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PRESS RELEASE
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-0710
Fax: (212) 779-3558
Web: http://www.armenianchurch.org/
Email: [email protected]
TOP STORY December 29, 2011
Christmas Servicese at St. Vartan Armenian Cathderal
_Christmas Services at St. Vartan Cathedral _
The Feast of the Nativity and Baptism of Jesus Christ will be observed at
New York's St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral on Thursday and Friday, January 5
and 6. [4]Click here to view the special liturgical schedule for these
"Armenian Christmas" services.
Links:
4. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/news-and-media/news/christmas-services-at-st-vartan-cathedral?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Following services and the Blessing of Water ceremony on January 6, a Home
Blessing service and Christmas reception will be held in Haik and Alice
Kavookjian Auditorium. The Akh'tamar Dance Ensemble of the St. Thomas Church
of Tenafly, NJ, will perform during the reception, which is free and open to
the public.
Concurrent with the Armenian Christmas observances, an art exhibit will be
on display in Guild Hall and Yerevan Hall of the cathedral complex. In
"Armenian Christmas and the Legacy of Armenian Artists," curator Vicki
Shoghag Hovanessian has assembled works by prominent Yerevan-based painters
and by prolific American-Armenian artists. [5]Click here for more
information about the exhibit.
Links:
5. http://armenianchurch.us1.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5&id=7aba631e21&e= 3aa2e2c3e9&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Click here to read Archbishop Khajag Barsamian's 2012 Christmas Message in
[6]English and [7]Armenian.
Links:
6. http://armenianchurch.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5&id=c1a0361c96&e= 3aa2e2c3e9&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
7. http://armenianchurch.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5&id=eea29c89b1&e= 3aa2e2c3e9&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Scripture of the Week
Is 51:15-52:3
Heb 13:18-25
Lk 22:24-30
Prayer of the Week
Guard us, O Christ our God, in peace under the shadow of your holy and
venerable Cross. Deliver us from the visible and invisible enemy. Make us
worthy to give you thanks and to glorify you together with the Father and
the Holy Spirit, now and always. Amen.
Upcoming Saints & Feasts
_29 December: _Holy Apostles James and John, "Sons of Thunder"; Barekendan
of the Fast of Nativity
_5 January:_ Eve of the Nativity and Theophany of our Lord Jesus Christ
_6 January:_ Feast of the Nativity and Theophany of our Lord Jesus Christ
CHURCH NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
New Church consecrated in Georgia
Bishop Vasken Mirzakhanian at the consecration service in Akhaltsikhe,
Georgia last Sunday.
_19th-Century Church Reconsecrated in Georgia_
On Sunday, December 25, a 19th-century Armenian church was re-consecrated in
Georgia's Akhaltsikhe region. Bishop Vasken Mirzakhanian, the Primate of the
Armenian Church of Georgia, officiated at the service.
According to an inscription on the church wall, the building was constructed
between 1861 and 1863. It was named Holy Cross Church, and dedicated in
memory of the martyrs of the 5th-century Battle of Avarayr. The church
served the local Armenian community until the Soviet period, when it was
converted to a warehouse.
In 1993 local Armenians began efforts to restore the house of worship. By
1995 the church was opened, but due to friction with the Georgian
government, it was not until this year that Holy Cross Church was officially
re-consecrated by an Armenian priest. Prior to this month's consecration,
another series of renovations were completed.
A _madagh_ blessing and celebratory gathering were held following services
on December 25.
Ordination of deacons at Holy Etchmiadzin
Bishop Moushegh Babayan ordains deacons at Holy Etchmiadzin.
_Deacons Ordained at Holy Etchmiadzin _
On Monday, December 26, the Feast of St. Stephen the Protodeacon and First
Martyr, 31 young men were ordained to the diaconate at Holy Etchmiadzin by
Bishop Moushegh Babayan. Of those ordained, 29 are recent graduates of the
Gevorkian Theological Seminary, and two are altar servers at the Araratian
Pontifical Diocese and the Diocese of Aragatsotn in Armenia.
