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Untitled DocumentPRESS RELEASE
Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America
138 East 39th Street
New York, NY 10016
Tel: 212-689-7810
Fax: 212-689-7168
e-mail: [email protected]
Website: http://www.armenianprelacy.org
Contact: Iris Papazian
DECEMBER 20, 2007
2008-YEAR OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia, has
proclaimed 2008 as the Year of Christian Education. In his pontifical
message to the faithful His Holiness speaks of the situation in the world
today with the serious concerns facing us, and his decision to proclaim 2008
the Year of Christian Education. The Catholicos emphasizes the need to
understand the significance of Christian education, its purpose, and its
necessity. His Holiness tell us that we must examine the reality that
surrounds us and find the most effective and efficient methods of
transmitting healthy religious education to the children of our nation.
The Armenian text and English translation of the pontifical message will be
available in an upcoming issue of Crossroads.
PRELATE AND VICAR IN AREA CHURCHES
This Sunday, December 23, Archbishop Oshagan will attend and preside over
the Divine Liturgy at St. Illuminator's Cathedral in New York City, and
Bishop Anoushavan will attend and preside over the Divine Liturgy at Sts.
Vartanantz Church in New Jersey.
PRELACY RELEASES NEW MUSIC CD
The Prelacy has issued a new music CD. Entitled Yerkabsag (wreath of songs)
and dedicated to the genocide martyrs, the original was recorded in Armenia
on the occasion of the 90th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, under the
direction of the well-known Armenian American musicologist Krikor Pidedjian
directing the Chamber Choir of Yerevan and the Alan Hovhaness Chamber
Orchestra. The CD, which includes fifteen beautifully executed selections,
is available at the Prelacy Bookstore for $15.00, plus shipping and
handling. Contact the bookstore for orders and information 212-689-7810.
ST. STEPHEN'S GOLDEN JUBILEEE YEAR
COMES TO A CLOSE WITH COMMEMORATION
St. Stephen's Church, Watertown, Massachusetts, has been celebrating its
50th anniversary during the entire year with many celebratory and
educational events. The Golden Jubilee will come to an end this Sunday,
December 23, with a special commemoration in honor of the parish's patron
saint, St. Stephen the first deacon and proto-martyr. Congratulations to the
parishioners of St. Stephen's, and their pastor Archpriest Antranig Baljian,
on an impressive year-long celebration of this milestone anniversary.
CATHOLICOSATE OF CILICIA PARTICIPATES IN GENEVA MEETINGS
Two international conferences took place in the Geneva headquarters of the
World Council of Churches (WCC) in December. Archbishop Sebouh Sarkissian,
Primate of the Diocese of Tehran, represented the Catholicosate of Cilicia
and Archbishop Avak Asadourian, Primate of the Diocese of Iraq, represented
the Catholicosate of All Armenians in Holy Etchmiadzin.
The first conference was dedicated to the protection of human rights and
integrity. About 40 representatives from various countries participated.
Archbishop Sebouh delivered a lecture on the status of Christians in Iran
throughout history. He described the centuries-old presence of Armenians in
Iran and their constructive participation in the life of the country.
The second conference was dedicated to Christian-Muslim dialogue. Dr. Samuel
Kobia, the General Secretary of the WCC, delivered the opening remarks.
VEHARAN RENOVATED
The first comprehensive renovation of the Veharan (residence and ceremonial
offices) of the Catholicosate of Cilicia since it was constructed several
decades ago was completed last week. The renovation was made possible
through a generous donation by Mr. and Mrs. Gabriel Chemberdjian.
Renovations are also planned in the near future for Saint Asdvadzadzin
Monastery in Bikfaya and the Birds' Nest Orphanage in Jbeil-Byblos.
BLESSING OF MURON IN 2008
The Catholicosate of the Holy See of Cilicia announced that His Holiness
Catholicos Aram I will consecrate the Holy Muron (Holy Oil) next year on
June 7, 2008. The Holy Muron, symbol of the grace of the Holy Spirit, is
traditionally blessed every seven years. Only the Catholicos can consecrate
the oil which is then distributed to the various dioceses for distribution
to the parishes. The oil consists of 48 different herbs, flowers, and oils
which are combined in a special vessel and mixed with some of the old Muron,
creating an unbroken chain with the past.
The Muron Blessing is expected to attract a large number of pilgrims from
various parts of the world. More details will be forthcoming.
