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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/
December 20, 2012
GRIEVING FOR THE TRAGIC LOSS IN CONNECTICUT
The news came in bits and pieces last Friday morning about the
unspeakable horror at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut, a
small bucolic town that suddenly became international news.
The loss of life through violence is tragic in every sense, but when
the victims are six, seven, and eight-year olds, whose parents took
them to school in the morning never to see them alive again, the
outrage
and grief is overwhelming. Misinformation and rumors circulated on
news outlets and the internet before the awful truth was confirmed: 20
children and seven adults dead.
There is no way to make sense of this tragedy. There are no words in
any language that can comfort those parents who lost their precious
children. We can only pray that our Lord and Savior will heal the
hearts that are broken and bless those who mourn.
FROM ARCHBISHOP OSHAGAN'S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE...
`In the midst of every day concerns in America, and joyful
surroundings especially during this season of Christmas, perhaps you
do not have time to share the pain of our brothers and
sisters. Perhaps you are not able
to assess the extent of the danger that threatens our Armenian
community in Syria-the community that after the Genocide became the
cradle of our rebirth, and the community that remained faithful to its
authenticity and preserved the pure Armenian character, cultural
values, faith, and language.'
To read the full message in English, click here
(http://e2.ma/click/0cr1c/4f4cee/044yx).
To read the full message in Armenian, click here
(http://e2.ma/click/0cr1c/4f4cee/gx5yx).
PLEASE DO NOT FORGET OUR ONGOING RELIEF EFFORTS FOR THE ARMENIAN
COMMUNITY
IN SYRIA WHERE CONDITIONS ARE BECOMING INCREASINGLY MORE DIFFICULT.
THE NEED IS REAL.
THE NEED IS GREAT.
DONATIONS TO THE FUND FOR SYRIAN ARMENIAN RELIEF CAN BE MADE ON LINE.
TO DONATE NOW CLICK HERE (http://e2.ma/click/0cr1c/4f4cee/wp6yx) AND
SELECT SYRIAN ARMENIAN RELIEF IN THE MENU.
The Fund for Syrian Armenian Relief is a joint effort of: Armenian
Apostolic Church of America (Eastern Prelacy); Armenian Catholic
Eparchy; Armenian
Evangelical Union of North America; Armenian Relief Society (Eastern
USA, Inc.); Armenian Revolutionary Federation.
TOWN HALL MEETING WITH U.S. AMBASSADOR
The United States Ambassador to Armenia, John A. Heffern, who during
the past several weeks has been in the United States visiting major
Armenian American communities on the west and east coasts, was hosted
by Archbishop Oshagan and the Prelacy at a Town Hall Meeting on Sunday
evening, December 16, at St. Illuminator's Cathedral. The Ambassador
was accompanied by his wife Libby and Jeffrey Paretchan, USAID Armenia
Public Private Alliance Specialist and Diaspora Outreach Coordinator.
The Ambassador and his entourage first came to the Prelacy offices
where they were welcomed and had a private meeting with the Prelate
and members of the Religious and Executive Council. After enjoying
dinner at the Prelacy, the guests and hosts made their way to
St. Illuminator's Cathedral where a large group of community leaders
had gathered for the Town Hall Meeting.
Archbishop Oshagan opened the meeting with a prayer and asked everyone
to remain standing for a minute of silence in remembrance of the
tragic
loss of lives in Newtown, Connecticut.
Stephen Hagopian, chairman of the Executive Council, served as the
Master of Ceremonies and introduced Ambassador Heffern. The Ambassador
has been a career Senior Foreign Service officer since 1982 and has
served in various embassies. Most recently he served as Deputy Chief
of Mission at USNATO in Brussels, Belgium. He was nominated to serve
as the United States Ambassador to Armenia in May 2011, and was
confirmed by the U.S. Senate in September 2011.
Ambassador Heffern presented the Embassy's mission in Armenia with a
slide-show presentation. He explained that the Embassy's primary goal
is to help Armenia succeed as a democratic, prosperous, and secure
country. He showed the various projects and endeavors undertaken by
the Embassy to achieve these goals. He emphasized the U.S.'s
dedication to Armenia by noting that Secretary of State Hillary
Clinton has visited
Armenia twice, while previously a span of 18-years passed without a
high-level visit. On the Genocide issue, the Ambassador stated that
the `characterization of those events is a policy decision that is
made by the President.' He also noted that the Armenian Remembrance
Day message issued by President Obama on April 24, 2012, was a very
strong statement where he honored `the memory of the 1.5 million
Armenians who were brutally massacred or marched to their deaths in
the waning days of the Ottoman Empire.'
An extended and lively question and answer period followed
Mr. Heffern's presentation. Issues explored included the Genocide
issue, the status of Nagorno Karabakh, the business climate in
Armenia, the upcoming
elections and questions of corruption and fraud, Diaspora and Armenia
relations, life outside of the capital city Yerevan, emigration
issues, and the
incarceration of political opponents. The Q&A period that went
one-half hour beyond the allotted one hour, continued individually
during the reception that followed hosted by the Cathedral.
Photos by Harry L. Koundakjian
Ambassador Heffern makes his presentation at St. Illuminator's
Cathedral.
Community members filled Pashalian Hall to hear the Ambassador's
message.
Archbishop Oshagan presents a copy of Hrair Hawk Khatcherian's
monumental book, Yergir, to the Ambassador.
The Prelate, Ambassador and Council members enjoyed a dinner together
prior to the Town Hall Meeting. Photo by Vazken Ghougassian.
YOUNG SISTERS RAISE FUNDS TO AID SYRIAN ARMENIANS
Sisters Anoush and Knar Krafian, parishioners at St. Stephen Church
in Watertown, Massachusetts, raised money for Syrian Armenian relief
by making tricolor hearts that can be used as refrigerator magnets or
as a decorative hanging in the car or elsewhere. They raised $250
through their efforts which they presented to Archpriest Fr. Antranig
Baljian, pastor of St. Stephen's Church.
St. Stephen's Sunday School has also been actively raising funds. The
students raised $560 for the relief effort overseas and during the
month of December they are collecting donations for Hurricane Sandy
relief.
Anoush (left) and Knar Krafian present a check for $250 for Syrian
Armenian relief to Der Antranig Baljian. The sisters raised the money
with tricolor hearts they made.