Ordinations to the diaconate are held every December at Holy Etchmiadzin, on
the Feast of St. Stephen the Protodeacon and First Martyr. St. Stephen-the
first deacon of the universal Church-was ordained by the Apostles and went
on to preach in Jerusalem. He was persecuted for his faith and stoned to
death, becoming the first Christian martyr.
On this feast day, His Holiness Karekin II, the Supreme Patriarch and
Catholicos of All Armenians, extended his blessings and fatherly message to
all the deacons serving at Holy Etchmiadzin. He reflected on the sacrifices
of St. Stephen, and encouraged the newly ordained deacons to seek
inspiration from St. Stephen's life. [8]Click here to read more.
Links:
8. http://www.armenianchurch.org/index.jsp?sid=3&nid12&y11&m=11&d=27&utm_source=Eas tern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
DIOCESAN NEWS
Bishop Vahan Hovhanessian
Bishop Vahan Hovhanessian visited the Diocesan Center in New York this week.
_Bishop Vahan Hovhanessian Visits Diocesan Center_
The Diocesan Center in New York was pleased to welcome a dear friend and
former colleague, the newly-consecrated His Grace Bishop Vahan
Hovhanessian.
The former pastor of Holy Martyrs Church of Bayside, NY, who was appointed
in 2010 by His Holiness Karekin II, the Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of
All Armenians, to serve as the Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church
of the United Kingdom and Ireland, visited the center on December 28. He met
with Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, and the Very Rev. Fr.
Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan Vicar.
Bishop Hovhanessian was one of six clergymen elevated to the episcopate by
the Catholicos in early November. Bishop Hovhanessian is now based in
London, and oversees parishes across the United Kingdom and Ireland.
In the past two years, he has worked on strengthening these communities
organizationally. A parish was formally established in Dublin in October
2010, and other parishes and mission parishes in Manchester, Birmingham, and
elsewhere have been developing new programs and ministries.
[9]
Click here to visit the website of the Diocese of the United Kingdom and
Ireland.
Links:
9. http://www.armenianchurch.co.uk/default.asp?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Sacred Music Council meets at the Diocesan Center
The Sacred Music Council met at the Diocese earlier today.
_Sacred Music Council Plans Programs for 2012_
Members of the Sacred Music Council met at the Diocesan Center on Thursday,
December 29, to discuss plans for the coming year.
The organization's goals include the publication of two volumes of the
Divine Liturgy book for choirs, and a special volume for youth choirs. The
council will also offer a series of choir workshops in the Midwest, New
England, and New York/New Jersey regions. Other goals include strengthening
the Sacred Music Council's presence on the Diocesan website, and launching a
blog.
Young choir members will have the opportunity to take part in the Boyajian
Youth Choir Directors Program, and to apply for scholarships offered by the
Sacred Music Council to young musicians.
_January Giratsooyts Available Online _
The `Giratsooyts,' or schedule of hymns for Sunday services, is now
available on the Diocesan website for the month of January. [10]Click here
to access the listing.
Links:
10. http://armenianchurch.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5&id=5d3afa6bef&e= 3aa2e2c3e9&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
The information has been gathered and translated from several liturgical
resources published by the Armenian Church. The accessible schedule helps
guide parish choirs in preparation for Sunday services.
Fund for Armenian Relief ANSEF
Armen Sargsyan, a physicist at the Institute for Physical Research in
Armenia, received an ANSEF grant in 2011.
_Through FAR, ANSEF Gives Research Grants in Armenia_
For the last 12 years, the Armenian National Science and Education Fund
(ANSEF), which is sponsored by the Fund for Armenian Relief, has supported
world-class scientific research and education in Armenia by awarding grants
to top research groups.
ANSEF's review board recently completed its review of more than 200
proposals for the 2012 ANSEF awards, and selected 25 winners. The awardees
include researchers in the physical sciences, natural sciences, engineering,
and the humanities.
