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PRESS RELEASE
Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apost. Church of America and Canada
H.E. Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan
Prelate, Easter Prelacy and Canada
138 East 39th Street
New York, NY 10016
Tel: 212-689-7810
Fax: 212-689-7168
Web: http://www.armenianprelacy.org/
March 22, 2012
PRELATE ISSUES EASTER MESSAGE
His Eminence Archbishop Oshagan issued his Easter message this
week. Under the title, The Cross and the Resurrection, the Prelate
articulates the importance of seeking the resurrected Christ
emphasizing that if we only seek the person whose life and preaching
ended on the cross, Jesus becomes only an historical figure and an
historical event The message He is not here, for he is risen, (Matthew
28:6), was a declaration that people could only fathom in their
imaginations. A totally new and miraculous declaration was being given
to them concerning a new lifea declaration that could be understood
only through faith.
To read the message in Armenian click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/11753792185/4266979/114737771/24882/goto:http://armenianprelacy.org/index.php/prelate/messages/2012-
). For English click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/11753792185/4266979/114737772/24882/goto:http://armenianprelacy.org/index.php/prelate/messages/2012-easter-message
).
ARCHBISHOP OSHAGAN RETURNS FROM MIDDLE EAST
Archbishop Oshagan returned from Antelias, Lebanon, where he
participated in a meeting of bishops/prelates in the Cilician See. The
prelates were joined by representatives from the executive councils of
the various prelacies to discuss common issues and concerns
together. Specific local concerns were examined in small-group
meetings with His Holiness Catholicos Aram I and members of the
Central Executive Committee.
Joining Archbishop Oshagan in Antelias was co-chair of the 2012
Pontifical Visit Steering Committee, Jack Mardoian, Esq. They had the
opportunity to meet with the Catholicos to discuss various aspects of
his visit to the Eastern Prelacy in October.
Some of the topics discussed at the meeting of the Prelates were:
Religious and Armenian education; the Youth; Bible translation; the
Seminary; Special curriculum/training for married clergy; Ecumenical
Relations; Relations with the Armenian Evangelical and Armenian
Catholic Churches; Armenian Cause; Armenia-Diaspora relations;
Relations between the two Holy Sees; Nor Giligia project in Artsakh;
Preservation of Western Armenian; Directory of Human Resources;
Financial Concerns of Prelacies and the Catholicosate.
It was announced that the World General Assembly will convene in
Lebanon in May 2013.
RELIGIOUS AND EXECUTIVE COUNCILS WILL MEET TOMORROW AND SATURDAY
The Prelacys Religious and Executive Councils will meet tomorrow and
Saturday, March 23 and 24, at the Prelacy offices in New York.
GRATEFUL COMMUNITY WILL GATHER TO HONOR MILESTONE ANNIVERSARY
OF ORDINATION OF BISHOP ANOUSHAVAN TANIELIAN THIS SUNDAY
The 40th anniversary of the ordination of Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian,
Vicar General of the Eastern Prelacy, will be celebrated by hundreds
of people this Sunday, March 25. Reservations for the banquet Sunday
afternoon quickly reached its maximum level by an outpouring of
appreciation for the service given by Bishop Anoushavan to the
faithful of the Eastern Prelacy since 1984 when he came to the United
States to study at Princeton Theological Seminary.
His Grace will celebrate the Divine Liturgy Sunday morning at
St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, where he served as the parish
priest from 1991 to 2005. This will be followed by the sold-out
celebratory banquet at Terrace on the Park in Flushing, New York.
His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia,
elevated Hayr Sourp to Bishop on June 4, 2006.
CATHOLICOS ARAM EXPRESSES CONDOLENCE ON
PASSING OF POPE SHENOUDA III
Pope Shenouda III, who led the Coptic Orthodox Church in Egypt for
four decades, and
struggled to protect his Christian minority flock of 10 million, died
last Saturday, March 17.
Archbishop Sebouh Sarkissian, Prelate of Tehran, and Archbishop Nareg
Alemezian, Dean of the Seminary and Ecumenical Officer of the
Catholicosate, represented His Holiness Aram I at the Popes funeral on
Tuesday, March 20.
Catholicos Aram sent a letter of condolence to the Holy Synod,
recalling that the two religious leaders had met just a few months ago
during the 40th anniversary celebrations of Pope Shenoudas
enthronement. The Catholicos described the passing of the Pope as a
major loss not only for the Coptic Orthodox Church, but also for
Christians in the Middle East and everywhere. In the name of the
Catholicosate of Cilicia, the members of the clergy and all the
faithful, we send our condolences to the members of the Holy Synod. We
mourn with you the loss of this great spiritual leader and thank the
Almighty for his life and service to the Church of Jesus Christ.
Like the Armenian Orthodox Church, the Coptic Orthodox Church is a
member of the Oriental Orthodox Churches, and the two churches are in
full communion.
DN. SHANT CONDUCTS SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS SEMINAR
Last Saturday, March 17, the Sunday School Teachers Seminar for the
Midwest region was held at St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church in
Dearborn, Michigan, sponsored by the Prelacys Armenian Religious
Education Council (AREC). The theme of the seminar was Learning and
Living the Gospel through the Liturgical Year. Thirteen teachers and
directors participated from the following three parishes St. Sarkis
Church (Dearborn, Michigan), All Saints Church (Glenview, Illinois),
St. Gregory the Illuminator Church (Granite City, Illinois), and
St. Hagop Church (Racine, Wisconsin).
The interactive presentation in three parts focused on the one gospel
of Jesus Christ and the four written gospels, the liturgical calendar
of the Armenian Church, and the gospels in the Armenian Church Sunday
lectionary (the prescribed readings from the Bible for each day). The
4-hour seminar was conducted by Dn. Shant Kazanjian, Director of AREC.
