Tweet
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Phone: (212) 686-0710 | Fax: (212) 779-3558
Web: [25]www.armenianchurch-ed.net
Links:
25. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net
TOP STORY October
21, 2010
_Feast of the Discovery of the Holy Cross on Sunday_
On Sunday, October 24, the Armenian Church will observe the Feast of the
Discovery of the Holy Cross. The feast day marks the fourth-century
`discovery' of the actual cross of the Crucifixion by Queen Helena, mother
of the Roman Emperor Constantine.
At the advanced age of 80, this pious Christian woman made a pilgrimage to
the Holy Land to identify places where Christ had walked, some 300 years
earlier. There, after years of prayer and good works, Helena was witness to
a miracle: at the foot of Golgotha-the hill where Christ was
crucified-workers under her sponsorship unearthed three wooden crosses.
But which one was the true Cross of Christ? In an ingenious solution, the
workers brought the body of a recently-deceased man to the site. Placing him
on the first two crosses produced no result. But when he was placed on the
third, the body stirred to life. This, Helena concluded, must be the True
Cross-still surging with the miraculous, life-giving power of Christ's
Resurrection.
The cross is a source of great pride for Armenians as a _khachagir_-or
"cross-bearing"-nation. Over the centuries, Armenians have borne Christ's
cross with faith, hope and love. What was once an instrument of torture and
death would become for Christians the symbol of salvation, and victory over
death. [4]Click here to read more about the significance of the cross.
Links:
4. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/feasts/the-holy-cross/about-the-exaltation-of-the-cross
_Sub-deacons to be Ordained in Framingham, MA _
On Sunday, October 24, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese
of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), will visit the Church of the
Holy Translators in Framingham, MA, where he will preside over the
celebration of the Divine Liturgy and ordain two sub-deacons.
The Divine Liturgy will be celebrated by the Rev. Fr. Vard Gyozalian, a
priest from Holy Etchmiadzin who is completing a pastoral internship at Holy
Translators Church under the guidance of the parish pastor, the Rev. Fr.
Krikor Sabounjian.
At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Barsamian will ordain
Daniel Hyde and Ara Bablouzian to the sub-diaconate. A fellowship hour will
follow services. [5]Click here to visit the parish website.
Links:
5. http://www.holytranslators.org
Scripture of the Week
Wis 14:1-8
Is 33:22-34:1
1 Cor 1:18-24
Mt 24:27-36
Prayer of the week
By the holy cross let us beseech the Lord, that through it He may deliver us
from our sins and save us by the grace of His mercy. Almighty Lord, our God,
save us and have mercy on us. Amen.
Upcoming Saints & Feasts
_24 October:_ Feast of the Discovery of the Holy Cross
_31 October:_ Eighth Sunday after the Exaltation
CHURCH NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
A new tramway connects Tatev Monastery with the Yerevan-Goris highway.
_Tramway Provides New Access to Tatev Monastery _
After a year of construction, the new Tatev Monastery aerial tramway
officially opened in Armenia last week. His Holiness Karekin II, the Supreme
Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, took part in the opening-day
ceremony on Saturday, October 16, and offered a prayer of thanksgiving on
the occasion.
Known as the `Wings of Tatev,' the tramway stretches 3.5 miles. It connects
the Goris-Yerevan highway with the 9th-century Tatev Monastery in Syunik
(the word `Tatev' means `to give wings').
One of the projects main supporters was Ruben Vardanian of Russia, a
benefactor of Holy Etchmiadzin who also serves on the Supreme Spiritual
Council.
Also taking part in last week's ceremony was Armenian President Serzh
Sargsyan and other government officials. Click to read more about the
[6]ceremony and the [7]tramway project.
Links:
6. http://www.armenianchurch.org/index.jsp?sid=3&nid=1666&y10&m=9&d=18&lng=en
7. https://tatev.am/project
DIOCESAN NEWS
_Eastern Diocese's "Matching Challenge" Now Underway
_
The success of last year's Annual Appeal Matching Challenge was a tribute to
the confidence and enthusiasm of our people, who supported their Diocese in
record numbers.
This year, we're hoping that lightning will strike again!
For our 2010 Diocesan Appeal, a generous donor has issued another =80=9CMatching
Contribution Initiative.' Once again, the idea is to raise funds to help our
Diocese meet its budgetary goals. But we also want to _inspire people across
our Diocese_ to show their support of the Armenian Church.
The donor has agreed to contribute up to $100,000-_matching
dollar-for-dollar every contribution received by the Diocese this fall!_
Our success depends on donations large and small, from people who want to
seize this opportunity to _double the impact_ of their contributions to the
Armenian Church of America.
Whether you're one of the Diocese's much-appreciated longtime donors, or
someone who's been looking for the right time to give, _you won't want to
let this opportunity slip away!_
[8]
CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW.
Links:
8. https://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/get-involved/donate-now
Members of the Diocesan Council at their Oct. 21 meeting.
_Diocesan Council
_
Members of the Diocesan Council met on Thursday, October 21, for their
monthly meeting to discuss Diocesan business.
Chief among the topics under discussion was the Diocesan theme of
Vocations-which the Diocese will continue to promote throughout its local
parishes in 2011, with a focus on lay ministries. The results of the past
year's Vocations-related activities (which have revolved around the role of
the priesthood) will be compiled by the Council as a resource for all
Diocesan parishes.
The Council members also heard reports on the activities of the Diocesan
program and finance departments, and devoted attention to this year's Annual
Appeal, now ongoing throughout the Eastern Diocese (see the item above for
details).
