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August 17, 2012
Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate
6252 Honolulu Avenue
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Tel: (818) 248-7737
Fax: (818) 248-7745
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.westernprelacy.org
All religious denominations, political parties and relief
organizations in the Western United States have come together to form a
joint committee to assist the Armenian community of Syria. On Thursday, the
group issued a call to support the efforts, the text of which is presented
below:
A CALL TO SUPPORT THE ARMENIAN COMMUNITY IN SYRIA
During the past weeks, the 17-month conflict in Syria has escalated
to dangerous proportions. Caught in the crossfire of this growing conflict
are the innocent citizens of Syria, among them the large Armenian community.
The presence of Armenians in Syria dates back many centuries, and
throughout that time, the community has had an important role in the
Armenian Diaspora reality. Especially after the Armenian Genocide, the
growing Armenian community, through its hard work and determination has
created beneficial situation for nurturing families and establishing
national institutions such as churches and schools, and preserving our
heritage and traditions. Today, due to the current conflict, the Armenian
community is facing a crisis. The Armenian community organizations in Syria,
by adhering to the survivalist spirit of the Armenian people, have already
mobilized to effectively and in an organized manner cater to the needs of
the community.
In light of this mounting humanitarian crisis, Armenians will not
remain indifferent, and will get to work to extend a helping hand and assist
the Syrian-Armenian community.
The Armenian American community of Western United States is equally
concerned with these developments, which impact the entire Armenian nation.
Any harm inflicted upon any member of our dispersed Armenian family equally
impacts the rest of the family be they in Armenia or the Diaspora. With
increased resolve and conviction we must be ready to support the
Syrian-Armenian population, just as we have come to aid of our brethren in
Armenia, Artsakh, Lebanon and Iraq, in their time of need.
We call upon the Armenian American community of the Western United
States to facilitate the needs of the Syrian-Armenian community and to
contribute for the preservation of the Armenian community. The
Syrian-Armenian community has fulfilled its centuries-old mission proudly,
and today as it holds on to its home, the community is aware of its
exceptional and unique role it has had in the Diaspora, which unequivocally
needs to be preserved.
We hereby announce the formation of a Joint Committee in Support of
the Syrian-Armenian Community.
Archbishop Hovnan Derderian Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian
Bishop Mikael Mouradian Rev. Joe Matossian
Social Democrat Hunchakian Party Armenian Revolutionary
Federation
Armenian Democratic Liberal Party Armenian General
Benevolent Union
Armenian Relief Society Armenian Missionary Association of
America
August 15, 2012
PRELATE TO PRESIDE OVER DIVINE LITURGY AT HOLY MARTYRS CHURCH IN ENCINO
On Sunday, August 19, 2012, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate, will preside over Divine Liturgy and deliver the sermon at Holy
Martyrs Church in Encino.
PRELATE BEGINS VISITS TO PRELACY SCHOOLS AT THE START OF THE NEW ACADEMIC
YEAR
This past week, a number of Prelacy Schools welcomed back their
students for the start of the 2012-2013 academic year, with the remaining
schools to reopen in the coming days.
Each year, the new school year commences with prayers and the
conveying of the Prelate's message and blessings to the students and
administration.
Thursday, August 16, 2012, was back to school for Vahan and Anoush
Chamlian School first grade students. The students met their teachers and
fellow classmates and became familiarized with their daily routine for the
new school year. The Parents also became acquainted with their children's
teachers and the curriculum for the new year.
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate joined the
administration and staff of Vahan and Anoush Chamlian School to welcome the
first grade class to the new school year. Crescenta Valley Pastor Rev. Fr.
Ghevont Kirazian and Executive Council member Mr. Vahan Bezdikian
accompanied the Prelate.
Upon their arrival, the Prelate and accompaniers were greeted by
Principal Mr. Vazken Madenlian and Vice-Principal Mrs. Rita Kaprielian.
