Armenian Church fights for road less traveled

(Armenian WD) - On Tuesday July 24 the Western Diocese joined many of its ecumenical and interfaith brothers and sisters in advocating that the Los Angeles City Council accept changes to the route of the Los Angeles Marathon such that it would improve access to places of worship. Representing the Primate was Dn. Matthew Ash, and Diocesan Executive Director Harout Markarian. The proposed compromise, which was reached through mediation the night before, was unanimously adopted by the City Council.

This issue has long been a matter of dispute in Los Angeles, as each year the route and timing of the Marathon has made it difficult for worshippers to attend churches throughout the city, as well as for the faithful to participate in the Marathon. Last year an agreement was reached to change the Marathon day from Sunday to Monday. After a disappointing turnout, the LA Marathon organization decided to pursuing having the event return to Sundays. The agreed compromise was that while the event will take place on Sunday in future years, it will be routed in order to give the faithful greater access to their places of worship. As parishes of the Western Diocese have been adversely affected by this in the past, the Diocese is satisfied with the outcome.

The Diocese sends its special thanks to the ecumenical leaders who have worked hard to address this issue, especially the Very Rev. Fr. John Bakas, Dean of St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral. The Diocese also offers its best wishes to the many thousands of men, women, and students who strive for their best in the Los Angeles Marathon.