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PRESS RELEASE
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-0710
Fax: (212) 779-3558
Web: http://www.armenianchurch.org/
Email: [email protected]
TOP STORY January 12,
2012
Christmas at St. Vartan Cathedral
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian and Dr. Raffy Hovanessian, godfather of the
Blessing of Water Ceremony.
_Christ's Birth Celebrated on January 6_
New York's St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral resounded with the Good News of
Christ's birth on January 5 and 6, as individuals and families, young and
old alike, took part in the celebration of the Feast of the Nativity and
Theophany-Armenian Christmas.
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian celebrated the Divine Liturgy before a large
crowd. In his homily, the Diocesan Primate noted: `What sets Christians
apart is that we proclaim the Good News. The Good News is timeless,
eternal; always good, and always new. The Good News can sustain us against
all the bad news of the world. Indeed, the Good News has sustained the
Armenian people for countless generations.'
Dr. Raffy Hovanessian served as godfather for the _churorhnek_, or Blessing
of Water ceremony, which followed the Divine Liturgy on Friday.
At a Christmas Day reception in Haik and Alice Kavookjian Auditorium, the
Akh'tamar Dance Ensemble of New Jersey offered a delightful dance
performance. Concurrent with the Armenian Christmas observances, a special
art exhibit was on display in the cathedral complex: `Armenian Christmas and
the Legacy of Ten Armenian Artists.'
On the prior evening, January 5, Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian had celebrated
the Christmas Eve liturgy in the cathedral. And at local parishes
throughout the Eastern Diocese, Christmas services on January 6 and on
Sunday, January 8 were likewise well attended.
[4]Click here to read more about the cathedral's Armenian Christmas
celebration.
Links:
4. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/news-and-media/news/st-vartan-cathedral-resounds-with-the-good-news?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
To view videos of the services and Archbishop Barsamian's sermon, [5]click
here.
Links:
5. http://www.youtube.com/user/EasternDiocese?feature=watch&utm_source=Eastern+Di ocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Armenian Church in Livingston, NY
_Primate to Visit Holy Cross Church of Union City, NY_
On Sunday, January 15, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, will
visit the Holy Cross Church of Union City, NJ, where he will celebrate the
Divine Liturgy and ordain three parishioners to the rank of acolyte. The
three are: Matthew Bagdat, Tadevos Grigoryan, and Garnik Hovannesian.
Services will be followed by a fellowship hour in the church hall.
Scripture of the Week
Is 54:1-13
1Tim 1:1-11
Jn 2:1-11
Prayer of the Week
I thank you and magnify you and glorify you, O Lord my God. Be with me
always according to your unfailing promise that "Whoever eats my Body and
drinks my Blood dwells in me and I in him." You did say so, you who love
mankind. Uphold the words of your divine and irrevocable commandments. For
you are the God of mercy and of compassion and of love toward mankind, now
and always. Amen.
Upcoming Saints & Feasts
_13 January:_ Feast of the Naming of Our Lord Jesus Christ
_14 January:_ Feast of the Birth of St. John the Forerunner
_17 January:_ St. Antony the Hermit
CHURCH NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
Catholicos Karekin II
His Holiness Karekin II conducts the Blessing of Water service at Holy
Etchmiadzin.
_Christmas at Holy Etchmiadzin_
On Thursday, January 6, His Holiness Karekin II, the Supreme Patriarch and
Catholicos of All Armenians, celebrated the Divine Liturgy on the Feast of
the Nativity and Theophany of Our Lord, and performed the Blessing of Water
service at Holy Etchmiadzin.
The godfather of this year's Blessing of Water Service was Gabriel
Jambarjin. Armenia's President Serge Sargsyan and other government officials
were present at the celebration.
In his Christmas message, His Holiness spoke on the importance of love and
faith. `Faith and love are those unshakeable foundations on which our
country and people become stronger and are filled with joy and delight,' he
said. `The fruits of faith and love are the good works which shall always
accompany us, so long as our path does not divert from Christ's luminous
path.'
[6]Click here to view a video about the Christmas celebration at the Mother
See of Holy Etchmiadzin.
Links:
6. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inpYolN6Jas&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Catholicos Karekin II
Fire damaged the Sourp Nshan Armenian Church of Tbilisi, Georgia on January
9.
_Fire Damages Armenian Church in Tbilisi, Georgia_
On January 11, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of
all Armenians, summoned a special meeting of the Supreme Spiritual Council
at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. Two days earlier, on January 9, the
Sourp Nshan Armenian Church of Tbilisi, Georgia, had caught fire by unknown
means. The use of water (instead of foam) to quench the flames caused damage
to the walls of the church and resulted in the collapse of one of its four
standing columns.