After prayers and the delivering of welcoming remarks, the Prelate delivered
his message, which was followed by breakfast with the administration and
parents
The Prelate then visited the four first grade classrooms where he
interacted with the students and conveyed his blessings to them for a
successful school year.
The Prelate will continue his visits to Prelacy Schools in the
coming days and weeks. On Monday, August 20, the Prelate will visit
Ferrahian School in Encino.
"HARUT BARSAMIAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND"
RECIPIENTS ANNOUNCED
The "Harut Barsamian Scholarship Fund" Committee, established within
the Prelacy and which operates under the auspices of H.E. Archbishop
Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, has reviewed scholarship applications
received for the upcoming academic term and has made a decision to award
scholarships to two students.
The committee is comprised of the Prelate, Prof. Harut Barsamian,
and Dr. Garo Agopian. The committee awarded scholarships to the following
students:
- Alex Tashjian $1,500
- Rafael Tufenkjian $1,500
BOARD OF REGENTS OF PRELACY SCHOOLS
ANNOUNCES ITS NEW OFFICERS
On Wednesday, August 15, 2012, the newly appointed Board of Regents
of Prelacy Schools held their meeting, during which they elected their
officers of the board.
Executive Council Chair Mrs. Rima Boghossian and Executive Council
representative to the Board of Regents Mr. George Chorbajian also attended
the meeting. On behalf of the Executive Council, Mrs. Boghossian welcomed
the new board members and wished them success in their upcoming endeavors.
The officers were elected as follows:
Mr. Sako Berberian Co-Chair
Mrs. Maggie Sarkuni Co-Chair
Mrs. Houri Arslanian-Keuroghlian Secretary
Mr. Chris Keosian, Esq. Treasurer
Mrs. Sossi Hovsepian Advisor
Ms. Charlotte Sassounian Advisor
Dr. Jeannine Topalian-Alkeine Advisor
Mrs. Azita Avedissian-Yacoubian, Esq. Advisor
Dr. Hasmig Baran Advisor
In the coming weeks, the Board of Regents will appoint new School
Boards.
BOARD OF REGENTS DIVAN
PRELATE CELEBRATES THE FEAST OF THE ASSUMPTION
AT ST. MARY'S CHURCH IN GLENDALE
Sunday, August 12, 2012, was the Feast of the Assumption of the Holy
Mother of God, one of five great feasts in the Armenian Church. This feast
commemorates how St. Mary was carried up into heaven, body and soul, or
"assumed" into heaven. This was performed by our Lord Jesus Christ many
years after His Ascension as a loving tribute to the mother who bore and
raised him. On this feast, the Blessing of Grapes takes place following
Divine Liturgy. The service is rich in symbolism and emphasizes the
important role of the Virgin Mary in the revelation of God. The blessing of
the grapes became part of this celebration due to their association to Jesus
Christ in numerous biblical references and in thanksgiving to God as the
first fruit of the harvest.
The Feast of the Assumption was ceremoniously celebrated in all
Prelacy Churches with Divine Liturgy and the blessing of grapes.
The feast is also the name day of St. Mary's Church in Glendale.
Thus, on this occasion, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate,
celebrated Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon at St. Mary's Church.
Following Divine Liturgy, the Prelate conducted the blessing of grapes and
madagh.
In his sermon, the Prelate exalted the innocence, humility, purity,
and blessedness of the Virgin Mary, and especially St. Mary's abiding
obedience to and unwavering faith and trust in God. "The Virgin Mary is
most blessed among women and became worthy of being the Holy Mother of God
and the perfect model of motherhood." The virtues and saintly life of the
Virgin Mary is an ideal example and daily reminder to hear and listen to
God's plan for our lives and submit ourselves to His holy will. The Feast
of the Assumption invites us all, and specifically our mothers and sisters,
to live exemplary lives by heeding not our own wants and needs, but rather
the will of God. As we celebrate this special feast, let us today vow to
transform our spiritual lives. By the intercession of St. Mary, we pray for
Almighty God to heal and revitalize our minds, bodies, and spirits, and to
grant peace to the nations of the world, and especially to the Syrian
people", concluded the Prelate.
