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PRESS RELEASE
Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apost. Church of America and Canada
H.E. Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan
Prelate, Easter Prelacy and Canada
138 East 39th Street
New York, NY 10016
Tel: 212-689-7810
Fax: 212-689-7168
Web: http://www.armenianprelacy.org/
March 10, 2011
LENTEN LECTURES BEGAN YESTERDAY
The Prelacys Lenten Lecture series began yesterday, March 9, featuring
Rev. Fr. Nareg Terterian, pastor of St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New
York, who spoke on Children in the Bible. Held at St. Illuminators
Cathedral in New York City, the Lenten program began with table
fellowship at 7:15 pm, followed by Lenten Service (Husgoom) at 8:00
pm, and lecture and Q/A from 8:30 pm to 9:15 pm.
Der Nareg explained that in the Bible children are considered a
blessing and gift from God and highlighted a number of examples
including Isaac, Samuel, and Jesus Christ. All of the Lenten lectures
this year will focus on children in celebration of the Year of the
Armenian Child, as proclaimed by His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of
the Great House of Cilicia. Next Wednesday, March 16, His Grace
Anoushavan, Vicar General, will speak on Children in the Life of the
Armenian Church and Community.
The Lenten program is sponsored by the Prelacys Armenian
Religious Education Council (AREC), the Prelacy Ladies Guild, and the
Ladies Guild of St. Illuminators Cathedral. For further information
contact the Prelacy at 212-689-7810 or the church office at
212-689-5880.
For the entire list of speakers and topics click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972600/24882/goto:http://armenianprelacy.org/index.php/events/special-events/prelacy-lenten-program
).
VICAR WILL TRAVEL TO MICHIGAN
Bishop Anoushavan, Vicar General, will travel to Michigan this weekend
where he will preside over the Divine Liturgy and deliver the sermon
at St. Sarkis Church in Dearborn.
NEW ENGLAND REGIONAL CONFERENCE
The New England Regional Conference for pastors, board of trustee
members, and delegates will take place on Saturday, March 19, hosted
by St. Asdvadzadzin Church, 315 Church Street, Whitinsville,
Massachusetts. The conference will begin at 10 am and conclude at 4
pm.
SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS CONFERENCE
A conference for Prelacy Sunday School teachers and Christian
educators is scheduled for the weekend of March 25-27. Sponsored by
the Armenian Religious Education Council (AREC), the conference will
be held at the Archdiocesan Center at St. Thomas Seminary in
Bloomfield, Connecticut. The theme of the conference is The Feasts of
the Armenian Church.
The program will integrate biblical, liturgical, doctrinal, and
iconographic elements in its presentations and discussions, together
with pedagogical insights for age-appropriate applications. The
speakers of the conference are: H. G. Bishop Anoushavan, Prelacy
Vicar; Rev. Fr. Antranig Baljian, pastor of St. Stephens Church (MA);
Rev. Fr. Aram Stepanian, pastor of St. Asdvadzadzin Church (MA) and
Chairman of the Prelacys Religious Council; Rev. Fr. Karekin
Bedourian, pastor of St. Gregory the Illuminator Church (MA);
Dn. Shant Kazanjian, Director of AREC; and Mary M. Shamshoian-Olson,
Ed.D., Chief Academic Officer, Consolidated School District 158
(Illinois).
For information and registration, click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972601/24882/goto:http://armenianprelacy.org/index.php/departments/arec/conference-for-christian-educators
).
VICAR ATTENDS OPENING RECEPTION
Bishop Anoushavan attended the opening reception of an exhibit of art,
Women and Spring, featuring the works of Emma Grigiryan, on March
8. The exhibit will be on display until March 11 at the Delegates
Entrance Lobby of the United Nations headquarters in the General
Assembly building in New York City. It was organized by the Permanent
Mission of Armenia to the United Nations. Armenia is chairing the UN
Commission on the Status of Women and International Womans Day.
CAMECT MEETS AT PRELACY
Archbishop Oshagan presided over a meeting of the Christian Arab and
Middle Eastern Churches Together (CAMECT) last week at the Prelacy
offices in New York City. Srpazan is president of the group that
works to strengthen the Christian presence in the Middle East and
promote greater understanding.
MUSICAL ARMENIA ON MARCH 27
The 2011 Musical Armenia concert, presented by the Eastern Prelacy and
the Prelacy Ladies Guild, will take place on Sunday, March 27, at 2
p.m., at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, 57th Street and Seventh
Avenue, New York City.
Featured artists are Karen Hakobyan, piano; and Joao
Kouyoumdjian, Classical Guitar. For tickets contact the Carnegie Box
Office, 212-247-7800; or the Prelacy office, 212-689-7810 or
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected]).
Distinguished for the musical color, brilliance, and excitement
of his performances, the talented Armenian pianist and composer Karen
Hakobyan has been acclaimed for his individual style and depth of his
interpretations. His performances have been broadcasted on WQXR, New
Yorks classical radio station, and on Armenian National
Radio. Mr. Hakobyan recently completed Professional Studies Diploma at
Mannes College of Music, and is currently pursuing a PSDF program at
Manhattan School of Music.