The Supreme Spiritual Council released a statement calling on Georgian
President Mikheil Saakashvili, and His Holiness Ilia II,
Catholicos-Patriarch of Georgia, to protect and preserve the Armenian
churches in Georgia, as they had agreed during Catholicos Karekin's 2011
pontifical visit to the republic.
The church previously suffered fire damage in 2002, as well as damage from
an earthquake. Currently an abandoned structure, Sourp Nshan has become a
place for indigents; despite an ongoing dialogue between the Armenian and
Georgian spiritual leaders, the Georgian authorities have not initiated an
agreed restoration of this Armenian monument.
DIOCESAN NEWS
Fund for Armenia Relief Board
FAR's Board of Directors met at the Diocesan Center on January 10.
_FAR Holds Meeting of Board_
On January 10, 2012, the Fund for Armenian Relief Board of Directors
examined the organization's successes, Armenia's present challenges, and
promising ways to further improve FAR's services.
The past two decades have witnessed remarkable success in FAR's outreach
programs. From delivering emergency relief in the aftermath of the 1988
Armenian earthquake, to its current leadership role in improving Armenia's
human services, developing infrastructure, funding research, and advancing
standards of medical care, FAR's active presence in Armenia has benefited
the quality of life and opportunity for an entire generation of our
countrymen.
As the needs of Armenia have evolved, so too have FAR's efforts. During the
January 10 gathering, the directors affirmed their commitment to FAR's core
mission, defined new strategic priorities, and committed to focusing on
empowering the people of Armenia to become active participants in developing
a productive, sustainable society.
[7]Click here to find the latest FAR news.
Links:
7. http://blog.farusa.org?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Ararat Board meeting at the Diocesan Center
Members of the Ararat Center board met at the Diocesan Center on January 12.
_Ararat Center Board Meeting_
The Board of Directors of Ararat Center of the Eastern Diocese held a
meeting at the Diocesan Center on January 12. Diocesan Primate Archbishop
Khajag Barsamian presided over the gathering.
The board members addressed various topics, including marketing and
maintenance of the facility, fundraising, and the upcoming summer sessions
of St. Vartan Camp.
They also recognized outgoing members Rose Najarian Kedeshian, Karnig
Durgarian, and Steve Megrdichian-all of whom the Primate thanked for their
leadership. Newly elected to the board are Tom Ashbahian (who will serve as
the new board chair) and Aram Hintlian.
Diocesan Sunday School Worship Program
Sunday School students in Framingham, MA, actively participate in Sunday
"family worship."
_A Helpful Model for Diocesan Sunday Schools _
Since 2009, Diocesan Sunday Schools have been using a `family worship'
model, whereby students divide their Sunday mornings between time spent in
the church sanctuary and time spent in a traditional classroom setting.
After two years of this `pilot program'-and thanks to the dedication of
pastors, superintendents, teachers and parents-Diocesan Sunday School
students and their families are enjoying a more holistic Sunday worship
experience. Sunday Schools have found the effort helpful and productive.
Students are in church more regularly and for longer periods, and are
receiving Holy Communion more frequently.
To read more about this innovative program, coordinated by the Diocese's
Department of Youth and Education (DYE), [8]click here. And contact your
local parish to find out how your family can become involved in its local
Sunday School program.
Links:
8. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/news-and-media/news/diocesan-sunday-school-worship-program-successfully-underway?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Hye Reflections
_Read the Latest on the Women's Guild _
The new edition of "Hye Reflections," the official e-newsletter of the
Women's Guild Central Council, is now available as a PDF download. To read
the latest news from the Women's Guild Central Council, updates on the
activities of local parish guilds, and member reflections on the Women's
Guild's mission in the Armenian Church, [9]click here.
Parsh Christmas Celebrations
Links:
9. http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/Hye_Reflections_January_2012.pdf?utm_source=Easter n+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
_View Our "Family Christmas Album"
_
In response to our request last week, a number of Diocesan parishes were
wonderfully generous in sharing photos of their local Armenian Christmas
celebrations. The resulting "family album" is a testimony to the love and
faith of our parishioners.
[10]Click here to view the photo gallery.
Links:
10. http://easterndiocese.smugmug.com/Parishes-of-the-Eastern/Armenian-Christmas/20987604_zn3VXK?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email#%21i=166 8059172&k=PCnPRGH
Armenian Church Calendar 2012
_Download the 2012 Oratsouyts_
The 2012 Oratsouyts (Liturgical Calendar) issued by the Mother See of Holy
Etchmiadzin is now available as a PDF document. [11]Click here to download
the Oratsouyts.
Links:
11. http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/Oratsuyts2012.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
The Armenian-language publication is a daily guide to scripture readings,
hymns, and feast days of the Armenian Church. It has been continuously
published by Holy Etchmiadzin for the past 146 years.
The 2012 edition was prepared by Bishop Mikael Ajapahian, Primate of the
Diocese of Shirak in Armenia, and Bishop Artak Tigranian.