Abp. Barsamian (second from left), Rabbi Schneier (second from right), and
other dignitaries at an Appeal of Conscience Foundation event.
_Welcoming New President of UN General Assembly_
On Wednesday, October 20, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate,
attended a luncheon at the Minskoff Cultural Center in Manhattan, at the
invitation of Rabbi Arthur Schneier, founder and president of the Appeal of
Conscience Foundation. The gathering of religious leaders met to welcome His
Excellency Joseph Deiss, the former Foreign Minister of Switzerland, who is
serving as president of the 65th session of the United Nations General
Assembly.
Archbishop Barsamian, Archbishop Demetrios of the Greek Orthodox Church, and
Bishop Mark Sisk of the Episcopal Church were among the religious leaders
representing the Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist faiths at the
luncheon. During a collegial conversation and Q-&-A session with Dr. Deiss,
attendees suggested ways to deepen the partnership between religious leaders
and the UN, and discussed ways they could promote peace and understanding
among different peoples, nations, and religions.
Archbishop Barsamian is a long-serving vice president of the Appeal of
Conscience Foundation.
_St. Nersess Seminary Board Elects New Members __ _
Members of the St. Nersess Armenian Seminary Board of Directors met at the
seminary on Saturday, October 16. Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan
Primate and board president, presided over the meeting.
Five new members were elected to the board. The Rev. Fr. Karekin Kasparian,
Nicole Vartanian, and Hagop Kouyoumjian were elected for full six-year
terms. Karen Dilimentian and the Rev. Fr. Krikor Sabounjian were elected to
serve for two-years.
Board members also reviewed operations of St. Nersess Seminary with its
dean, the Very Rev. Fr. Daniel Finidkyan, and approved the 2011 budget. They
expressed their satisfaction with recent programs at the seminary. [9]Click
here to visit the seminary's website.
Links:
9. http://www.stnersess.edu
_New England Clergy Meet with Primate in Watertown, MA _
On Monday, October 18, New England area clergy met with Archbishop Khajag
Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, at St. James Church of Watertown, MA, to
discuss Sunday School programs and other parish-level and Diocesan
activities.
Clergy spoke about the participation of Sunday School students in the Divine
Liturgy and the preparation of Sunday School teachers, the training and
requirements for new altar servers, and the new ACYOA partnership with the
Fund for Armenian Relief, which will help young people become more involved
in Armenia-related projects. Also in discussion was the Diocese's theme of
`Vocations: The Call to Serve,' and plans to focus next year's theme on lay
ministries.
Margaret Ajemian Ahnert with Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan.
_FAR Announces Ajemian Ahnert Scholars _
The Fund for Armenian Relief announced this week the selection of its first
five Margaret Ajemian Ahnert Scholars-young journalism students who will be
able to continue their academic studies thanks to the generous scholarship
program.
Margaret Ajemian Ahnert established the scholarship fund in memory of her
mother, Ester Ajemian, in July 2010. The scholarship supports and empowers
aspiring female journalists by providing them with an opportunity to receive
the education and training they need to pursue careers in the media. The
fund, administered by FAR, provides full tuition and monthly stipends to
female graduate students in Armenia.
A media specialist, Ms. Ahnert has worked as a television producer and a
teacher before publishing her first book `The Knock at the Door: A Journey
Through the Darkness of the Armenian Genocide.' [10]Click here to read more
about the scholarship program.
Links:
10. http://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=570bec15b4d23ff71f939238a&id=1c8c9c42bb&e=773fb 7d06a
_Diocese Searches for Executive Director_
The Eastern Diocese is searching for candidates for the position of
Executive Director.
Based in New York City, the Executive Director will be responsible for the
management of the administrative and operational functions at the Diocese,
in accordance with the policies established by the Primate and the Diocesan
Council. Responsibilities will encompass the areas of finance,
administration, development, communications, education, and facilities
management.
[11]Click here to view a complete job description and list of
qualifications. Applicants should send a resume and cover letter to
[12][email protected].
Links:
11. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/eastern-diocese/employment
12. mailto:[email protected]
PARISH NEWS
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian ordained acolytes at Sts. Vartanantz Church last
Sunday.
_Sts. Vartanantz Church of Chelmsford, MA, Welcomes Primate, Marks Women's
Guild Centennial_
Parishioners at Sts. Vartanantz Church of Chelmsford, Mass., gathered on
Sunday, October 17, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the establishment
of the local Women's Guild-an organization that was instrumental in the
building of the parish's first house of worship in the early part of the
20th century.
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church
of America (Eastern), celebrated the Divine Liturgy and ordained four
parishioners to the rank of acolyte: Peter Martin Bogosian, Richard Hagob
Sarkisian, Samuel John Balian, and Jeremy Albert Oldham.
Following the ordinations, Archbishop Barsamian met with the parish Sunday
and Armenian School students. Addressing them in the sanctuary, he wished
them a productive academic year and expressed his gratitude to the teachers
who help ensure the success and growth of the two schools.
The afternoon continued with a festive banquet honoring the 26 women who
founded the parish's Women's Guild in 1910. Parishioners revisited the
history of the organization's establishment and reflected on the many
contributions of the Women's Guild to Sts. Vartanantz Church.
The day concluded with a parish leadership meeting. Click to [13]read more
and to [14]view photos.
Links:
13. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/news-and-media/news/sts-vartanantz-church-of-chelmsford-ma-celebrates-womens-guild-centennial
14. http://easterndiocese.smugmug.com/Parishes-of-the-Eastern/Sts-Vartanantz-Armenian-Church/14298320_9Jbnu#1057844896_6URa8
From left: Gregory Abrahamian, Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian, and Fr. Kapriel
Mouradjian, with the Abrahamian family.