Extraordinary guitarist Joao Kouyoumdjian has presented solo
and collaborative concerts in the United States, Brazil, and El
Salvador. He was a recipient of several Juilliard Fellowships to
present interactive concerts and teach in Manhattan public schools and
health care facilities. In his home country, Brazil, he has appeared
in traditional festivals and major concert series. Mr. Kouyoumdjian
holds a Master of Music degree from The Juilliard School and a
Bachelor of Music from the University of Sao Paulo.
Click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972602/24882/goto:http://www.armenianprelacy.org/index.php/events/special-events/musical-armenia
) for more information.
BIBLE READING
Bible readings for Sunday, March 13, Second Sunday of Lent, Sunday of
the Expulsion, are: Isaiah 33:2-22; Romans 12:1-13:10; Matthew
5:17-48.
Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the
prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I tell
you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke
of a letter, will pass from the law until all is
accomplished. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these
commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least
in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will
be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your
righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will
never enter the kingdom of heaven.
You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, You
shall not murder; and whoever murders shall be liable to judgment. But
I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will
be liable to judgment; and if you insult a brother or sister, you will
be liable to the council; and if you say, You food, you will be liable
to the hell of fire. So when you are offering your gift at the altar,
if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you,
leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to
your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. Come to
terms quickly with your accuser while you are on the way to court with
him, or your accuser may hand you over to the judge, and the judge to
the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you
will never get out until you have paid the last penny.
You have heard that it was said, You shall not commit
adultery. But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with
lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your
right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away; it is
better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to
be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it
off and throw it away; it is better for you to lose one of your
members than for your whole body to go into hell.
It was also said, Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a
certificate of divorce. But I say to you that anyone who divorces has
wife, except on the ground of unchastity, causes her to commit
adultery; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.
Again, you have heard that it was said to those of ancient
times, You shall not swear falsely, but carry out the vows you have
made to the Lord. But I say to you, Do not swear at all, either by
heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his
footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. And
do not swear by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or
black. Let your word be Yes, Yes or No, No; anything more than this
comes from the evil one.
You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth
for a tooth. But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if
anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if
anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well;
and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. Give
to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to
borrow from you.
You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor
and hate your enemy. But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for
those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in
heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and
sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. For if you love
those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax
collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers and
sisters, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles
do the same? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is
perfect. (Matthew 5: 17-48)
For a listing of the coming weeks Bible readings click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972603/24882/goto:http://www.armenianprelacy.org/images/prelacy/PDF/2011dbr-03.pdf
).
SUNDAY OF THE EXPULSION
As of Monday we entered the period of Great Lent (Medz Bahk) and the
Church has taken on a somber, mournful and penitential
manifestation. As of last Sunday (Poon Paregentan) the altar is closed
with a dark curtain, symbolic of the expulsion of Adam and Eve from
the Garden of Eden. Holy Communion is not offered during the
Liturgy. It is a period of repentance and reflection on our spiritual
journey toward Easter.
Each of the Sundays during Lent has a theme. This Sunday, March
13, is the Sunday of the Expulsion (Artaksman Kiraki). The message is
a continuation of last Sundays Paregentan theme, namely, Adam and Eves
fall and banishment from Paradise because of their disobedience. Of
the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat,
for in the day that you eat of it you shall die (Genesis 2:17). With
Adam and Eves expulsion from Paradise, humankind was thus condemned to
experience death, pain, and sorrow. The hymns sung on the first two
Sundays of Lent remind us of the expulsion, and give sinners the good
tidings that they may render themselves worthy through repentance.
O Lord, you first gave the holy observance of the law in
paradise. But the first creatures disobeyed you by eating the
forbidden fruit and thus tasted the bitterness of sin and
death. Therefore, enable us to taste the sweetness of your
commandments.
(from the hymn sung on the Sunday of the Expulsion)
THE SUNRISE (AREVAKAL) SERVICE
During Lent the Armenian Sunrise Service (Arevakal) takes a prominent
place. Traditionally, this service takes place on Wednesday and Friday
mornings during Lent. Here in the United States and elsewhere, it is
performed on Sundays immediately after the closed-altar Liturgy.
Although the Church takes on a mournful appearance during Lent,
the Sunrise Service is quite joyous with its main theme being light,
which is our God, Christ the Lord. The word light (looys) appears more
than any other word throughout the service, whereas the word darkness
(khavar) is used just once. The upbeat music of the hymns and the
positive lyrics make this one of the most pleasant and uplifting
services in the Armenian Church. Sung properly, it makes you want to
sing with joy unto the Lord.