The tri-colored hearts can be used as a refrigerator magnet or
decorative hanging.
`TIS THE SEASON. . .
In his latest reporting of community activities, journalist Tom
Vartabedian reminds us that children keep the holiday vigil
sacred. Tom writes: `Go to most any Armenian Church from now through
January 6 and you will find our younger generations in a most
provocative and timely pose. The angels are joined by shepherds, Magi
impersonators, even barnyard animals. They come dressed as Joseph and
Mary. The youngest child in the congregation usually winds up as the
infant Jesus. And those in the pews are overflowing with joy. It's a
time for reconciliation-a moment of
truth-an opportunity for all of us to dispel the usual rigmarole and
put Christ back into Christmas. Nothing, not the tree or the
gift-giving, give me the pleasure of the pageant. Having put three
children through the Armenian Church, some of my most memorable
moments are centered on this tradition and all its ramifications.'
This year is no different and Tom reports that `Children dressed as
kings and shepherds took part in an annual Christmas pageant at
St. Gregory Church, North Andover. The children personified their
roles, reciting prayers and singing carols, joined by a congregation
of parents and worshippers. The program was directed by Sunday School
Superintendent Sossy Jeknavorian and her staff. A luncheon followed,
with gifts for the children from Santa Claus.'
The angels of North Andover.
Sunday School students with Rev. Fr. Karekin Bedourian at St. Gregory
Church, North Andover, following the annual joyous Christmas pageant.
EXPLORING THE EUCHARIST
The last of a four-part program on the Eucharist (Soorp Badarak) was
held last night at St. Illuminator's Cathedral in New York City,
under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, pastor. The program
was
cosponsored by the Prelacy's Armenian Religious Education Council
(AREC) and the Cathedral. The speaker of the series was AREC's
director Dn. Shant Kazanjian.
Dn. Shant first discussed what biblical vision of worship is,
highlighting its basic assumptions, contents, vocabulary, images and
symbolic language. He then presented the origin and history of the
Soorp Badarak, the central act of Christian worship, as well as its
two-part structure =80` the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the
Eucharist. The bulk of the program was to walk the participants
through the service, step-by-step,
facilitated by a Badarak video and a detailed outline of the Badarak
cross-referenced to the Prelacy's Badarak book, explaining various
elements, prayers and chants, as well as liturgical actions and
symbols.
The participants of the four-part program on the Eucharist.
BIBLE READINGS
Bible readings for Sunday, December 23, Fifth Sunday of Advent, are:
Isaiah 40:18-31; Hebrews 4:16-5:10; Luke 18:9-14.
He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they
were righteous and regarded others with contempt. `Two men went up to
the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The
Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, `God, I thank you
that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers or even
like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my
income.' But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even look
up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, `God, be merciful
to
me, a sinner!' I tell you, this man went down to his home justified
rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled,
but all who humble themselves will be exalted.' (Luke 18:9-14)
For a listing of the coming week's Bible readings click here
(http://e2.ma/click/0cr1c/4f4cee/ci7yx).
THE HOLY FATHERS
This Saturday, December 22, the Armenian Church commemorates the Holy
Fathers Basil, Gregory of Nyssa, Sylvester of Rome, and Ephraem the
Syrian.
St. Basil, called the `Great,' was an exceptional leader who helped
spread Christianity. At the age of 26 he gave up his wealth and became
a monk, and dedicated his life to serve the people, by establishing
hospitals, hostels, and public kitchens to feed the needy. He was a
talented writer and many of his prayers are used in the Armenian
Church and other eastern churches. At a time when a solitary life of a
hermit was considered to be spiritual, he instead urged monastic
communities believing that no one is totally self-sufficient.
St. Gregory of Nyssa was the younger brother of Basil, and friend of
Gregory of Nazianus. He was educated in Athens and influenced by the
writings of Origen and Plato. He was a professor of rhetoric, but
became disillusioned with his life as a teacher and became a
priest. He served as Bishop
of Nyssa and Archbishop of Sebastia.
St. Sylvester served as the Bishop of Rome during the era of
Constantine for more than twenty years. During the time of his service
many great
churches were built. He took part in the negotiations concerning
Arianism at the Council of Nicaea.
St. Ephraem the Syrian lived in Mesopotamia (Syria) during his entire
life. He was baptized at age 18 and he served under St. James of
Nisibis. He is credited for introducing hymns in public worship
services. He visited St. Basil at Caesarea and upon his return he
helped ease the famine during the winter of 372-73 by distributing
food and money to the poor and needy. He was a prolific writer and his
work, written in Syriac, was immediately translated into Greek,
Armenian, and Latin.
DAVID THE PROPHET KING; HOLY APOSTLE JAMES
This Monday, December 24, the Armenian Church commemorates David the
Prophet King and James the Brother of the Lord.
David was the youngest of eight brothers and was brought up to be a
shepherd where he learned courage, tenderness, and caring. David
became the second King of Israel. In the Bible, the name David belongs
solely to him, which indicates the unique place he had as an ancestor
and forerunner of our Lord Jesus Christ. In the New Testament there
are more than 50 references to David, including the title given to
Jesus-Son of David. David
was a poet and the author of some of the Psalms.
James the Apostle, called `Brother of the Lord,' probably because of
his close relationship with Jesus, was granted a special appearance of
the Lord after the Resurrection. He is believed to have been a first
cousin of the Lord, or as some biblical scholars have suggested, a son
of Joseph. After the Resurrection and the Ascension, while the other
apostles scattered all over the world, James remained in Jerusalem
where he served as the Bishop and became a leading spokesman of the
early church.
ST. STEPHEN
This Tuesday, December 25, the Armenian Church commemorates
St. Stephen, the first deacon and proto-martyr. After Christ's
ascension, the apostles went about spreading the Word. It soon became
apparent that more people were needed to serve the growing church
community. Seven worthy individuals were called upon to serve the Holy
Altar and called `deacons' (sarkavag). The most noteworthy of the
seven was Stephen, described as a `man full of faith and the Holy
Spirit' (Acts 6:5). The Feast of St. Stephen is a popular and
important commemoration in the Armenian Church. It is also a day to
honor all deacons of the church. St. Stephen became the first martyr
of the Christian church and is therefore called the `proto-martyr.'
The only information about his life and death is in the Book of Acts
of the Apostles (Acts 6:8 and 8:2).
