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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/
October 30, 2014
PRELATE OF ALEPPO VISITS EASTERN PRELACY
Archbishop Shahan Sarkissian, Prelate of Aleppo, met last week with
parishes of the Eastern Prelacy. His Eminence has been visiting
Armenian communities across the United States to brief the community
about the Syrian crisis
and the current state of the Syrian Armenian community. All
contributions received are being allocated to the Armenian schools in
Aleppo and other areas.
The history of Armenians in Syria goes back to the 11th century, but
it was the survivors of the 1915 Genocide that established the
community that became the premiere community of the Diaspora.
As we reported last week, on Wednesday, October 22, the Archbishop,
accompanied by Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, visited the community of
St. Stephen's Church in Watertown, Massachusetts. A public gathering
took place in the evening hosted by the Armenian Relief Society. Here
are some subsequent visits made by Archbishop Shahan:
Philadelphia, October 23
Archbishop Shahan and Archbishop Oshagan, accompanied by Archpriest
Fr. Nerses Manoogian, pastor of St. Gregory Church, gathered at the
home of Mr. and Mrs. Sam and Nellie Nalbandian of Huntington Valley,
Pennsylvania, for a
reception to raise funds to help keep the Armenian schools open in
Aleppo.
Speaking about the general situation in Aleppo as well as other
cities, Archbishop Shahan said that `although we live in difficult
times, we never lose hope. We are without water and electricity, but
hope is very much alive in us.'
Douglaston, October 24
A public briefing took place at St. Sarkis Church in Douglaston, New
York on Friday evening, October 24. Rev. Fr. Nareg Terterian, pastor
of St. Sarkis, welcomed the Archbishop assuring him of the support of
the Armenian American community. The Prelate of Aleppo spoke softly
and plainly, but eloquently, about the Syrian Armenian community and
the community's determination to remain in Syria. He described how
every effort is being made to
keep the schools open and functioning so that the young people will
not be
deprived of an education. He noted that in some areas schools were
consolidated in safer areas.
Ridgefield, October 25 and 26
On Saturday evening, a public briefing took place at Sts. Vartanantz
Church in Ridgefield, New Jersey, where once again Archbishop Shahan
introduced several videos vividly showing the current situation in
Syria. Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian and the Board of Trustees hosted the
event that brought together many members of the community. On Sunday,
His Eminence celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered a sermon on
the occasion of the Feast of the Discovery of the Holy
Cross. Following the Liturgy, Archbishop Shahan spoke to a gathering
of parishioners about the general situation and introduced the videos
that were shown. The Aleppo Prelate answered questions from the
audience.
Woodside, October 27
On Monday evening, Archbishop Shahan once again presented his briefing
to a gathering at the Armenian Center in Woodside, New York, sponsored
by St. Illuminator's Cathedral and the ARF Armen Garo Gomideh. Opening
remarks were offered by Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian. As he did at each
of the events, the Prelate, Archbishop Oshagan, concluded the
gathering with his words of encouragement and appealed to the
community to continue supporting the Syrian Armenian community with
prayers and financial assistance.
On Tuesday, October 28, Archbishop Shahan departed for Canada where he
is continuing his public briefings and appeals.
A fundraising reception at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Nalbandian was
attended by many from the Philadelphia area.
The clergy are surrounded by parishioners and friends at St. Sarkis
Church in Douglaston, New York.
The attendees at a reception at Sts. Vartanantz Church, New Jersey on
Saturday evening.
Archbishop Shahan celebrated the Divine Liturgy in New Jersey.
A briefing and presentation on Sunday after the Liturgy in New Jersey.
The attendees at the public briefing at the Armenian Center in New
York with the clergy.
Archbishop Oshagan and Archbishop Shahan with Salpi Ketchelian, Anna
Mari Manoukian, and Taleen Lakissian who presented $750 to Bishop
Shahan collected by St. Illuminator's Sunday and Saturday school
students.