_Holy Resurrection Church of New Britain, CT, Launches Anniversary Celebration_
On Saturday, October 16, the Church of the Holy Resurrection launched the
celebration of the parish's 70th year in New Britain, CT. The weekend also
marked the 30th anniversary of the consecration of the current sanctuary.
Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian visited the Holy Resurrection Church on the
occasion, and celebrated the Divine Liturgy there on Sunday, October 17. He
was assisted by the parish priest, the Rev.Fr. Kapriel Mouradjian.
Following services, parishioners gathered for a banquet in Abrahamian
Auditorium. The community honored Peter Bagdigian Jr, John Maljanian, Harry
Azarigian, and Stephan Der Margosian for their many decades of faithful
service.
Also recognized was Gregory Abrahamian, a resident of New Britain who has
worked as the city's engineer. Archbishop Gizirian presented Mr. Abrahamian
with the Eastern Diocese's `St. Vartan Award' on behalf of Diocesan Primate,
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian.
Gilda Buchakjian Kupelian, Armenian Studies coordinator at the Eastern
Diocese, gave a talk at St. Leon Church this week.
_Women's Guild of St. Leon Church in Fair Lawn, NJ, Hosts Talk on Armenian
Proverbs _
After the successful conclusion of their three-day food festival, the
Women's Guild of St. Leon Church of Fair Lawn, NJ, hosted Gilda Buchakjian
Kupelian, coordinator of Armenian Studies at the Eastern Diocese's
Department of Youth and Education, on Tuesday, October 19.
Gilda Buchakjian Kupelian's talk centered on Armenian proverbs and
traditional sayings with a focus on their provenance-the traditional
lifestyle and folklore that promoted these expressions. The interactive
presentation included active participation from the women in attendance. The
lecture was enhanced by a visual presentation of original illustrations by
Linda Ganjian.
The St. Leon Church Women's Guild is chaired by Rita Oscherician. Following
Tuesday's talk, Mrs. Oscherician described the organization's members as
`women of integrity and dedication, who are always ready to help others, and
usually without recognition.'
`They are a pleasure to work with,' she added, =80=9Cand I feel truly blessed to
be amongst women that make a difference in the life of our parish and others
on a regular basis.'
Members of Women's Guild of St. Gregory the Illuminator Church of
Binghamton, NY, with parish pastor, the Rev. Fr. Daniel Karadjian.
_Women's Guild of St. Gregory the Illuminator Church of Binghamton, NY, Honors
Two Longstanding Members _
On Sunday, October 10, the Women's Guild of St. Gregory the Illuminator
Church of Binghamton, NY, celebrated its annual Guild Day.
During a dinner following services, the organization honored two
longstanding members: Grace Baradet and Rose Ketchoyian.
Charlotte Sevazlian, the corresponding secretary of the Women's Guild
Central Council and the council's liaison to the Binghamton chapter,
presented the honorees with certificates issued by Diocesan Primate,
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian.
Charlotte Sevazlian also shared with attendees updates from the Women's
Guild Central Council. [15]Click here to read more.
Links:
15. http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/Binghamton_Guild_Day.pdf
_Binghamton, NY, Parish Hosts Antranig Dance Ensemble_
St. Gregory the Illuminator Church of Binghamton, NY, hosted the Antranig
Dance Ensemble on Saturday, September 25. The performance, held at
Binghamton High School, drew more than 160 people.
The Antranig Dance Ensemble has been performing in Binghamton at the
invitation of St. Gregory the Illuminator Church for the past four years.
The group prepared a new show for last month's performance.
The ensemble was established in 1969 under the auspices of the Armenian
General Benevolent Union. Today it is comprised of about 30 dancers.
_Upcoming Parish Festivals and Gatherings _
_St. Thomas Church | Tenafly, NJ_
St. Thomas Church of Tenafly, NJ, will host its fall bazaar and food
festival on Saturday, October 23, from 12 to 9 p.m., and Sunday, October 24,
from 12 to 6 p.m. Enjoy shish kebab, doner, yalanchee, boreg, and other
Armenian delicacies.
The event will also feature vendor booths, face painting, carnival rides, DJ
music, and other activities. The Akh'Tamar Dance Ensemble of St. Thomas
Church will perform on Saturday; the AGBU Antranig Dance Ensemble will
perform on Sunday.
For more information, call the church at (201) 567-5446, or [16]click here
to visit the parish website.
Links:
16. http://www.stthomasarmenianchurch.com
_Church of Our Saviour | Worcester, MA_
The Church of Our Saviour of Worcester, MA, will host an Armenian festival
on Friday, October 22, from 5 to 9 p.m., and Sunday, October 24, from 12 to
5 p.m.
The event will be held in the church's cultural center at 34 Boynton Street
in Worcester.
It will feature an Armenian Country Store, a raffle, and activities for
children. Enjoy traditional Armenian food and pastries. [17]Click here to
view a flyer. For more information, call the church office at (508)
756-2931.
Links:
17. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/uploaded_files/tinymce/files/pdf/FallFestival.pdf
_St. Peter Church | Watervliet, NY_
On Sunday, October 24, St. Peter Church of Watervliet, NY, will celebrate
the 111th anniversary of the establishment of the parish.
A celebratory luncheon and program will follow services in the church's
Gdanian Auditorium. The parish will officially welcome back the Rev. Fr.
Stepanos Doudoukjian and his family. Fr. Doudoukjian has returned to serve
as the parish's pastor after working as the director of Youth and Vocations
at St. Nersess Seminary.