This Saturday, March 24, the same seminar will be held at St. Stephens
Armenian Church in Watertown, Massachusetts, for the New England
parishes.
PRELACY LENTEN LECTURES CONTINUE
On Wednesday, March 21, the fifth of the six-part Prelacy Lenten
program took place at St. Illuminators Cathedral in New York City,
and the speaker was Rev. Fr. Nareg Terterian, Pastor of St. Sarkis
Armenian Church (Douglaston, NY), who spoke on Morality in the New
Testament.
Fr. Nareg first defined morality or ethics as what is right and what
is wrong, or what is sinful and what is virtuous. After pointing out
the basic elements of Christian morality, namely, the Bible,
philosophy, science, and human experience, Der Hayr briefly discussed
the different approaches to Christian ethics today. He then elaborated
on the point that morality in the New Testament is essentially
following Christ through His teachings, His Word, demonstrating
through three passages from the Gospels (Matthew 5-7, Luke 10 and John
13).
The program began with the Lenten Service (Husgoom) from 7:30-8:00pm,
followed by the lecture and Q/A (8:00-8:45pm), and concluded with
table fellowship.
Next Wednesday, March 28, the final session will be presented by
Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, pastor of St. Illuminators Cathedral in New
York City, his theme: The Book and books.
BIBLE READINGS
Bible readings for Sunday, March 25, Sixth Sunday of Lent, Advent,
are: Isaiah 66:1-24; Col9ossians 2:8-3:17; Matthew 2:34-23:39.
When the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they
gathered together, and one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question to
test him. Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest? He
said to him, You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and
with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and
first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your
neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the law and
the prophets.
Now while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them this
question: What do you think of the Messiah? Whose son is he? They said
to him, The son of David. He said to them, How is it then that David
by the Spirit calls him Lord, saying, The Lord said to my Lord, Sit at
my right hand, until I put your enemies under your feet? If David thus
calls him Lord, how can he be his son? No one was able to give him an
answer, nor from that day did anyone dare to ask him any more
questions.
Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, The scribes and
the Pharisees sit on Moses seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you
and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what
they teach. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on
the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a
finger to move them. They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for
they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. They love
to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the
synagogues, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to
have people call them rabbi. But you are not to be called rabbi, for
you have one teacher, and you are all students. And call no one your
father on earth, for you have one Father, the one in heaven. Nor are
you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the
Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt
themselves wil!
l be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted. (Matthew
22:34-23:12)
For a listing of the coming weeks Bible readings click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/11753792185/4266979/114737773/24882/goto:http://www.armenianprelacy.org/images/prelacy/PDF/2012dbr-03.pdf
).
(
http://e2ma.net/go/11753792185/4266979/114737774/24882/goto:http://armenianeducation.blogspot.com/
)
SUNDAY OF ADVENT
This Sunday, March 25, is the sixth and final Sunday of Great Lent,
known as Sunday of Advent (Galstyan Kiraki). On Advent Sunday we are
asked to ponder the mystery of the first coming of Christ and
especially his second coming which is a fundamental tenet of our
Christian faith, and which is mentioned in the prayers read this
Sunday. Christ came to the world for the salvation of humankind. We
are told to be ready at all times because He will come again for the
judgment of sinners, and when the righteous will become worthy of
entering the Kingdom of God. Then people will see the Son of Man
coming in clouds with great power and glory. He will send out his
angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the
earth to the ends of heaven. (Mark 13:26-27)
Advent Sunday has its own special hymn, which proclaims that the
apostles knew the mystery of the advent of Christ. The story of the
expulsion from paradise is repeated and an appeal is made to Christ to
ask the Heavenly Father to establish peace on earth. Sunday of Advent
is in preparation of the following Sunday, Palm Sunday, which is the
celebration of the glorious entry of our Lord into Jerusalem and the
beginning of Holy Week.
The terrible manifestation of your glory which will be in your second
coming David foresaw and announced beforehand by the Holy Spirits
inspiration, God will come openly, fire will burn before him. Then, O
Jesus, spare us, have compassion, O Christ, and have mercy.
Mother of God unwedded, bride of heaven on earth, when in the sight of
light you sit at the right hand of your only-begotten beseech him for
us to deliver us from the awful flame, to number us with the righteous
that we also may sing glory with the heavenly ones.
(Canon for the Sixth Sunday of Great Lent from the Liturgical Canons
of the Armenian Church)
ST. GREGORYS COMMITMENT TO THE PIT
During Great Lent, saint days are commemorated only on Saturdays.
During the remainder of the year saints can be honored on Mondays,
Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays. Never on Wednesdays or Fridays,
these being fasting days.
This Saturday, March 24, the Armenian Church celebrates one of the
three days in its liturgical calendar devoted to St. Gregory the
Illuminator, the patron saint of the Armenian Church. The three days
are: Entrance into the Pit; Emergence from the Pit; and Discovery of
his remains. This Saturday is the commemoration of his commitment to
the Deep Pit (Khor Virab).
Gregory maintained his faith and refused to renounce Christ. As a
result he endured many tortures and his final punishment was
banishment into a deep pit where he remained for a period of thirteen
or more years. Miraculously he survived, thanks to his faith and a
woman (identity unknown) who lowered food and water into the pit.
The Monastery of Khor Virab is a popular destination for tourists and
pilgrims who visit Armenia. The monastery was built on the exact
location where St. Gregory was imprisoned. The pit is accessible and
it is
possible for visitors to climb down the ladder (27 steep steps) into
the pit. The church, named Sourp Astvatsatsin, dates to the 17th
century. The area is one of the most beautiful in Armenia and provides
the absolute best view of Ararat from anywhere! The area surrounding
Khor Virab is the site of the ancient Armenian capital, Artashat,
founded by King Artashes I about 180 BC.