In the coming year, the ANSEF Board of Trustees will conduct a first-ever
symposium in Armenia to celebrate ANSEF's successes, and to unite the many
scientists and scholars who have conducted research through the ANSEF
program.
Scientific research in Armenia is typically underfunded, and as a result
many researchers must seek support outside the nation's borders. ANSEF
combats this drain by providing yearlong research grants to a select number
of Armenia's top scientists whose findings contribute to innovation.
Established in 2000, the fund has provided more than $1.4 million to fund
research by more than 700 scientists in Armenia.
[11]
Click here to read more.
Links:
11. http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=570bec15b4d23ff71f939238a&id=fb00b69083&e=8a1da aadda&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Call for Christmas photos
_Christmas Photo Album: A Call for Submissions_
How do you celebrate Armenian Christmas in your hometown? Send us digital
photos from your local Christmas church services and other celebrations, and
we will feature them in our online album the week after Christmas.
Please e-mail photos (with your name, city, and country) to
[12][email protected] by Wednesday, January 11.
Links:
12. mailto:[email protected]
We look forward to receiving submissions from the parishes of the Eastern
Diocese, as well as from our readers in Armenian communities across the
globe.
Advent
_Visit our Blog for Daily Advent Reflections_
Last month marked the beginning of the Advent season. Advent means
`coming'-the coming of Christ. In Armenian it is called Hisnag, from the
word for `fifty.'
Advent is the 50-day period during which we prepare to celebrate the
Nativity and Theophany of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is a time to reflect on
our relationship with God and to rededicate ourselves to Christ through our
actions, thoughts, and prayers. Advent can also be an occasion to discover
God's gifts all around us.
This year the Department of Youth and Education is offering daily Advent
reflections on our blog. [13]Click here to view today's reflection, and come
back every day to read and reflect on a new post.
Links:
13. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/wpblog/2011/12/daily-advent-reflections-42?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
PARISH NEWS
Holy Trinit ACYOA fundraiser for FAR
(from left) Yn. Arpi Kouzouian, Archbishop Barsamian, and the Rev. Fr.
Vasken Kouzouian with ACYOA Juniors members at Holy Trinity Church on
December 17. The ACYOA members presented a check and card for the FAR
Children's Center.
_ACYOA Juniors of Cambridge, MA, Raise Funds for FAR _
The ACYOA Juniors of Holy Trinity Church of Cambridge, MA, recently raised
funds for the Fund for Armenian Relief Children's Center in Yerevan,
Armenia.
The fundraising idea came about earlier this year, when during a parish
visit to Cambridge, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, met with
the young people and encouraged them to develop a lay ministry project. The
ACYOA Juniors embraced the challenge and decided to donate a portion of
their Christmas Ball proceeds to the FAR Children's Center.
They raised $300 at the December 10 ball. ACYOA chair Lilit Der Kevorkian
and vice chair Christina Azarian presented the sum to Archbishop Barsamian
on December 17, when he returned to Cambridge for a Diocesan Council
meeting. Diocesan Council treasurer Papken Megerian generously offered to
match the ACYOA contribution, and a total of $600 was sent to the FAR office
for the Children's Center.
In addition to the donations, ACYOA members encouraged parishioners to
submit cards for children at the Yerevan facility, and the young people
themselves created an oversized Christmas card for the center. The cards
will be distributed to the children during the center's Christmas party on
January 5.
Massachusetts Council of Churches
_Parishes in Mass. to Host Ecumenical Delegations_
On Armenian Christmas delegations of Protestant and Roman Catholic church
leaders from the Massachusetts Council of Churches (MCC) will visit two
parishes of the Eastern Diocese: Holy Translators Church of Framingham, MA,
and St. James Church of Watertown, MA.
The MCC's special visits, or `ecumenical pilgrimages,' give church leaders
an opportunity to learn more about the liturgical rites of other Christian
communities.