PARISH NEWS
St. Mary Armenian Church, LIvingston
Archbishop Barsamian stands among the students of St. Mary Church in
Livingston, NJ.
_Primate Presides at Livingston Christmas Service_
Diocesan Primate Archbishop Khajag Barsamian presided over the Armenian
Christmas celebration at the St. Mary Church of Livingston, N.J., on Sunday,
January 8. The Primate delivered a sermon on the meaning of Christ's birth,
and the Divine Liturgy was celebrated by the Rev. Fr. Arakel Vardazaryan-a
young visiting priest who is currently doing an internship at the St.
Gregory the Enlightener parish of White Plains, NY.
In the course of the service, St. Mary Sunday School students sang several
_sharagans_ from the Divine Liturgy-to the delight of parents and the
Primate, who in his sermon congratulated the children, their teachers and
parents on their dedication to bringing the beauty of the _badarak_ to life.
Following _badarak_ and the Blessing of Water ceremony-where young Bedros
Maldjian served as godfather-the Sunday School presented a Christmas pageant
in the sanctuary, which through song, verse, and costume portrayed the
events of Jesus' nativity. A Christmas luncheon followed in the parish's
Toufayan Hall.
Although the Livingston church has been without a fulltime pastor since the
summer, it has been holding regular Sunday services thanks to the
graciousness of several visiting priests. Earlier in the week, on the
actual date of the Feast of Theophany (January 6), Fr. Vardazaryan
celebrated _badarak_ at the church; and on the previous night, the Very Rev.
Fr. Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan Vicar, celebrated the Armenian Christmas Eve
liturgy.
Very Rev. Fr. Nareg Berberian
Very Rev. Fr. Nareg Berberian.
_Boca Raton to Celebrate Pastor's 20 Years of Service_
On Saturday, January 21, the St. David Church of Boca Raton, FL, will honor
its longtime pastor, the Very Rev. Fr. Nareg Berberian, on the 20th
anniversary of his ordination to the holy priesthood.
Diocesan Primate Archbishop Khajag Barsamian will preside over the
celebratory banquet held in the church's Mardigian Hall. Fr. Berberian was
the very first priest to receive ordination by the hand of the Primate, in
1992.
Also attending the event will be Diocesan Ecumenical Director Archbishop
Vicken Aikazian, along with clergy from the Diocese and the surrounding
community in Boca Raton.
On Sunday, January 22, Archbishop Barsamian will celebrate the Divine
Liturgy at the St. David Church, during which he will ordain subdeacon Arlen
Avedyan to the order of diaconate.
Those interested in attending should make reservations by January 14; call
the church office at (561) 994-2335 for information.
St. Sarkis Church, Niagara Falls
Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Odabashian conducts the Blessing of Water service at
St. Sarkis Church, Niagara Falls.
_Niagara Falls Welcomes Vicar _
The Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan Vicar, celebrated the Divine
Liturgy at the St. Sarkis Armenian Church of Niagara Falls, NY, on January
8.
Longtime parishioner James Barbados served as godfather during the Blessing
of Water ceremony. More than 40 faithful from Niagara Falls and Buffalo, as
well as some guests from California and Canada, took part in the
celebration.
The Divine Liturgy is celebrated once every month in this parish, which is
located less than a mile from the Falls and the Rainbow Bridge to Canada.
At a brunch following the January 8 liturgy, organized by parish council
chair Ani Avdoian, parishioners broke out into an impromptu sing-a-long.
Atlanta Mission Parish
Rev. Fr. Tateos Abdalian celebrates the Divine Liturgy in the mission parish
of Atlanta, GA.
_Mission Parishes Celebrate Christmas__ _
Christ's birth was celebrated with great joy in the mission parish of
Atlanta, GA, as well as at the St. Garabed Church of Baton Rouge, LA. The
Rev. Fr. Tateos Abdalian, Diocesan director of Mission Parishes, travelled
to both communities for the Armenian Christmas celebrations.
In Atlanta, over 65 members of the community gathered on January 5 for the
Divine Liturgy and the Blessing of Water ceremony. Vachagan Arakelyan, a
young member of the community who had emigrated from Armenia, was honored as
the godfather of the cross.
Following the _badarak_, members of the parish council prepared and served a
dinner to the parishioners.
In Baton Rouge, evening services on Saturday, January 7 began with readings
from the prophets foretelling of the birth of Christ. This was followed by
the _`jrakalouyts' _service, where candles were lit to the proclamation of
the good news of the Christ's birth, _Krisdos dzuv yev haydnetsav_!
On Sunday, January 8, the Divine Liturgy was celebrated to commemorate the
Feast of Theophany, with the Blessing of Water following. Serving as the
godfather of the cross was Edward Dakessian.
The day's festivities concluded with a traditional Christmas meal in the
church hall.
Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church, Providence
On December 28, Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church of Providence, RI, presented a
concert titled `Silent Night, Holy Night."
_A Providential Christmas Concert_
On December 28, Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church of Providence, RI, presented a
concert titled `Silent Night, Holy Night' in the church sanctuary. The
unique concert, an effort of the parish's Cultural Committee, was a joint
performance by choirs from the Armenian and Syriac Christian traditions.
Parish pastor Rev. Fr. Shnork Souin welcomed the Rev. Fr. Mattias Shaltan,
pastor of St. Ephraim Syriac Orthodox Church of Central Falls, as well as
the faithful of the area Armenian and Syriac communities.
Maestro Konstantin Petrossian directed the Armenian Chorale of Rhode Island
and the Junior Choir of Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church, while Gabriel Aydin
led the St. Ephraim Children's and Adult Choir.
The program of Christmas carols and religious music from two distinctive
traditions included a memorable solo performance of `O Come, All Ye
Faithful' sung by 9-year-old David Alexander. Other vocal and instrumental
solos were offered by Sarkis Yepremian, Gohar Manjelikian, David Griego, and
Mari Panosian.
A lovely post-concert gathering took place in the parish's Egavian Cultural
Hall, where attendees had an opportunity to share good wishes of the season.
_Upcoming Parish Events _
_Armenian Church of Southwest Florida _
The first Divine Liturgy of 2012 will be celebrated at the Armenian Church
of Southwest Florida by the Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan Vicar,
on Sunday, January 15. The service will be held at St. Mary's Episcopal
Church in Bonita Springs, FL, beginning at 1 p.m.
A luleh kebab luncheon will follow services (advance reservations are
required for the luncheon). For information, reservations, or to be placed
on the church mailing list, contact parish council chair Carole Meghreblian
at (239) 348-3804.
_St. Gregory the Illuminator Church | Chicago, IL_
St. Gregory the Illuminator Church, Chicago, IL, will host its 3rd annual
Armenian Winter Fest and Dance on Saturday, January 21, from 4 to 11 p.m.
The evening will feature a special performance by the Armenian Dance Company
of Chicago. Enjoy shish kebob, chicken kebob, and homemade pastries.
Admission is free. For information [12]click here.
Links:
12. http://stgregorychicago.org/calendar/details/38-winterfest-2012?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
_St. Gregory the Enlightener Church | White Plains, NY_
The ACYOA of St. Gregory the Enlightener Church of White Plains, NY, will
host its annual holiday party on Saturday, January 21, beginning at 8 p.m.
The evening will feature music by Robert Chilingirian, the Khnjooyk Band,
and DJ Glo. Tickets are $20. [13]Click here to view a flyer for details, or
e-mail [14][email protected] to make a reservation.
Links:
13. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/uploaded_files/tinymce/files/eventspdf/StGregoryWhitePlainsJan2012.pdf?utm_source=Eastern +Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
14. mailto:[email protected]
EVENTS
Armenian Bible published in 1666 in Amsterdam
The first printed Armenian Bible, published in Amsterdam, 1666.
_Commemorating 500 Years of Armenian Printing_
The Diocesan Center in New York will be the venue for a special presentation
honoring the 500th anniversary of Armenian printing, on the evening of
Tuesday, January 24.
Zakarya Mildanoglu, a columnist for the _Agos _Weekly of Istanbul, will be
the keynote speaker, delivering his remarks in Armenian. Hagop Vartivarian
will be the master of ceremonies.
The event, which begins at 7:30 p.m. in Guild Hall of the Diocesan Center,
will take place under the auspices of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of
America (Eastern), in collaboration with several organizations.
Admission is free and open to the public. To view a flyer, [15]click here.
Links:
15. http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/500th_Anv_of_Arm_Printing.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+D iocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
YOUTH NEWS
Khrimian Lyceum
Khrimian Lyceum students visit Armenia's Mission to the United Nations, in
New York.
_Khrimian Lyceum in International Competition_
Congratulations to the Diocese's Khrimian Lyceum for its strong finish in an
international competition of Armenian youth organizations sponsored by the
Republic of Armenia's Ministry of the Diaspora.
Youth programs from more than a dozen countries were judged on the basis of
their mission and goals, and on submitted statements outlining their
history, recent achievements, future plans, and collaborative efforts within
the broader Armenian community.
The Khrimian Lyceum (a program of the Armenian Studies section of the
Diocese's Department of Youth and Education) placed 4th place in its
category-which represented the highest ranking among American competitors.
Youth groups from Russia, Spain, Argentina, Georgia, the Ukraine, the
Netherlands, France, the United Kingdom, Lebanon, Kuwait, Syria, Estonia,
Karabagh, Australia, and the U.S. were among the contest entrants.
The list of winners will soon be posted on the ministry's [16]official
website.