Come, let us exalt on this day the spreader of the spiritual light to
us who sat in darkness, the holy patriarch Gregory. Come, you children
instructed by him, exalt on this day the distributor to the sons of
Torgom of the undefiled gifts of the Holy Spirit who gave us a new
birth as sons of the light. Come, you children instructed by him,
exalt on this day the interpreter of the divine word in the land of
Armenia. On this day the Church and her children sing with the angels,
on this day of memory of the enlightener ascribing glory to God in the
highest.
(Canon to St. Gregory the Illuminator, Commitment to the Pit, from
the Liturgical Canons of the Armenian Church)
PILGRIMAGE DAY IN ANTELIAS
This Sunday, March 25, is a day of pilgrimage at the Holy See of
Cilicia in Antelias, Lebanon, in honor of the Armenian Churchs patron
saint, St. Gregory the Illuminator. Thousands of pilgrims come to the
Cathedral of St. Gregory the Illuminator for the Liturgy and
impressive procession of the relics of St. Gregory kept in a golden
arm.
RETREAT AT ST. VLADIMIRS ORTHODOX SEMINARY
Dr. Vigen Guroian will lead the annual public Lenten retreat, Melody
of Faith: Theology in an Orthodox Key, next Saturday, March 31, at St.
Vladimirs Orthodox Theological Seminary, 575 Scarsdale Road, Yonkers,
New York. The day will begin with the Divine Liturgy at 9 am, followed
by brunch. The retreat will begin at 11:30 am and continue until 2
pm, with closing prayer at 2:15 pm.
Dr. Guroian is a well-known and respected author and theologian. He
is professor of religious studies at the University of Virginia in
Charlottesville. His books will be for sale at this event.
The Retreat is free and open to the public. Those planning to attend
the brunch must register and there is a $10 fee. To register or for
information: www.svots.edu (
http://e2ma.net/go/11753792185/4266979/114737775/24882/goto:http://www.svots.edu
) or call 914-961-8313, x351.
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS EXHIBIT TO OPEN APRIL 19
The Library of Congress will open an exhibition in commemoration of
the 500th anniversary of the first printed Armenian book and the first
printing press dedicated to the publication of works in the Armenian
script. The exhibition will also celebrate the designation by UNESCO
of Yerevan as the Book Capital of the World, 2012.
Located at the Library Congress across from the United States Capitol
building, the exhibition will display about 50 items from the Librarys
Armenian language collections. The exhibition will be mounted in the
Northwest gallery off the Great Hall of the historic Thomas Jefferson
building. The curator of the exhibition is Dr. Levon Avdoyan, who has
been at the Library of Congress for 33 years. A companion volume to
the exhibition entitled, To Know Wisdom and Instruction: 500 Years of
the Armenian Literary Tradition, written by Dr. Avdoyan, will be
available in book form and as an eBook.
HERAND MARKARIANS NEW PLAY WILL HAVE 16 PERFORMANCES IN MAY
Playwright Herand Markarians latest creation, Silence in a Circular
Rainbow, will have 16 performances beginning May 4 to 20 at the Shell
Theater (Times Square Arts Building). This play was commissioned by
the New York State Theater Institute, 300 West 43rd Street, and stars
the Tony nominee Lorraine Serabian.
Dr. Markarians contribution to the performing arts as actor, writer,
producer, and director is legendary. In addition to his acting
performances, he has directed more than 40 plays and written 26
theatrical productions.
To purchase tickets ($18) go to SmartTix.com or 212-868-4444. For
information: [email protected]
(mailto:[email protected]).
DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR CHARLES AZNAVOUR NEW YORK CONCERTS IN APRIL
World famous entertainer Charles Aznavour will appear in three
concerts in April in New Yorks City Center. The performances are
scheduled for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, April 26, 27, and 28. A
special block of discounted tickets ($25 to $40) is being offered to
our parishioners. The premium seats are also discounted ($200 for
$225 tickets; $150 for $190 tickets). For information about purchasing
the discounted tickets contact Harriette at 917-421-5111.
Aznavour last performed in the United States in 2009. He recently
completed 21 sold out concerts in Paris. City Center is located at W.
55th Street, between 6th and 7th Avenues in New York City.
LENT IN THE ARMENIAN CHURCH
We are now nearing the end of the 40-day Lenten period. The canons of
Lent in the Armenian Church originated from the Bible, the life of
Christ and His disciples, and the teachings of our church
fathers. Lent is a time of personal repentance rooted in prayer,
abstinence and charity that will lead us to the light of righteousness
and salvation and union with our Lord Jesus Christ.
According to the earliest traditions of the Armenian Church, food that
could be consumed during Lent was extremely limited. That is why Lent
was often called Aghouhatsk, which means salt and bread, the only
permitted foods. Lenten dietary rules evolved allowing any food as
long as it was not derived from an animal. Through the centuries the
ingenious Armenians developed extraordinary Lenten dishes, all devoid
of animal products, and yet all so delicious and nutritious that it is
difficult to think of them as a sacrifice.
(
http://e2ma.net/go/11753792185/4266979/114737776/24882/goto:http://bookstore.armenianprelacy.org/bookstore/books.htm
)
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
March 23St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, Inviting our
Families into the Mystery of Christs Death and Resurrection, lecture
by JoAnn Heaney-Hunter, PH.D., St. Johns University. Fellowship hour
by the Young Adults Group. Vespers 6:30 pm; Lecture 7:30 pm; Q&A 8:00
pm; Fellowship 8:15 pm. Information, 718-224-2275.