"Three years ago, we began these 'ecumenical pilgrimages' in order to show
the distinctive gifts of each of our churches,' said the Rev. Laura Everett,
MCC executive director. `We trust that God will use these experiences to
draw Christians closer to the unity Christ desires for His Church."
The visit to Holy Translators Church will take place on Christmas Eve,
January 5. The visit to St. James Church will follow on January 6, the Feast
of the Nativity and Theophany of our Lord.
[14]
Click here to register for the pilgrimages, or visit the Massachusetts
Council of Churches [15]website for more information. To contact the Rev.
Laura Everett, e-mail [16][email protected].
Links:
14. http://www.eventbrite.com/org/1767704919?s=6437801&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
15. http://www.masscouncilofchurches.org?utm_source=Eastern+D iocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
16. mailto:[email protected]
Choir concert in Providence, RA
The Erevan Choral Society and Orchestra held its annual Christmas Holiday
Concert at Holy Trinity Church in Cambridge, MA, this month.
_Erevan Choral Society and Orchestra Christmas Concert _
On Sunday, December 11, the Erevan Choral Society and Orchestra held its
44th annual Christmas Holiday Concert at Holy Trinity Church in Cambridge,
MA.
In addition to commemorating and continuing the legacy of the late Very Rev.
Fr. Oshagan Minassian (1930-2008), the concert celebrated the 20th
anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Armenia.
Artistic director Konstantin Petrossian conducted the choir and orchestra in
a program that reflected Fr. Oshagan's dedication to both the Armenian and
Western musical and spiritual traditions.
The December concert also featured three distinguished soloists: soprano
Noune Karapetian, tenor Yeghishe Manucharyan, and mezzo-soprano Victoria
Avetisyan. The musical evening concluded with a blessing by Archbishop
Yeghishe Gizirian.
_Upcoming Parish Events _
_Soorp Haroutiun Church | Orlando, FL_
Soorp Haroutiun Church of Orlando, FL, will host a New Year's Eve dinner and
dance on Saturday, December 31, beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Enjoy live Armenian music and a buffet dinner. The event will be held in the
church hall (9274 Winter Garden Vineland Road in Orlando). [17]Click here to
view a flyer for more information.
Links:
17. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/uploaded_files/tinymce/files/eventspdf/OrlandoNewYearEvent11.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Dioce se+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
_St. Leon Church | Fair Lawn, NJ_
St. Leon Church of Fair Lawn, NJ, will host its 5th annual Christmas Dance
on Saturday, January 7, from 7 p.m. to midnight, in the church's Community
Center.
The evening will feature the Michael Gostanian Ensemble. Tickets are $35 for
adults; $20 for students (ages 10-22). [18]Click here to view a flyer for
more information
Links:
18. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/uploaded_files/tinymce/files/eventspdf/ChristmasDanceStLeon2012.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Di ocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
YOUTH NEWS
St. David Armenian Church, FL
_Register for the ACYOA Chapter Workshop _
The ACYOA Central Council will sponsor its 4th annual Chapter Workshop at
St. David Church of Boca Raton, FL, from January 13-15. The workshop will
focus on the basics of being an ACYOA leader and working together to build a
vibrant and successful organization.
The Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan Vicar, will preside over the
weekend's program. The Very Rev. Fr. Nareg Berberian, pastor of St. David
Church, will serve as chaplain.
The ACYOA Central Council strongly encourages all those who are currently in
leadership positions in their respective chapters to attend the workshop.
Representatives from parishes who lack organized chapters but have young
people who are interested in establishing them are also welcome.
Participants will stay at the Hilton in Deerfield Beach, FL. All workshop
sessions will take place at St. David Church, which has graciously
volunteered to host the program again this year. The registration fee is
$175. For more information, or to register, contact Nancy Basmajian, ACYOA
executive secretary, at [19][email protected].