PETER AND PAUL
Next Thursday, December 27, the Armenian Church commemorates the Holy
Apostles Peter and Paul, perhaps the two individuals who had the
greatest role in the growth of Christianity. It is, therefore,
appropriate that the Church honors them together.
After the Crucifixion and Resurrection, Jesus came to Peter and asked
him to tell the other apostles of His appearance and to give them His
message (Luke 24:34-35). Peter was renowned for his oratory skills,
and he used his talent to spread the Word. He preached in Rome and
founded the church there. He is considered to be the first Bishop of
Rome. According to tradition, Peter was crucified in Rome upside down
because he declared himself unworthy to die in the same manner as the
Lord. He was buried in Rome and his relics are enshrined under the
high altar of the magnificent St. Peter's Basilica.
Paul (Saul) was born in Tarsus in Cilicia. He was an oppressor of the
early Christians until on the road to Damascus he converted when a
brilliant light blinded him and he heard, `Saul, Saul, why do you
persecute me? I am Jesus whom you are persecuting. Enter the City and
you will be
told what to do,' (Acts 9:4-6; 26:12-16). Saul was baptized and
renamed Paul and he went on to become the greatest preacher of the new
religion, traveling and writing extensively. Many theologians credit
him for shaping the future of the Church. His fourteen epistles
comprise more than one-third of the New Testament, not including the
Book of Acts, which although written by Luke, primarily is an account
of Paul's preaching.
FIFTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT
This Sunday, December 24, is the fifth Sunday of Advent for the
faithful of the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church, and Christmas Eve
for most
of the Christian world.
Originally all of Christendom celebrated the birth, baptism, visit of
the Magi, and the First Miracle at Cana, on January 6. Rome adopted
December 25 in the year 336, and this date gradually became popular;
December 25 was officially adopted as the birthday of Christ at the
Council of Chalcedon (451)-a Council the Armenian Church did not
attend and never accepted. Therefore, the Armenian Church to this day
has remained faithful to
the original date of January 6.
MARTA BAGRATUNI LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN
TO FUND NEW CD PROJECT
Marta Bagratuni, who was a featured artist in the Prelacy's
2012 Musical Armenia concert, has launched a campaign to raise funds
for a
classical music debut album, `Pieces of the World,' featuring works
for cello by composers from all over the world within the span of
the last 300 years. The project will feature a world-premiere work by
composer Vache Sharafyan for cello solo and obbligato voice. The
fundraising effort is through kickstarter.com, a company founded in
2009 that provides the means to raise funds for creative
projects. Marta's campaign began on December 10 and will continue
through January 11 with the goal of raising $8,000. Donations are
accepted online through the kickstarter.com website. For more
information about Marta and the project, visit kickstarter.com
and search either `Marta Bagratuni' or `Pieces of the World.'
Ms. Baratuni was a featured artist along with Hayk Arsenian at the
Prelacy
30th Musical Armenia concert on March 30, 2012. She is raising funds
for the production of a CD.
SPEAKER OF CYPRIOT PARLIAMENT VISITS CATHOLICOSATE
Yianniks Omirou, the speaker of the Parliament of Cyprus, met with His
Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia in
Antelias. The
delegation included the Ambassador of Cyprus to Lebanon, the Secretary
of the Parliament, the Chairman of the International Committee of the
Parliament, and an advisor to the Speaker. Attending on behalf of the
Catholicosate
were the President of the Catholicosate's Executive Council, and the
Armenian Ministers and Parliamentarians in the Lebanese government.
His Holiness spoke of the long-standing political, economic and
religious relations between Cyprus and Cilicia. He noted that over
time the ties were strengthened and today the Armenian community
actively contributes to the strengthening of the island.
His Holiness spoke about the confiscated churches and properties
belonging to the Armenian community in northern Cyprus. Speaker Omirou
said,
`We should expand and deepen our centuries-long cooperation. In this
respect churches have an important role in speaking for human
rights. The government is extremely concerned about the future of the
properties confiscated by Turkey, which are being transformed and used
for other purposes.'
Before concluding the visit, the Speaker and his delegation
accompanied His Holiness to the Cathedral of St. Gregory the
Illuminator and the Martyrs Chapel where His Holiness prayed for the
souls of the martyrs of the
Genocide of 1915.
Death of Gareguin Nezhdeh (December 21, 1955)
Gareguin Nezhdeh was an important military and political figure of
the twentieth century, particularly during the first Republic of
Armenia and the first two decades of the Diaspora.
His actual name was Gareguin Ter Harutiunian, and he was born on
January 1, 1886, in the family of a priest (hence the surname Ter
Harutiunian) in the village of Kznout, Nakhichevan.
He adopted the surname Nezhdeh in 1906. He studied in the Armenian
parochial school of the village, the Russian school of Nakhichevan,
and the Russian gymnasium of Tiflis. He studied law for two years in
St. Petersburg, but left the university to join the revolutionary
movement in 1906.
In 1906 he moved to Bulgaria where he studied in the school of
officers of Sofia from 1906-1907. He entered the ranks of the Armenian
Revolutionary Federation and returned to the Caucasus in 1908. The
next year he was
arrested by the Russian police for illegal transportation of weapons
and spent three years in prison.
In 1912 he went to Bulgaria, where he fought in the First Balkan War
(the alliance of Serbia, Greece, Montenegro, and Bulgaria against the
Ottoman Empire). Together with General Antranig, he organized a
battalion of Armenian volunteers (271 soldiers) and fought in the
Bulgarian volunteer unit against the Turks, and was decorated for his
bravery. He returned again to the Caucasus and during World War I was
deputy commander of the second regiment of
Armenian volunteers, commanded by Dro, in 1915-1916. With a group of
cavalry, he participated in the historical battle of Gharakilise (May
24-28, 1918), one of the three that paved the way for the first
independence of Armenia.
He became commander of the armed forces in the region of Zanguezur
(nowadays Siunik) in October 1919. Shortly thereafter, these forces
had to
confront the attacks of Turkish and Azerbaijani forces, which
continued for the next two years. Zanguezur, (along with Karabagh and
Nakhichevan), was
claimed by Azerbaijan as part of its territory. The leadership of
Nezhdeh would be crucial to preventing this historically Armenian
region, strategically very important as the main way to Iran, to fall
into Azerbaijani hands.
