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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/
September 27, 2012
`THANKSGIVING AND REMEMBRANCE' GRAND BANQUET ON OCTOBER 7
WILL HONOR THOSE WHO CAME TO THE AID OF ARMENIANS;
SPECIAL VIDEO MESSAGE BY CATHOLICOS ARAM I WILL BE SHOWN
The banquet that was scheduled to take place in New York as part of
the Pontifical Visit of His Holiness Aram I, will take place as
planned on
Sunday, October 7, at the Palace Hotel in New York.
As originally planned, the theme of the banquet is `A Salute of
Thanksgiving and Remembrance,' for the life-saving humanitarian aid
provided by: The American National Committee to Aid Homeless Armenians
(ANCHA); Near East Relief, and Dr. Fridtjof Nansen. Representatives of
all three honorees will be present to accept the grateful recognition
and honors.
A video message from His Holiness will be shown on a large screen
during the banquet. Archbishop Oshagan noted that we are `now facing
another grave situation and relief aid is urgently needed for our
brothers
and sisters in Syria. As we honor those who helped us in our days of
need so many years ago, let us now step up to our duty of being the
supporters and guardians of our compatriots.'
Proceeds from the October 7 banquet will be allocated to the
=80=9CFund for Syrian Armenian Relief.'
The banquet will take place Sunday, October 7, at The New York Palace,
455 Madison Avenue, between 50th and 51st Streets. Reception is at 3
pm; dinner at 4 pm. For reservations or for information contact the
Prelacy office at 212-689-7810.
DONATIONS TO THE FUND FOR SYRIAN ARMENIAN RELIEF CAN BE MADE ON LINE.
TO DONATE NOW CLICK HERE (http://e2.ma/click/wh4rc/4f4cee/w9xxu) AND
SELECT SYRIAN ARMENIAN RELIEF IN THE MENU.
THE FUND FOR SYRIAN ARMENIAN RELIEF IS A JOINT EFFORT BY:
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
PRELATE WILL ATTEND DINNER WELCOMING ARMENIA'S FOREIGN MINISTER
Archbishop Oshagan will attend a dinner tomorrow evening, September
28, at the Republic of Armenia's Mission to the United Nations in
honor of the Foreign Minister Eduard Nalbandian who is in New York for
the opening session of the General Assembly of the United Nations.
Foreign Minister Nalbandian is scheduled to address the UN General
Assembly Monday morning, October 1.
REV. FR. HOVNAN REPRESENTS PRELATE IN NEWARK
Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian represented Archbishop Oshagan at the 25th
anniversary of the ordination to the Episcopacy of Archbishop John
Joseph Myers that took place last Saturday at the Cathedral Basilica
of the Sacred Heart in Newark, New Jersey. Der Hovnan is the pastor of
Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey.
Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian, representing Archbishop Oshagan,
congratulates Archbishop John Joseph Myers on the 25th anniversary of
his Episcopal ordination.
PRELATE ATTENDS MEETING WITH PRESIDENT OF EGYPT
Archbishop Oshagan attended a meeting and open discussion with the
president of the Arab Republic of Egypt, H.E. Mohamed Morsy on Monday,
September 24. The event was in conjunction with the opening of the
67th session
of the United Nations General Assembly that brought hundreds of heads
of state to New York this week.
Archbishop Oshagan with the Foreign Minister of Egypt Mohamed Kemal
Amr and Bishop Daniel from the Coptic Church.
20TH ANNIVERSARY OF ARMENIA FUND USA
Archbishop Oshagan will attend the 20th anniversary of Armenia Fund
USA Saturday evening, September 29 at Gotham Hall in New York City.
Armenia Fund USA was the first international affiliate of the Hayastan
All- Armenian Fund. Armenia Fund USA has been in the forefront of
helping Armenia and Karabagh with infrastructure, education, health
care, and community life
PRAYERS FOR PEACE AT ST. SARKIS CHURCH (DEARBORN)
Rev. Fr. Hrant Kevorkian led his parishioners at St. Sarkis Church,
Dearborn, Michigan, in Prayers for Peace in Syria last Friday. Der
Hrant officiated over the Khaghaghagan Zhamerkootyoon (Peace Service)
and Requiem Service for the Armenians who died during the recent civil
war in Syria, and everyone joined in reciting the Havadov KIhostovanim
(In Faith I Confess). A special invited guest, Rev. Dr. Vahan
Tootikian, addressed and inspired
the gathering before the concluding candle lighting service.
A fellowship hour followed the services with a presentation by Shant
Jamgochian of recent images from Aleppo.
Rev. Fr. Hrant Kevorkian and Rev. Dr. Vahan Tootikian lead the Prayers
for
Peace at St. Sarkis Church, Dearborn.
The services concluded with a candle lighting procession.
EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS CELEBRATED IN NJ
Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian, deacons, choir, and hundreds of parishioners
filled the giant tent for the blessing of rehan and madagh on the
occasion of the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross at
Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey. The tent had been
erected for an elegant and lavish fundraising event `under the stars'
that had taken place the evening before.
UAF DELIVERS $21 MILLION OF AID
The United Armenian Fund delivered over $21 million of humanitarian
assistance to Armenia and Artsakh during the period of October 2011 to
September 2012.
The UAF itself collected $13 million of medicines and other supplies
donated by several charities, including AmeriCares, Direct Relief
International, Catholic Medical Mission Board, MAP International, Feed
the Children Fund, Health Partners International of Canada, and
Operation USA. In addition valuable goods were donated from more than
fifty organizations and individuals.
Since its inception in 1989, the UAF has sent $653 million of
humanitarian assistance to Armenia on board 158 airlifts and 2,028 sea
containers.
The UAF is the collective effort of the Armenian General Benevolent
Union, Armenian Missionary Association of America, Armenian Relief
Society, Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, and Prelacy of the
Armenian Apostolic Church of America.
BIBLE READINGS
Bible readings for Sunday, September 30, Third Sunday of the
Exaltation (Feast of the Holy Cross of Varak) are, Proverbs 3:18-26;
Isaiah 65:22-25; Galatians 6:14-18; Matthew 24:30-36.
Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all
the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man
coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he will
send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his
elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
>From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes
tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. So
also, when you see all these things, you know that he is near, at the
very gates. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until
all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away,
but my words will not pass away. But about that day and hour no one
knows, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the
Father. (Matthew 24:30-36)
For a listing of the coming week's Bible readings click here
(http://e2.ma/click/wh4rc/4f4cee/c2yxu).
FEAST OF THE HOLY CROSS OF VARAK
This Sunday, September 30, is the Feast of the Holy Cross of Varak,
a feast that is unique to the Armenian Church and is celebrated two
weeks after the Exaltation of the Cross. After coming to Armenia, the
Hripsimiantz Virgins lived near Mount Varak. They had brought with
them a fragment of the True Cross. Fleeing persecution, they sought
refuge on the mountain where Hripsime hid the cross among the rocks
before fleeing to Vagharshapat. In 653, a hermit named Todik found the
hidden cross. He followed a brilliant
light that illuminated the mountain and guided him inside the church
to the altar where he found the cross. The light shone for twelve
days. In memory of this event, Catholicos Nerses (the Builder)
established the Feast of the Holy Cross of Varak. He wrote the
beautiful hymn, `By the Sign of Your All Powerful Holy Cross,'
(Nshanav Amenahaght Khatchit).
The Monastery of St. Nishan (Varakavank) was built on Mount Varak,
which is in the southeastern region of Van. It was home to one of the
greatest libraries and museums, filled with ancient and modern books
and works of art. The Monastery became even more prominent when
Khrimian Hayrik established a publishing house and a school there
hoping to make the monastery an
educational center. The massacres and deportations of 1915 destroyed
those
plans, as well as so much more. Varakavank was destroyed by the
Turkish army on April 30, 1915, during the siege of Van.
SAINT GEORGE (KEVORK) THE COMMANDER
This Saturday, September 29, the Armenian Church commemorates
St. George (Kevork) the Commander, a third century Roman general who
challenged the Emperor's persecution of Christians by publicly tearing
up the Emperor's decree, and he urged others to follow his example. To
this day he remains a popular saint in the Armenian Church and is the
patron saint of soldiers and scouts. As in many other instances, the
Armenians have
given St. George an Armenian national character. The Feast of
St. George is always on the Saturday before the Feast of the Holy
Cross of Varak that is preceded by a period of fasting. Although the
fast is not connected to St. George, through the centuries it has been
popularly identified as the Fast of St. George.
HIS HOLINESS CONDEMNS FILM
Following the recent protests against the film denigrating the Prophet
Mohammed, His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia,
said that `No group or individual has the right to undermine what is
regarded as sacred by any religion, and we strongly condemn such
approaches. The traditions, teachings, and values of all religions
should be respected. The monotheistic religions believe in peace and
not violence, and dialogue is the key to building respect.'
His Holiness noted that Christians and Muslims have been living
together as neighbors in the Middle East for many centuries and are
working constantly towards building a culture of coexistence based on
respect for diversity.
CATHOLICOS CELEBRATES ARMENIAN INDEPENDENCE;
CALLS FOR ASSISTANCE FOR SYRIAN ARMENIANS
During the Divine Liturgy last Sunday, His Holiness Aram I presided
over the Thanksgiving ceremony celebrating the independence of
Armenia. In
his message he said, `After centuries of subjugation we declared our
independence on May 28, 1918, that we lost soon after to the
communists.