ARMENIAN BONE MARROW DONOR REGISTRY:
ITS A MATTER OF LIFE
Two Armenian Americans in Bergen County, New Jersey, are in need of a
stem cell match. They are Irene Hamptian Katrandjian and Varoujan
Vartanian. The chances of finding a match are greater from Armenian
donors. A recruitment drive is scheduled to take place this Saturday,
March 12, at a concert sponsored by Hamazkayin celebrating the 20th
anniversary of the independence of Armenia, which will take place at
the Dwight Englewood School auditorium, 315 E. Palisade Ave.,
Englewood, New Jersey. Volunteers from the Armenian Bone Marrow Donor
Registry (ABMDR) will be in the Lobby from 6:30 to 10 pm. It is a
simple and easy procedure that can save a life.
Please also consider making a donation to the ABMDR to cover
the cost of processing the samples. Send your tax-deductible donation
to: ABMDR, c/o Carol Haddad, 74 Eastbrook Drive, River Edge, NJ 07661.
TWO BOOKS FROM THE PRELACY BOOKSTORE
THE GREEDY SPARROW
An Armenian Tale
Retold by Lucine Kasbarian
Illustrated by Maria Zaikina
The Greedy Sparrow is from the ancient Armenian oral tradition.
Lucine Kasbarian learned the tale from her father, editor and
columnist C.K. Garabed. He had learned it from his grandmother. The
tale was first put down on paper by Hovhannes Toumanian at the turn of
the 20th century. This is the first time it is being presented in
English as a childrens picture book. But as Sesame Street Host, Bob
McGrath, has noted The Greedy Sparrow is actually for everyone. Its
clever and humorous, and the wonderful illustrations not only add
color but also truly interpret the story line.
Hardcover, $17.99 plus shipping & handling
If you would like to read an interview with the author click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972604/24882/goto:http://www.keghart.com/Kasbarian_Sparrow
).
THE ACCIDENTAL OBSERVER
Poetry in three languages
By Lola Koundakjian
For many years Lola Koundakjian has promoted the art of poetry and the
works of poets. This new volume of poems in three languages (English,
Armenian, Spanish) shows how good a poet she is. Her poetry is sparse,
and yet so meaningful. The ordinary becomes extraordinary.
Soft cover, $12.00 plus shipping and handling.
To order these books contact the Prelacy Bookstore by email at
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) or by
telephone at 212-689-7810.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
March 4Poon Paregentan Celebration at Holy Trinity Armenian Church,
Worcester, Massachusetts, 6:30 pm in the church hall. Join in
Celebrating our Success while Preparing to Rededicate
Ourselves. Armenian music and dancing, games of chance, silent
auction, hot and cold appetizers, beer and wine, coffee and
dessert. $25. per person. For reservations: 508-852-2414.
March 5St. Stephens Ladies Guild (Watertown, Massachusetts) presents
Mezze, Music, March Madness, and Mardi Gras, at the church hall at 7
p.m. Music by Mal Barsamian, Leo Derderian, Steve Megerdichian, Ron
Tutunjian. Donation $25. For info contact Mary Derderian by email at
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) or telephone
781-762-4253.
March 5Sunday School Poon Paregentan program, St. Asdvadzadzin Church,
Whitinsville, Massachusetts, 6 pm.
March 6Annual Membership Meeting (Part 2), St. Asdvadzadzin Church,
Whitinsville, Massachusetts, 12:45 pm.
March 6Annual Membership Meeting, Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield,
New Jersey, after the Divine Liturgy.
March 6Annual Membership Meeting, St. Paul Church, Waukegan, Illinois,
following Badarak and Luncheon. For information contact a member of
the Board of Trustees.
March 6 through LentSt. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic
Church, Granite City, Illoinois, Lenten Bible Study Series
2011. Begins Sunday, March 6, immediately following Divine Liturgy;
continues every Friday evening during Great Lent, from 6-7 pm. (Vigil
service to follow). Topic: Understanding the Divine Liturgy (Because
lets face it, you dont!). A detailed look at the origins, structure,
theology and historical development of the Soorp Badarak.
March 9 to April 13Prelacy Lenten Lectures, every Wednesday during
Lent, at St. Illuminators Cathedral, 221 E. 27th Street, New York
City. Fellowship at 7:15 pm; Lenten service at 8 pm; Lecture at 8:30
pm. For details click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972605/24882/goto:http://www.armenianprelacy.org/index.php/events/special-events/prelacy-lenten-program
).
March 9Mark Kyrkostas Remember Me with Music, live jazz and classical
piano concert featuring Ivy Adrian, Arnold Lee and Cosmo
Mallardi. Also dances from India, Bangladesh, Korea, and
Armenia. Sponsored by the Anthropology Museum of the People of New
York at Queens College. Event will take place at Kalustyan Hall, The
Armenian Church of Holy Martyrs, 209-15 Horace Harding Boulevard,
Bayside, New York. Donation $5.00; for information/reservations
718-428-5650.
March 11St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, Lenten Worship,
Education & Tradition series, lecture by Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian,
Vicar of Prelacy. Fellowship by the Ladies Guild. Vespers 6:30 pm;
Lecture 7:30 pm; Q 8:00 pm; Fellowship 8:15 pm.