SYRIAN ARMENIAN COMMUNITY NEEDS OUR HELP MORE THAN EVER
The crisis in Syria requires our financial assistance.
Please keep this community in your prayers, your hearts, and your
pocketbooks.
PLEASE DO NOT FORGET OUR ONGOING RELIEF EFFORTS FOR THE ARMENIAN
COMMUNITY
IN SYRIA WHERE CONDITIONS ARE BECOMING INCREASINGLY MORE DIFFICULT.
THE NEED IS REAL.
THE NEED IS GREAT.
DONATIONS TO THE FUND FOR SYRIAN ARMENIAN RELIEF CAN BE MADE ON
LINE. TO DONATE NOW CLICK HERE
(https://t.e2ma.net/click/sunof/4f4cee/ozw3nb) AND SELECT SYRIAN
ARMENIAN RELIEF IN THE MENU. OR IF YOU PREFER YOU MAY MAIL YOUR
DONATION TO:
Armenian Prelacy
138 E. 39th Street
New York, NY 10016
Checks payable to: Fund for Syrian Armenian Relief
Thank you for your help
PRELATE WILL TRAVEL TO ILLINOIS
Archbishop Oshagan will travel to Illinois this weekend where on
Sunday he
will celebrate the Divine Liturgy and deliver the sermon at All Saints
Church in Glenview, on the occasion of the 71st anniversary of the
parish. Following the services His Eminence will preside over an
anniversary banquet at Shahnasarian Hall.
VICAR WILL VISIT SPRINGFIELD
On Sunday, November 2, Bishop Anoushavan will celebrate the Divine
Liturgy
and deliver the sermon at St. Gregory Church, of Springfield & Indian
Orchard, Massachusetts. During the service His Grace will ordain
Stephen Michael Sherokey to the diaconate and consecrate an icon of
Saint Sarkis the Warrior. The Vicar will preside at the banquet that
will follow the liturgical services.
VICAR VISITS RACINE AND WAUKEGAN
Last weekend Bishop Anoushavan visited St. Hagop Church in Racine,
Wisconsin, and St. Paul Church in Waukegan, Illinois.
On Saturday evening the Vicar met with the leadership and parishioners
of St. Paul Church in Waukegan that also included the blessing of a
recently installed church sign in the front of the church, and
concluded with a moving and uplifting candlelight service.
On Sunday His Grace celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the
sermon
at St. Hagop Church in Racine. During the services, His Grace granted
the right to wear stoles to altar servers, Vahan Mahdasian and Arakel
Khaligian. The Vicar also read the encyclical from His Holiness Aram
I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia, elevating Rev. Fr. Daron
Stepanian, pastor of St. Hagop, to the rank of Archpriest. A dinner
celebration of the 76th anniversary of the parish took place after the
services. On behalf of the pastor and the board of trustees, Bishop
Anoushavan presented a Certificate of Merit to Archdeacon Dikran
Mahdasian for fifty years of service to St. Hagop. In his comments,
Der Daron congratulated the parish on its 76 years of religious and
national leadership and expressed thanks to the Prelate, Archbishop
Oshagan, and the Vicar, Bishop Anoushavan, for their fatherly guidance
and for the honor of being elevated to the rank of Archpriest.
Bishop Anoushavan and Archpriest Fr. Daron with members of the
St. Paul Church community.
Following the Liturgy at St. Hagop Church, the Vicar and Der Hayr with
the
altar servers and parishioners.
Bishop Anoushavan reads the pontifical encyclical elevating Der Daron
to rank of Archpriest.
CAMECT REPRESENTATIVES MEET AT PRELACY
Representatives of Christian and Arab Middle Eastern Churches Together
(CAMECT) met on Tuesday, October 28, at the Prelacy offices in New
York City. CAMECT is comprised of faith communities in the United
States who belong to
or are associated with churches in the Middle East. The organization
meets
at least twice a year to discuss the current situation and to deepen
the bonds of fellowship, awareness, respect and love for one another.