On September 21, 1991, after seventy-three years under the Soviet
regime, we re-established our independent state. This new young
homeland belong s to all of us. We should cherish and safeguard it; we
should strengthen its political, economic and cultural structures.'
His Holiness also spoke about the Armenians escaping the violence in
Syria, noting `We should receive our brothers and sisters who seek
temporary refuge in Lebanon with compassion, and we should accompany
them
until the day peace prevails in Syria and they are able to return to
their
homes and rebuild their lives.'
CATHOLICOS ATTENDS MEETING IN YEREVAN
His Holiness Catholicos Aram went to Yerevan to attend the second
meeting of the committee for the 100th anniversary of the Armenian
Genocide. Upon his arrival in Armenia, Catholicos Aram met with His
Holiness Karekin II in Etchmiadzin. They then attended the meeting of
the committee that is planning the centennial anniversary. The
Catholicoi also met with Armenia's President Serge Sarkissian and the
president of Karabagh, Pago Sahakian. They also discussed the
situation in Syria and the difficulties facing the Armenian community.
Catholicos Aram returned to Antelias immediately after the meetings.
WCC MEETING IN GREECE
At the invitation of the Ecumenical Patriarch, His All Holiness
Bartholomew, the Central Committee of the World Council of Churches
(WCC) met in Crete (Greece) to prepare for the next Assembly of the
WCC. The Armenian
Orthodox Church was represented by Archbishop Vicken Aykazian and
Ms. Paula Der Matoyan from the Holy See of Etchmiadzin, and Archbishop
Nareg Alemezian and Ms. Teny Pirri-Simonian from the Holy See of
Cilicia.
The Central Committee members focused on the 10th Assembly that will
take place in South Korea in 2013. The members finalized the documents
to
be presented to the Assembly for discussion and action by the
delegates of
the churches. The main topics include: unity of the church, mission
and evangelism, environment, and diakonia. The Public Affairs
Committee also discussed the situation in Syria an d adopted a
statement addressing the Christian presence in the Middle East and
calling all warring parties in Syria to
respect the will of the people for the sake of the common good.
Demonstration of Bab Ali (September 30, 1895)
The three great powers (Great Britain, France, and Russia), backed by
Germany, Austria, and Italy, had demanded that Sultan Abdul Hamid II
introduce the reforms in the `provinces inhabited by Armenians,' as
stipulated by the Treaty of Berlin (1878) in what was called the
Armenian Reform Program of May 11, 1895. The refusal of the sultan to
carry the reforms led the Social Democratic Hnchakian Party to stage
the demonstration of Bab Ali (Great Door or Sublime Porte) in
Constantinople on September 30, 1895.
The party was represented in the Ottoman capital by the Board of
Directors, that give instructions for nearly all party activity in
Turkey with the approval of general headquarters at Geneva, and the
Executive Committee, which directed the organization work according to
the instructions of the Board of Directors.
The Executive Committee chose three men to supervise the demonstration
after receiving the order from the Board of Directors. The leader was
Garo Sahakian. After various discussions, the Board of Directors
decided that the demonstration should be peaceful. Months of
preparations were ended on September 28, when the Hnchakian Party
presented a letter in French to the foreign embassies and to the
Turkish government. The letter stated that the demonstration would be
`of a strictly peaceful character' and would be aimed to express
Armenian wishes with regard to the reforms. It added that `the
intervention of the police and military for the purpose of preventing
it may have regrettable consequences, for which we disclaim beforehand
all responsibility.'
The demonstration took place two days later. The Turkish government
had taken security measures; soldiers were posted on the streets
around administrative buildings, and the police were alerted. Around
noon, the Hnchakian leaders entered the Armenian Patriarchate, from
where they led thousands of demonstrators to the palace of the Sultan.
Garo Sahakian, head of the demonstration, was to present the petition
to the Sultan on behalf of both the Armenians of Constantinople and of
the six Armenian provinces. The petition, written by the Hnchakian
Board of
Directors, complained against massacres, unjust arrests, Kurdish
injustices, corruption of tax collectors, and the massacre in Sasun
(1894). It demanded: (a) equality before the law; freedom of the
press; freedom of speech; and freedom of assembly; (b) right of habeas
corpus to all persons under arrest, and permission to Armenians to
bear arms if the Kurds could not be disarmed; (c) a redrawing of the
six Armenian provinces; (d) an European governor for the provinces;
and (e) financial and land reforms.
Garo Sahakian and some demonstrators, after reaching the gates of Bab
Ali, were denied entrance by the officer in charge, and Sahakian was
seized by the zaptiehs (Turkish police). Brought before a Turkish
official, he
was imprisoned after delivering the petition. Fighting and violence
had already broken out. Hundreds of demonstrators were arrested on
that day and for several days ensuing. The prisons became crowded with
wounded men and scores of dead bodies were collected from the streets
of Constantinople.