INTERNATIONAL YOUTH GATHERING IN AUGUST 2008
An International Gathering of Youth is being organized by the Holy See of
Cilicia. His Holiness Aram I is inviting the youth, 18 years and older, to
attend this gathering which will include a one-week pilgrimage to Der Zor.
Details will follow.
FIFTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT
This Sunday, December 23, is the fifth Sunday of Advent. The readings for
this Sunday are Isaiah 40:18-31; Hebrews 4:16-5:10; Luke 18:9-14.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Bible readings for today, December 20, are: Wisdom 3:1-8; Jeremiah 30:18-22;
1 Peter 4:12-19; John 15:17-25.
But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will
ever touch them. In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and
their departure was thought to be a disaster, and their going from us to be
their destruction; but they are at peace. For though in the sight of others
they were punished, their hope is full of immortality. Having been
disciplined a little, they will receive great good, because God tested them
and found them worthy of himself; like gold in the furnace he tried them,
and like a sacrificial burnt offering he accepted them In the time of their
visitation they will shine forth, and will run like sparks through the
stubble. They will govern nations and rule over peoples, and the Lord will
rein over them forever. (Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-8).
IN CELEBRATION OF THE YEAR OF THE ARMENIAN LANGUAGE.
The year 2007 is coming to an end and with it the Year of the Armenian
Language will come to a close. For the remaining issues of Crossroads during
2007 we will quote excerpts from the pontifical message issued by Catholicos
Aram on January 1, 2007.
".faith and language have been present in our history with an inseparable
association. After all, was it not largely by way of the Armenian language
that the Christian faith expressed itself with an Armenian imprint in the
lives of the Armenian people? Was it not by way of the Armenian language
that the most important works of Christian thought were written or
translated? The Armenian language Armenianized the Christian faith, giving
it an Armenian spirit and personality. Furthermore, it was by way of the
Christian faith that the Armenian language, in a certain sense, became
sanctified, becoming the most authentic voice, the most vigilant guardian,
and the most powerful defender of the Armenian faith."
His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of Great House of Cilicia
DAVID THE PROPHET KING; HOLY APOSTLE JAMES
This Saturday, December 22, the Armenian Church commemorates David the
Prophet-King and James the Brother of our Lord.
David was the youngest of eight brothers and was brought up to be a shepherd
where he learned courage, tenderness and caring. David became the second
King of Israel. In Scripture the name is his alone which indicates the
unique place he had as an ancestor and forerunner of our Lord Jesus Christ.
In the New Testament there are more than 50 references to David, including
the title given to Jesus-Son of David. David was a poet and some of the
Psalms were written by him.
James, called the Brother of our Lord possibly because of his close
relationship with Christ, was granted a special appearance of the Lord after
the Resurrection. He is believed to have been a first cousin of the Lord, or
as some biblical scholars have speculated a son of Joseph. Following the
Resurrection and Ascension, while the other Apostles scattered all over the
world, James remained in Jerusalem where he served as the Bishop, and became
a leading advocate for the early church. Several years ago an ossuary with
the inscription "James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus" came to light.
Since then the owner of this ossuary has been charged with fraud and
forgery. The question of whether or not the ossuary did at one time contain
the bones of St. James is still being debated.
ST. STEPHEN THE FIRST DEACON AND PROTO-MARTYR
This Tuesday, December 25, the Armenian Church commemorates St. Stephen the
First Deacon and Proto-Martyr. After Christ's Ascension, the apostles went
about spreading the Word of the new faith. It soon became apparent that more
people were needed to serve the growing community. A selection of seven
worthy individuals were called upon to serve the holy altar, and called
deacons (sarkavag). The most noteworthy of the original seven deacons was
Stephen-".a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit," (Acts 6:5). The Feast
of St. Stephen is a popular and important commemoration in the Armenian
Church. It is also a day of honor for all deacons of the church. St. Stephen
became the first martyr for his faith and is therefore often called
"proto-martyr." The only first hand source of information on the life and
death of St. Stephen is in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 6:8-8:2)
WINTER SOLSTICE
Saturday, December 22, is the winter solstice, hence the first day of
winter, the shortest day of the year, the longest night. In this season of
advent think about light shining in darkness; about the light of the world.
AT THE BOOKSTORE..
