Armenia and contributed the proceeds to the same cause.
In his address, Bishop Hovakim Manukyan expressed heartfelt gratitude to Jeanine Gulvanesian and her dedicated team for organising the luncheon, as well as to Zorik Gasparyan and his team for their invaluable support. He also thanked the trustees of the Armenian Church Trust UK for sponsoring the event, along with all performers and participants who contributed to the success of the day.
The gathering stood as a beautiful witness to the strength, generosity, and unity of the Armenian community. It was not only a celebration of the Resurrection, but also a reminder of the power of coming together in faith, culture, and compassion.
We warmly thank all those who participated and supported this event. Those who wish to contribute to the ongoing mission of the Armenian Church are encouraged to visit our website and make a donation.
May the joy of the Risen Christ remain with you and your families.
Christ is risen from the dead! Blessed is the Resurrection of Christ.
Pictures by Zorik Gasparian and Anastasiia Shakhnazarian.