March 12Lunch & Learn Series #1, by Armenian Relief Society, Shakeh
Chapter. Armenian traditional Lenten dishes will be featured and the
preparation of Topig will be demonstrated at Sts. Vartanantz Church
Hall, 461 Bergen Boulevard, Ridgefield, New Jersey, at 1 pm. Donation
$25. Contact 201-242-1650.
March 13SAVE THE DATE. Gakavik Childrens magazine workshop at
St. Illuminators Cathedral, New York City. Details will follow.
March 18St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York. Lenten Worship,
Education & Tradition series. Over the Waterfall, a lecture on
Suffering by Professor Marilyn Martone, Ph.D., St. John s
University. Fellowship by Young Adults Group. Vespers 6:30 pm; Lecture
7:30 pm; Q: 8:00 pm; Fellowship 8:15 pm.
March 19New England Regional Conference, hosted by St. Asdvadzadzin
Church, 315 Church Street, Whitinsville, Massachusetts, for clergy,
board of trustees members, and delegate. Members of the Religious and
Executive Councils will be present. Conference will begin at 10
a.m. and continue to 4 p.m.
March 20Educational Committee of St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New
York, presents The Harvest Year? featuring legal and financial issues
facing seniors, at 1:30 pm. Presentations by: Ann Margaret Carozza,
JD, Attorney at Law, Elder Law, Asset Protection & Qualifying for
Medicaid.; Lori Shibilo and Mary Ann Kuntz, The Medical Application
Process,; Dickran Kabarajian, CLU, LUTCF, Long Term Care
Insurance. For information: 718-786-3842 (Dr. Arthur Kubikian); or
718-224-2275 (church office).
March 25St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York. Lenten Worship,
Education & Tradition series. The Service of Washing of the Feet, a
lecture by Rev. Fr. Nareg Terterian, Pastor. Fellowship by the
Choir. Vespers 6:30 pm; Lecture 7:30 pm; Q 8:00 pm; Fellowship 8:15
pm.
March 25-27Conference for Sunday School teachers and Christian
educators sponsored by the Armenian Religious Education Council
(AREC), at the Archdiocesan Center at St. Thomas Seminary, Bloomfield,
Connecticut. Theme of the conference: The Feasts of the Armenian
Church. For information and registration click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972606/24882/goto:http://www.armenianprelacy.org/index.php/departments/arec/conference-for-christian-educators
).
March 27Musical Armenia Concert. Sponsored by Eastern Prelacy, Weill
Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, New York City. For information click
here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972607/24882/goto:http://www.armenianprelacy.org/index.php/events/special-events/musical-armenia
).
March 27Traditional Lenten Luncheon featuring Topig and an array of
Lenten dishes, hosted by the Ladies Guild of Sts. Vartanantz Church,
Ridgefield, New Jersey, immediately following church services. Adults
$20; children (5-12) $10.
March 27Lenten Luncheon, St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York,
following Church services. Traditional home-cooked Lenten
meals. Reservations suggested. Church office: 718-224-2275.
April 1St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, Lenten Worship,
Education & Tradition series, A Conversation with the Prelate,
Archbishop Oshagan, Prelate of Eastern Prelacy. Fellowship by the
Saturday School PTA. Vespers 6:30 pm; Lecture 7:30 pm; Q 8:00 pm;
Fellowship 8:15 pm.
April 8St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York. Lenten Worship,
Education & Tradition series, The Biblical Passages in the Vespers
Service of the Armenian Church, a lecture by Fr. Jean Pierre Ruiz,
Ph.D., St. Johns University. Fellowship hour by the Yeraz Dance
Ensemble. Vespers 6:30 pm; Lecture 7:30 pm; Q 8:00 pm; Fellowship 8:15
pm.
April 9Evening service at 7 pm, followed by a reception for the
Pillars of the Prelacy in New England area, at St. Stephens Church,
Watertown, Massachusetts.
April 15St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York. Lenten Worship,
Education and Tradition series, For Christ our Passover lamb, has been
sacrificed (1 Corinthians 5:7)a Reflection on the Death of Christ, by
Deacon Shant Kazanjian, Director of the Prelacys Armenian Religious
Education Council. Fellowship hour by the Senior Citizens Group.
Vespers 6:30 pm; Lecture 7:30 pm; Q 8:00 pm; Fellowship 8:15 pm.
May 2Prelacy Ladies Guild Mothers Day Luncheon, New York City.
May 11-14National Representative Assembly of Eastern Prelacy, hosted
by St. Gregory the Illuminator Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
May 22Celebration of the 95th anniversary of St. Illuminators
Cathedral, New York City, will take place at the Terrace on the Park,
Flushing Meadow Park, 5 pm to 10 pm, under the auspices of
H.E. Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan.
Web pages of the parishes can be accessed through the Prelacys web
site.