This week the bookstore has just received some new editions of books
originally printed years ago and now out of print:
The two-volume, Armenian People from Ancient to Modern Times, edited by
Richard G. Hovannisian is a valuable reference tool, yet eminently readable,
and has been reprinted recently in paperback. The first volume is
sub-titled, "The Dynastic Periods: from Antiquity to the Fourteenth
Century;" the second volume is sub-titled, "Foreign Dominion to Statehood:
The Fifteenth Century to the Twentieth Century." Each of the sections is
written by specialists, and while the final result of such an attempt could
have been disastrous in style, the editor has done a superb job of bringing
it all together. Volume I is $31.95; Volume II is $34.95, plus shipping and
handling.
The Armenian Genocide: News Accounts from the American Press, 1915-1922,
compiled and edited by Richard Diran Kloian. This is a new edition of a book
that first appeared some years back. It is a compelling account of the
deportation and massacre of the Armenians of the Ottoman Empire between 1915
and 1922. It includes hundreds of news articles from the New York Times and
other newspapers and journals, accounts by German, Turkish, Italian and
Danish eyewitnesses, stories by survivors, historical documents, and much
more. $35.00, plus shipping and handling.
To order these books or for information contact the Bookstore by email at
[email protected] or by telephone at 212-689-7810.
CHRISTMAS-DECEMBER 25 OR JANUARY 6?
Next Tuesday, December 25, most of the Christian world will celebrate the
birth of Christ.
For most Armenian Americans the answer to the question "December 25 or
January 6" is simply, "Both!" In fact, we grew up with our parents telling
us how lucky we were to be Armenian and have two Christmases.
Originally all of Christendom celebrated the birth, baptism, and visit of
the Magi on January 6. For a variety of reasons, Rome officially adopted
December 25 in the year 336, and this date gradually became popular and was
officially adopted at the Council of Chalcedon (451)-a Council that the
Armenians did not attend nor accept. And so the Armenian Church has remained
faithful to the original date of January 6.
Of course, the actual date of Jesus' birth is a mystery. Recent scholarship
even suggests it occurred in the spring. The older we get the more we
appreciate the wisdom of our parents who encouraged us to celebrate both
dates. December 25 became a more commercial type of celebration, while
January 6 remained very religious, very Armenian, very introspective. Is it
any wonder that last year Peter Steinfels, one of the religion reporters for
the New York Times devoted an entire article about Armenian Christmas with
the suggestion that "there is a lesson in the Armenian practice for many
Christians who desperately wish that the religious meaning of Jesus' birth
could be rescued from angry culture wars and commercial frenzy."
"A wonderful and great mystery is revealed on this day; the shepherds sing
with the angels who announce the good news to the world.
"A new King is born in the city of Bethlehem; O you people, bless him, for
he became flesh for our sake.
"He whom heaven and earth cannot contain is wrapped in swaddling clothes,
without being separated from the Father, he rested in the holy manger."
Hymn of Censing for the Nativity from the Armenian Liturgy
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
December 23-St. Stephen's Day Celebration, Watertown, Massachusetts. The
Golden Jubilee celebration will come to a close with a commemoration of the
church's patron saint, the first deacon and martyr, St. Stephen.
December 31-New Year's Eve Dinner Dance, Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield,
New Jersey, and ARF Dro Gomideh, The Sheraton Meadowlands, E. Rutherford,
New Jersey. For information 201-943-2950.
February 10-Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church, Worcester,
Massachusetts, Annual Membership Meeting. Snow date: February 24.
February 24-Annual Membership meeting, St. Gregory Church (North Andover,
Massachusetts).
March 2-Musical Armenia, Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, New York City,
featuring Aleksandr Nazaryan on viola and Karen Tchougourian on piano.
June 7-Blessing of Holy Muron in Antelias, Lebanon. Details will follow.
June 27 to July 6-St. Gregory of Datev Institute, Summer Christian Studies
Program for youth ages 13-18 at St. Mary of Providence Center in Elverson,
Pennsylvania, organized by the Armenian Religious Education Council.
August 15-17-International Gathering of Youth and Pilgrimage to Der Zor,
organized by the Catholicosate of Cilicia. Details will follow.
October 25-Gala celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Prelacy of the
Armenian Apostolic Church of America under the jurisdiction of the Great
House of Cilicia and the 110th anniversary of the establishment of the
Armenian Church of America. Marriott at Glenpointe, Teaneck, New Jersey.
Details to follow.
Web pages of the parishes can be accessed through the Prelacy's web site.
To ensure the timely arrival of Crossroads in your electronic mailbox, add
[email protected] to your address book.
Items in Crossroads can be reproduced without permission. Please credit
Crossroads as the source.