March 24New England Regional Seminar for Sunday school teachers, 10 am
to 3 pm, organized by the Armenian Religious Education Council (AREC)
at St. Stephens Church, Watertown, Massachusetts.
March 25Celebration of the 40th anniversary of Bishop Anoushavan
Tanielians ordination to the priesthood. Divine Liturgy at St. Sarkis
Church, Douglaston, New York, followed by a celebration at the Terrace
on the Park, Flushing, New York, 3 pm.
March 30St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, 500th Anniversary of
Armenian Printing, lecture by Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, Pastor of
St. Illuminators Cathedral. Fellowship hour by Choir. Vespers 6:30 pm;
Lecture 7:30 pm; Q&A 8:00 pm; Fellowship 8:15 pm. Information,
718-224-2275.
March 30Musical Armenia 2012 (29th concert of the series), sponsored
by the Eastern Prelacy and Prelacy Ladies Guild, 8 pm, Weill Recital
Hall, at Carnegie Hall, New York City. Featured artists: Marta
Bagratuni, cello (with Zhao Zhao Yank, piano); Hayk Arsenyan,
piano. Please note that this year Musical Armenia is on Friday
evening.
March 31Melody of Faith: Theology in an Orthodox Key, Public Lenten
Retreat, St. Vladimirs Orthodox Theological Seminary, 575 Scarsdale
Road, Yonkers, New York. Dr. Vigen Guroian will lead the
retreat. Divine Liturgy 9 am; Brunch 10:45 am; Retreat 11:30 am to 2
pm; Closing Prayer 2:15 pm. Retreat is free; $10 fee for brunch.
Information: 914-961-8313, Ext. 351.
April 1Children of Armenia Fund (COAF), sPrING PONG! Pick up a paddle
for COAF, SPiN, NYC, 48 East 23rd Street, 5 to 8 pm. All proceeds
benefit athletic program for kids in rural Armenia. Ticket purchase
includes open bar, hors doeuvres, dancing and raffle. Beginner level,
$85; Gone Pro, $100, includes event t-shirt. Ticket + Ping Pong
Tournament Entry: $85 + $50 minimum raised on myCOAF. For information:
www.coafkids.org (
http://e2ma.net/go/11753792185/4266979/114737778/24882/goto:http://www.coafkids.org
)
April 12Armenian Lecture Series, An Evening of Jazz with an Armenian
Flavor, featuring Armen Boyajian and Christian Nourijanian, at Bush
Memorial Russell Sage College, Troy, New York. Sponsored by the
Armenian Fund of The Sage Colleges. For information: Professor Steven
Leibo, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) or 518-244-2330.
April 27Armenian Genocide Commemoration sponsored by the Armenian
National Committee of New York, St. Illuminators Cathedral, 221
E. 27th Street, New York City, 7 pm. Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan will
open the commemoration with an invocation and message. Guest speaker
is Mourad Papazian, Chairman, ARF Central Committee of France.
April 29Ladies Guild of Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New
Jersey, will present the New Jersey premier of The Hye LegionThe
Gamavor, a musical true story performed by the actors and singers of
The Way We Were Ensemble. Light lunch and program following church
services. Adults, $20; Children, $10.
May 6St. Illuminators Cathedral will present the New York City
premiere of The Hye LegionThe Gamavor musical based on a true story,
at 1 pm. Musical will be performed by the actors and singers of The
Way We Were ensemble. $20 adults; $10 children. Refreshments will
follow.
May 9-12National Representative Assembly of Eastern Prelacy, hosted by
Sts. Vartanantz Church, Providence, Rhode Island. Clergy conference on
May 9; full delegation May 10 to 12. Accommodations at Crowne Plaza
Hotel, Warwick, Rhode Island. Details will be forthcoming to parishes
and delegates.
May 11-12National Association of Ladies Guilds (NALG), 30th
anniversary celebration and annual conference in conjunction with the
National Representative Assembly, Crowne Plaza, Warwick, Rhode
Island. For information: Mary Derderian 781-762-4253.
May 4 thru May 24Sixteen performances in May (including matinee
performances on Saturdays and Sundays) of Herand M. Markarians new
play commissioned by the New York State Theater Institute,
Silence. With award-winning actress Lorraine Serabian. This story of
love, loss, and relentless search by a women for her son after the
Armenian genocide of 1915, is directed by Kevin Thomson. Performances
at the Shell Theater in the Times Square Arts Building, 300 West 43rd
Street, New York City. Reserve tickets now ($18): SmartTix.com or
212-868-4444. For information: [email protected]
(mailto:[email protected]).
June 24St. Hagop Church, Racine, Wisconsin, annual Madagh Picnic at
Jonsons Park, Racine.
July 14Sts. Vartanantz Church Ladies Guild and ARS Ani Chapter,
Providence, Rhode Island, A Hye Summer Night VI dance, featuring
Hachig Kazarian, Richard Hagopian, Kenneth Kalajian, Jason Naroian, 8
pm to 1 am; $35 adults; $15 children 16 and under. At the Annunciation
Greek Orthodox Church, 175 Oaklawn Avenue, Cranston, Rhode
Island. Mezza will be served. Limited seating. For tickets and
information: 401-434-4467 (Joyce Bagdasarian); 401-354-8770 (Joyce
Yeremian).
Web pages of the parishes can be accessed through the Prelacys web
site.
To ensure the timely arrival of Crossroads in your electronic mailbox,
add [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) to
your address book.
Items in Crossroads can be reproduced without permission. Please
credit Crossroads as the source.