Links:
19. mailto:[email protected]
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-0710
Fax: (212) 779-3558
Web: http://www.armenianchurch.org/
Email: [email protected]
TOP STORY December 29, 2011
Christmas Servicese at St. Vartan Armenian Cathderal
_Christmas Services at St. Vartan Cathedral _
The Feast of the Nativity and Baptism of Jesus Christ will be observed at
New York's St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral on Thursday and Friday, January 5
and 6. [4]Click here to view the special liturgical schedule for these
"Armenian Christmas" services.
Links:
4. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/news-and-media/news/christmas-services-at-st-vartan-cathedral?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Following services and the Blessing of Water ceremony on January 6, a Home
Blessing service and Christmas reception will be held in Haik and Alice
Kavookjian Auditorium. The Akh'tamar Dance Ensemble of the St. Thomas Church
of Tenafly, NJ, will perform during the reception, which is free and open to
the public.
Concurrent with the Armenian Christmas observances, an art exhibit will be
on display in Guild Hall and Yerevan Hall of the cathedral complex. In
"Armenian Christmas and the Legacy of Armenian Artists," curator Vicki
Shoghag Hovanessian has assembled works by prominent Yerevan-based painters
and by prolific American-Armenian artists. [5]Click here for more
information about the exhibit.
Links:
5. http://armenianchurch.us1.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5&id=7aba631e21&e= 3aa2e2c3e9&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Click here to read Archbishop Khajag Barsamian's 2012 Christmas Message in
[6]English and [7]Armenian.
Links:
6. http://armenianchurch.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5&id=c1a0361c96&e= 3aa2e2c3e9&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
7. http://armenianchurch.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5&id=eea29c89b1&e= 3aa2e2c3e9&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Scripture of the Week
Is 51:15-52:3
Heb 13:18-25
Lk 22:24-30
Prayer of the Week
Guard us, O Christ our God, in peace under the shadow of your holy and
venerable Cross. Deliver us from the visible and invisible enemy. Make us
worthy to give you thanks and to glorify you together with the Father and
the Holy Spirit, now and always. Amen.
Upcoming Saints & Feasts
_29 December: _Holy Apostles James and John, "Sons of Thunder"; Barekendan
of the Fast of Nativity
_5 January:_ Eve of the Nativity and Theophany of our Lord Jesus Christ
_6 January:_ Feast of the Nativity and Theophany of our Lord Jesus Christ
CHURCH NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
New Church consecrated in Georgia
Bishop Vasken Mirzakhanian at the consecration service in Akhaltsikhe,
Georgia last Sunday.
_19th-Century Church Reconsecrated in Georgia_
On Sunday, December 25, a 19th-century Armenian church was re-consecrated in
Georgia's Akhaltsikhe region. Bishop Vasken Mirzakhanian, the Primate of the
Armenian Church of Georgia, officiated at the service.
According to an inscription on the church wall, the building was constructed
between 1861 and 1863. It was named Holy Cross Church, and dedicated in
memory of the martyrs of the 5th-century Battle of Avarayr. The church
served the local Armenian community until the Soviet period, when it was
converted to a warehouse.
In 1993 local Armenians began efforts to restore the house of worship. By
1995 the church was opened, but due to friction with the Georgian
government, it was not until this year that Holy Cross Church was officially
re-consecrated by an Armenian priest. Prior to this month's consecration,
another series of renovations were completed.
A _madagh_ blessing and celebratory gathering were held following services
on December 25.
Ordination of deacons at Holy Etchmiadzin
Bishop Moushegh Babayan ordains deacons at Holy Etchmiadzin.
_Deacons Ordained at Holy Etchmiadzin _
On Monday, December 26, the Feast of St. Stephen the Protodeacon and First
Martyr, 31 young men were ordained to the diaconate at Holy Etchmiadzin by
Bishop Moushegh Babayan. Of those ordained, 29 are recent graduates of the
Gevorkian Theological Seminary, and two are altar servers at the Araratian
Pontifical Diocese and the Diocese of Aragatsotn in Armenia.