Reservations for the luncheon are required and must be made by contacting
the church office at (518) 274-3673. [18]Click here to visit the parish
website for more information.
Links:
18. http://stpeterarmenianchurch.com/page7.html
_St. Leon Church | Fair Lawn, NJ_
St. Leon Church of Fair Lawn, NJ, will host a Beefsteak Dinner and Dance on
Saturday, October 23, from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. The event will feature DJ
music by Time Machine Entertainment.
For more information, call Linda Capizzi at (201) 836-0513, or Margaret
Ajamian at (201) 847-0950.
_St. Mesrob Church | Racine, WI_
The Sunday School of St. Mesrob Church of Racine, WI-the first Sunday School
established in the Eastern Diocese-will mark its 75th anniversary on Sunday,
October 24. A luncheon and program will follow services.
The day's theme will be "Honoring our Past and Preparing our Youth." The
parish will recognize past superintendents and teachers 65 and older. For
more information, e-mail [19][email protected].
Links:
19. mailto:[email protected]
_Church of the Holy Ascension | Trumbull, CT_
The Church of the Holy Ascension of Trumbull, CT, will host a concert on
Sunday, October 24, at 3 p.m. The event will feature performances by: Dn.
Vrej Yapoujian, vocalist; Houry Schmeizl, piano; Avetik Topchyan, kemancha;
and Mari Yapoujian, recitation.
For more information, call the church at (203) 372-5770.
_St. Vartan Cathedral | New York, NY_
The St. Vartan Cathedral Council is sponsoring a fall gathering at Michael
Aram's flagship store in Manhattan on Friday, October 29, from 6:30 to 8:30
p.m.
Come mingle and meet members of the cathedral community. Meet artist and
designer Michael Aram and browse his latest collection. Light food and
refreshments will be served.
The Michael Aram Flagship Store is located at 136 West 18th Street in
Manhattan (between 6th and 7th avenues). [20]Click here to view a flyer.
RSVP is requested but not required. Call Deacon Sebuh at (212) 686-0710,
ext. 141.
Links:
20. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/uploaded_files/tinymce/files/pdf/MichaelAram.pdf
EVENTS
_Panel on Christians in the Middle East at St. John's Univ._
The Center for Law and Religion at St. John's University will host a panel
discussion titled "Christians in the Middle East - Contemporary Human Rights
Concerns," on Thursday, October 21, beginning at 7 p.m.
Panelists include the Very Rev. Fr. Vahan Hovhanessian, Primate of the
Diocese of the Armenian Church of Great Britain; Caroline Labib Doss;
Michael J.L. La Civita of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association; Rev.
Frank Marangos of the Greek Archdiocese; and Pierro Tozzi of the Alliance
Defense Fund.
They will discuss challenges facing Christians in the Middle East and the
potential for addressing them through international human rights law. For
more information, [21]click here.
Links:
21. http://www.stjohns.edu/academics/graduate/law/news/events/[email protected]/academics/graduate/law/ev_law_clr_100914.xml?context_date=10/21/2010
_An Evening with Agop J. Hacikyan to be Held at Diocese_
The public is invited to attend an evening with Agop J. Hacikyan=80'author of
`A Summer Without Dawn' and `The Lamppost Diary'-at the Diocesan Center on
Friday, October 29, at 7:30 p.m.
The event is being organized by several Armenian organizations in the
greater New York City area in celebration of Mr. Hacikyan's literary career.
It will be held in Haik and Alice Kavookjian Auditorium of the Diocesan
Center (35th Street and Second Avenue) in Manhattan.
For more information, [22]click here to view a flyer.
Links:
22. http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/Agop.pdf
_Zohrab Center to Co-host Guitar Recital Next Month _
The Diocese's Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information Center, the Armenian
Students' Association of New York, and the Armenian Network of Greater New
York will co-host a guitar recital at the Diocesan Center on Friday,
November 5, at 7 p.m.
The event will feature Joao Kouoyumdjian on the guitar, and special guests
Solange Merdinian, soprano; Gohar Vardanyan, guitar; and Joe Arndt, piano.
They will perform works by Iakovos Kolanian, J.S. Bach, Heitor Villa-Lobos,
Isaac Albeniz, and others.
Admission is free. A wine and cheese reception will follow the event. For
more information, contact Taleen Babayan at (212) 686-0710.
YOUTH NEWS
_ACYOA Juniors of St. Sahag Church in Minnesota to Take Part in Weekend Retreat
_
This weekend, Jennifer Morris, the Youth Outreach coordinator at the Eastern
Diocese, will travel to St. Paul, MN, to lead the St. Sahag Church ACYOA
Juniors in an overnight retreat.
The retreat will begin on Saturday, October 23, with an informational
meeting for teens and their parents about the ACYOA and Diocesan-wide
programs. After dinner, the parents will depart and the teens will
participate in interactive team-building exercises and Bible study as they
gain skills to develop their newly established ACYOA Juniors chapter.
The retreat will conclude on Sunday, October 24, with the celebration of the
Divine Liturgy by the parish pastor, the Rev. Fr. Hratch Sargsyan. The
weekend program marks the first such visit organized by the Diocese's Youth
Outreach section.
Click to download a general [23]flyer and a tentative [24]weekend schedule.