Links:
16. http://www.mindiaspora.am?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-0710
Fax: (212) 779-3558
Web: http://www.armenianchurch.org/
Email: [email protected]
TOP STORY January 12,
2012
Christmas at St. Vartan Cathedral
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian and Dr. Raffy Hovanessian, godfather of the
Blessing of Water Ceremony.
_Christ's Birth Celebrated on January 6_
New York's St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral resounded with the Good News of
Christ's birth on January 5 and 6, as individuals and families, young and
old alike, took part in the celebration of the Feast of the Nativity and
Theophany-Armenian Christmas.
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian celebrated the Divine Liturgy before a large
crowd. In his homily, the Diocesan Primate noted: `What sets Christians
apart is that we proclaim the Good News. The Good News is timeless,
eternal; always good, and always new. The Good News can sustain us against
all the bad news of the world. Indeed, the Good News has sustained the
Armenian people for countless generations.'
Dr. Raffy Hovanessian served as godfather for the _churorhnek_, or Blessing
of Water ceremony, which followed the Divine Liturgy on Friday.
At a Christmas Day reception in Haik and Alice Kavookjian Auditorium, the
Akh'tamar Dance Ensemble of New Jersey offered a delightful dance
performance. Concurrent with the Armenian Christmas observances, a special
art exhibit was on display in the cathedral complex: `Armenian Christmas and
the Legacy of Ten Armenian Artists.'
On the prior evening, January 5, Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian had celebrated
the Christmas Eve liturgy in the cathedral. And at local parishes
throughout the Eastern Diocese, Christmas services on January 6 and on
Sunday, January 8 were likewise well attended.
[4]Click here to read more about the cathedral's Armenian Christmas
celebration.
Links:
4. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/news-and-media/news/st-vartan-cathedral-resounds-with-the-good-news?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
To view videos of the services and Archbishop Barsamian's sermon, [5]click
here.
Links:
5. http://www.youtube.com/user/EasternDiocese?feature=watch&utm_source=Eastern+Di ocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Armenian Church in Livingston, NY
_Primate to Visit Holy Cross Church of Union City, NY_
On Sunday, January 15, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, will
visit the Holy Cross Church of Union City, NJ, where he will celebrate the
Divine Liturgy and ordain three parishioners to the rank of acolyte. The
three are: Matthew Bagdat, Tadevos Grigoryan, and Garnik Hovannesian.
Services will be followed by a fellowship hour in the church hall.
Scripture of the Week
Is 54:1-13
1Tim 1:1-11
Jn 2:1-11
Prayer of the Week
I thank you and magnify you and glorify you, O Lord my God. Be with me
always according to your unfailing promise that "Whoever eats my Body and
drinks my Blood dwells in me and I in him." You did say so, you who love
mankind. Uphold the words of your divine and irrevocable commandments. For
you are the God of mercy and of compassion and of love toward mankind, now
and always. Amen.
Upcoming Saints & Feasts
_13 January:_ Feast of the Naming of Our Lord Jesus Christ
_14 January:_ Feast of the Birth of St. John the Forerunner
_17 January:_ St. Antony the Hermit
CHURCH NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
Catholicos Karekin II
His Holiness Karekin II conducts the Blessing of Water service at Holy
Etchmiadzin.
_Christmas at Holy Etchmiadzin_
On Thursday, January 6, His Holiness Karekin II, the Supreme Patriarch and
Catholicos of All Armenians, celebrated the Divine Liturgy on the Feast of
the Nativity and Theophany of Our Lord, and performed the Blessing of Water
service at Holy Etchmiadzin.
The godfather of this year's Blessing of Water Service was Gabriel
Jambarjin. Armenia's President Serge Sargsyan and other government officials
were present at the celebration.
In his Christmas message, His Holiness spoke on the importance of love and
faith. `Faith and love are those unshakeable foundations on which our
country and people become stronger and are filled with joy and delight,' he
said. `The fruits of faith and love are the good works which shall always
accompany us, so long as our path does not divert from Christ's luminous
path.'
[6]Click here to view a video about the Christmas celebration at the Mother
See of Holy Etchmiadzin.
Links:
6. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inpYolN6Jas&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Catholicos Karekin II
Fire damaged the Sourp Nshan Armenian Church of Tbilisi, Georgia on January
9.
_Fire Damages Armenian Church in Tbilisi, Georgia_
On January 11, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of
all Armenians, summoned a special meeting of the Supreme Spiritual Council
at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. Two days earlier, on January 9, the
Sourp Nshan Armenian Church of Tbilisi, Georgia, had caught fire by unknown
means. The use of water (instead of foam) to quench the flames caused damage
to the walls of the church and resulted in the collapse of one of its four
standing columns.
The Supreme Spiritual Council released a statement calling on Georgian
President Mikheil Saakashvili, and His Holiness Ilia II,
Catholicos-Patriarch of Georgia, to protect and preserve the Armenian
churches in Georgia, as they had agreed during Catholicos Karekin's 2011
pontifical visit to the republic.