The rioting and bloodshed in Constantinople alarmed the Turkish
government and disturbed Europe. The Ottoman Council of Ministers
assembled to
discuss the situation, while some of the leading European papers gave
much
attention to the rioting in Constantinople. Finally, pressure by
European governments induced Sultan Abdul Hamid to sign the Armenian
Reform Program on October 17, 1895, about a month after the bloody
demonstration. The Hnchakian Revolutionary Party considered this a
great victory. However, this signature did not bring peace to Ottoman
Armenians. Like so many decrees by the Sultan, this one too became a
dead letter.
(http://e2.ma/click/wh4rc/4f4cee/suzxu)
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
October 7-Salute of Thanksgiving Grand Banquet honoring The American
National Committee to Aid Homeless Armenians (ANCHA); Near East Relief
(Foundation); and Dr. Fridtjof Nansen, at the New York Palace, 455
Madison Avenue, New York City; reception 3 pm, dinner 4 pm. Special
video message from His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of
Cilicia.
October 13-Sayat Nova Dance Company performs `Journey through Time,'
presented by Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Worcester, Massachusetts, 3
pm, at North High School, 140 Harrington Way, Worcester. Tickets $35
adults; $15 children 12 and under. For tickets: Varsenig Cotter
508-852-3328 or Janis Arvanigian 508-754-1039.
October 20-Armenian Relief Society, NJ Shake Chapter, Annual Dinner
Dance, featuring Elie Berberian at Excelsior of Saddle Brook, 7:30 pm;
$65 adults, $40 children. For information and tickets contact: Silva
Kouyoumdjian (201) 779-6744, Nora Diratsaoglu (201) 403-1022, Maggie
Kouyoumdjian (845) 598-3284.
October 20-On the occasion of Translators' Month, the New York Chapter
of Hamazkayin presents a gala concert featuring ARAX Dance Ensemble
from San Francisco and Aregak Youth Chorus of New Jersey, 7 pm at
Walter Crowley Middle School, 50-40 Jacobus Street, Woodside, New
York.
October 21-50th Anniversary of St. Sarkis Church, Dearborn,
Michigan. Morning Service at 10 am followed by the Divine Liturgy
celebrated by H.E. Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan. Blessing of the new
site in Novi along with the Armenian Community Center at 2:30 pm
(parking at Walsh College; shuttle service to the site provided). 50th
anniversary celebration will follow at Laurel Manor, Livonia, MI at
4:30 pm presided by Archbishop Oshagan. Sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Raffi
& Patricia Kuredjian; music by Hrant Gulian and Tommy Gerjekian
Ensemble. Adults $60; Young adults (13-21), $40; Children (4-12) $25;
under 4, free.
November 3-4-St. Sarkis Church, Dearborn, Michigan, Annual Bazaar.
Saturday: 2-11pm; Sunday: 12:30 to 3 pm, Lillian Arakelian
Hall. Armenian delicacies and sweet table, Armenian Store, Exclusive
Shops, Attic Treasures, Raffle, and much more. Live Armenian music
Saturday evening by Ara Topouzian Ensemble.
November 10-Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society of
New Jersey and Vanush Khanamiryan Dance Academy of New York, present
Inga
& Anush with performances by Hamazkayin Nayiri Dance Ensemble of New
Jersey, Hamazkayin Meghri Dance Ensemble of Pennsylvania, and Vanush
Khanamiryan
Dance Academy of New York and Connecticut. Felician College, 262 South
Main Street, Lodi, New Jersey, 5 pm. For reservations ($35 - $70) and
information: 201-739-9557, 201-684-1509, or
www.itsmyseat.com/hamazkayiner
(http://e2.ma/click/wh4rc/4f4cee/8m0xu).
November 11-Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society of
Boston and Vanush Khanamiryan Dance Academy proudly present Inga &
Anush with performance by Erebouni Dance Ensemble of Hamazkayin
Boston. Shaw Auditorium, Watertown High School, Watertown,
Massachusetts, 5 pm. For reservations ($35 - $45) and information:
617-331-0426 or www.itsmyseat.com/hamazkayiner
(http://e2.ma/click/wh4rc/4f4cee/of1xu).
November 16-18-Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey, Annual
Bazaar and Food Festival. Live entertainment Friday and Saturday,
Children's Activities, Vendors. Homemade Manti, Kufte, Sou Buereg,
Choreg, and more. Traditional Kavourma dinner on Sunday. Extensive
Mezze and desert menu for your Thanksgiving table available for
take-out.
November 18-St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, 50th anniversary
jubilee.