Links:
23. http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/MN_ACYOA_Juniors_Retreat_Flyer_23Oct2010.pdf
24. http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/MN_ACYOA_Juniors_Retreat_What_You_Need_to_Know_23O ct2010.pdf
From: A. Papazian
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Phone: (212) 686-0710 | Fax: (212) 779-3558
Web: [25]www.armenianchurch-ed.net
Links:
25. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net
TOP STORY October
21, 2010
_Feast of the Discovery of the Holy Cross on Sunday_
On Sunday, October 24, the Armenian Church will observe the Feast of the
Discovery of the Holy Cross. The feast day marks the fourth-century
`discovery' of the actual cross of the Crucifixion by Queen Helena, mother
of the Roman Emperor Constantine.
At the advanced age of 80, this pious Christian woman made a pilgrimage to
the Holy Land to identify places where Christ had walked, some 300 years
earlier. There, after years of prayer and good works, Helena was witness to
a miracle: at the foot of Golgotha-the hill where Christ was
crucified-workers under her sponsorship unearthed three wooden crosses.
But which one was the true Cross of Christ? In an ingenious solution, the
workers brought the body of a recently-deceased man to the site. Placing him
on the first two crosses produced no result. But when he was placed on the
third, the body stirred to life. This, Helena concluded, must be the True
Cross-still surging with the miraculous, life-giving power of Christ's
Resurrection.
The cross is a source of great pride for Armenians as a _khachagir_-or
"cross-bearing"-nation. Over the centuries, Armenians have borne Christ's
cross with faith, hope and love. What was once an instrument of torture and
death would become for Christians the symbol of salvation, and victory over
death. [4]Click here to read more about the significance of the cross.
Links:
4. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/feasts/the-holy-cross/about-the-exaltation-of-the-cross
_Sub-deacons to be Ordained in Framingham, MA _
On Sunday, October 24, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese
of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), will visit the Church of the
Holy Translators in Framingham, MA, where he will preside over the
celebration of the Divine Liturgy and ordain two sub-deacons.
The Divine Liturgy will be celebrated by the Rev. Fr. Vard Gyozalian, a
priest from Holy Etchmiadzin who is completing a pastoral internship at Holy
Translators Church under the guidance of the parish pastor, the Rev. Fr.
Krikor Sabounjian.
At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Barsamian will ordain
Daniel Hyde and Ara Bablouzian to the sub-diaconate. A fellowship hour will
follow services. [5]Click here to visit the parish website.
Links:
5. http://www.holytranslators.org
Scripture of the Week
Wis 14:1-8
Is 33:22-34:1
1 Cor 1:18-24
Mt 24:27-36
Prayer of the week
By the holy cross let us beseech the Lord, that through it He may deliver us
from our sins and save us by the grace of His mercy. Almighty Lord, our God,
save us and have mercy on us. Amen.
Upcoming Saints & Feasts
_24 October:_ Feast of the Discovery of the Holy Cross
_31 October:_ Eighth Sunday after the Exaltation
CHURCH NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
A new tramway connects Tatev Monastery with the Yerevan-Goris highway.
_Tramway Provides New Access to Tatev Monastery _
After a year of construction, the new Tatev Monastery aerial tramway
officially opened in Armenia last week. His Holiness Karekin II, the Supreme
Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, took part in the opening-day
ceremony on Saturday, October 16, and offered a prayer of thanksgiving on
the occasion.
Known as the `Wings of Tatev,' the tramway stretches 3.5 miles. It connects
the Goris-Yerevan highway with the 9th-century Tatev Monastery in Syunik
(the word `Tatev' means `to give wings').
One of the projects main supporters was Ruben Vardanian of Russia, a
benefactor of Holy Etchmiadzin who also serves on the Supreme Spiritual
Council.
Also taking part in last week's ceremony was Armenian President Serzh
Sargsyan and other government officials. Click to read more about the
[6]ceremony and the [7]tramway project.
Links:
6. http://www.armenianchurch.org/index.jsp?sid=3&nid=1666&y10&m=9&d=18&lng=en
7. https://tatev.am/project
DIOCESAN NEWS
_Eastern Diocese's "Matching Challenge" Now Underway
_
The success of last year's Annual Appeal Matching Challenge was a tribute to
the confidence and enthusiasm of our people, who supported their Diocese in
record numbers.
This year, we're hoping that lightning will strike again!
For our 2010 Diocesan Appeal, a generous donor has issued another =80=9CMatching
Contribution Initiative.' Once again, the idea is to raise funds to help our
Diocese meet its budgetary goals. But we also want to _inspire people across
our Diocese_ to show their support of the Armenian Church.
The donor has agreed to contribute up to $100,000-_matching
dollar-for-dollar every contribution received by the Diocese this fall!_
Our success depends on donations large and small, from people who want to
seize this opportunity to _double the impact_ of their contributions to the
Armenian Church of America.
Whether you're one of the Diocese's much-appreciated longtime donors, or
someone who's been looking for the right time to give, _you won't want to
let this opportunity slip away!_
[8]
CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW.
Links:
8. https://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/get-involved/donate-now
Members of the Diocesan Council at their Oct. 21 meeting.
_Diocesan Council
_
Members of the Diocesan Council met on Thursday, October 21, for their
monthly meeting to discuss Diocesan business.
Chief among the topics under discussion was the Diocesan theme of
Vocations-which the Diocese will continue to promote throughout its local
parishes in 2011, with a focus on lay ministries. The results of the past
year's Vocations-related activities (which have revolved around the role of
the priesthood) will be compiled by the Council as a resource for all
Diocesan parishes.
The Council members also heard reports on the activities of the Diocesan
program and finance departments, and devoted attention to this year's Annual
Appeal, now ongoing throughout the Eastern Diocese (see the item above for
details).