During Divine Liturgy, "Der Voghormya" prayers were offered for the
safety and tranquility of the Syrian people and nation.
At the conclusion of the service, the Prelate conducted the ceremony
of the blessing of grapes and madagh, after which His Eminence also blessed
a pair of wedding crowns donated to each Prelacy Church by sponsors Mr. and
Mrs. Kevork and Mirna Kacharian.
On Saturday, August 11, eve of the Feast services took place at St.
Mary's Church and the church remained open late into the night so faithful
could light candles and offer their prayers.
PRELATE VISITS ST. SARKIS CHURCH VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
St. Sarkis Church of Pasadena this year had organized a Vacation
Bible School (VBS) for youth which consisted of Bible stories, Psalm
readings, prayers, singing, games, and fun and educational activities. The
inaugural VBS, titled "Fishers of Men", was held in four one-week sessions,
beginning on July 16 and concluding on August 10, 2012. This new initiative
was sponsored by the Church Board of Trustees and organized by the Sunday
School.
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, visited the students
of the Vacation Bible School on the last day, Friday, August 10, delivered
his message to the youth, and witnessed what they had learned in the
program. Upon his arrival the Prelate was welcomed by Parish Pastor Rev.
Fr. Khoren Babochian, Board of Trustees Chair Mr. Hagop Avedikian, Sunday
School Director Mrs. Taline Zomdjian-Naccashian, teachers, and students.
The students sang hymns and recited prayers for the Prelate, after
which they had the opportunity to ask His Eminence questions. The Prelate
applauded the students for dedicating a portion of their summer for their
spiritual nourishment, and presented them with mementos in commendation of
their participation. He also had the students promise that they would
encourage their parents to take them to church and to serve our church. His
Eminence also commended the Sunday School Director and teachers for devoting
their time and efforts to teaching our youth the Bible and about the
Armenian Church.
Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate
6252 Honolulu Avenue
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Tel: (818) 248-7737
Fax: (818) 248-7745
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.westernprelacy.org
All religious denominations, political parties and relief
organizations in the Western United States have come together to form a
joint committee to assist the Armenian community of Syria. On Thursday, the
group issued a call to support the efforts, the text of which is presented
below:
A CALL TO SUPPORT THE ARMENIAN COMMUNITY IN SYRIA
During the past weeks, the 17-month conflict in Syria has escalated
to dangerous proportions. Caught in the crossfire of this growing conflict
are the innocent citizens of Syria, among them the large Armenian community.
The presence of Armenians in Syria dates back many centuries, and
throughout that time, the community has had an important role in the
Armenian Diaspora reality. Especially after the Armenian Genocide, the
growing Armenian community, through its hard work and determination has
created beneficial situation for nurturing families and establishing
national institutions such as churches and schools, and preserving our
heritage and traditions. Today, due to the current conflict, the Armenian
community is facing a crisis. The Armenian community organizations in Syria,
by adhering to the survivalist spirit of the Armenian people, have already
mobilized to effectively and in an organized manner cater to the needs of
the community.
In light of this mounting humanitarian crisis, Armenians will not
remain indifferent, and will get to work to extend a helping hand and assist
the Syrian-Armenian community.
The Armenian American community of Western United States is equally
concerned with these developments, which impact the entire Armenian nation.
Any harm inflicted upon any member of our dispersed Armenian family equally
impacts the rest of the family be they in Armenia or the Diaspora. With
increased resolve and conviction we must be ready to support the
Syrian-Armenian population, just as we have come to aid of our brethren in
Armenia, Artsakh, Lebanon and Iraq, in their time of need.
We call upon the Armenian American community of the Western United
States to facilitate the needs of the Syrian-Armenian community and to
contribute for the preservation of the Armenian community. The
Syrian-Armenian community has fulfilled its centuries-old mission proudly,
and today as it holds on to its home, the community is aware of its
exceptional and unique role it has had in the Diaspora, which unequivocally
needs to be preserved.