To ensure the timely arrival of Crossroads in your electronic mailbox,
add [email protected] (mailto:[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] (mailto:[email protected])
From: A. Papazian
Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apost. Church of America and Canada
H.E. Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan
Prelate, Easter Prelacy and Canada
138 East 39th Street
New York, NY 10016
Tel: 212-689-7810
Fax: 212-689-7168
Web: http://www.armenianprelacy.org/
March 10, 2011
LENTEN LECTURES BEGAN YESTERDAY
The Prelacys Lenten Lecture series began yesterday, March 9, featuring
Rev. Fr. Nareg Terterian, pastor of St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New
York, who spoke on Children in the Bible. Held at St. Illuminators
Cathedral in New York City, the Lenten program began with table
fellowship at 7:15 pm, followed by Lenten Service (Husgoom) at 8:00
pm, and lecture and Q/A from 8:30 pm to 9:15 pm.
Der Nareg explained that in the Bible children are considered a
blessing and gift from God and highlighted a number of examples
including Isaac, Samuel, and Jesus Christ. All of the Lenten lectures
this year will focus on children in celebration of the Year of the
Armenian Child, as proclaimed by His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of
the Great House of Cilicia. Next Wednesday, March 16, His Grace
Anoushavan, Vicar General, will speak on Children in the Life of the
Armenian Church and Community.
The Lenten program is sponsored by the Prelacys Armenian
Religious Education Council (AREC), the Prelacy Ladies Guild, and the
Ladies Guild of St. Illuminators Cathedral. For further information
contact the Prelacy at 212-689-7810 or the church office at
212-689-5880.
For the entire list of speakers and topics click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972600/24882/goto:http://armenianprelacy.org/index.php/events/special-events/prelacy-lenten-program
).
VICAR WILL TRAVEL TO MICHIGAN
Bishop Anoushavan, Vicar General, will travel to Michigan this weekend
where he will preside over the Divine Liturgy and deliver the sermon
at St. Sarkis Church in Dearborn.
NEW ENGLAND REGIONAL CONFERENCE
The New England Regional Conference for pastors, board of trustee
members, and delegates will take place on Saturday, March 19, hosted
by St. Asdvadzadzin Church, 315 Church Street, Whitinsville,
Massachusetts. The conference will begin at 10 am and conclude at 4
pm.
SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS CONFERENCE
A conference for Prelacy Sunday School teachers and Christian
educators is scheduled for the weekend of March 25-27. Sponsored by
the Armenian Religious Education Council (AREC), the conference will
be held at the Archdiocesan Center at St. Thomas Seminary in
Bloomfield, Connecticut. The theme of the conference is The Feasts of
the Armenian Church.
The program will integrate biblical, liturgical, doctrinal, and
iconographic elements in its presentations and discussions, together
with pedagogical insights for age-appropriate applications. The
speakers of the conference are: H. G. Bishop Anoushavan, Prelacy
Vicar; Rev. Fr. Antranig Baljian, pastor of St. Stephens Church (MA);
Rev. Fr. Aram Stepanian, pastor of St. Asdvadzadzin Church (MA) and
Chairman of the Prelacys Religious Council; Rev. Fr. Karekin
Bedourian, pastor of St. Gregory the Illuminator Church (MA);
Dn. Shant Kazanjian, Director of AREC; and Mary M. Shamshoian-Olson,
Ed.D., Chief Academic Officer, Consolidated School District 158
(Illinois).
For information and registration, click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972601/24882/goto:http://armenianprelacy.org/index.php/departments/arec/conference-for-christian-educators
).
VICAR ATTENDS OPENING RECEPTION
Bishop Anoushavan attended the opening reception of an exhibit of art,
Women and Spring, featuring the works of Emma Grigiryan, on March
8. The exhibit will be on display until March 11 at the Delegates
Entrance Lobby of the United Nations headquarters in the General
Assembly building in New York City. It was organized by the Permanent
Mission of Armenia to the United Nations. Armenia is chairing the UN
Commission on the Status of Women and International Womans Day.
CAMECT MEETS AT PRELACY
Archbishop Oshagan presided over a meeting of the Christian Arab and
Middle Eastern Churches Together (CAMECT) last week at the Prelacy
offices in New York City. Srpazan is president of the group that
works to strengthen the Christian presence in the Middle East and
promote greater understanding.
MUSICAL ARMENIA ON MARCH 27
The 2011 Musical Armenia concert, presented by the Eastern Prelacy and
the Prelacy Ladies Guild, will take place on Sunday, March 27, at 2
p.m., at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, 57th Street and Seventh
Avenue, New York City.
Featured artists are Karen Hakobyan, piano; and Joao
Kouyoumdjian, Classical Guitar. For tickets contact the Carnegie Box
Office, 212-247-7800; or the Prelacy office, 212-689-7810 or
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected]).
Distinguished for the musical color, brilliance, and excitement
of his performances, the talented Armenian pianist and composer Karen
Hakobyan has been acclaimed for his individual style and depth of his
interpretations. His performances have been broadcasted on WQXR, New
Yorks classical radio station, and on Armenian National
Radio. Mr. Hakobyan recently completed Professional Studies Diploma at
Mannes College of Music, and is currently pursuing a PSDF program at
Manhattan School of Music.