Visit us on the web at www.armenianprelacy.org
(http://e2.ma/click/wh4rc/4f4cee/471xu)
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/
September 27, 2012
`THANKSGIVING AND REMEMBRANCE' GRAND BANQUET ON OCTOBER 7
WILL HONOR THOSE WHO CAME TO THE AID OF ARMENIANS;
SPECIAL VIDEO MESSAGE BY CATHOLICOS ARAM I WILL BE SHOWN
The banquet that was scheduled to take place in New York as part of
the Pontifical Visit of His Holiness Aram I, will take place as
planned on
Sunday, October 7, at the Palace Hotel in New York.
As originally planned, the theme of the banquet is `A Salute of
Thanksgiving and Remembrance,' for the life-saving humanitarian aid
provided by: The American National Committee to Aid Homeless Armenians
(ANCHA); Near East Relief, and Dr. Fridtjof Nansen. Representatives of
all three honorees will be present to accept the grateful recognition
and honors.
A video message from His Holiness will be shown on a large screen
during the banquet. Archbishop Oshagan noted that we are `now facing
another grave situation and relief aid is urgently needed for our
brothers
and sisters in Syria. As we honor those who helped us in our days of
need so many years ago, let us now step up to our duty of being the
supporters and guardians of our compatriots.'
Proceeds from the October 7 banquet will be allocated to the
=80=9CFund for Syrian Armenian Relief.'
The banquet will take place Sunday, October 7, at The New York Palace,
455 Madison Avenue, between 50th and 51st Streets. Reception is at 3
pm; dinner at 4 pm. For reservations or for information contact the
Prelacy office at 212-689-7810.
DONATIONS TO THE FUND FOR SYRIAN ARMENIAN RELIEF CAN BE MADE ON LINE.
TO DONATE NOW CLICK HERE (http://e2.ma/click/wh4rc/4f4cee/w9xxu) AND
SELECT SYRIAN ARMENIAN RELIEF IN THE MENU.
THE FUND FOR SYRIAN ARMENIAN RELIEF IS A JOINT EFFORT BY:
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
PRELATE WILL ATTEND DINNER WELCOMING ARMENIA'S FOREIGN MINISTER
Archbishop Oshagan will attend a dinner tomorrow evening, September
28, at the Republic of Armenia's Mission to the United Nations in
honor of the Foreign Minister Eduard Nalbandian who is in New York for
the opening session of the General Assembly of the United Nations.
Foreign Minister Nalbandian is scheduled to address the UN General
Assembly Monday morning, October 1.
REV. FR. HOVNAN REPRESENTS PRELATE IN NEWARK
Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian represented Archbishop Oshagan at the 25th
anniversary of the ordination to the Episcopacy of Archbishop John
Joseph Myers that took place last Saturday at the Cathedral Basilica
of the Sacred Heart in Newark, New Jersey. Der Hovnan is the pastor of
Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey.
Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian, representing Archbishop Oshagan,
congratulates Archbishop John Joseph Myers on the 25th anniversary of
his Episcopal ordination.
PRELATE ATTENDS MEETING WITH PRESIDENT OF EGYPT
Archbishop Oshagan attended a meeting and open discussion with the
president of the Arab Republic of Egypt, H.E. Mohamed Morsy on Monday,
September 24. The event was in conjunction with the opening of the
67th session
of the United Nations General Assembly that brought hundreds of heads
of state to New York this week.
Archbishop Oshagan with the Foreign Minister of Egypt Mohamed Kemal
Amr and Bishop Daniel from the Coptic Church.
20TH ANNIVERSARY OF ARMENIA FUND USA
Archbishop Oshagan will attend the 20th anniversary of Armenia Fund
USA Saturday evening, September 29 at Gotham Hall in New York City.
Armenia Fund USA was the first international affiliate of the Hayastan
All- Armenian Fund. Armenia Fund USA has been in the forefront of
helping Armenia and Karabagh with infrastructure, education, health
care, and community life
PRAYERS FOR PEACE AT ST. SARKIS CHURCH (DEARBORN)
Rev. Fr. Hrant Kevorkian led his parishioners at St. Sarkis Church,
Dearborn, Michigan, in Prayers for Peace in Syria last Friday. Der
Hrant officiated over the Khaghaghagan Zhamerkootyoon (Peace Service)
and Requiem Service for the Armenians who died during the recent civil
war in Syria, and everyone joined in reciting the Havadov KIhostovanim
(In Faith I Confess). A special invited guest, Rev. Dr. Vahan
Tootikian, addressed and inspired
the gathering before the concluding candle lighting service.
A fellowship hour followed the services with a presentation by Shant
Jamgochian of recent images from Aleppo.
Rev. Fr. Hrant Kevorkian and Rev. Dr. Vahan Tootikian lead the Prayers
for
Peace at St. Sarkis Church, Dearborn.
The services concluded with a candle lighting procession.
EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS CELEBRATED IN NJ
Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian, deacons, choir, and hundreds of parishioners
filled the giant tent for the blessing of rehan and madagh on the
occasion of the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross at
Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey. The tent had been
erected for an elegant and lavish fundraising event `under the stars'
that had taken place the evening before.
UAF DELIVERS $21 MILLION OF AID
The United Armenian Fund delivered over $21 million of humanitarian
assistance to Armenia and Artsakh during the period of October 2011 to
September 2012.
The UAF itself collected $13 million of medicines and other supplies
donated by several charities, including AmeriCares, Direct Relief
International, Catholic Medical Mission Board, MAP International, Feed
the Children Fund, Health Partners International of Canada, and
Operation USA. In addition valuable goods were donated from more than
fifty organizations and individuals.
Since its inception in 1989, the UAF has sent $653 million of
humanitarian assistance to Armenia on board 158 airlifts and 2,028 sea
containers.
The UAF is the collective effort of the Armenian General Benevolent
Union, Armenian Missionary Association of America, Armenian Relief
Society, Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, and Prelacy of the
Armenian Apostolic Church of America.
BIBLE READINGS
Bible readings for Sunday, September 30, Third Sunday of the
Exaltation (Feast of the Holy Cross of Varak) are, Proverbs 3:18-26;
Isaiah 65:22-25; Galatians 6:14-18; Matthew 24:30-36.
Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all
the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man
coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he will
send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his
elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
>From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes
tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. So
also, when you see all these things, you know that he is near, at the
very gates. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until
all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away,
but my words will not pass away. But about that day and hour no one
knows, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the
Father. (Matthew 24:30-36)
For a listing of the coming week's Bible readings click here
(http://e2.ma/click/wh4rc/4f4cee/c2yxu).
FEAST OF THE HOLY CROSS OF VARAK
This Sunday, September 30, is the Feast of the Holy Cross of Varak,
a feast that is unique to the Armenian Church and is celebrated two
weeks after the Exaltation of the Cross. After coming to Armenia, the
Hripsimiantz Virgins lived near Mount Varak. They had brought with
them a fragment of the True Cross. Fleeing persecution, they sought
refuge on the mountain where Hripsime hid the cross among the rocks
before fleeing to Vagharshapat. In 653, a hermit named Todik found the
hidden cross. He followed a brilliant
light that illuminated the mountain and guided him inside the church
to the altar where he found the cross. The light shone for twelve
days. In memory of this event, Catholicos Nerses (the Builder)
established the Feast of the Holy Cross of Varak. He wrote the
beautiful hymn, `By the Sign of Your All Powerful Holy Cross,'
(Nshanav Amenahaght Khatchit).
The Monastery of St. Nishan (Varakavank) was built on Mount Varak,
which is in the southeastern region of Van. It was home to one of the
greatest libraries and museums, filled with ancient and modern books
and works of art. The Monastery became even more prominent when
Khrimian Hayrik established a publishing house and a school there
hoping to make the monastery an
educational center. The massacres and deportations of 1915 destroyed
those
plans, as well as so much more. Varakavank was destroyed by the
Turkish army on April 30, 1915, during the siege of Van.
SAINT GEORGE (KEVORK) THE COMMANDER
This Saturday, September 29, the Armenian Church commemorates
St. George (Kevork) the Commander, a third century Roman general who
challenged the Emperor's persecution of Christians by publicly tearing
up the Emperor's decree, and he urged others to follow his example. To
this day he remains a popular saint in the Armenian Church and is the
patron saint of soldiers and scouts. As in many other instances, the
Armenians have
given St. George an Armenian national character. The Feast of
St. George is always on the Saturday before the Feast of the Holy
Cross of Varak that is preceded by a period of fasting. Although the
fast is not connected to St. George, through the centuries it has been
popularly identified as the Fast of St. George.
HIS HOLINESS CONDEMNS FILM
Following the recent protests against the film denigrating the Prophet
Mohammed, His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia,
said that `No group or individual has the right to undermine what is
regarded as sacred by any religion, and we strongly condemn such
approaches. The traditions, teachings, and values of all religions
should be respected. The monotheistic religions believe in peace and
not violence, and dialogue is the key to building respect.'
His Holiness noted that Christians and Muslims have been living
together as neighbors in the Middle East for many centuries and are
working constantly towards building a culture of coexistence based on
respect for diversity.
CATHOLICOS CELEBRATES ARMENIAN INDEPENDENCE;
CALLS FOR ASSISTANCE FOR SYRIAN ARMENIANS
During the Divine Liturgy last Sunday, His Holiness Aram I presided
over the Thanksgiving ceremony celebrating the independence of
Armenia. In
his message he said, `After centuries of subjugation we declared our
independence on May 28, 1918, that we lost soon after to the
communists.