Ordinations to the diaconate are held every December at Holy Etchmiadzin, on
the Feast of St. Stephen the Protodeacon and First Martyr. St. Stephen-the
first deacon of the universal Church-was ordained by the Apostles and went
on to preach in Jerusalem. He was persecuted for his faith and stoned to
death, becoming the first Christian martyr.
On this feast day, His Holiness Karekin II, the Supreme Patriarch and
Catholicos of All Armenians, extended his blessings and fatherly message to
all the deacons serving at Holy Etchmiadzin. He reflected on the sacrifices
of St. Stephen, and encouraged the newly ordained deacons to seek
inspiration from St. Stephen's life. [8]Click here to read more.
Links:
8. http://www.armenianchurch.org/index.jsp?sid=3&nid12&y11&m=11&d=27&utm_source=Eas tern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
DIOCESAN NEWS
Bishop Vahan Hovhanessian
Bishop Vahan Hovhanessian visited the Diocesan Center in New York this week.
_Bishop Vahan Hovhanessian Visits Diocesan Center_
The Diocesan Center in New York was pleased to welcome a dear friend and
former colleague, the newly-consecrated His Grace Bishop Vahan
Hovhanessian.
The former pastor of Holy Martyrs Church of Bayside, NY, who was appointed
in 2010 by His Holiness Karekin II, the Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of
All Armenians, to serve as the Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church
of the United Kingdom and Ireland, visited the center on December 28. He met
with Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, and the Very Rev. Fr.
Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan Vicar.
Bishop Hovhanessian was one of six clergymen elevated to the episcopate by
the Catholicos in early November. Bishop Hovhanessian is now based in
London, and oversees parishes across the United Kingdom and Ireland.
In the past two years, he has worked on strengthening these communities
organizationally. A parish was formally established in Dublin in October
2010, and other parishes and mission parishes in Manchester, Birmingham, and
elsewhere have been developing new programs and ministries.
[9]
Click here to visit the website of the Diocese of the United Kingdom and
Ireland.
Links:
9. http://www.armenianchurch.co.uk/default.asp?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Sacred Music Council meets at the Diocesan Center
The Sacred Music Council met at the Diocese earlier today.
_Sacred Music Council Plans Programs for 2012_
Members of the Sacred Music Council met at the Diocesan Center on Thursday,
December 29, to discuss plans for the coming year.
The organization's goals include the publication of two volumes of the
Divine Liturgy book for choirs, and a special volume for youth choirs. The
council will also offer a series of choir workshops in the Midwest, New
England, and New York/New Jersey regions. Other goals include strengthening
the Sacred Music Council's presence on the Diocesan website, and launching a
blog.
Young choir members will have the opportunity to take part in the Boyajian
Youth Choir Directors Program, and to apply for scholarships offered by the
Sacred Music Council to young musicians.
_January Giratsooyts Available Online _
The `Giratsooyts,' or schedule of hymns for Sunday services, is now
available on the Diocesan website for the month of January. [10]Click here
to access the listing.
Links:
10. http://armenianchurch.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5&id=5d3afa6bef&e= 3aa2e2c3e9&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
The information has been gathered and translated from several liturgical
resources published by the Armenian Church. The accessible schedule helps
guide parish choirs in preparation for Sunday services.
Fund for Armenian Relief ANSEF
Armen Sargsyan, a physicist at the Institute for Physical Research in
Armenia, received an ANSEF grant in 2011.
_Through FAR, ANSEF Gives Research Grants in Armenia_
For the last 12 years, the Armenian National Science and Education Fund
(ANSEF), which is sponsored by the Fund for Armenian Relief, has supported
world-class scientific research and education in Armenia by awarding grants
to top research groups.
ANSEF's review board recently completed its review of more than 200
proposals for the 2012 ANSEF awards, and selected 25 winners. The awardees
include researchers in the physical sciences, natural sciences, engineering,
and the humanities.