The church previously suffered fire damage in 2002, as well as damage from
an earthquake. Currently an abandoned structure, Sourp Nshan has become a
place for indigents; despite an ongoing dialogue between the Armenian and
Georgian spiritual leaders, the Georgian authorities have not initiated an
agreed restoration of this Armenian monument.
DIOCESAN NEWS
Fund for Armenia Relief Board
FAR's Board of Directors met at the Diocesan Center on January 10.
_FAR Holds Meeting of Board_
On January 10, 2012, the Fund for Armenian Relief Board of Directors
examined the organization's successes, Armenia's present challenges, and
promising ways to further improve FAR's services.
The past two decades have witnessed remarkable success in FAR's outreach
programs. From delivering emergency relief in the aftermath of the 1988
Armenian earthquake, to its current leadership role in improving Armenia's
human services, developing infrastructure, funding research, and advancing
standards of medical care, FAR's active presence in Armenia has benefited
the quality of life and opportunity for an entire generation of our
countrymen.
As the needs of Armenia have evolved, so too have FAR's efforts. During the
January 10 gathering, the directors affirmed their commitment to FAR's core
mission, defined new strategic priorities, and committed to focusing on
empowering the people of Armenia to become active participants in developing
a productive, sustainable society.
[7]Click here to find the latest FAR news.
Links:
7. http://blog.farusa.org?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Ararat Board meeting at the Diocesan Center
Members of the Ararat Center board met at the Diocesan Center on January 12.
_Ararat Center Board Meeting_
The Board of Directors of Ararat Center of the Eastern Diocese held a
meeting at the Diocesan Center on January 12. Diocesan Primate Archbishop
Khajag Barsamian presided over the gathering.
The board members addressed various topics, including marketing and
maintenance of the facility, fundraising, and the upcoming summer sessions
of St. Vartan Camp.
They also recognized outgoing members Rose Najarian Kedeshian, Karnig
Durgarian, and Steve Megrdichian-all of whom the Primate thanked for their
leadership. Newly elected to the board are Tom Ashbahian (who will serve as
the new board chair) and Aram Hintlian.
Diocesan Sunday School Worship Program
Sunday School students in Framingham, MA, actively participate in Sunday
"family worship."
_A Helpful Model for Diocesan Sunday Schools _
Since 2009, Diocesan Sunday Schools have been using a `family worship'
model, whereby students divide their Sunday mornings between time spent in
the church sanctuary and time spent in a traditional classroom setting.
After two years of this `pilot program'-and thanks to the dedication of
pastors, superintendents, teachers and parents-Diocesan Sunday School
students and their families are enjoying a more holistic Sunday worship
experience. Sunday Schools have found the effort helpful and productive.
Students are in church more regularly and for longer periods, and are
receiving Holy Communion more frequently.
To read more about this innovative program, coordinated by the Diocese's
Department of Youth and Education (DYE), [8]click here. And contact your
local parish to find out how your family can become involved in its local
Sunday School program.
Links:
8. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/news-and-media/news/diocesan-sunday-school-worship-program-successfully-underway?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
Hye Reflections
_Read the Latest on the Women's Guild _
The new edition of "Hye Reflections," the official e-newsletter of the
Women's Guild Central Council, is now available as a PDF download. To read
the latest news from the Women's Guild Central Council, updates on the
activities of local parish guilds, and member reflections on the Women's
Guild's mission in the Armenian Church, [9]click here.
Parsh Christmas Celebrations
Links:
9. http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/Hye_Reflections_January_2012.pdf?utm_source=Easter n+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
_View Our "Family Christmas Album"
_
In response to our request last week, a number of Diocesan parishes were
wonderfully generous in sharing photos of their local Armenian Christmas
celebrations. The resulting "family album" is a testimony to the love and
faith of our parishioners.
[10]Click here to view the photo gallery.
Links:
10. http://easterndiocese.smugmug.com/Parishes-of-the-Eastern/Armenian-Christmas/20987604_zn3VXK?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email#%21i=166 8059172&k=PCnPRGH
Armenian Church Calendar 2012
_Download the 2012 Oratsouyts_
The 2012 Oratsouyts (Liturgical Calendar) issued by the Mother See of Holy
Etchmiadzin is now available as a PDF document. [11]Click here to download
the Oratsouyts.
Links:
11. http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/Oratsuyts2012.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
The Armenian-language publication is a daily guide to scripture readings,
hymns, and feast days of the Armenian Church. It has been continuously
published by Holy Etchmiadzin for the past 146 years.
The 2012 edition was prepared by Bishop Mikael Ajapahian, Primate of the
Diocese of Shirak in Armenia, and Bishop Artak Tigranian.