The Republic of Armenia and Soviet Russia signed an agreement on
August 10, 1920 in Tiflis, according to which the three contested
regions would be temporarily controlled by Soviet forces until Armenia
and Soviet Azerbaijan peacefully solved their controversy. However,
the population of Zanguezur, led by Nezhdeh, did not recognize that
agreement. During the months
of September and October of 1920, Nezhdeh liberated the cities of
Kapan, Sisian, and Goris.
Independent Armenia collapsed in early December. On December 25 a
popular assembly proclaimed the autonomy of Siunik and Nezhdeh was
elected general-in-chief of Siunik. After the end of the February
revolt against the Soviet regime (February 18 - April 2, 1921) that
briefly re-established the independence of Armenia, thousands of
rebels, including many prominent members of the ARF, found refuge in
Siunik, where resistance against
attacks by the Red Army and Azerbaijani forces had continued
relentlessly.
Siunik was the only way of exit for the opposition to the Soviet
regime towards Iran. On April 26, 1921, the second congress of
Armenians of Zanguezur, held in the monastery of Tatev, proclaimed the
autonomous region of Siunik as the Republic of Mountainous Armenia
(Lernahayastani Hanrabedoutioun).
Nezhdeh was elected Prime Minister and War Minister.
The epic resistance of Siunik ended in mid-July 1921, when Nezhdeh,
after receiving guarantees that the region would be attached to Soviet
Armenia, retreated with a small group of soldiers towards Iran. He
departed to Sofia in the next year. He lived in Bulgaria for most of
the next twenty years, participating actively in Armenian politics and
organization of the Diaspora. He also wrote several books and many
articles in the press.
He was sent by the ARF to the United States between 1932 and 1934,
where in 1933 he founded the Tzeghagron organization, which in 1941
became
the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF). During the 1930s he developed the
theoretical grounds of a new ideological movement called
tzeghagronutiun, which was aimed at the development of national spirit
among Armenians. Divergences with the leadership of the ARF after his
return to Bulgaria in 1934 triggered his separation from the party in
1937 (he was expelled in 1938).
On October 10, 1944, he was captured by the Soviet forces that had
entered Bulgaria. After being moved to Bucharest, he was incarcerated
in the prison of Lubyanka, in Moscow. In November 1946 he was sent to
Yerevan and, after a trial, condemned to 25 years in prison. In 1948
he was moved to
the prison of Vladimir (Russia), where he died in 1955 and was buried
in the prison's cemetery.
Nezhdeh was rehabilitated by the ARF shortly after his death. In 1963
his bust was inaugurated in Camp Hayastan (Franklin, Massachusetts),
as
a tribute by the AYF to its founder. The remains of Nezhdeh were
secretly moved to Yerevan in 1983. A small part of his remains was
interred at the foot of Mount Khusdup, in Siunik, and the rest was
reburied in the courtyard
of the monastery of Spitakavor, near the village of Vernashen
(province of
Vayots Dzor).
After the fall of the Soviet regime, the rehabilitation of Nezhdeh
started in Armenia. In Yerevan, a square, a street, a subway station,
and a school all bear his name, as well as a square and a street in
Gumri. He was reburied with military honors in 2005 in Kapan where a
memorial complex was built.
ATLAS....AT LAST
Pre-Publication Offer Extended to January 18
The long-awaited revised edition of the popular Historical Atlas of
Armenia will be available shortly after the New Year. The special
pre-publication price has been extended to January 18, 2013. So, don't
delay; secure your copies now at a good saving, plus free
shipping. The Atlas comes with a companion CD that includes all of the
maps.
ARMENIAN WINE MAKES TOP TEN LIST
An Armenian wine has been rated among the world's top ten wines
according to an article in Bloomberg Businessweekly. The search
required tasting more than 4,000 wines from which ten were selected as
being =80=9Cmost memorable.' A 2010 Zorah Karasi Areni Noir at $45 per
bottle was one of the ten in a list that included some costing many
thousands of dollars (i.e., $18,000). According to the author of the
report, the Armenian wine is the first vintage from a new wine making
project near the Areni-1 cave, where archeologists discovered the
world's oldest winery, dating back 6,100 years. Genatzt, Cheers,
Salute.
WINTER...OFFICIALLY
Winter officially begins in the Northern Hemisphere tomorrow, December
21, at 6:12 am (EST).
`O wind, if winter comes, can spring be far behind?' (P. B. Shelley)
MAY THE PEACE OF OUR LORD GRACE THE WORLD
WITH HARMONY AND LOVE
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
December 23-Christmas Pageant and lunch after Holy Badarak, presented
by Nareg Saturday School, Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New
Jersey. Special Guest of Honor: Gaghant Baba. Donation: $20
adults. Children under 10 and Nareg School students are invited to
attend.
December 31-All Saints Church, Glenview, Illinois, New Years Eve
celebration organized by the Board of Trustees, 7:30 pm at
Shahnasarian Hall, Glenview.
December 31-New Years Eve Dinner Dance, Sts. Vartanantz Church Large
Hall, 461 Bergen Boulevard, Ridgefield, New Jersey, starting at 8
pm. BYOB. Donation: Adults $65; Children under twelve $30.
January 27-St. Gregory Church, North Andover, Massachusetts,
Anniversary Dinner and Program following the Divine Liturgy.
February 17-St. Gregory Church, North Andover, Massachusetts, Annual
Membership Meeting and Luncheon following the Divine Liturgy.
February 23-Annual Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference for pastors,
boards of trustees, and NRA delegates, hosted by St. Gregory Church,
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania beginning at 10 am and concluding at 4 pm.
March 16-Annual New England Regional Conference for pastors, boards of
trustees, and NRA delegates, hosted by St. Gregory Church, North
Andover, Massachusetts, beginning at 10 am and concluding at 4 pm.
May 16, 17, 18-National Representative Assembly hosted by Soorp Khatch
Church, Bethesda, Maryland.
Web pages of the parishes can be accessed through the Prelacy's web
site.
To ensure the timely arrival of Crossroads in your electronic mailbox,
add
[email protected] to your address book.
Items in Crossroads can be reproduced without permission. Please
credit Crossroads as the source.