Parishes of the Eastern Prelacy are invited to send information about their
major events to be included in the calendar. Send to:
[email protected]
Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America
138 East 39th Street
New York, NY 10016
Tel: 212-689-7810
Fax: 212-689-7168
e-mail: [email protected]
Website: http://www.armenianprelacy.org
Contact: Iris Papazian
DECEMBER 20, 2007
2008-YEAR OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia, has
proclaimed 2008 as the Year of Christian Education. In his pontifical
message to the faithful His Holiness speaks of the situation in the world
today with the serious concerns facing us, and his decision to proclaim 2008
the Year of Christian Education. The Catholicos emphasizes the need to
understand the significance of Christian education, its purpose, and its
necessity. His Holiness tell us that we must examine the reality that
surrounds us and find the most effective and efficient methods of
transmitting healthy religious education to the children of our nation.
The Armenian text and English translation of the pontifical message will be
available in an upcoming issue of Crossroads.
PRELATE AND VICAR IN AREA CHURCHES
This Sunday, December 23, Archbishop Oshagan will attend and preside over
the Divine Liturgy at St. Illuminator's Cathedral in New York City, and
Bishop Anoushavan will attend and preside over the Divine Liturgy at Sts.
Vartanantz Church in New Jersey.
PRELACY RELEASES NEW MUSIC CD
The Prelacy has issued a new music CD. Entitled Yerkabsag (wreath of songs)
and dedicated to the genocide martyrs, the original was recorded in Armenia
on the occasion of the 90th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, under the
direction of the well-known Armenian American musicologist Krikor Pidedjian
directing the Chamber Choir of Yerevan and the Alan Hovhaness Chamber
Orchestra. The CD, which includes fifteen beautifully executed selections,
is available at the Prelacy Bookstore for $15.00, plus shipping and
handling. Contact the bookstore for orders and information 212-689-7810.
ST. STEPHEN'S GOLDEN JUBILEEE YEAR
COMES TO A CLOSE WITH COMMEMORATION
St. Stephen's Church, Watertown, Massachusetts, has been celebrating its
50th anniversary during the entire year with many celebratory and
educational events. The Golden Jubilee will come to an end this Sunday,
December 23, with a special commemoration in honor of the parish's patron
saint, St. Stephen the first deacon and proto-martyr. Congratulations to the
parishioners of St. Stephen's, and their pastor Archpriest Antranig Baljian,
on an impressive year-long celebration of this milestone anniversary.
CATHOLICOSATE OF CILICIA PARTICIPATES IN GENEVA MEETINGS
Two international conferences took place in the Geneva headquarters of the
World Council of Churches (WCC) in December. Archbishop Sebouh Sarkissian,
Primate of the Diocese of Tehran, represented the Catholicosate of Cilicia
and Archbishop Avak Asadourian, Primate of the Diocese of Iraq, represented
the Catholicosate of All Armenians in Holy Etchmiadzin.
The first conference was dedicated to the protection of human rights and
integrity. About 40 representatives from various countries participated.
Archbishop Sebouh delivered a lecture on the status of Christians in Iran
throughout history. He described the centuries-old presence of Armenians in
Iran and their constructive participation in the life of the country.
The second conference was dedicated to Christian-Muslim dialogue. Dr. Samuel
Kobia, the General Secretary of the WCC, delivered the opening remarks.
VEHARAN RENOVATED
The first comprehensive renovation of the Veharan (residence and ceremonial
offices) of the Catholicosate of Cilicia since it was constructed several
decades ago was completed last week. The renovation was made possible
through a generous donation by Mr. and Mrs. Gabriel Chemberdjian.
Renovations are also planned in the near future for Saint Asdvadzadzin
Monastery in Bikfaya and the Birds' Nest Orphanage in Jbeil-Byblos.
BLESSING OF MURON IN 2008
The Catholicosate of the Holy See of Cilicia announced that His Holiness
Catholicos Aram I will consecrate the Holy Muron (Holy Oil) next year on
June 7, 2008. The Holy Muron, symbol of the grace of the Holy Spirit, is
traditionally blessed every seven years. Only the Catholicos can consecrate
the oil which is then distributed to the various dioceses for distribution
to the parishes. The oil consists of 48 different herbs, flowers, and oils
which are combined in a special vessel and mixed with some of the old Muron,
creating an unbroken chain with the past.
The Muron Blessing is expected to attract a large number of pilgrims from
various parts of the world. More details will be forthcoming.