Parishes of the Eastern Prelacy are invited to send information about
their major events to be included in the calendar. Send to:
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])
From: 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/
March 22, 2012
PRELATE ISSUES EASTER MESSAGE
His Eminence Archbishop Oshagan issued his Easter message this
week. Under the title, The Cross and the Resurrection, the Prelate
articulates the importance of seeking the resurrected Christ
emphasizing that if we only seek the person whose life and preaching
ended on the cross, Jesus becomes only an historical figure and an
historical event The message He is not here, for he is risen, (Matthew
28:6), was a declaration that people could only fathom in their
imaginations. A totally new and miraculous declaration was being given
to them concerning a new lifea declaration that could be understood
only through faith.
To read the message in Armenian click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/11753792185/4266979/114737771/24882/goto:http://armenianprelacy.org/index.php/prelate/messages/2012-
). For English click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/11753792185/4266979/114737772/24882/goto:http://armenianprelacy.org/index.php/prelate/messages/2012-easter-message
).
ARCHBISHOP OSHAGAN RETURNS FROM MIDDLE EAST
Archbishop Oshagan returned from Antelias, Lebanon, where he
participated in a meeting of bishops/prelates in the Cilician See. The
prelates were joined by representatives from the executive councils of
the various prelacies to discuss common issues and concerns
together. Specific local concerns were examined in small-group
meetings with His Holiness Catholicos Aram I and members of the
Central Executive Committee.
Joining Archbishop Oshagan in Antelias was co-chair of the 2012
Pontifical Visit Steering Committee, Jack Mardoian, Esq. They had the
opportunity to meet with the Catholicos to discuss various aspects of
his visit to the Eastern Prelacy in October.
Some of the topics discussed at the meeting of the Prelates were:
Religious and Armenian education; the Youth; Bible translation; the
Seminary; Special curriculum/training for married clergy; Ecumenical
Relations; Relations with the Armenian Evangelical and Armenian
Catholic Churches; Armenian Cause; Armenia-Diaspora relations;
Relations between the two Holy Sees; Nor Giligia project in Artsakh;
Preservation of Western Armenian; Directory of Human Resources;
Financial Concerns of Prelacies and the Catholicosate.
It was announced that the World General Assembly will convene in
Lebanon in May 2013.
RELIGIOUS AND EXECUTIVE COUNCILS WILL MEET TOMORROW AND SATURDAY
The Prelacys Religious and Executive Councils will meet tomorrow and
Saturday, March 23 and 24, at the Prelacy offices in New York.
GRATEFUL COMMUNITY WILL GATHER TO HONOR MILESTONE ANNIVERSARY
OF ORDINATION OF BISHOP ANOUSHAVAN TANIELIAN THIS SUNDAY
The 40th anniversary of the ordination of Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian,
Vicar General of the Eastern Prelacy, will be celebrated by hundreds
of people this Sunday, March 25. Reservations for the banquet Sunday
afternoon quickly reached its maximum level by an outpouring of
appreciation for the service given by Bishop Anoushavan to the
faithful of the Eastern Prelacy since 1984 when he came to the United
States to study at Princeton Theological Seminary.
His Grace will celebrate the Divine Liturgy Sunday morning at
St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, where he served as the parish
priest from 1991 to 2005. This will be followed by the sold-out
celebratory banquet at Terrace on the Park in Flushing, New York.
His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia,
elevated Hayr Sourp to Bishop on June 4, 2006.
CATHOLICOS ARAM EXPRESSES CONDOLENCE ON
PASSING OF POPE SHENOUDA III
Pope Shenouda III, who led the Coptic Orthodox Church in Egypt for
four decades, and
struggled to protect his Christian minority flock of 10 million, died
last Saturday, March 17.
Archbishop Sebouh Sarkissian, Prelate of Tehran, and Archbishop Nareg
Alemezian, Dean of the Seminary and Ecumenical Officer of the
Catholicosate, represented His Holiness Aram I at the Popes funeral on
Tuesday, March 20.
Catholicos Aram sent a letter of condolence to the Holy Synod,
recalling that the two religious leaders had met just a few months ago
during the 40th anniversary celebrations of Pope Shenoudas
enthronement. The Catholicos described the passing of the Pope as a
major loss not only for the Coptic Orthodox Church, but also for
Christians in the Middle East and everywhere. In the name of the
Catholicosate of Cilicia, the members of the clergy and all the
faithful, we send our condolences to the members of the Holy Synod. We
mourn with you the loss of this great spiritual leader and thank the
Almighty for his life and service to the Church of Jesus Christ.
Like the Armenian Orthodox Church, the Coptic Orthodox Church is a
member of the Oriental Orthodox Churches, and the two churches are in
full communion.
DN. SHANT CONDUCTS SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS SEMINAR
Last Saturday, March 17, the Sunday School Teachers Seminar for the
Midwest region was held at St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church in
Dearborn, Michigan, sponsored by the Prelacys Armenian Religious
Education Council (AREC). The theme of the seminar was Learning and
Living the Gospel through the Liturgical Year. Thirteen teachers and
directors participated from the following three parishes St. Sarkis
Church (Dearborn, Michigan), All Saints Church (Glenview, Illinois),
St. Gregory the Illuminator Church (Granite City, Illinois), and
St. Hagop Church (Racine, Wisconsin).
The interactive presentation in three parts focused on the one gospel
of Jesus Christ and the four written gospels, the liturgical calendar
of the Armenian Church, and the gospels in the Armenian Church Sunday
lectionary (the prescribed readings from the Bible for each day). The
4-hour seminar was conducted by Dn. Shant Kazanjian, Director of AREC.