Parishes of the Eastern Prelacy are invited to send information about
their major events to be included in the calendar. Send to:
[email protected]
From: Baghdasarian
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/
December 20, 2012
GRIEVING FOR THE TRAGIC LOSS IN CONNECTICUT
The news came in bits and pieces last Friday morning about the
unspeakable horror at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut, a
small bucolic town that suddenly became international news.
The loss of life through violence is tragic in every sense, but when
the victims are six, seven, and eight-year olds, whose parents took
them to school in the morning never to see them alive again, the
outrage
and grief is overwhelming. Misinformation and rumors circulated on
news outlets and the internet before the awful truth was confirmed: 20
children and seven adults dead.
There is no way to make sense of this tragedy. There are no words in
any language that can comfort those parents who lost their precious
children. We can only pray that our Lord and Savior will heal the
hearts that are broken and bless those who mourn.
FROM ARCHBISHOP OSHAGAN'S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE...
`In the midst of every day concerns in America, and joyful
surroundings especially during this season of Christmas, perhaps you
do not have time to share the pain of our brothers and
sisters. Perhaps you are not able
to assess the extent of the danger that threatens our Armenian
community in Syria-the community that after the Genocide became the
cradle of our rebirth, and the community that remained faithful to its
authenticity and preserved the pure Armenian character, cultural
values, faith, and language.'
To read the full message in English, click here
(http://e2.ma/click/0cr1c/4f4cee/044yx).
To read the full message in Armenian, click here
(http://e2.ma/click/0cr1c/4f4cee/gx5yx).
PLEASE DO NOT FORGET OUR ONGOING RELIEF EFFORTS FOR THE ARMENIAN
COMMUNITY
IN SYRIA WHERE CONDITIONS ARE BECOMING INCREASINGLY MORE DIFFICULT.
THE NEED IS REAL.
THE NEED IS GREAT.
DONATIONS TO THE FUND FOR SYRIAN ARMENIAN RELIEF CAN BE MADE ON LINE.
TO DONATE NOW CLICK HERE (http://e2.ma/click/0cr1c/4f4cee/wp6yx) AND
SELECT SYRIAN ARMENIAN RELIEF IN THE MENU.
The Fund for Syrian Armenian Relief is a joint effort of: Armenian
Apostolic Church of America (Eastern Prelacy); Armenian Catholic
Eparchy; Armenian
Evangelical Union of North America; Armenian Relief Society (Eastern
USA, Inc.); Armenian Revolutionary Federation.
TOWN HALL MEETING WITH U.S. AMBASSADOR
The United States Ambassador to Armenia, John A. Heffern, who during
the past several weeks has been in the United States visiting major
Armenian American communities on the west and east coasts, was hosted
by Archbishop Oshagan and the Prelacy at a Town Hall Meeting on Sunday
evening, December 16, at St. Illuminator's Cathedral. The Ambassador
was accompanied by his wife Libby and Jeffrey Paretchan, USAID Armenia
Public Private Alliance Specialist and Diaspora Outreach Coordinator.
The Ambassador and his entourage first came to the Prelacy offices
where they were welcomed and had a private meeting with the Prelate
and members of the Religious and Executive Council. After enjoying
dinner at the Prelacy, the guests and hosts made their way to
St. Illuminator's Cathedral where a large group of community leaders
had gathered for the Town Hall Meeting.
Archbishop Oshagan opened the meeting with a prayer and asked everyone
to remain standing for a minute of silence in remembrance of the
tragic
loss of lives in Newtown, Connecticut.
Stephen Hagopian, chairman of the Executive Council, served as the
Master of Ceremonies and introduced Ambassador Heffern. The Ambassador
has been a career Senior Foreign Service officer since 1982 and has
served in various embassies. Most recently he served as Deputy Chief
of Mission at USNATO in Brussels, Belgium. He was nominated to serve
as the United States Ambassador to Armenia in May 2011, and was
confirmed by the U.S. Senate in September 2011.
Ambassador Heffern presented the Embassy's mission in Armenia with a
slide-show presentation. He explained that the Embassy's primary goal
is to help Armenia succeed as a democratic, prosperous, and secure
country. He showed the various projects and endeavors undertaken by
the Embassy to achieve these goals. He emphasized the U.S.'s
dedication to Armenia by noting that Secretary of State Hillary
Clinton has visited
Armenia twice, while previously a span of 18-years passed without a
high-level visit. On the Genocide issue, the Ambassador stated that
the `characterization of those events is a policy decision that is
made by the President.' He also noted that the Armenian Remembrance
Day message issued by President Obama on April 24, 2012, was a very
strong statement where he honored `the memory of the 1.5 million
Armenians who were brutally massacred or marched to their deaths in
the waning days of the Ottoman Empire.'
An extended and lively question and answer period followed
Mr. Heffern's presentation. Issues explored included the Genocide
issue, the status of Nagorno Karabakh, the business climate in
Armenia, the upcoming
elections and questions of corruption and fraud, Diaspora and Armenia
relations, life outside of the capital city Yerevan, emigration
issues, and the
incarceration of political opponents. The Q&A period that went
one-half hour beyond the allotted one hour, continued individually
during the reception that followed hosted by the Cathedral.
Photos by Harry L. Koundakjian
Ambassador Heffern makes his presentation at St. Illuminator's
Cathedral.
Community members filled Pashalian Hall to hear the Ambassador's
message.
Archbishop Oshagan presents a copy of Hrair Hawk Khatcherian's
monumental book, Yergir, to the Ambassador.
The Prelate, Ambassador and Council members enjoyed a dinner together
prior to the Town Hall Meeting. Photo by Vazken Ghougassian.
YOUNG SISTERS RAISE FUNDS TO AID SYRIAN ARMENIANS
Sisters Anoush and Knar Krafian, parishioners at St. Stephen Church
in Watertown, Massachusetts, raised money for Syrian Armenian relief
by making tricolor hearts that can be used as refrigerator magnets or
as a decorative hanging in the car or elsewhere. They raised $250
through their efforts which they presented to Archpriest Fr. Antranig
Baljian, pastor of St. Stephen's Church.
St. Stephen's Sunday School has also been actively raising funds. The
students raised $560 for the relief effort overseas and during the
month of December they are collecting donations for Hurricane Sandy
relief.
Anoush (left) and Knar Krafian present a check for $250 for Syrian
Armenian relief to Der Antranig Baljian. The sisters raised the money
with tricolor hearts they made.