We hereby announce the formation of a Joint Committee in Support of
the Syrian-Armenian Community.
Archbishop Hovnan Derderian Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian
Bishop Mikael Mouradian Rev. Joe Matossian
Social Democrat Hunchakian Party Armenian Revolutionary
Federation
Armenian Democratic Liberal Party Armenian General
Benevolent Union
Armenian Relief Society Armenian Missionary Association of
America
August 15, 2012
PRELATE TO PRESIDE OVER DIVINE LITURGY AT HOLY MARTYRS CHURCH IN ENCINO
On Sunday, August 19, 2012, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate, will preside over Divine Liturgy and deliver the sermon at Holy
Martyrs Church in Encino.
PRELATE BEGINS VISITS TO PRELACY SCHOOLS AT THE START OF THE NEW ACADEMIC
YEAR
This past week, a number of Prelacy Schools welcomed back their
students for the start of the 2012-2013 academic year, with the remaining
schools to reopen in the coming days.
Each year, the new school year commences with prayers and the
conveying of the Prelate's message and blessings to the students and
administration.
Thursday, August 16, 2012, was back to school for Vahan and Anoush
Chamlian School first grade students. The students met their teachers and
fellow classmates and became familiarized with their daily routine for the
new school year. The Parents also became acquainted with their children's
teachers and the curriculum for the new year.
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate joined the
administration and staff of Vahan and Anoush Chamlian School to welcome the
first grade class to the new school year. Crescenta Valley Pastor Rev. Fr.
Ghevont Kirazian and Executive Council member Mr. Vahan Bezdikian
accompanied the Prelate.
Upon their arrival, the Prelate and accompaniers were greeted by
Principal Mr. Vazken Madenlian and Vice-Principal Mrs. Rita Kaprielian.
After prayers and the delivering of welcoming remarks, the Prelate delivered
his message, which was followed by breakfast with the administration and
parents
The Prelate then visited the four first grade classrooms where he
interacted with the students and conveyed his blessings to them for a
successful school year.
The Prelate will continue his visits to Prelacy Schools in the
coming days and weeks. On Monday, August 20, the Prelate will visit
Ferrahian School in Encino.
"HARUT BARSAMIAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND"
RECIPIENTS ANNOUNCED
The "Harut Barsamian Scholarship Fund" Committee, established within
the Prelacy and which operates under the auspices of H.E. Archbishop
Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, has reviewed scholarship applications
received for the upcoming academic term and has made a decision to award
scholarships to two students.
The committee is comprised of the Prelate, Prof. Harut Barsamian,
and Dr. Garo Agopian. The committee awarded scholarships to the following
students:
- Alex Tashjian $1,500
- Rafael Tufenkjian $1,500
BOARD OF REGENTS OF PRELACY SCHOOLS
ANNOUNCES ITS NEW OFFICERS
On Wednesday, August 15, 2012, the newly appointed Board of Regents
of Prelacy Schools held their meeting, during which they elected their
officers of the board.
Executive Council Chair Mrs. Rima Boghossian and Executive Council
representative to the Board of Regents Mr. George Chorbajian also attended
the meeting. On behalf of the Executive Council, Mrs. Boghossian welcomed
the new board members and wished them success in their upcoming endeavors.
The officers were elected as follows:
Mr. Sako Berberian Co-Chair
Mrs. Maggie Sarkuni Co-Chair
Mrs. Houri Arslanian-Keuroghlian Secretary
Mr. Chris Keosian, Esq. Treasurer
Mrs. Sossi Hovsepian Advisor
Ms. Charlotte Sassounian Advisor
Dr. Jeannine Topalian-Alkeine Advisor
Mrs. Azita Avedissian-Yacoubian, Esq. Advisor
Dr. Hasmig Baran Advisor
In the coming weeks, the Board of Regents will appoint new School
Boards.