Archbishop Oshagan is the chairman of CAMECT that includes
representatives
of the following churches with roots in the Middle East: Antiochian
Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America; Armenian Orthodox
Church; Armenian Catholic Church; Armenian Evangelical Church;
Assyrian Church of the East; Chaldean Catholic Church; Coptic Orthodox
Church; Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; Maronite Catholic
Church; Melkite Greek Catholic Church; Presbyterian Church; Syriac
Orthodox Church of Antioch; Syriac Catholic Church of Antioch.
Archbishop Oshagan said, `The presence of Christianity in the Middle
East is a deep-rooted reality. For fourteen centuries Christians have
coexisted and cohabited with the Arab people who always regarded the
Christian people as the indigenous people of the Book and encouraged
and protected the Christian presence and rights. The Christian
leadership in the Middle East stands firm in its determination to
maintain the Christian presence in the Middle East and to help the
people remain in the countries they consider their home.'
A meeting of CAMECT representatives took place at the Prelacy on
Tuesday, October 28.
HALLOWEEN PARTY IN PHILLY
St. Gregory Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, held its annual Sunday
School Halloween Party last Sunday. More than 60 students joined in
the festivities of the day, which included lessons about the Discovery
of the Holy Cross and the origins of Halloween; they marched in the
Parade of Saints, danced to music, played games, made caramel apples,
engaged in a group competitive Scripturally-based modified
Jeopardy/Wheel of Fortune/Hangman tournament, feasted at an
overflowing table of kids' favorite delectable foods, and took home
goodie bags to enjoy later that night. Serving in various capacities,
the junior and senior high students fulfilled their stewardship
responsibilities in this their first Day of Stewardship, where they
learn to give back to the church. It was a fun-filled, action-packed
day that everyone enjoyed.
The day began with lessons on the Feast of the Discovery of the Holy
Cross
that was being celebrated that day.
The Halloween table was filled with treats, plus `goodie bags' to take
home.
FOOD FESTIVALS AND BAZAARS
Whatever we call it-Bazaar, Food Festival, Fall Fair, or Holiday
Fair-it is the beginning of the season that our parishes present their
annual event that for most parishes is a major part of their annual
income. St. Gregory Church, North Andover, Massachusetts hosted their
annual Fall Fair last weekend.
At the pastry table in North Andover are, from left, Christine
Kourkounian, chair of the Board of Trustees, Susan Kulungian, and
Melanie Tokatlian.
Rev. Stephan Baljian, pastor of St. Gregory is joined at the Fall Fair
by his parents, Archpriest Fr. Antranig Baljian and Yeretzkin Cheryl.
BIBLE READINGS
Bible readings for Sunday, November 2, Eighth Sunday of the Exaltation
of the Holy Cross, are: Isaiah 22:15-25; Ephesians 1:1-14; Luke
8:17-21.
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints who
are
in Ephesus and are faithful to Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace
from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has
blessed us
in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, just
as he
chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and
blameless before him in love. He destined us for adoption as his
children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his
will, to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on
us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the
forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace
that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and insight he has made known
to us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure that he
set forth in Christ, as a plan for the fullness of time, to gather up
all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance, having been destined
according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according
to his counsel and will, so that we, who were the first to set our
hope on Christ, might live for the praise of his glory. In him you
also, when you had heard the word of truth, the gospel of your
salvation, and had believed in him, were marked with the seal of the
promised Holy Spirit; this is the pledge of our inheritance toward
redemption as God's own people, to the praise of his glory. (Ephesians
1:1-14)
For a listing of the coming week's Bible readings click here
(https://t.e2ma.net/click/sunof/4f4cee/4rx3nb).