The tri-colored hearts can be used as a refrigerator magnet or
decorative hanging.
`TIS THE SEASON. . .
In his latest reporting of community activities, journalist Tom
Vartabedian reminds us that children keep the holiday vigil
sacred. Tom writes: `Go to most any Armenian Church from now through
January 6 and you will find our younger generations in a most
provocative and timely pose. The angels are joined by shepherds, Magi
impersonators, even barnyard animals. They come dressed as Joseph and
Mary. The youngest child in the congregation usually winds up as the
infant Jesus. And those in the pews are overflowing with joy. It's a
time for reconciliation-a moment of
truth-an opportunity for all of us to dispel the usual rigmarole and
put Christ back into Christmas. Nothing, not the tree or the
gift-giving, give me the pleasure of the pageant. Having put three
children through the Armenian Church, some of my most memorable
moments are centered on this tradition and all its ramifications.'
This year is no different and Tom reports that `Children dressed as
kings and shepherds took part in an annual Christmas pageant at
St. Gregory Church, North Andover. The children personified their
roles, reciting prayers and singing carols, joined by a congregation
of parents and worshippers. The program was directed by Sunday School
Superintendent Sossy Jeknavorian and her staff. A luncheon followed,
with gifts for the children from Santa Claus.'
The angels of North Andover.
Sunday School students with Rev. Fr. Karekin Bedourian at St. Gregory
Church, North Andover, following the annual joyous Christmas pageant.
EXPLORING THE EUCHARIST
The last of a four-part program on the Eucharist (Soorp Badarak) was
held last night at St. Illuminator's Cathedral in New York City,
under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, pastor. The program
was
cosponsored by the Prelacy's Armenian Religious Education Council
(AREC) and the Cathedral. The speaker of the series was AREC's
director Dn. Shant Kazanjian.
Dn. Shant first discussed what biblical vision of worship is,
highlighting its basic assumptions, contents, vocabulary, images and
symbolic language. He then presented the origin and history of the
Soorp Badarak, the central act of Christian worship, as well as its
two-part structure =80` the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the
Eucharist. The bulk of the program was to walk the participants
through the service, step-by-step,
facilitated by a Badarak video and a detailed outline of the Badarak
cross-referenced to the Prelacy's Badarak book, explaining various
elements, prayers and chants, as well as liturgical actions and
symbols.
The participants of the four-part program on the Eucharist.
BIBLE READINGS
Bible readings for Sunday, December 23, Fifth Sunday of Advent, are:
Isaiah 40:18-31; Hebrews 4:16-5:10; Luke 18:9-14.
He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they
were righteous and regarded others with contempt. `Two men went up to
the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The
Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, `God, I thank you
that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers or even
like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my
income.' But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even look
up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, `God, be merciful
to
me, a sinner!' I tell you, this man went down to his home justified
rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled,
but all who humble themselves will be exalted.' (Luke 18:9-14)
For a listing of the coming week's Bible readings click here
(http://e2.ma/click/0cr1c/4f4cee/ci7yx).
THE HOLY FATHERS
This Saturday, December 22, the Armenian Church commemorates the Holy
Fathers Basil, Gregory of Nyssa, Sylvester of Rome, and Ephraem the
Syrian.
St. Basil, called the `Great,' was an exceptional leader who helped
spread Christianity. At the age of 26 he gave up his wealth and became
a monk, and dedicated his life to serve the people, by establishing
hospitals, hostels, and public kitchens to feed the needy. He was a
talented writer and many of his prayers are used in the Armenian
Church and other eastern churches. At a time when a solitary life of a
hermit was considered to be spiritual, he instead urged monastic
communities believing that no one is totally self-sufficient.
St. Gregory of Nyssa was the younger brother of Basil, and friend of
Gregory of Nazianus. He was educated in Athens and influenced by the
writings of Origen and Plato. He was a professor of rhetoric, but
became disillusioned with his life as a teacher and became a
priest. He served as Bishop
of Nyssa and Archbishop of Sebastia.
St. Sylvester served as the Bishop of Rome during the era of
Constantine for more than twenty years. During the time of his service
many great
churches were built. He took part in the negotiations concerning
Arianism at the Council of Nicaea.
St. Ephraem the Syrian lived in Mesopotamia (Syria) during his entire
life. He was baptized at age 18 and he served under St. James of
Nisibis. He is credited for introducing hymns in public worship
services. He visited St. Basil at Caesarea and upon his return he
helped ease the famine during the winter of 372-73 by distributing
food and money to the poor and needy. He was a prolific writer and his
work, written in Syriac, was immediately translated into Greek,
Armenian, and Latin.
DAVID THE PROPHET KING; HOLY APOSTLE JAMES
This Monday, December 24, the Armenian Church commemorates David the
Prophet King and James the Brother of the Lord.
David was the youngest of eight brothers and was brought up to be a
shepherd where he learned courage, tenderness, and caring. David
became the second King of Israel. In the Bible, the name David belongs
solely to him, which indicates the unique place he had as an ancestor
and forerunner of our Lord Jesus Christ. In the New Testament there
are more than 50 references to David, including the title given to
Jesus-Son of David. David
was a poet and the author of some of the Psalms.
James the Apostle, called `Brother of the Lord,' probably because of
his close relationship with Jesus, was granted a special appearance of
the Lord after the Resurrection. He is believed to have been a first
cousin of the Lord, or as some biblical scholars have suggested, a son
of Joseph. After the Resurrection and the Ascension, while the other
apostles scattered all over the world, James remained in Jerusalem
where he served as the Bishop and became a leading spokesman of the
early church.
ST. STEPHEN
This Tuesday, December 25, the Armenian Church commemorates
St. Stephen, the first deacon and proto-martyr. After Christ's
ascension, the apostles went about spreading the Word. It soon became
apparent that more people were needed to serve the growing church
community. Seven worthy individuals were called upon to serve the Holy
Altar and called `deacons' (sarkavag). The most noteworthy of the
seven was Stephen, described as a `man full of faith and the Holy
Spirit' (Acts 6:5). The Feast of St. Stephen is a popular and
important commemoration in the Armenian Church. It is also a day to
honor all deacons of the church. St. Stephen became the first martyr
of the Christian church and is therefore called the `proto-martyr.'
The only information about his life and death is in the Book of Acts
of the Apostles (Acts 6:8 and 8:2).