BOARD OF REGENTS DIVAN
PRELATE CELEBRATES THE FEAST OF THE ASSUMPTION
AT ST. MARY'S CHURCH IN GLENDALE
Sunday, August 12, 2012, was the Feast of the Assumption of the Holy
Mother of God, one of five great feasts in the Armenian Church. This feast
commemorates how St. Mary was carried up into heaven, body and soul, or
"assumed" into heaven. This was performed by our Lord Jesus Christ many
years after His Ascension as a loving tribute to the mother who bore and
raised him. On this feast, the Blessing of Grapes takes place following
Divine Liturgy. The service is rich in symbolism and emphasizes the
important role of the Virgin Mary in the revelation of God. The blessing of
the grapes became part of this celebration due to their association to Jesus
Christ in numerous biblical references and in thanksgiving to God as the
first fruit of the harvest.
The Feast of the Assumption was ceremoniously celebrated in all
Prelacy Churches with Divine Liturgy and the blessing of grapes.
The feast is also the name day of St. Mary's Church in Glendale.
Thus, on this occasion, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate,
celebrated Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon at St. Mary's Church.
Following Divine Liturgy, the Prelate conducted the blessing of grapes and
madagh.
In his sermon, the Prelate exalted the innocence, humility, purity,
and blessedness of the Virgin Mary, and especially St. Mary's abiding
obedience to and unwavering faith and trust in God. "The Virgin Mary is
most blessed among women and became worthy of being the Holy Mother of God
and the perfect model of motherhood." The virtues and saintly life of the
Virgin Mary is an ideal example and daily reminder to hear and listen to
God's plan for our lives and submit ourselves to His holy will. The Feast
of the Assumption invites us all, and specifically our mothers and sisters,
to live exemplary lives by heeding not our own wants and needs, but rather
the will of God. As we celebrate this special feast, let us today vow to
transform our spiritual lives. By the intercession of St. Mary, we pray for
Almighty God to heal and revitalize our minds, bodies, and spirits, and to
grant peace to the nations of the world, and especially to the Syrian
people", concluded the Prelate.
During Divine Liturgy, "Der Voghormya" prayers were offered for the
safety and tranquility of the Syrian people and nation.
At the conclusion of the service, the Prelate conducted the ceremony
of the blessing of grapes and madagh, after which His Eminence also blessed
a pair of wedding crowns donated to each Prelacy Church by sponsors Mr. and
Mrs. Kevork and Mirna Kacharian.
On Saturday, August 11, eve of the Feast services took place at St.
Mary's Church and the church remained open late into the night so faithful
could light candles and offer their prayers.
PRELATE VISITS ST. SARKIS CHURCH VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
St. Sarkis Church of Pasadena this year had organized a Vacation
Bible School (VBS) for youth which consisted of Bible stories, Psalm
readings, prayers, singing, games, and fun and educational activities. The
inaugural VBS, titled "Fishers of Men", was held in four one-week sessions,
beginning on July 16 and concluding on August 10, 2012. This new initiative
was sponsored by the Church Board of Trustees and organized by the Sunday
School.
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, visited the students
of the Vacation Bible School on the last day, Friday, August 10, delivered
his message to the youth, and witnessed what they had learned in the
program. Upon his arrival the Prelate was welcomed by Parish Pastor Rev.
Fr. Khoren Babochian, Board of Trustees Chair Mr. Hagop Avedikian, Sunday
School Director Mrs. Taline Zomdjian-Naccashian, teachers, and students.
The students sang hymns and recited prayers for the Prelate, after
which they had the opportunity to ask His Eminence questions. The Prelate
applauded the students for dedicating a portion of their summer for their
spiritual nourishment, and presented them with mementos in commendation of
their participation. He also had the students promise that they would
encourage their parents to take them to church and to serve our church. His
Eminence also commended the Sunday School Director and teachers for devoting
their time and efforts to teaching our youth the Bible and about the
Armenian Church.