PARISH NEWS
St. Mary Armenian Church, LIvingston
Archbishop Barsamian stands among the students of St. Mary Church in
Livingston, NJ.
_Primate Presides at Livingston Christmas Service_
Diocesan Primate Archbishop Khajag Barsamian presided over the Armenian
Christmas celebration at the St. Mary Church of Livingston, N.J., on Sunday,
January 8. The Primate delivered a sermon on the meaning of Christ's birth,
and the Divine Liturgy was celebrated by the Rev. Fr. Arakel Vardazaryan-a
young visiting priest who is currently doing an internship at the St.
Gregory the Enlightener parish of White Plains, NY.
In the course of the service, St. Mary Sunday School students sang several
_sharagans_ from the Divine Liturgy-to the delight of parents and the
Primate, who in his sermon congratulated the children, their teachers and
parents on their dedication to bringing the beauty of the _badarak_ to life.
Following _badarak_ and the Blessing of Water ceremony-where young Bedros
Maldjian served as godfather-the Sunday School presented a Christmas pageant
in the sanctuary, which through song, verse, and costume portrayed the
events of Jesus' nativity. A Christmas luncheon followed in the parish's
Toufayan Hall.
Although the Livingston church has been without a fulltime pastor since the
summer, it has been holding regular Sunday services thanks to the
graciousness of several visiting priests. Earlier in the week, on the
actual date of the Feast of Theophany (January 6), Fr. Vardazaryan
celebrated _badarak_ at the church; and on the previous night, the Very Rev.
Fr. Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan Vicar, celebrated the Armenian Christmas Eve
liturgy.
Very Rev. Fr. Nareg Berberian
Very Rev. Fr. Nareg Berberian.
_Boca Raton to Celebrate Pastor's 20 Years of Service_
On Saturday, January 21, the St. David Church of Boca Raton, FL, will honor
its longtime pastor, the Very Rev. Fr. Nareg Berberian, on the 20th
anniversary of his ordination to the holy priesthood.
Diocesan Primate Archbishop Khajag Barsamian will preside over the
celebratory banquet held in the church's Mardigian Hall. Fr. Berberian was
the very first priest to receive ordination by the hand of the Primate, in
1992.
Also attending the event will be Diocesan Ecumenical Director Archbishop
Vicken Aikazian, along with clergy from the Diocese and the surrounding
community in Boca Raton.
On Sunday, January 22, Archbishop Barsamian will celebrate the Divine
Liturgy at the St. David Church, during which he will ordain subdeacon Arlen
Avedyan to the order of diaconate.
Those interested in attending should make reservations by January 14; call
the church office at (561) 994-2335 for information.
St. Sarkis Church, Niagara Falls
Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Odabashian conducts the Blessing of Water service at
St. Sarkis Church, Niagara Falls.
_Niagara Falls Welcomes Vicar _
The Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan Vicar, celebrated the Divine
Liturgy at the St. Sarkis Armenian Church of Niagara Falls, NY, on January
8.
Longtime parishioner James Barbados served as godfather during the Blessing
of Water ceremony. More than 40 faithful from Niagara Falls and Buffalo, as
well as some guests from California and Canada, took part in the
celebration.
The Divine Liturgy is celebrated once every month in this parish, which is
located less than a mile from the Falls and the Rainbow Bridge to Canada.
At a brunch following the January 8 liturgy, organized by parish council
chair Ani Avdoian, parishioners broke out into an impromptu sing-a-long.
Atlanta Mission Parish
Rev. Fr. Tateos Abdalian celebrates the Divine Liturgy in the mission parish
of Atlanta, GA.
_Mission Parishes Celebrate Christmas__ _
Christ's birth was celebrated with great joy in the mission parish of
Atlanta, GA, as well as at the St. Garabed Church of Baton Rouge, LA. The
Rev. Fr. Tateos Abdalian, Diocesan director of Mission Parishes, travelled
to both communities for the Armenian Christmas celebrations.
In Atlanta, over 65 members of the community gathered on January 5 for the
Divine Liturgy and the Blessing of Water ceremony. Vachagan Arakelyan, a
young member of the community who had emigrated from Armenia, was honored as
the godfather of the cross.
Following the _badarak_, members of the parish council prepared and served a
dinner to the parishioners.
In Baton Rouge, evening services on Saturday, January 7 began with readings
from the prophets foretelling of the birth of Christ. This was followed by
the _`jrakalouyts' _service, where candles were lit to the proclamation of
the good news of the Christ's birth, _Krisdos dzuv yev haydnetsav_!
On Sunday, January 8, the Divine Liturgy was celebrated to commemorate the
Feast of Theophany, with the Blessing of Water following. Serving as the
godfather of the cross was Edward Dakessian.
The day's festivities concluded with a traditional Christmas meal in the
church hall.
Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church, Providence
On December 28, Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church of Providence, RI, presented a
concert titled `Silent Night, Holy Night."