Abp. Barsamian (second from left), Rabbi Schneier (second from right), and
other dignitaries at an Appeal of Conscience Foundation event.
_Welcoming New President of UN General Assembly_
On Wednesday, October 20, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate,
attended a luncheon at the Minskoff Cultural Center in Manhattan, at the
invitation of Rabbi Arthur Schneier, founder and president of the Appeal of
Conscience Foundation. The gathering of religious leaders met to welcome His
Excellency Joseph Deiss, the former Foreign Minister of Switzerland, who is
serving as president of the 65th session of the United Nations General
Assembly.
Archbishop Barsamian, Archbishop Demetrios of the Greek Orthodox Church, and
Bishop Mark Sisk of the Episcopal Church were among the religious leaders
representing the Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist faiths at the
luncheon. During a collegial conversation and Q-&-A session with Dr. Deiss,
attendees suggested ways to deepen the partnership between religious leaders
and the UN, and discussed ways they could promote peace and understanding
among different peoples, nations, and religions.
Archbishop Barsamian is a long-serving vice president of the Appeal of
Conscience Foundation.
_St. Nersess Seminary Board Elects New Members __ _
Members of the St. Nersess Armenian Seminary Board of Directors met at the
seminary on Saturday, October 16. Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan
Primate and board president, presided over the meeting.
Five new members were elected to the board. The Rev. Fr. Karekin Kasparian,
Nicole Vartanian, and Hagop Kouyoumjian were elected for full six-year
terms. Karen Dilimentian and the Rev. Fr. Krikor Sabounjian were elected to
serve for two-years.
Board members also reviewed operations of St. Nersess Seminary with its
dean, the Very Rev. Fr. Daniel Finidkyan, and approved the 2011 budget. They
expressed their satisfaction with recent programs at the seminary. [9]Click
here to visit the seminary's website.
Links:
9. http://www.stnersess.edu
_New England Clergy Meet with Primate in Watertown, MA _
On Monday, October 18, New England area clergy met with Archbishop Khajag
Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, at St. James Church of Watertown, MA, to
discuss Sunday School programs and other parish-level and Diocesan
activities.
Clergy spoke about the participation of Sunday School students in the Divine
Liturgy and the preparation of Sunday School teachers, the training and
requirements for new altar servers, and the new ACYOA partnership with the
Fund for Armenian Relief, which will help young people become more involved
in Armenia-related projects. Also in discussion was the Diocese's theme of
`Vocations: The Call to Serve,' and plans to focus next year's theme on lay
ministries.
Margaret Ajemian Ahnert with Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan.
_FAR Announces Ajemian Ahnert Scholars _
The Fund for Armenian Relief announced this week the selection of its first
five Margaret Ajemian Ahnert Scholars-young journalism students who will be
able to continue their academic studies thanks to the generous scholarship
program.
Margaret Ajemian Ahnert established the scholarship fund in memory of her
mother, Ester Ajemian, in July 2010. The scholarship supports and empowers
aspiring female journalists by providing them with an opportunity to receive
the education and training they need to pursue careers in the media. The
fund, administered by FAR, provides full tuition and monthly stipends to
female graduate students in Armenia.
A media specialist, Ms. Ahnert has worked as a television producer and a
teacher before publishing her first book `The Knock at the Door: A Journey
Through the Darkness of the Armenian Genocide.' [10]Click here to read more
about the scholarship program.
Links:
10. http://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=570bec15b4d23ff71f939238a&id=1c8c9c42bb&e=773fb 7d06a
_Diocese Searches for Executive Director_
The Eastern Diocese is searching for candidates for the position of
Executive Director.
Based in New York City, the Executive Director will be responsible for the
management of the administrative and operational functions at the Diocese,
in accordance with the policies established by the Primate and the Diocesan
Council. Responsibilities will encompass the areas of finance,
administration, development, communications, education, and facilities
management.
[11]Click here to view a complete job description and list of
qualifications. Applicants should send a resume and cover letter to
[12][email protected].
Links:
11. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/eastern-diocese/employment
12. mailto:[email protected]
PARISH NEWS
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian ordained acolytes at Sts. Vartanantz Church last
Sunday.
_Sts. Vartanantz Church of Chelmsford, MA, Welcomes Primate, Marks Women's
Guild Centennial_
Parishioners at Sts. Vartanantz Church of Chelmsford, Mass., gathered on
Sunday, October 17, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the establishment
of the local Women's Guild-an organization that was instrumental in the
building of the parish's first house of worship in the early part of the
20th century.
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church
of America (Eastern), celebrated the Divine Liturgy and ordained four
parishioners to the rank of acolyte: Peter Martin Bogosian, Richard Hagob
Sarkisian, Samuel John Balian, and Jeremy Albert Oldham.
Following the ordinations, Archbishop Barsamian met with the parish Sunday
and Armenian School students. Addressing them in the sanctuary, he wished
them a productive academic year and expressed his gratitude to the teachers
who help ensure the success and growth of the two schools.
The afternoon continued with a festive banquet honoring the 26 women who
founded the parish's Women's Guild in 1910. Parishioners revisited the
history of the organization's establishment and reflected on the many
contributions of the Women's Guild to Sts. Vartanantz Church.
The day concluded with a parish leadership meeting. Click to [13]read more
and to [14]view photos.
Links:
13. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/news-and-media/news/sts-vartanantz-church-of-chelmsford-ma-celebrates-womens-guild-centennial
14. http://easterndiocese.smugmug.com/Parishes-of-the-Eastern/Sts-Vartanantz-Armenian-Church/14298320_9Jbnu#1057844896_6URa8
From left: Gregory Abrahamian, Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian, and Fr. Kapriel
Mouradjian, with the Abrahamian family.