PETER AND PAUL
Next Thursday, December 27, the Armenian Church commemorates the Holy
Apostles Peter and Paul, perhaps the two individuals who had the
greatest role in the growth of Christianity. It is, therefore,
appropriate that the Church honors them together.
After the Crucifixion and Resurrection, Jesus came to Peter and asked
him to tell the other apostles of His appearance and to give them His
message (Luke 24:34-35). Peter was renowned for his oratory skills,
and he used his talent to spread the Word. He preached in Rome and
founded the church there. He is considered to be the first Bishop of
Rome. According to tradition, Peter was crucified in Rome upside down
because he declared himself unworthy to die in the same manner as the
Lord. He was buried in Rome and his relics are enshrined under the
high altar of the magnificent St. Peter's Basilica.
Paul (Saul) was born in Tarsus in Cilicia. He was an oppressor of the
early Christians until on the road to Damascus he converted when a
brilliant light blinded him and he heard, `Saul, Saul, why do you
persecute me? I am Jesus whom you are persecuting. Enter the City and
you will be
told what to do,' (Acts 9:4-6; 26:12-16). Saul was baptized and
renamed Paul and he went on to become the greatest preacher of the new
religion, traveling and writing extensively. Many theologians credit
him for shaping the future of the Church. His fourteen epistles
comprise more than one-third of the New Testament, not including the
Book of Acts, which although written by Luke, primarily is an account
of Paul's preaching.
FIFTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT
This Sunday, December 24, is the fifth Sunday of Advent for the
faithful of the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church, and Christmas Eve
for most
of the Christian world.
Originally all of Christendom celebrated the birth, baptism, visit of
the Magi, and the First Miracle at Cana, on January 6. Rome adopted
December 25 in the year 336, and this date gradually became popular;
December 25 was officially adopted as the birthday of Christ at the
Council of Chalcedon (451)-a Council the Armenian Church did not
attend and never accepted. Therefore, the Armenian Church to this day
has remained faithful to
the original date of January 6.
MARTA BAGRATUNI LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN
TO FUND NEW CD PROJECT
Marta Bagratuni, who was a featured artist in the Prelacy's
2012 Musical Armenia concert, has launched a campaign to raise funds
for a
classical music debut album, `Pieces of the World,' featuring works
for cello by composers from all over the world within the span of
the last 300 years. The project will feature a world-premiere work by
composer Vache Sharafyan for cello solo and obbligato voice. The
fundraising effort is through kickstarter.com, a company founded in
2009 that provides the means to raise funds for creative
projects. Marta's campaign began on December 10 and will continue
through January 11 with the goal of raising $8,000. Donations are
accepted online through the kickstarter.com website. For more
information about Marta and the project, visit kickstarter.com
and search either `Marta Bagratuni' or `Pieces of the World.'
Ms. Baratuni was a featured artist along with Hayk Arsenian at the
Prelacy
30th Musical Armenia concert on March 30, 2012. She is raising funds
for the production of a CD.
SPEAKER OF CYPRIOT PARLIAMENT VISITS CATHOLICOSATE
Yianniks Omirou, the speaker of the Parliament of Cyprus, met with His
Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia in
Antelias. The
delegation included the Ambassador of Cyprus to Lebanon, the Secretary
of the Parliament, the Chairman of the International Committee of the
Parliament, and an advisor to the Speaker. Attending on behalf of the
Catholicosate
were the President of the Catholicosate's Executive Council, and the
Armenian Ministers and Parliamentarians in the Lebanese government.
His Holiness spoke of the long-standing political, economic and
religious relations between Cyprus and Cilicia. He noted that over
time the ties were strengthened and today the Armenian community
actively contributes to the strengthening of the island.
His Holiness spoke about the confiscated churches and properties
belonging to the Armenian community in northern Cyprus. Speaker Omirou
said,
`We should expand and deepen our centuries-long cooperation. In this
respect churches have an important role in speaking for human
rights. The government is extremely concerned about the future of the
properties confiscated by Turkey, which are being transformed and used
for other purposes.'
Before concluding the visit, the Speaker and his delegation
accompanied His Holiness to the Cathedral of St. Gregory the
Illuminator and the Martyrs Chapel where His Holiness prayed for the
souls of the martyrs of the
Genocide of 1915.
Death of Gareguin Nezhdeh (December 21, 1955)
Gareguin Nezhdeh was an important military and political figure of
the twentieth century, particularly during the first Republic of
Armenia and the first two decades of the Diaspora.
His actual name was Gareguin Ter Harutiunian, and he was born on
January 1, 1886, in the family of a priest (hence the surname Ter
Harutiunian) in the village of Kznout, Nakhichevan.
He adopted the surname Nezhdeh in 1906. He studied in the Armenian
parochial school of the village, the Russian school of Nakhichevan,
and the Russian gymnasium of Tiflis. He studied law for two years in
St. Petersburg, but left the university to join the revolutionary
movement in 1906.
In 1906 he moved to Bulgaria where he studied in the school of
officers of Sofia from 1906-1907. He entered the ranks of the Armenian
Revolutionary Federation and returned to the Caucasus in 1908. The
next year he was
arrested by the Russian police for illegal transportation of weapons
and spent three years in prison.
In 1912 he went to Bulgaria, where he fought in the First Balkan War
(the alliance of Serbia, Greece, Montenegro, and Bulgaria against the
Ottoman Empire). Together with General Antranig, he organized a
battalion of Armenian volunteers (271 soldiers) and fought in the
Bulgarian volunteer unit against the Turks, and was decorated for his
bravery. He returned again to the Caucasus and during World War I was
deputy commander of the second regiment of
Armenian volunteers, commanded by Dro, in 1915-1916. With a group of
cavalry, he participated in the historical battle of Gharakilise (May
24-28, 1918), one of the three that paved the way for the first
independence of Armenia.
He became commander of the armed forces in the region of Zanguezur
(nowadays Siunik) in October 1919. Shortly thereafter, these forces
had to
confront the attacks of Turkish and Azerbaijani forces, which
continued for the next two years. Zanguezur, (along with Karabagh and
Nakhichevan), was
claimed by Azerbaijan as part of its territory. The leadership of
Nezhdeh would be crucial to preventing this historically Armenian
region, strategically very important as the main way to Iran, to fall
into Azerbaijani hands.