This Saturday, March 24, the same seminar will be held at St. Stephens
Armenian Church in Watertown, Massachusetts, for the New England
parishes.
PRELACY LENTEN LECTURES CONTINUE
On Wednesday, March 21, the fifth of the six-part Prelacy Lenten
program took place at St. Illuminators Cathedral in New York City,
and the speaker was Rev. Fr. Nareg Terterian, Pastor of St. Sarkis
Armenian Church (Douglaston, NY), who spoke on Morality in the New
Testament.
Fr. Nareg first defined morality or ethics as what is right and what
is wrong, or what is sinful and what is virtuous. After pointing out
the basic elements of Christian morality, namely, the Bible,
philosophy, science, and human experience, Der Hayr briefly discussed
the different approaches to Christian ethics today. He then elaborated
on the point that morality in the New Testament is essentially
following Christ through His teachings, His Word, demonstrating
through three passages from the Gospels (Matthew 5-7, Luke 10 and John
13).
The program began with the Lenten Service (Husgoom) from 7:30-8:00pm,
followed by the lecture and Q/A (8:00-8:45pm), and concluded with
table fellowship.
Next Wednesday, March 28, the final session will be presented by
Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, pastor of St. Illuminators Cathedral in New
York City, his theme: The Book and books.
BIBLE READINGS
Bible readings for Sunday, March 25, Sixth Sunday of Lent, Advent,
are: Isaiah 66:1-24; Col9ossians 2:8-3:17; Matthew 2:34-23:39.
When the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they
gathered together, and one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question to
test him. Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest? He
said to him, You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and
with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and
first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your
neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the law and
the prophets.
Now while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them this
question: What do you think of the Messiah? Whose son is he? They said
to him, The son of David. He said to them, How is it then that David
by the Spirit calls him Lord, saying, The Lord said to my Lord, Sit at
my right hand, until I put your enemies under your feet? If David thus
calls him Lord, how can he be his son? No one was able to give him an
answer, nor from that day did anyone dare to ask him any more
questions.
Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, The scribes and
the Pharisees sit on Moses seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you
and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what
they teach. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on
the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a
finger to move them. They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for
they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. They love
to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the
synagogues, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to
have people call them rabbi. But you are not to be called rabbi, for
you have one teacher, and you are all students. And call no one your
father on earth, for you have one Father, the one in heaven. Nor are
you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the
Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt
themselves wil!
l be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted. (Matthew
22:34-23:12)
For a listing of the coming weeks Bible readings click here (
http://e2ma.net/go/11753792185/4266979/114737773/24882/goto:http://www.armenianprelacy.org/images/prelacy/PDF/2012dbr-03.pdf
).
(
http://e2ma.net/go/11753792185/4266979/114737774/24882/goto:http://armenianeducation.blogspot.com/
)
SUNDAY OF ADVENT
This Sunday, March 25, is the sixth and final Sunday of Great Lent,
known as Sunday of Advent (Galstyan Kiraki). On Advent Sunday we are
asked to ponder the mystery of the first coming of Christ and
especially his second coming which is a fundamental tenet of our
Christian faith, and which is mentioned in the prayers read this
Sunday. Christ came to the world for the salvation of humankind. We
are told to be ready at all times because He will come again for the
judgment of sinners, and when the righteous will become worthy of
entering the Kingdom of God. Then people will see the Son of Man
coming in clouds with great power and glory. He will send out his
angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the
earth to the ends of heaven. (Mark 13:26-27)
Advent Sunday has its own special hymn, which proclaims that the
apostles knew the mystery of the advent of Christ. The story of the
expulsion from paradise is repeated and an appeal is made to Christ to
ask the Heavenly Father to establish peace on earth. Sunday of Advent
is in preparation of the following Sunday, Palm Sunday, which is the
celebration of the glorious entry of our Lord into Jerusalem and the
beginning of Holy Week.
The terrible manifestation of your glory which will be in your second
coming David foresaw and announced beforehand by the Holy Spirits
inspiration, God will come openly, fire will burn before him. Then, O
Jesus, spare us, have compassion, O Christ, and have mercy.
Mother of God unwedded, bride of heaven on earth, when in the sight of
light you sit at the right hand of your only-begotten beseech him for
us to deliver us from the awful flame, to number us with the righteous
that we also may sing glory with the heavenly ones.
(Canon for the Sixth Sunday of Great Lent from the Liturgical Canons
of the Armenian Church)
ST. GREGORYS COMMITMENT TO THE PIT
During Great Lent, saint days are commemorated only on Saturdays.
During the remainder of the year saints can be honored on Mondays,
Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays. Never on Wednesdays or Fridays,
these being fasting days.
This Saturday, March 24, the Armenian Church celebrates one of the
three days in its liturgical calendar devoted to St. Gregory the
Illuminator, the patron saint of the Armenian Church. The three days
are: Entrance into the Pit; Emergence from the Pit; and Discovery of
his remains. This Saturday is the commemoration of his commitment to
the Deep Pit (Khor Virab).
Gregory maintained his faith and refused to renounce Christ. As a
result he endured many tortures and his final punishment was
banishment into a deep pit where he remained for a period of thirteen
or more years. Miraculously he survived, thanks to his faith and a
woman (identity unknown) who lowered food and water into the pit.
The Monastery of Khor Virab is a popular destination for tourists and
pilgrims who visit Armenia. The monastery was built on the exact
location where St. Gregory was imprisoned. The pit is accessible and
it is
possible for visitors to climb down the ladder (27 steep steps) into
the pit. The church, named Sourp Astvatsatsin, dates to the 17th
century. The area is one of the most beautiful in Armenia and provides
the absolute best view of Ararat from anywhere! The area surrounding
Khor Virab is the site of the ancient Armenian capital, Artashat,
founded by King Artashes I about 180 BC.