On September 21, 1991, after seventy-three years under the Soviet
regime, we re-established our independent state. This new young
homeland belong s to all of us. We should cherish and safeguard it; we
should strengthen its political, economic and cultural structures.'
His Holiness also spoke about the Armenians escaping the violence in
Syria, noting `We should receive our brothers and sisters who seek
temporary refuge in Lebanon with compassion, and we should accompany
them
until the day peace prevails in Syria and they are able to return to
their
homes and rebuild their lives.'
CATHOLICOS ATTENDS MEETING IN YEREVAN
His Holiness Catholicos Aram went to Yerevan to attend the second
meeting of the committee for the 100th anniversary of the Armenian
Genocide. Upon his arrival in Armenia, Catholicos Aram met with His
Holiness Karekin II in Etchmiadzin. They then attended the meeting of
the committee that is planning the centennial anniversary. The
Catholicoi also met with Armenia's President Serge Sarkissian and the
president of Karabagh, Pago Sahakian. They also discussed the
situation in Syria and the difficulties facing the Armenian community.
Catholicos Aram returned to Antelias immediately after the meetings.
WCC MEETING IN GREECE
At the invitation of the Ecumenical Patriarch, His All Holiness
Bartholomew, the Central Committee of the World Council of Churches
(WCC) met in Crete (Greece) to prepare for the next Assembly of the
WCC. The Armenian
Orthodox Church was represented by Archbishop Vicken Aykazian and
Ms. Paula Der Matoyan from the Holy See of Etchmiadzin, and Archbishop
Nareg Alemezian and Ms. Teny Pirri-Simonian from the Holy See of
Cilicia.
The Central Committee members focused on the 10th Assembly that will
take place in South Korea in 2013. The members finalized the documents
to
be presented to the Assembly for discussion and action by the
delegates of
the churches. The main topics include: unity of the church, mission
and evangelism, environment, and diakonia. The Public Affairs
Committee also discussed the situation in Syria an d adopted a
statement addressing the Christian presence in the Middle East and
calling all warring parties in Syria to
respect the will of the people for the sake of the common good.
Demonstration of Bab Ali (September 30, 1895)
The three great powers (Great Britain, France, and Russia), backed by
Germany, Austria, and Italy, had demanded that Sultan Abdul Hamid II
introduce the reforms in the `provinces inhabited by Armenians,' as
stipulated by the Treaty of Berlin (1878) in what was called the
Armenian Reform Program of May 11, 1895. The refusal of the sultan to
carry the reforms led the Social Democratic Hnchakian Party to stage
the demonstration of Bab Ali (Great Door or Sublime Porte) in
Constantinople on September 30, 1895.
The party was represented in the Ottoman capital by the Board of
Directors, that give instructions for nearly all party activity in
Turkey with the approval of general headquarters at Geneva, and the
Executive Committee, which directed the organization work according to
the instructions of the Board of Directors.
The Executive Committee chose three men to supervise the demonstration
after receiving the order from the Board of Directors. The leader was
Garo Sahakian. After various discussions, the Board of Directors
decided that the demonstration should be peaceful. Months of
preparations were ended on September 28, when the Hnchakian Party
presented a letter in French to the foreign embassies and to the
Turkish government. The letter stated that the demonstration would be
`of a strictly peaceful character' and would be aimed to express
Armenian wishes with regard to the reforms. It added that `the
intervention of the police and military for the purpose of preventing
it may have regrettable consequences, for which we disclaim beforehand
all responsibility.'
The demonstration took place two days later. The Turkish government
had taken security measures; soldiers were posted on the streets
around administrative buildings, and the police were alerted. Around
noon, the Hnchakian leaders entered the Armenian Patriarchate, from
where they led thousands of demonstrators to the palace of the Sultan.
Garo Sahakian, head of the demonstration, was to present the petition
to the Sultan on behalf of both the Armenians of Constantinople and of
the six Armenian provinces. The petition, written by the Hnchakian
Board of
Directors, complained against massacres, unjust arrests, Kurdish
injustices, corruption of tax collectors, and the massacre in Sasun
(1894). It demanded: (a) equality before the law; freedom of the
press; freedom of speech; and freedom of assembly; (b) right of habeas
corpus to all persons under arrest, and permission to Armenians to
bear arms if the Kurds could not be disarmed; (c) a redrawing of the
six Armenian provinces; (d) an European governor for the provinces;
and (e) financial and land reforms.
Garo Sahakian and some demonstrators, after reaching the gates of Bab
Ali, were denied entrance by the officer in charge, and Sahakian was
seized by the zaptiehs (Turkish police). Brought before a Turkish
official, he
was imprisoned after delivering the petition. Fighting and violence
had already broken out. Hundreds of demonstrators were arrested on
that day and for several days ensuing. The prisons became crowded with
wounded men and scores of dead bodies were collected from the streets
of Constantinople.