Extraordinary guitarist Joao Kouyoumdjian has presented solo
and collaborative concerts in the United States, Brazil, and El
Salvador. He was a recipient of several Juilliard Fellowships to
present interactive concerts and teach in Manhattan public schools and
health care facilities. In his home country, Brazil, he has appeared
in traditional festivals and major concert series. Mr. Kouyoumdjian
holds a Master of Music degree from The Juilliard School and a
Bachelor of Music from the University of Sao Paulo.
Click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972602/24882/goto:http://www.armenianprelacy.org/index.php/events/special-events/musical-armenia
) for more information.
BIBLE READING
Bible readings for Sunday, March 13, Second Sunday of Lent, Sunday of
the Expulsion, are: Isaiah 33:2-22; Romans 12:1-13:10; Matthew
5:17-48.
Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the
prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I tell
you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke
of a letter, will pass from the law until all is
accomplished. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these
commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least
in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will
be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your
righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will
never enter the kingdom of heaven.
You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, You
shall not murder; and whoever murders shall be liable to judgment. But
I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will
be liable to judgment; and if you insult a brother or sister, you will
be liable to the council; and if you say, You food, you will be liable
to the hell of fire. So when you are offering your gift at the altar,
if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you,
leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to
your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. Come to
terms quickly with your accuser while you are on the way to court with
him, or your accuser may hand you over to the judge, and the judge to
the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you
will never get out until you have paid the last penny.
You have heard that it was said, You shall not commit
adultery. But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with
lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your
right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away; it is
better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to
be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it
off and throw it away; it is better for you to lose one of your
members than for your whole body to go into hell.
It was also said, Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a
certificate of divorce. But I say to you that anyone who divorces has
wife, except on the ground of unchastity, causes her to commit
adultery; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.
Again, you have heard that it was said to those of ancient
times, You shall not swear falsely, but carry out the vows you have
made to the Lord. But I say to you, Do not swear at all, either by
heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his
footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. And
do not swear by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or
black. Let your word be Yes, Yes or No, No; anything more than this
comes from the evil one.
You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth
for a tooth. But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if
anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if
anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well;
and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. Give
to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to
borrow from you.
You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor
and hate your enemy. But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for
those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in
heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and
sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. For if you love
those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax
collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers and
sisters, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles
do the same? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is
perfect. (Matthew 5: 17-48)
For a listing of the coming weeks Bible readings click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972603/24882/goto:http://www.armenianprelacy.org/images/prelacy/PDF/2011dbr-03.pdf
).
SUNDAY OF THE EXPULSION
As of Monday we entered the period of Great Lent (Medz Bahk) and the
Church has taken on a somber, mournful and penitential
manifestation. As of last Sunday (Poon Paregentan) the altar is closed
with a dark curtain, symbolic of the expulsion of Adam and Eve from
the Garden of Eden. Holy Communion is not offered during the
Liturgy. It is a period of repentance and reflection on our spiritual
journey toward Easter.
Each of the Sundays during Lent has a theme. This Sunday, March
13, is the Sunday of the Expulsion (Artaksman Kiraki). The message is
a continuation of last Sundays Paregentan theme, namely, Adam and Eves
fall and banishment from Paradise because of their disobedience. Of
the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat,
for in the day that you eat of it you shall die (Genesis 2:17). With
Adam and Eves expulsion from Paradise, humankind was thus condemned to
experience death, pain, and sorrow. The hymns sung on the first two
Sundays of Lent remind us of the expulsion, and give sinners the good
tidings that they may render themselves worthy through repentance.
O Lord, you first gave the holy observance of the law in
paradise. But the first creatures disobeyed you by eating the
forbidden fruit and thus tasted the bitterness of sin and
death. Therefore, enable us to taste the sweetness of your
commandments.
(from the hymn sung on the Sunday of the Expulsion)
THE SUNRISE (AREVAKAL) SERVICE
During Lent the Armenian Sunrise Service (Arevakal) takes a prominent
place. Traditionally, this service takes place on Wednesday and Friday
mornings during Lent. Here in the United States and elsewhere, it is
performed on Sundays immediately after the closed-altar Liturgy.
Although the Church takes on a mournful appearance during Lent,
the Sunrise Service is quite joyous with its main theme being light,
which is our God, Christ the Lord. The word light (looys) appears more
than any other word throughout the service, whereas the word darkness
(khavar) is used just once. The upbeat music of the hymns and the
positive lyrics make this one of the most pleasant and uplifting
services in the Armenian Church. Sung properly, it makes you want to
sing with joy unto the Lord.