In the coming year, the ANSEF Board of Trustees will conduct a first-ever
symposium in Armenia to celebrate ANSEF's successes, and to unite the many
scientists and scholars who have conducted research through the ANSEF
program.
Scientific research in Armenia is typically underfunded, and as a result
many researchers must seek support outside the nation's borders. ANSEF
combats this drain by providing yearlong research grants to a select number
of Armenia's top scientists whose findings contribute to innovation.
Established in 2000, the fund has provided more than $1.4 million to fund
research by more than 700 scientists in Armenia.
[11]
Click here to read more.
Links:
11. http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=570bec15b4d23ff71f939238a&id=fb00b69083&e=8a1da aadda&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Call for Christmas photos
_Christmas Photo Album: A Call for Submissions_
How do you celebrate Armenian Christmas in your hometown? Send us digital
photos from your local Christmas church services and other celebrations, and
we will feature them in our online album the week after Christmas.
Please e-mail photos (with your name, city, and country) to
[12][email protected] by Wednesday, January 11.
Links:
12. mailto:[email protected]
We look forward to receiving submissions from the parishes of the Eastern
Diocese, as well as from our readers in Armenian communities across the
globe.
Advent
_Visit our Blog for Daily Advent Reflections_
Last month marked the beginning of the Advent season. Advent means
`coming'-the coming of Christ. In Armenian it is called Hisnag, from the
word for `fifty.'
Advent is the 50-day period during which we prepare to celebrate the
Nativity and Theophany of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is a time to reflect on
our relationship with God and to rededicate ourselves to Christ through our
actions, thoughts, and prayers. Advent can also be an occasion to discover
God's gifts all around us.
This year the Department of Youth and Education is offering daily Advent
reflections on our blog. [13]Click here to view today's reflection, and come
back every day to read and reflect on a new post.
Links:
13. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/wpblog/2011/12/daily-advent-reflections-42?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
PARISH NEWS
Holy Trinit ACYOA fundraiser for FAR
(from left) Yn. Arpi Kouzouian, Archbishop Barsamian, and the Rev. Fr.
Vasken Kouzouian with ACYOA Juniors members at Holy Trinity Church on
December 17. The ACYOA members presented a check and card for the FAR
Children's Center.
_ACYOA Juniors of Cambridge, MA, Raise Funds for FAR _
The ACYOA Juniors of Holy Trinity Church of Cambridge, MA, recently raised
funds for the Fund for Armenian Relief Children's Center in Yerevan,
Armenia.
The fundraising idea came about earlier this year, when during a parish
visit to Cambridge, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, met with
the young people and encouraged them to develop a lay ministry project. The
ACYOA Juniors embraced the challenge and decided to donate a portion of
their Christmas Ball proceeds to the FAR Children's Center.
They raised $300 at the December 10 ball. ACYOA chair Lilit Der Kevorkian
and vice chair Christina Azarian presented the sum to Archbishop Barsamian
on December 17, when he returned to Cambridge for a Diocesan Council
meeting. Diocesan Council treasurer Papken Megerian generously offered to
match the ACYOA contribution, and a total of $600 was sent to the FAR office
for the Children's Center.
In addition to the donations, ACYOA members encouraged parishioners to
submit cards for children at the Yerevan facility, and the young people
themselves created an oversized Christmas card for the center. The cards
will be distributed to the children during the center's Christmas party on
January 5.
Massachusetts Council of Churches
_Parishes in Mass. to Host Ecumenical Delegations_
On Armenian Christmas delegations of Protestant and Roman Catholic church
leaders from the Massachusetts Council of Churches (MCC) will visit two
parishes of the Eastern Diocese: Holy Translators Church of Framingham, MA,
and St. James Church of Watertown, MA.
The MCC's special visits, or `ecumenical pilgrimages,' give church leaders
an opportunity to learn more about the liturgical rites of other Christian
communities.