INTERNATIONAL YOUTH GATHERING IN AUGUST 2008
An International Gathering of Youth is being organized by the Holy See of
Cilicia. His Holiness Aram I is inviting the youth, 18 years and older, to
attend this gathering which will include a one-week pilgrimage to Der Zor.
Details will follow.
FIFTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT
This Sunday, December 23, is the fifth Sunday of Advent. The readings for
this Sunday are Isaiah 40:18-31; Hebrews 4:16-5:10; Luke 18:9-14.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Bible readings for today, December 20, are: Wisdom 3:1-8; Jeremiah 30:18-22;
1 Peter 4:12-19; John 15:17-25.
But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will
ever touch them. In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and
their departure was thought to be a disaster, and their going from us to be
their destruction; but they are at peace. For though in the sight of others
they were punished, their hope is full of immortality. Having been
disciplined a little, they will receive great good, because God tested them
and found them worthy of himself; like gold in the furnace he tried them,
and like a sacrificial burnt offering he accepted them In the time of their
visitation they will shine forth, and will run like sparks through the
stubble. They will govern nations and rule over peoples, and the Lord will
rein over them forever. (Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-8).
IN CELEBRATION OF THE YEAR OF THE ARMENIAN LANGUAGE.
The year 2007 is coming to an end and with it the Year of the Armenian
Language will come to a close. For the remaining issues of Crossroads during
2007 we will quote excerpts from the pontifical message issued by Catholicos
Aram on January 1, 2007.
".faith and language have been present in our history with an inseparable
association. After all, was it not largely by way of the Armenian language
that the Christian faith expressed itself with an Armenian imprint in the
lives of the Armenian people? Was it not by way of the Armenian language
that the most important works of Christian thought were written or
translated? The Armenian language Armenianized the Christian faith, giving
it an Armenian spirit and personality. Furthermore, it was by way of the
Christian faith that the Armenian language, in a certain sense, became
sanctified, becoming the most authentic voice, the most vigilant guardian,
and the most powerful defender of the Armenian faith."
His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of Great House of Cilicia
DAVID THE PROPHET KING; HOLY APOSTLE JAMES
This Saturday, December 22, the Armenian Church commemorates David the
Prophet-King and James the Brother of our Lord.
David was the youngest of eight brothers and was brought up to be a shepherd
where he learned courage, tenderness and caring. David became the second
King of Israel. In Scripture the name is his alone which indicates the
unique place he had as an ancestor and forerunner of our Lord Jesus Christ.
In the New Testament there are more than 50 references to David, including
the title given to Jesus-Son of David. David was a poet and some of the
Psalms were written by him.
James, called the Brother of our Lord possibly because of his close
relationship with Christ, was granted a special appearance of the Lord after
the Resurrection. He is believed to have been a first cousin of the Lord, or
as some biblical scholars have speculated a son of Joseph. Following the
Resurrection and Ascension, while the other Apostles scattered all over the
world, James remained in Jerusalem where he served as the Bishop, and became
a leading advocate for the early church. Several years ago an ossuary with
the inscription "James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus" came to light.
Since then the owner of this ossuary has been charged with fraud and
forgery. The question of whether or not the ossuary did at one time contain
the bones of St. James is still being debated.
ST. STEPHEN THE FIRST DEACON AND PROTO-MARTYR
This Tuesday, December 25, the Armenian Church commemorates St. Stephen the
First Deacon and Proto-Martyr. After Christ's Ascension, the apostles went
about spreading the Word of the new faith. It soon became apparent that more
people were needed to serve the growing community. A selection of seven
worthy individuals were called upon to serve the holy altar, and called
deacons (sarkavag). The most noteworthy of the original seven deacons was
Stephen-".a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit," (Acts 6:5). The Feast
of St. Stephen is a popular and important commemoration in the Armenian
Church. It is also a day of honor for all deacons of the church. St. Stephen
became the first martyr for his faith and is therefore often called
"proto-martyr." The only first hand source of information on the life and
death of St. Stephen is in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 6:8-8:2)
WINTER SOLSTICE
Saturday, December 22, is the winter solstice, hence the first day of
winter, the shortest day of the year, the longest night. In this season of
advent think about light shining in darkness; about the light of the world.
AT THE BOOKSTORE..