_Holy Resurrection Church of New Britain, CT, Launches Anniversary Celebration_
On Saturday, October 16, the Church of the Holy Resurrection launched the
celebration of the parish's 70th year in New Britain, CT. The weekend also
marked the 30th anniversary of the consecration of the current sanctuary.
Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian visited the Holy Resurrection Church on the
occasion, and celebrated the Divine Liturgy there on Sunday, October 17. He
was assisted by the parish priest, the Rev.Fr. Kapriel Mouradjian.
Following services, parishioners gathered for a banquet in Abrahamian
Auditorium. The community honored Peter Bagdigian Jr, John Maljanian, Harry
Azarigian, and Stephan Der Margosian for their many decades of faithful
service.
Also recognized was Gregory Abrahamian, a resident of New Britain who has
worked as the city's engineer. Archbishop Gizirian presented Mr. Abrahamian
with the Eastern Diocese's `St. Vartan Award' on behalf of Diocesan Primate,
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian.
Gilda Buchakjian Kupelian, Armenian Studies coordinator at the Eastern
Diocese, gave a talk at St. Leon Church this week.
_Women's Guild of St. Leon Church in Fair Lawn, NJ, Hosts Talk on Armenian
Proverbs _
After the successful conclusion of their three-day food festival, the
Women's Guild of St. Leon Church of Fair Lawn, NJ, hosted Gilda Buchakjian
Kupelian, coordinator of Armenian Studies at the Eastern Diocese's
Department of Youth and Education, on Tuesday, October 19.
Gilda Buchakjian Kupelian's talk centered on Armenian proverbs and
traditional sayings with a focus on their provenance-the traditional
lifestyle and folklore that promoted these expressions. The interactive
presentation included active participation from the women in attendance. The
lecture was enhanced by a visual presentation of original illustrations by
Linda Ganjian.
The St. Leon Church Women's Guild is chaired by Rita Oscherician. Following
Tuesday's talk, Mrs. Oscherician described the organization's members as
`women of integrity and dedication, who are always ready to help others, and
usually without recognition.'
`They are a pleasure to work with,' she added, =80=9Cand I feel truly blessed to
be amongst women that make a difference in the life of our parish and others
on a regular basis.'
Members of Women's Guild of St. Gregory the Illuminator Church of
Binghamton, NY, with parish pastor, the Rev. Fr. Daniel Karadjian.
_Women's Guild of St. Gregory the Illuminator Church of Binghamton, NY, Honors
Two Longstanding Members _
On Sunday, October 10, the Women's Guild of St. Gregory the Illuminator
Church of Binghamton, NY, celebrated its annual Guild Day.
During a dinner following services, the organization honored two
longstanding members: Grace Baradet and Rose Ketchoyian.
Charlotte Sevazlian, the corresponding secretary of the Women's Guild
Central Council and the council's liaison to the Binghamton chapter,
presented the honorees with certificates issued by Diocesan Primate,
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian.
Charlotte Sevazlian also shared with attendees updates from the Women's
Guild Central Council. [15]Click here to read more.
Links:
15. http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/Binghamton_Guild_Day.pdf
_Binghamton, NY, Parish Hosts Antranig Dance Ensemble_
St. Gregory the Illuminator Church of Binghamton, NY, hosted the Antranig
Dance Ensemble on Saturday, September 25. The performance, held at
Binghamton High School, drew more than 160 people.
The Antranig Dance Ensemble has been performing in Binghamton at the
invitation of St. Gregory the Illuminator Church for the past four years.
The group prepared a new show for last month's performance.
The ensemble was established in 1969 under the auspices of the Armenian
General Benevolent Union. Today it is comprised of about 30 dancers.
_Upcoming Parish Festivals and Gatherings _
_St. Thomas Church | Tenafly, NJ_
St. Thomas Church of Tenafly, NJ, will host its fall bazaar and food
festival on Saturday, October 23, from 12 to 9 p.m., and Sunday, October 24,
from 12 to 6 p.m. Enjoy shish kebab, doner, yalanchee, boreg, and other
Armenian delicacies.
The event will also feature vendor booths, face painting, carnival rides, DJ
music, and other activities. The Akh'Tamar Dance Ensemble of St. Thomas
Church will perform on Saturday; the AGBU Antranig Dance Ensemble will
perform on Sunday.
For more information, call the church at (201) 567-5446, or [16]click here
to visit the parish website.
Links:
16. http://www.stthomasarmenianchurch.com
_Church of Our Saviour | Worcester, MA_
The Church of Our Saviour of Worcester, MA, will host an Armenian festival
on Friday, October 22, from 5 to 9 p.m., and Sunday, October 24, from 12 to
5 p.m.
The event will be held in the church's cultural center at 34 Boynton Street
in Worcester.
It will feature an Armenian Country Store, a raffle, and activities for
children. Enjoy traditional Armenian food and pastries. [17]Click here to
view a flyer. For more information, call the church office at (508)
756-2931.
Links:
17. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/uploaded_files/tinymce/files/pdf/FallFestival.pdf
_St. Peter Church | Watervliet, NY_
On Sunday, October 24, St. Peter Church of Watervliet, NY, will celebrate
the 111th anniversary of the establishment of the parish.
A celebratory luncheon and program will follow services in the church's
Gdanian Auditorium. The parish will officially welcome back the Rev. Fr.
Stepanos Doudoukjian and his family. Fr. Doudoukjian has returned to serve
as the parish's pastor after working as the director of Youth and Vocations
at St. Nersess Seminary.