Come, let us exalt on this day the spreader of the spiritual light to
us who sat in darkness, the holy patriarch Gregory. Come, you children
instructed by him, exalt on this day the distributor to the sons of
Torgom of the undefiled gifts of the Holy Spirit who gave us a new
birth as sons of the light. Come, you children instructed by him,
exalt on this day the interpreter of the divine word in the land of
Armenia. On this day the Church and her children sing with the angels,
on this day of memory of the enlightener ascribing glory to God in the
highest.
(Canon to St. Gregory the Illuminator, Commitment to the Pit, from
the Liturgical Canons of the Armenian Church)
PILGRIMAGE DAY IN ANTELIAS
This Sunday, March 25, is a day of pilgrimage at the Holy See of
Cilicia in Antelias, Lebanon, in honor of the Armenian Churchs patron
saint, St. Gregory the Illuminator. Thousands of pilgrims come to the
Cathedral of St. Gregory the Illuminator for the Liturgy and
impressive procession of the relics of St. Gregory kept in a golden
arm.
RETREAT AT ST. VLADIMIRS ORTHODOX SEMINARY
Dr. Vigen Guroian will lead the annual public Lenten retreat, Melody
of Faith: Theology in an Orthodox Key, next Saturday, March 31, at St.
Vladimirs Orthodox Theological Seminary, 575 Scarsdale Road, Yonkers,
New York. The day will begin with the Divine Liturgy at 9 am, followed
by brunch. The retreat will begin at 11:30 am and continue until 2
pm, with closing prayer at 2:15 pm.
Dr. Guroian is a well-known and respected author and theologian. He
is professor of religious studies at the University of Virginia in
Charlottesville. His books will be for sale at this event.
The Retreat is free and open to the public. Those planning to attend
the brunch must register and there is a $10 fee. To register or for
information: www.svots.edu (
http://e2ma.net/go/11753792185/4266979/114737775/24882/goto:http://www.svots.edu
) or call 914-961-8313, x351.
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS EXHIBIT TO OPEN APRIL 19
The Library of Congress will open an exhibition in commemoration of
the 500th anniversary of the first printed Armenian book and the first
printing press dedicated to the publication of works in the Armenian
script. The exhibition will also celebrate the designation by UNESCO
of Yerevan as the Book Capital of the World, 2012.
Located at the Library Congress across from the United States Capitol
building, the exhibition will display about 50 items from the Librarys
Armenian language collections. The exhibition will be mounted in the
Northwest gallery off the Great Hall of the historic Thomas Jefferson
building. The curator of the exhibition is Dr. Levon Avdoyan, who has
been at the Library of Congress for 33 years. A companion volume to
the exhibition entitled, To Know Wisdom and Instruction: 500 Years of
the Armenian Literary Tradition, written by Dr. Avdoyan, will be
available in book form and as an eBook.
HERAND MARKARIANS NEW PLAY WILL HAVE 16 PERFORMANCES IN MAY
Playwright Herand Markarians latest creation, Silence in a Circular
Rainbow, will have 16 performances beginning May 4 to 20 at the Shell
Theater (Times Square Arts Building). This play was commissioned by
the New York State Theater Institute, 300 West 43rd Street, and stars
the Tony nominee Lorraine Serabian.
Dr. Markarians contribution to the performing arts as actor, writer,
producer, and director is legendary. In addition to his acting
performances, he has directed more than 40 plays and written 26
theatrical productions.
To purchase tickets ($18) go to SmartTix.com or 212-868-4444. For
information: [email protected]
(mailto:[email protected]).
DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR CHARLES AZNAVOUR NEW YORK CONCERTS IN APRIL
World famous entertainer Charles Aznavour will appear in three
concerts in April in New Yorks City Center. The performances are
scheduled for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, April 26, 27, and 28. A
special block of discounted tickets ($25 to $40) is being offered to
our parishioners. The premium seats are also discounted ($200 for
$225 tickets; $150 for $190 tickets). For information about purchasing
the discounted tickets contact Harriette at 917-421-5111.
Aznavour last performed in the United States in 2009. He recently
completed 21 sold out concerts in Paris. City Center is located at W.
55th Street, between 6th and 7th Avenues in New York City.
LENT IN THE ARMENIAN CHURCH
We are now nearing the end of the 40-day Lenten period. The canons of
Lent in the Armenian Church originated from the Bible, the life of
Christ and His disciples, and the teachings of our church
fathers. Lent is a time of personal repentance rooted in prayer,
abstinence and charity that will lead us to the light of righteousness
and salvation and union with our Lord Jesus Christ.
According to the earliest traditions of the Armenian Church, food that
could be consumed during Lent was extremely limited. That is why Lent
was often called Aghouhatsk, which means salt and bread, the only
permitted foods. Lenten dietary rules evolved allowing any food as
long as it was not derived from an animal. Through the centuries the
ingenious Armenians developed extraordinary Lenten dishes, all devoid
of animal products, and yet all so delicious and nutritious that it is
difficult to think of them as a sacrifice.
(
http://e2ma.net/go/11753792185/4266979/114737776/24882/goto:http://bookstore.armenianprelacy.org/bookstore/books.htm
)
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
March 23St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, Inviting our
Families into the Mystery of Christs Death and Resurrection, lecture
by JoAnn Heaney-Hunter, PH.D., St. Johns University. Fellowship hour
by the Young Adults Group. Vespers 6:30 pm; Lecture 7:30 pm; Q&A 8:00
pm; Fellowship 8:15 pm. Information, 718-224-2275.