This week the bookstore has just received some new editions of books
originally printed years ago and now out of print:
The two-volume, Armenian People from Ancient to Modern Times, edited by
Richard G. Hovannisian is a valuable reference tool, yet eminently readable,
and has been reprinted recently in paperback. The first volume is
sub-titled, "The Dynastic Periods: from Antiquity to the Fourteenth
Century;" the second volume is sub-titled, "Foreign Dominion to Statehood:
The Fifteenth Century to the Twentieth Century." Each of the sections is
written by specialists, and while the final result of such an attempt could
have been disastrous in style, the editor has done a superb job of bringing
it all together. Volume I is $31.95; Volume II is $34.95, plus shipping and
handling.
The Armenian Genocide: News Accounts from the American Press, 1915-1922,
compiled and edited by Richard Diran Kloian. This is a new edition of a book
that first appeared some years back. It is a compelling account of the
deportation and massacre of the Armenians of the Ottoman Empire between 1915
and 1922. It includes hundreds of news articles from the New York Times and
other newspapers and journals, accounts by German, Turkish, Italian and
Danish eyewitnesses, stories by survivors, historical documents, and much
more. $35.00, plus shipping and handling.
To order these books or for information contact the Bookstore by email at
[email protected] or by telephone at 212-689-7810.
CHRISTMAS-DECEMBER 25 OR JANUARY 6?
Next Tuesday, December 25, most of the Christian world will celebrate the
birth of Christ.
For most Armenian Americans the answer to the question "December 25 or
January 6" is simply, "Both!" In fact, we grew up with our parents telling
us how lucky we were to be Armenian and have two Christmases.
Originally all of Christendom celebrated the birth, baptism, and visit of
the Magi on January 6. For a variety of reasons, Rome officially adopted
December 25 in the year 336, and this date gradually became popular and was
officially adopted at the Council of Chalcedon (451)-a Council that the
Armenians did not attend nor accept. And so the Armenian Church has remained
faithful to the original date of January 6.
Of course, the actual date of Jesus' birth is a mystery. Recent scholarship
even suggests it occurred in the spring. The older we get the more we
appreciate the wisdom of our parents who encouraged us to celebrate both
dates. December 25 became a more commercial type of celebration, while
January 6 remained very religious, very Armenian, very introspective. Is it
any wonder that last year Peter Steinfels, one of the religion reporters for
the New York Times devoted an entire article about Armenian Christmas with
the suggestion that "there is a lesson in the Armenian practice for many
Christians who desperately wish that the religious meaning of Jesus' birth
could be rescued from angry culture wars and commercial frenzy."
"A wonderful and great mystery is revealed on this day; the shepherds sing
with the angels who announce the good news to the world.
"A new King is born in the city of Bethlehem; O you people, bless him, for
he became flesh for our sake.
"He whom heaven and earth cannot contain is wrapped in swaddling clothes,
without being separated from the Father, he rested in the holy manger."
Hymn of Censing for the Nativity from the Armenian Liturgy
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
December 23-St. Stephen's Day Celebration, Watertown, Massachusetts. The
Golden Jubilee celebration will come to a close with a commemoration of the
church's patron saint, the first deacon and martyr, St. Stephen.
December 31-New Year's Eve Dinner Dance, Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield,
New Jersey, and ARF Dro Gomideh, The Sheraton Meadowlands, E. Rutherford,
New Jersey. For information 201-943-2950.
February 10-Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church, Worcester,
Massachusetts, Annual Membership Meeting. Snow date: February 24.
February 24-Annual Membership meeting, St. Gregory Church (North Andover,
Massachusetts).
March 2-Musical Armenia, Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, New York City,
featuring Aleksandr Nazaryan on viola and Karen Tchougourian on piano.
June 7-Blessing of Holy Muron in Antelias, Lebanon. Details will follow.
June 27 to July 6-St. Gregory of Datev Institute, Summer Christian Studies
Program for youth ages 13-18 at St. Mary of Providence Center in Elverson,
Pennsylvania, organized by the Armenian Religious Education Council.
August 15-17-International Gathering of Youth and Pilgrimage to Der Zor,
organized by the Catholicosate of Cilicia. Details will follow.
October 25-Gala celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Prelacy of the
Armenian Apostolic Church of America under the jurisdiction of the Great
House of Cilicia and the 110th anniversary of the establishment of the
Armenian Church of America. Marriott at Glenpointe, Teaneck, New Jersey.
Details to follow.
Web pages of the parishes can be accessed through the Prelacy's web site.
To ensure the timely arrival of Crossroads in your electronic mailbox, add
[email protected] to your address book.
Items in Crossroads can be reproduced without permission. Please credit
Crossroads as the source.
Parishes of the Eastern Prelacy are invited to send information about their
major events to be included in the calendar. Send to:
[email protected]