_A Providential Christmas Concert_
On December 28, Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church of Providence, RI, presented a
concert titled `Silent Night, Holy Night' in the church sanctuary. The
unique concert, an effort of the parish's Cultural Committee, was a joint
performance by choirs from the Armenian and Syriac Christian traditions.
Parish pastor Rev. Fr. Shnork Souin welcomed the Rev. Fr. Mattias Shaltan,
pastor of St. Ephraim Syriac Orthodox Church of Central Falls, as well as
the faithful of the area Armenian and Syriac communities.
Maestro Konstantin Petrossian directed the Armenian Chorale of Rhode Island
and the Junior Choir of Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church, while Gabriel Aydin
led the St. Ephraim Children's and Adult Choir.
The program of Christmas carols and religious music from two distinctive
traditions included a memorable solo performance of `O Come, All Ye
Faithful' sung by 9-year-old David Alexander. Other vocal and instrumental
solos were offered by Sarkis Yepremian, Gohar Manjelikian, David Griego, and
Mari Panosian.
A lovely post-concert gathering took place in the parish's Egavian Cultural
Hall, where attendees had an opportunity to share good wishes of the season.
_Upcoming Parish Events _
_Armenian Church of Southwest Florida _
The first Divine Liturgy of 2012 will be celebrated at the Armenian Church
of Southwest Florida by the Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan Vicar,
on Sunday, January 15. The service will be held at St. Mary's Episcopal
Church in Bonita Springs, FL, beginning at 1 p.m.
A luleh kebab luncheon will follow services (advance reservations are
required for the luncheon). For information, reservations, or to be placed
on the church mailing list, contact parish council chair Carole Meghreblian
at (239) 348-3804.
_St. Gregory the Illuminator Church | Chicago, IL_
St. Gregory the Illuminator Church, Chicago, IL, will host its 3rd annual
Armenian Winter Fest and Dance on Saturday, January 21, from 4 to 11 p.m.
The evening will feature a special performance by the Armenian Dance Company
of Chicago. Enjoy shish kebob, chicken kebob, and homemade pastries.
Admission is free. For information [12]click here.
Links:
12. http://stgregorychicago.org/calendar/details/38-winterfest-2012?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
_St. Gregory the Enlightener Church | White Plains, NY_
The ACYOA of St. Gregory the Enlightener Church of White Plains, NY, will
host its annual holiday party on Saturday, January 21, beginning at 8 p.m.
The evening will feature music by Robert Chilingirian, the Khnjooyk Band,
and DJ Glo. Tickets are $20. [13]Click here to view a flyer for details, or
e-mail [14][email protected] to make a reservation.
Links:
13. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/uploaded_files/tinymce/files/eventspdf/StGregoryWhitePlainsJan2012.pdf?utm_source=Eastern +Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
14. mailto:[email protected]
EVENTS
Armenian Bible published in 1666 in Amsterdam
The first printed Armenian Bible, published in Amsterdam, 1666.
_Commemorating 500 Years of Armenian Printing_
The Diocesan Center in New York will be the venue for a special presentation
honoring the 500th anniversary of Armenian printing, on the evening of
Tuesday, January 24.
Zakarya Mildanoglu, a columnist for the _Agos _Weekly of Istanbul, will be
the keynote speaker, delivering his remarks in Armenian. Hagop Vartivarian
will be the master of ceremonies.
The event, which begins at 7:30 p.m. in Guild Hall of the Diocesan Center,
will take place under the auspices of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of
America (Eastern), in collaboration with several organizations.
Admission is free and open to the public. To view a flyer, [15]click here.
Links:
15. http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/500th_Anv_of_Arm_Printing.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+D iocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email
YOUTH NEWS
Khrimian Lyceum
Khrimian Lyceum students visit Armenia's Mission to the United Nations, in
New York.
_Khrimian Lyceum in International Competition_
Congratulations to the Diocese's Khrimian Lyceum for its strong finish in an
international competition of Armenian youth organizations sponsored by the
Republic of Armenia's Ministry of the Diaspora.
Youth programs from more than a dozen countries were judged on the basis of
their mission and goals, and on submitted statements outlining their
history, recent achievements, future plans, and collaborative efforts within
the broader Armenian community.
The Khrimian Lyceum (a program of the Armenian Studies section of the
Diocese's Department of Youth and Education) placed 4th place in its
category-which represented the highest ranking among American competitors.
Youth groups from Russia, Spain, Argentina, Georgia, the Ukraine, the
Netherlands, France, the United Kingdom, Lebanon, Kuwait, Syria, Estonia,
Karabagh, Australia, and the U.S. were among the contest entrants.
The list of winners will soon be posted on the ministry's [16]official
website.
Links:
16. http://www.mindiaspora.am?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=f1b4e0e5f3-December_8_201112_8_2011&utm_medium=email