The Republic of Armenia and Soviet Russia signed an agreement on
August 10, 1920 in Tiflis, according to which the three contested
regions would be temporarily controlled by Soviet forces until Armenia
and Soviet Azerbaijan peacefully solved their controversy. However,
the population of Zanguezur, led by Nezhdeh, did not recognize that
agreement. During the months
of September and October of 1920, Nezhdeh liberated the cities of
Kapan, Sisian, and Goris.
Independent Armenia collapsed in early December. On December 25 a
popular assembly proclaimed the autonomy of Siunik and Nezhdeh was
elected general-in-chief of Siunik. After the end of the February
revolt against the Soviet regime (February 18 - April 2, 1921) that
briefly re-established the independence of Armenia, thousands of
rebels, including many prominent members of the ARF, found refuge in
Siunik, where resistance against
attacks by the Red Army and Azerbaijani forces had continued
relentlessly.
Siunik was the only way of exit for the opposition to the Soviet
regime towards Iran. On April 26, 1921, the second congress of
Armenians of Zanguezur, held in the monastery of Tatev, proclaimed the
autonomous region of Siunik as the Republic of Mountainous Armenia
(Lernahayastani Hanrabedoutioun).
Nezhdeh was elected Prime Minister and War Minister.
The epic resistance of Siunik ended in mid-July 1921, when Nezhdeh,
after receiving guarantees that the region would be attached to Soviet
Armenia, retreated with a small group of soldiers towards Iran. He
departed to Sofia in the next year. He lived in Bulgaria for most of
the next twenty years, participating actively in Armenian politics and
organization of the Diaspora. He also wrote several books and many
articles in the press.
He was sent by the ARF to the United States between 1932 and 1934,
where in 1933 he founded the Tzeghagron organization, which in 1941
became
the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF). During the 1930s he developed the
theoretical grounds of a new ideological movement called
tzeghagronutiun, which was aimed at the development of national spirit
among Armenians. Divergences with the leadership of the ARF after his
return to Bulgaria in 1934 triggered his separation from the party in
1937 (he was expelled in 1938).
On October 10, 1944, he was captured by the Soviet forces that had
entered Bulgaria. After being moved to Bucharest, he was incarcerated
in the prison of Lubyanka, in Moscow. In November 1946 he was sent to
Yerevan and, after a trial, condemned to 25 years in prison. In 1948
he was moved to
the prison of Vladimir (Russia), where he died in 1955 and was buried
in the prison's cemetery.
Nezhdeh was rehabilitated by the ARF shortly after his death. In 1963
his bust was inaugurated in Camp Hayastan (Franklin, Massachusetts),
as
a tribute by the AYF to its founder. The remains of Nezhdeh were
secretly moved to Yerevan in 1983. A small part of his remains was
interred at the foot of Mount Khusdup, in Siunik, and the rest was
reburied in the courtyard
of the monastery of Spitakavor, near the village of Vernashen
(province of
Vayots Dzor).
After the fall of the Soviet regime, the rehabilitation of Nezhdeh
started in Armenia. In Yerevan, a square, a street, a subway station,
and a school all bear his name, as well as a square and a street in
Gumri. He was reburied with military honors in 2005 in Kapan where a
memorial complex was built.
ATLAS....AT LAST
Pre-Publication Offer Extended to January 18
The long-awaited revised edition of the popular Historical Atlas of
Armenia will be available shortly after the New Year. The special
pre-publication price has been extended to January 18, 2013. So, don't
delay; secure your copies now at a good saving, plus free
shipping. The Atlas comes with a companion CD that includes all of the
maps.
ARMENIAN WINE MAKES TOP TEN LIST
An Armenian wine has been rated among the world's top ten wines
according to an article in Bloomberg Businessweekly. The search
required tasting more than 4,000 wines from which ten were selected as
being =80=9Cmost memorable.' A 2010 Zorah Karasi Areni Noir at $45 per
bottle was one of the ten in a list that included some costing many
thousands of dollars (i.e., $18,000). According to the author of the
report, the Armenian wine is the first vintage from a new wine making
project near the Areni-1 cave, where archeologists discovered the
world's oldest winery, dating back 6,100 years. Genatzt, Cheers,
Salute.
WINTER...OFFICIALLY
Winter officially begins in the Northern Hemisphere tomorrow, December
21, at 6:12 am (EST).
`O wind, if winter comes, can spring be far behind?' (P. B. Shelley)
MAY THE PEACE OF OUR LORD GRACE THE WORLD
WITH HARMONY AND LOVE
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
December 23-Christmas Pageant and lunch after Holy Badarak, presented
by Nareg Saturday School, Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New
Jersey. Special Guest of Honor: Gaghant Baba. Donation: $20
adults. Children under 10 and Nareg School students are invited to
attend.
December 31-All Saints Church, Glenview, Illinois, New Years Eve
celebration organized by the Board of Trustees, 7:30 pm at
Shahnasarian Hall, Glenview.
December 31-New Years Eve Dinner Dance, Sts. Vartanantz Church Large
Hall, 461 Bergen Boulevard, Ridgefield, New Jersey, starting at 8
pm. BYOB. Donation: Adults $65; Children under twelve $30.
January 27-St. Gregory Church, North Andover, Massachusetts,
Anniversary Dinner and Program following the Divine Liturgy.
February 17-St. Gregory Church, North Andover, Massachusetts, Annual
Membership Meeting and Luncheon following the Divine Liturgy.
February 23-Annual Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference for pastors,
boards of trustees, and NRA delegates, hosted by St. Gregory Church,
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania beginning at 10 am and concluding at 4 pm.
March 16-Annual New England Regional Conference for pastors, boards of
trustees, and NRA delegates, hosted by St. Gregory Church, North
Andover, Massachusetts, beginning at 10 am and concluding at 4 pm.
May 16, 17, 18-National Representative Assembly hosted by Soorp Khatch
Church, Bethesda, Maryland.
Web pages of the parishes can be accessed through the Prelacy's web
site.
To ensure the timely arrival of Crossroads in your electronic mailbox,
add
[email protected] to your address book.
Items in Crossroads can be reproduced without permission. Please
credit Crossroads as the source.
Parishes of the Eastern Prelacy are invited to send information about
their major events to be included in the calendar. Send to:
[email protected]
From: Baghdasarian