March 24New England Regional Seminar for Sunday school teachers, 10 am
to 3 pm, organized by the Armenian Religious Education Council (AREC)
at St. Stephens Church, Watertown, Massachusetts.
March 25Celebration of the 40th anniversary of Bishop Anoushavan
Tanielians ordination to the priesthood. Divine Liturgy at St. Sarkis
Church, Douglaston, New York, followed by a celebration at the Terrace
on the Park, Flushing, New York, 3 pm.
March 30St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, 500th Anniversary of
Armenian Printing, lecture by Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, Pastor of
St. Illuminators Cathedral. Fellowship hour by Choir. Vespers 6:30 pm;
Lecture 7:30 pm; Q&A 8:00 pm; Fellowship 8:15 pm. Information,
718-224-2275.
March 30Musical Armenia 2012 (29th concert of the series), sponsored
by the Eastern Prelacy and Prelacy Ladies Guild, 8 pm, Weill Recital
Hall, at Carnegie Hall, New York City. Featured artists: Marta
Bagratuni, cello (with Zhao Zhao Yank, piano); Hayk Arsenyan,
piano. Please note that this year Musical Armenia is on Friday
evening.
March 31Melody of Faith: Theology in an Orthodox Key, Public Lenten
Retreat, St. Vladimirs Orthodox Theological Seminary, 575 Scarsdale
Road, Yonkers, New York. Dr. Vigen Guroian will lead the
retreat. Divine Liturgy 9 am; Brunch 10:45 am; Retreat 11:30 am to 2
pm; Closing Prayer 2:15 pm. Retreat is free; $10 fee for brunch.
Information: 914-961-8313, Ext. 351.
April 1Children of Armenia Fund (COAF), sPrING PONG! Pick up a paddle
for COAF, SPiN, NYC, 48 East 23rd Street, 5 to 8 pm. All proceeds
benefit athletic program for kids in rural Armenia. Ticket purchase
includes open bar, hors doeuvres, dancing and raffle. Beginner level,
$85; Gone Pro, $100, includes event t-shirt. Ticket + Ping Pong
Tournament Entry: $85 + $50 minimum raised on myCOAF. For information:
www.coafkids.org (
http://e2ma.net/go/11753792185/4266979/114737778/24882/goto:http://www.coafkids.org
)
April 12Armenian Lecture Series, An Evening of Jazz with an Armenian
Flavor, featuring Armen Boyajian and Christian Nourijanian, at Bush
Memorial Russell Sage College, Troy, New York. Sponsored by the
Armenian Fund of The Sage Colleges. For information: Professor Steven
Leibo, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) or 518-244-2330.
April 27Armenian Genocide Commemoration sponsored by the Armenian
National Committee of New York, St. Illuminators Cathedral, 221
E. 27th Street, New York City, 7 pm. Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan will
open the commemoration with an invocation and message. Guest speaker
is Mourad Papazian, Chairman, ARF Central Committee of France.
April 29Ladies Guild of Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New
Jersey, will present the New Jersey premier of The Hye LegionThe
Gamavor, a musical true story performed by the actors and singers of
The Way We Were Ensemble. Light lunch and program following church
services. Adults, $20; Children, $10.
May 6St. Illuminators Cathedral will present the New York City
premiere of The Hye LegionThe Gamavor musical based on a true story,
at 1 pm. Musical will be performed by the actors and singers of The
Way We Were ensemble. $20 adults; $10 children. Refreshments will
follow.
May 9-12National Representative Assembly of Eastern Prelacy, hosted by
Sts. Vartanantz Church, Providence, Rhode Island. Clergy conference on
May 9; full delegation May 10 to 12. Accommodations at Crowne Plaza
Hotel, Warwick, Rhode Island. Details will be forthcoming to parishes
and delegates.
May 11-12National Association of Ladies Guilds (NALG), 30th
anniversary celebration and annual conference in conjunction with the
National Representative Assembly, Crowne Plaza, Warwick, Rhode
Island. For information: Mary Derderian 781-762-4253.
May 4 thru May 24Sixteen performances in May (including matinee
performances on Saturdays and Sundays) of Herand M. Markarians new
play commissioned by the New York State Theater Institute,
Silence. With award-winning actress Lorraine Serabian. This story of
love, loss, and relentless search by a women for her son after the
Armenian genocide of 1915, is directed by Kevin Thomson. Performances
at the Shell Theater in the Times Square Arts Building, 300 West 43rd
Street, New York City. Reserve tickets now ($18): SmartTix.com or
212-868-4444. For information: [email protected]
(mailto:[email protected]).
June 24St. Hagop Church, Racine, Wisconsin, annual Madagh Picnic at
Jonsons Park, Racine.
July 14Sts. Vartanantz Church Ladies Guild and ARS Ani Chapter,
Providence, Rhode Island, A Hye Summer Night VI dance, featuring
Hachig Kazarian, Richard Hagopian, Kenneth Kalajian, Jason Naroian, 8
pm to 1 am; $35 adults; $15 children 16 and under. At the Annunciation
Greek Orthodox Church, 175 Oaklawn Avenue, Cranston, Rhode
Island. Mezza will be served. Limited seating. For tickets and
information: 401-434-4467 (Joyce Bagdasarian); 401-354-8770 (Joyce
Yeremian).
Web pages of the parishes can be accessed through the Prelacys web
site.
To ensure the timely arrival of Crossroads in your electronic mailbox,
add [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) to
your address book.
Items in Crossroads can be reproduced without permission. Please
credit Crossroads as the source.
Parishes of the Eastern Prelacy are invited to send information about
their major events to be included in the calendar. Send to:
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])
From: Baghdasarian