Hye Sharzhoom Armenian Action
Staff Report
The Armenian Series of The Press at California State University, Fresno, announces the publication of Vis-à-vis Christianity: An In-Depth Conversation Exploring the Life and the Work of Archbishop Hovnan Derderian (408 pages, in English, with color photographs). The volume is number 21 in the Armenian Series, and the publication was made possible through The Clara Margossian Trust, approved by the Trustee, Varoujan Altebarmakian, in memory of all the deceased members of the Margossian Family
Vis-à-vis Christianity embarks on an in-depth exploration of the life and works of Archbishop Derderian. This journey began on one of England’s oldest benches, fostering a unique dialogue between His Eminence, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, and author Alexander Woodman. The book offers readers a rare opportunity to delve into a myriad of topics, including the interplay of God, religion, science, life, friendship, love, family, education, interfaith experiences/dialogue, and adversities, all through profound conversations. It immerses readers in the exploration of the Abrahamic religions, unveiling the intimate stories of a priest whose life is deeply intertwined with Christianity.
“The story of Archbishop Hovnan Derderian is a spiritual journey which began in Beirut, Lebanon, and continues today in Burbank, California,” said Armenian Series editor Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian. “Along the way a young man grew to become a spiritual leader of not only the Armenian Church, but the Christian Church at large…. Archbishop Derderian has been witness to many significant moments, from his days at Holy Etchmiadzin, to his days as Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church. This spiritual journey and exploration of faith will be a lasting legacy of Archbishop Derderian and the reader will have a guide to living the Christian life.”
Archbishop Hovnan Derderian has, since 2003, been the Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church in the United States, one of the largest Armenian dioceses in the world. He previously served as the Primate of the Diocese of Canada (1990-2003) and has held high-level leadership positions in the Armenian Apostolic Church and in various Ecumenical bodies.
Archbishop Hovnan’s episcopal ministry and leadership are distinguished by the establishment of new church communities and consecration of houses of worship. Following his distinguished record in Canada, his leadership in the Western Diocese has been prolific in the last two decades.
Between 2006-2022, he has consecrated twenty-four churches and parish and community centers throughout the Western Diocese.
The author, Dr. Alexander Woodman is a professor of preventive family medicine and public health who has been widely recognized for his research work in the Middle East and North Africa regions.
Dr. Woodman has served as an advisor to royals, presidential candidates, and diplomats and is a faculty member at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut.
Vis-à-vis Christianity will be available through Abril Books in Glendale and the NAASR Bookstore in Belmont, MA. Copies will also be available through Amazon.