Zoryan Institute mourns the passing of Father Elias (Yeghia) Kirijian

2026-01-31 - 15:16

TORONTO — The President, Board of Directors and staff of the Zoryan Institute mourn the passing of Father Elias Kirijian, a cherished friend of the Institute whose kindness, warmth and generosity touched all who had the privilege of knowing him. Father Elias was a man of faith in the deepest sense of the word. He was devoted not only to God, but to humanity at large. His compassion, openness and quiet commitment to justice and understanding reflected the values the Zoryan Institute strives to uphold. For many years, Father Elias was a loyal and steadfast supporter of the Institute and its work. Beyond his generosity as a donor, he opened the doors of his church to us, allowing it to serve as a welcoming space for dialogue, reflection and community gathering. Most memorably, the church hosted the Zoryan Institute’s tribute to Hrant Dink in 2018, featuring renowned human rights lawyer Payam Akhavan. Father Elias played an essential role in the success of that evening. Not only did he offer the space, he helped to arrange all the technical and logistical requirements, and warmly promoted the event among his parishioners. His support was unwavering. Father Elias also helped sell tickets for the Institute’s fundraising gala and film screenings, and was always one of the very first in line to purchase one of the Institute’s newly published books, a gesture that spoke volumes about his enduring belief in and support of our mission. The Zoryan Institute is profoundly grateful for Father Elias’s generous spirit, unwavering encouragement and the many ways he gave of himself. His presence was a gift, and his legacy will remain woven into the life of our Institute. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, parishioners, and all who mourn his loss. He will be remembered with great affection and enduring gratitude. Funeral services will take place at St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Catholic Church of Toronto, 100 Northdale Road, Toronto, ON M2L 2M1. Condolences and Visitations Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy and Funeral Rite Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Requiem Divine Liturgy Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.