ARMENIAN BONE MARROW DONOR REGISTRY:
ITS A MATTER OF LIFE
Two Armenian Americans in Bergen County, New Jersey, are in need of a
stem cell match. They are Irene Hamptian Katrandjian and Varoujan
Vartanian. The chances of finding a match are greater from Armenian
donors. A recruitment drive is scheduled to take place this Saturday,
March 12, at a concert sponsored by Hamazkayin celebrating the 20th
anniversary of the independence of Armenia, which will take place at
the Dwight Englewood School auditorium, 315 E. Palisade Ave.,
Englewood, New Jersey. Volunteers from the Armenian Bone Marrow Donor
Registry (ABMDR) will be in the Lobby from 6:30 to 10 pm. It is a
simple and easy procedure that can save a life.
Please also consider making a donation to the ABMDR to cover
the cost of processing the samples. Send your tax-deductible donation
to: ABMDR, c/o Carol Haddad, 74 Eastbrook Drive, River Edge, NJ 07661.
TWO BOOKS FROM THE PRELACY BOOKSTORE
THE GREEDY SPARROW
An Armenian Tale
Retold by Lucine Kasbarian
Illustrated by Maria Zaikina
The Greedy Sparrow is from the ancient Armenian oral tradition.
Lucine Kasbarian learned the tale from her father, editor and
columnist C.K. Garabed. He had learned it from his grandmother. The
tale was first put down on paper by Hovhannes Toumanian at the turn of
the 20th century. This is the first time it is being presented in
English as a childrens picture book. But as Sesame Street Host, Bob
McGrath, has noted The Greedy Sparrow is actually for everyone. Its
clever and humorous, and the wonderful illustrations not only add
color but also truly interpret the story line.
Hardcover, $17.99 plus shipping & handling
If you would like to read an interview with the author click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972604/24882/goto:http://www.keghart.com/Kasbarian_Sparrow
).
THE ACCIDENTAL OBSERVER
Poetry in three languages
By Lola Koundakjian
For many years Lola Koundakjian has promoted the art of poetry and the
works of poets. This new volume of poems in three languages (English,
Armenian, Spanish) shows how good a poet she is. Her poetry is sparse,
and yet so meaningful. The ordinary becomes extraordinary.
Soft cover, $12.00 plus shipping and handling.
To order these books contact the Prelacy Bookstore by email at
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) or by
telephone at 212-689-7810.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
March 4Poon Paregentan Celebration at Holy Trinity Armenian Church,
Worcester, Massachusetts, 6:30 pm in the church hall. Join in
Celebrating our Success while Preparing to Rededicate
Ourselves. Armenian music and dancing, games of chance, silent
auction, hot and cold appetizers, beer and wine, coffee and
dessert. $25. per person. For reservations: 508-852-2414.
March 5St. Stephens Ladies Guild (Watertown, Massachusetts) presents
Mezze, Music, March Madness, and Mardi Gras, at the church hall at 7
p.m. Music by Mal Barsamian, Leo Derderian, Steve Megerdichian, Ron
Tutunjian. Donation $25. For info contact Mary Derderian by email at
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) or telephone
781-762-4253.
March 5Sunday School Poon Paregentan program, St. Asdvadzadzin Church,
Whitinsville, Massachusetts, 6 pm.
March 6Annual Membership Meeting (Part 2), St. Asdvadzadzin Church,
Whitinsville, Massachusetts, 12:45 pm.
March 6Annual Membership Meeting, Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield,
New Jersey, after the Divine Liturgy.
March 6Annual Membership Meeting, St. Paul Church, Waukegan, Illinois,
following Badarak and Luncheon. For information contact a member of
the Board of Trustees.
March 6 through LentSt. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic
Church, Granite City, Illoinois, Lenten Bible Study Series
2011. Begins Sunday, March 6, immediately following Divine Liturgy;
continues every Friday evening during Great Lent, from 6-7 pm. (Vigil
service to follow). Topic: Understanding the Divine Liturgy (Because
lets face it, you dont!). A detailed look at the origins, structure,
theology and historical development of the Soorp Badarak.
March 9 to April 13Prelacy Lenten Lectures, every Wednesday during
Lent, at St. Illuminators Cathedral, 221 E. 27th Street, New York
City. Fellowship at 7:15 pm; Lenten service at 8 pm; Lecture at 8:30
pm. For details click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972605/24882/goto:http://www.armenianprelacy.org/index.php/events/special-events/prelacy-lenten-program
).
March 9Mark Kyrkostas Remember Me with Music, live jazz and classical
piano concert featuring Ivy Adrian, Arnold Lee and Cosmo
Mallardi. Also dances from India, Bangladesh, Korea, and
Armenia. Sponsored by the Anthropology Museum of the People of New
York at Queens College. Event will take place at Kalustyan Hall, The
Armenian Church of Holy Martyrs, 209-15 Horace Harding Boulevard,
Bayside, New York. Donation $5.00; for information/reservations
718-428-5650.
March 11St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, Lenten Worship,
Education & Tradition series, lecture by Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian,
Vicar of Prelacy. Fellowship by the Ladies Guild. Vespers 6:30 pm;
Lecture 7:30 pm; Q 8:00 pm; Fellowship 8:15 pm.