The rioting and bloodshed in Constantinople alarmed the Turkish
government and disturbed Europe. The Ottoman Council of Ministers
assembled to
discuss the situation, while some of the leading European papers gave
much
attention to the rioting in Constantinople. Finally, pressure by
European governments induced Sultan Abdul Hamid to sign the Armenian
Reform Program on October 17, 1895, about a month after the bloody
demonstration. The Hnchakian Revolutionary Party considered this a
great victory. However, this signature did not bring peace to Ottoman
Armenians. Like so many decrees by the Sultan, this one too became a
dead letter.
(http://e2.ma/click/wh4rc/4f4cee/suzxu)
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
October 7-Salute of Thanksgiving Grand Banquet honoring The American
National Committee to Aid Homeless Armenians (ANCHA); Near East Relief
(Foundation); and Dr. Fridtjof Nansen, at the New York Palace, 455
Madison Avenue, New York City; reception 3 pm, dinner 4 pm. Special
video message from His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of
Cilicia.
October 13-Sayat Nova Dance Company performs `Journey through Time,'
presented by Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Worcester, Massachusetts, 3
pm, at North High School, 140 Harrington Way, Worcester. Tickets $35
adults; $15 children 12 and under. For tickets: Varsenig Cotter
508-852-3328 or Janis Arvanigian 508-754-1039.
October 20-Armenian Relief Society, NJ Shake Chapter, Annual Dinner
Dance, featuring Elie Berberian at Excelsior of Saddle Brook, 7:30 pm;
$65 adults, $40 children. For information and tickets contact: Silva
Kouyoumdjian (201) 779-6744, Nora Diratsaoglu (201) 403-1022, Maggie
Kouyoumdjian (845) 598-3284.
October 20-On the occasion of Translators' Month, the New York Chapter
of Hamazkayin presents a gala concert featuring ARAX Dance Ensemble
from San Francisco and Aregak Youth Chorus of New Jersey, 7 pm at
Walter Crowley Middle School, 50-40 Jacobus Street, Woodside, New
York.
October 21-50th Anniversary of St. Sarkis Church, Dearborn,
Michigan. Morning Service at 10 am followed by the Divine Liturgy
celebrated by H.E. Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan. Blessing of the new
site in Novi along with the Armenian Community Center at 2:30 pm
(parking at Walsh College; shuttle service to the site provided). 50th
anniversary celebration will follow at Laurel Manor, Livonia, MI at
4:30 pm presided by Archbishop Oshagan. Sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Raffi
& Patricia Kuredjian; music by Hrant Gulian and Tommy Gerjekian
Ensemble. Adults $60; Young adults (13-21), $40; Children (4-12) $25;
under 4, free.
November 3-4-St. Sarkis Church, Dearborn, Michigan, Annual Bazaar.
Saturday: 2-11pm; Sunday: 12:30 to 3 pm, Lillian Arakelian
Hall. Armenian delicacies and sweet table, Armenian Store, Exclusive
Shops, Attic Treasures, Raffle, and much more. Live Armenian music
Saturday evening by Ara Topouzian Ensemble.
November 10-Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society of
New Jersey and Vanush Khanamiryan Dance Academy of New York, present
Inga
& Anush with performances by Hamazkayin Nayiri Dance Ensemble of New
Jersey, Hamazkayin Meghri Dance Ensemble of Pennsylvania, and Vanush
Khanamiryan
Dance Academy of New York and Connecticut. Felician College, 262 South
Main Street, Lodi, New Jersey, 5 pm. For reservations ($35 - $70) and
information: 201-739-9557, 201-684-1509, or
www.itsmyseat.com/hamazkayiner
(http://e2.ma/click/wh4rc/4f4cee/8m0xu).
November 11-Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society of
Boston and Vanush Khanamiryan Dance Academy proudly present Inga &
Anush with performance by Erebouni Dance Ensemble of Hamazkayin
Boston. Shaw Auditorium, Watertown High School, Watertown,
Massachusetts, 5 pm. For reservations ($35 - $45) and information:
617-331-0426 or www.itsmyseat.com/hamazkayiner
(http://e2.ma/click/wh4rc/4f4cee/of1xu).
November 16-18-Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey, Annual
Bazaar and Food Festival. Live entertainment Friday and Saturday,
Children's Activities, Vendors. Homemade Manti, Kufte, Sou Buereg,
Choreg, and more. Traditional Kavourma dinner on Sunday. Extensive
Mezze and desert menu for your Thanksgiving table available for
take-out.
November 18-St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, 50th anniversary
jubilee.
Visit us on the web at www.armenianprelacy.org
(http://e2.ma/click/wh4rc/4f4cee/471xu)
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