"Three years ago, we began these 'ecumenical pilgrimages' in order to show
the distinctive gifts of each of our churches,' said the Rev. Laura Everett,
MCC executive director. `We trust that God will use these experiences to
draw Christians closer to the unity Christ desires for His Church."
The visit to Holy Translators Church will take place on Christmas Eve,
January 5. The visit to St. James Church will follow on January 6, the Feast
of the Nativity and Theophany of our Lord.
[14]
Click here to register for the pilgrimages, or visit the Massachusetts
Council of Churches [15]website for more information. To contact the Rev.
Laura Everett, e-mail [16][email protected].
Links:
14. http://www.eventbrite.com/org/1767704919?s=6437801&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
15. http://www.masscouncilofchurches.org?utm_source=Eastern+D iocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
16. mailto:[email protected]
Choir concert in Providence, RA
The Erevan Choral Society and Orchestra held its annual Christmas Holiday
Concert at Holy Trinity Church in Cambridge, MA, this month.
_Erevan Choral Society and Orchestra Christmas Concert _
On Sunday, December 11, the Erevan Choral Society and Orchestra held its
44th annual Christmas Holiday Concert at Holy Trinity Church in Cambridge,
MA.
In addition to commemorating and continuing the legacy of the late Very Rev.
Fr. Oshagan Minassian (1930-2008), the concert celebrated the 20th
anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Armenia.
Artistic director Konstantin Petrossian conducted the choir and orchestra in
a program that reflected Fr. Oshagan's dedication to both the Armenian and
Western musical and spiritual traditions.
The December concert also featured three distinguished soloists: soprano
Noune Karapetian, tenor Yeghishe Manucharyan, and mezzo-soprano Victoria
Avetisyan. The musical evening concluded with a blessing by Archbishop
Yeghishe Gizirian.
_Upcoming Parish Events _
_Soorp Haroutiun Church | Orlando, FL_
Soorp Haroutiun Church of Orlando, FL, will host a New Year's Eve dinner and
dance on Saturday, December 31, beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Enjoy live Armenian music and a buffet dinner. The event will be held in the
church hall (9274 Winter Garden Vineland Road in Orlando). [17]Click here to
view a flyer for more information.
Links:
17. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/uploaded_files/tinymce/files/eventspdf/OrlandoNewYearEvent11.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Dioce se+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
_St. Leon Church | Fair Lawn, NJ_
St. Leon Church of Fair Lawn, NJ, will host its 5th annual Christmas Dance
on Saturday, January 7, from 7 p.m. to midnight, in the church's Community
Center.
The evening will feature the Michael Gostanian Ensemble. Tickets are $35 for
adults; $20 for students (ages 10-22). [18]Click here to view a flyer for
more information
Links:
18. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/uploaded_files/tinymce/files/eventspdf/ChristmasDanceStLeon2012.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Di ocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=74b08f76bf-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
YOUTH NEWS
St. David Armenian Church, FL
_Register for the ACYOA Chapter Workshop _
The ACYOA Central Council will sponsor its 4th annual Chapter Workshop at
St. David Church of Boca Raton, FL, from January 13-15. The workshop will
focus on the basics of being an ACYOA leader and working together to build a
vibrant and successful organization.
The Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan Vicar, will preside over the
weekend's program. The Very Rev. Fr. Nareg Berberian, pastor of St. David
Church, will serve as chaplain.
The ACYOA Central Council strongly encourages all those who are currently in
leadership positions in their respective chapters to attend the workshop.
Representatives from parishes who lack organized chapters but have young
people who are interested in establishing them are also welcome.
Participants will stay at the Hilton in Deerfield Beach, FL. All workshop
sessions will take place at St. David Church, which has graciously
volunteered to host the program again this year. The registration fee is
$175. For more information, or to register, contact Nancy Basmajian, ACYOA
executive secretary, at [19][email protected].
Links:
19. mailto:[email protected]