March 12Lunch & Learn Series #1, by Armenian Relief Society, Shakeh
Chapter. Armenian traditional Lenten dishes will be featured and the
preparation of Topig will be demonstrated at Sts. Vartanantz Church
Hall, 461 Bergen Boulevard, Ridgefield, New Jersey, at 1 pm. Donation
$25. Contact 201-242-1650.
March 13SAVE THE DATE. Gakavik Childrens magazine workshop at
St. Illuminators Cathedral, New York City. Details will follow.
March 18St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York. Lenten Worship,
Education & Tradition series. Over the Waterfall, a lecture on
Suffering by Professor Marilyn Martone, Ph.D., St. John s
University. Fellowship by Young Adults Group. Vespers 6:30 pm; Lecture
7:30 pm; Q: 8:00 pm; Fellowship 8:15 pm.
March 19New England Regional Conference, hosted by St. Asdvadzadzin
Church, 315 Church Street, Whitinsville, Massachusetts, for clergy,
board of trustees members, and delegate. Members of the Religious and
Executive Councils will be present. Conference will begin at 10
a.m. and continue to 4 p.m.
March 20Educational Committee of St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New
York, presents The Harvest Year? featuring legal and financial issues
facing seniors, at 1:30 pm. Presentations by: Ann Margaret Carozza,
JD, Attorney at Law, Elder Law, Asset Protection & Qualifying for
Medicaid.; Lori Shibilo and Mary Ann Kuntz, The Medical Application
Process,; Dickran Kabarajian, CLU, LUTCF, Long Term Care
Insurance. For information: 718-786-3842 (Dr. Arthur Kubikian); or
718-224-2275 (church office).
March 25St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York. Lenten Worship,
Education & Tradition series. The Service of Washing of the Feet, a
lecture by Rev. Fr. Nareg Terterian, Pastor. Fellowship by the
Choir. Vespers 6:30 pm; Lecture 7:30 pm; Q 8:00 pm; Fellowship 8:15
pm.
March 25-27Conference for Sunday School teachers and Christian
educators sponsored by the Armenian Religious Education Council
(AREC), at the Archdiocesan Center at St. Thomas Seminary, Bloomfield,
Connecticut. Theme of the conference: The Feasts of the Armenian
Church. For information and registration click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972606/24882/goto:http://www.armenianprelacy.org/index.php/departments/arec/conference-for-christian-educators
).
March 27Musical Armenia Concert. Sponsored by Eastern Prelacy, Weill
Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, New York City. For information click
here (
http://e2ma.net/go/9160773026/3496600/103972607/24882/goto:http://www.armenianprelacy.org/index.php/events/special-events/musical-armenia
).
March 27Traditional Lenten Luncheon featuring Topig and an array of
Lenten dishes, hosted by the Ladies Guild of Sts. Vartanantz Church,
Ridgefield, New Jersey, immediately following church services. Adults
$20; children (5-12) $10.
March 27Lenten Luncheon, St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York,
following Church services. Traditional home-cooked Lenten
meals. Reservations suggested. Church office: 718-224-2275.
April 1St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, Lenten Worship,
Education & Tradition series, A Conversation with the Prelate,
Archbishop Oshagan, Prelate of Eastern Prelacy. Fellowship by the
Saturday School PTA. Vespers 6:30 pm; Lecture 7:30 pm; Q 8:00 pm;
Fellowship 8:15 pm.
April 8St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York. Lenten Worship,
Education & Tradition series, The Biblical Passages in the Vespers
Service of the Armenian Church, a lecture by Fr. Jean Pierre Ruiz,
Ph.D., St. Johns University. Fellowship hour by the Yeraz Dance
Ensemble. Vespers 6:30 pm; Lecture 7:30 pm; Q 8:00 pm; Fellowship 8:15
pm.
April 9Evening service at 7 pm, followed by a reception for the
Pillars of the Prelacy in New England area, at St. Stephens Church,
Watertown, Massachusetts.
April 15St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York. Lenten Worship,
Education and Tradition series, For Christ our Passover lamb, has been
sacrificed (1 Corinthians 5:7)a Reflection on the Death of Christ, by
Deacon Shant Kazanjian, Director of the Prelacys Armenian Religious
Education Council. Fellowship hour by the Senior Citizens Group.
Vespers 6:30 pm; Lecture 7:30 pm; Q 8:00 pm; Fellowship 8:15 pm.
May 2Prelacy Ladies Guild Mothers Day Luncheon, New York City.
May 11-14National Representative Assembly of Eastern Prelacy, hosted
by St. Gregory the Illuminator Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
May 22Celebration of the 95th anniversary of St. Illuminators
Cathedral, New York City, will take place at the Terrace on the Park,
Flushing Meadow Park, 5 pm to 10 pm, under the auspices of
H.E. Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan.
Web pages of the parishes can be accessed through the Prelacys web
site.
To ensure the timely arrival of Crossroads in your electronic mailbox,
add [email protected] (mailto:[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] (mailto:[email protected])
From: A. Papazian