Reservations for the luncheon are required and must be made by contacting
the church office at (518) 274-3673. [18]Click here to visit the parish
website for more information.
Links:
18. http://stpeterarmenianchurch.com/page7.html
_St. Leon Church | Fair Lawn, NJ_
St. Leon Church of Fair Lawn, NJ, will host a Beefsteak Dinner and Dance on
Saturday, October 23, from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. The event will feature DJ
music by Time Machine Entertainment.
For more information, call Linda Capizzi at (201) 836-0513, or Margaret
Ajamian at (201) 847-0950.
_St. Mesrob Church | Racine, WI_
The Sunday School of St. Mesrob Church of Racine, WI-the first Sunday School
established in the Eastern Diocese-will mark its 75th anniversary on Sunday,
October 24. A luncheon and program will follow services.
The day's theme will be "Honoring our Past and Preparing our Youth." The
parish will recognize past superintendents and teachers 65 and older. For
more information, e-mail [19][email protected].
Links:
19. mailto:[email protected]
_Church of the Holy Ascension | Trumbull, CT_
The Church of the Holy Ascension of Trumbull, CT, will host a concert on
Sunday, October 24, at 3 p.m. The event will feature performances by: Dn.
Vrej Yapoujian, vocalist; Houry Schmeizl, piano; Avetik Topchyan, kemancha;
and Mari Yapoujian, recitation.
For more information, call the church at (203) 372-5770.
_St. Vartan Cathedral | New York, NY_
The St. Vartan Cathedral Council is sponsoring a fall gathering at Michael
Aram's flagship store in Manhattan on Friday, October 29, from 6:30 to 8:30
p.m.
Come mingle and meet members of the cathedral community. Meet artist and
designer Michael Aram and browse his latest collection. Light food and
refreshments will be served.
The Michael Aram Flagship Store is located at 136 West 18th Street in
Manhattan (between 6th and 7th avenues). [20]Click here to view a flyer.
RSVP is requested but not required. Call Deacon Sebuh at (212) 686-0710,
ext. 141.
Links:
20. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/uploaded_files/tinymce/files/pdf/MichaelAram.pdf
EVENTS
_Panel on Christians in the Middle East at St. John's Univ._
The Center for Law and Religion at St. John's University will host a panel
discussion titled "Christians in the Middle East - Contemporary Human Rights
Concerns," on Thursday, October 21, beginning at 7 p.m.
Panelists include the Very Rev. Fr. Vahan Hovhanessian, Primate of the
Diocese of the Armenian Church of Great Britain; Caroline Labib Doss;
Michael J.L. La Civita of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association; Rev.
Frank Marangos of the Greek Archdiocese; and Pierro Tozzi of the Alliance
Defense Fund.
They will discuss challenges facing Christians in the Middle East and the
potential for addressing them through international human rights law. For
more information, [21]click here.
Links:
21. http://www.stjohns.edu/academics/graduate/law/news/events/[email protected]/academics/graduate/law/ev_law_clr_100914.xml?context_date=10/21/2010
_An Evening with Agop J. Hacikyan to be Held at Diocese_
The public is invited to attend an evening with Agop J. Hacikyan=80'author of
`A Summer Without Dawn' and `The Lamppost Diary'-at the Diocesan Center on
Friday, October 29, at 7:30 p.m.
The event is being organized by several Armenian organizations in the
greater New York City area in celebration of Mr. Hacikyan's literary career.
It will be held in Haik and Alice Kavookjian Auditorium of the Diocesan
Center (35th Street and Second Avenue) in Manhattan.
For more information, [22]click here to view a flyer.
Links:
22. http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/Agop.pdf
_Zohrab Center to Co-host Guitar Recital Next Month _
The Diocese's Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information Center, the Armenian
Students' Association of New York, and the Armenian Network of Greater New
York will co-host a guitar recital at the Diocesan Center on Friday,
November 5, at 7 p.m.
The event will feature Joao Kouoyumdjian on the guitar, and special guests
Solange Merdinian, soprano; Gohar Vardanyan, guitar; and Joe Arndt, piano.
They will perform works by Iakovos Kolanian, J.S. Bach, Heitor Villa-Lobos,
Isaac Albeniz, and others.
Admission is free. A wine and cheese reception will follow the event. For
more information, contact Taleen Babayan at (212) 686-0710.
YOUTH NEWS
_ACYOA Juniors of St. Sahag Church in Minnesota to Take Part in Weekend Retreat
_
This weekend, Jennifer Morris, the Youth Outreach coordinator at the Eastern
Diocese, will travel to St. Paul, MN, to lead the St. Sahag Church ACYOA
Juniors in an overnight retreat.
The retreat will begin on Saturday, October 23, with an informational
meeting for teens and their parents about the ACYOA and Diocesan-wide
programs. After dinner, the parents will depart and the teens will
participate in interactive team-building exercises and Bible study as they
gain skills to develop their newly established ACYOA Juniors chapter.
The retreat will conclude on Sunday, October 24, with the celebration of the
Divine Liturgy by the parish pastor, the Rev. Fr. Hratch Sargsyan. The
weekend program marks the first such visit organized by the Diocese's Youth
Outreach section.
Click to download a general [23]flyer and a tentative [24]weekend schedule.
Links:
23. http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/MN_ACYOA_Juniors_Retreat_Flyer_23Oct2010.pdf
24. http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/MN_ACYOA_Juniors_Retreat_What_You_Need_to_Know_23O ct2010.pdf
From: A. Papazian