ST. JOHN CHRYSOSTOM
Today, October 30, the Armenian Church remembers St. John Chrysostom
(Hovhan Voskeperan), a notable Christian bishop and preacher in Syria
and Constantinople. He is famous for his eloquence-Chrysostom means
`golden mouth.' The Orthodox Church honors him as a saint and one of
the `three holy hierarchs' (along with Basil the Great and
Gregory the Theologian). He is also recognized and honored by the
Catholic
Church and the Church of England.
John converted to Christianity in 368 when he was barely 21 years
old. He renounced a large inheritance and promising legal career and
went to live in a mountain cave where he studied the Bible. He was
later ordained a priest and soon his sermons were attracting huge
audiences. He challenged wealthy Christians, whose generosity was
confined to donating precious objects for display in churches. `The
gift of a chalice may be extravagant in
its generosity,' he said, `but a gift to the poor is an expression of
love.'
His outspoken criticism was not appreciated by the hierarchy and he
was sent into exile at various times. He had a profound influence on
the doctrines and theology of the Armenian Church because he spent the
final years of his exile in Armenia. Some of his important works have
survived only in Armenian manuscripts.
Muse of the deep and ineffable Divine Mysteries.
Wise Prefect and Great Doctor of the world,
Like the rock of the Church, you were faithful to the key to heaven.
>From the beloved disciple, you received the gospel.
>From the Holy Virgin Birth-giver you received your symbol of
authority.
O Patriarch John, by the grace of the Holy Spirit you received wisdom.
(An Armenian Church ode dedicated to St. John Chrysostom)
FEAST OF ALL SAINTS
This Saturday, November 1, the Armenian Church commemorates the Feast
of All Saints, Old and New, Known and Unknown. The western churches
always celebrate All Saints Day on November 1. In the Armenian Church
tradition the date is variable depending on the season of the
Cross. It can occur in late October or in November. The commemoration
is rooted in the belief that there
are many saints who are not known to us. Therefore, on this day all
saints
are honored.
NEWS FROM THE CATHOLICOSATE
NEW JULFA ARMENIANS MARK 400 YEARS OF HISTORY
His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia, attended a
three-day conference dedicated to the 400 years of Armenians living in
New Julfa that took place at the Ararat Community Hall in Isfahan/New
Julfa. In his opening message, His Holiness congratulated the
organizers for the timely
event and the theme, `New Julfa: Symbol of Conviviality amongst the
Three Monotheistic Religions.' Also attending the opening were the
Governor and Vice Governor of Isfahan, the Head of Religious Affairs,
the
President of Isfahan University, and Professors from Yerevan
University.
The Catholicos spoke about the rich experience of Armenians, which he
said
has been well documented in the region's literature. The three day
conference concluded with the celebration of the 350th anniversary of
the Cathedral of Holy Saviour Monastery of New Julfa, in the presence
of the Catholicos, and the Prime Minister of Armenia, Hovik
Abrahamian, who was accompanied by seven government ministers.
As part of the celebrations a conference of scholars took place on
October
21. Dr. Vazken Ghougassian, Executive Director of the Eastern Prelacy
was invited to participate. The topic of his presentation was `The
Social, Administrative and Ecclesiastical Structure of the New Julfa
Armenian Community in the 17th Century.'
The Divine Liturgy on the occasion of the 350th anniversary of the
Cathedral of All Savior's Monastery (Sourp Armenaprkich) in New
Julfa. The
Cathedral was completed in 1664.
Catholicos Aram officially re-opens the renovated library.
The conference of scholars was attended by high-ranking government
officials, the clergy, and the general public. Dr. Vazken Ghougassian,
Executive Director of the Eastern Prelacy, was one of the presenters.
THIS WEEK IN ARMENIAN HISTORY
Prepared by the Armenian National Education Committee (ANEC)
Armistice of Mudros (October 30, 1918)
The defeat of the Central Powers in World War I triggered the
capitulation
of the Ottoman Empire, which was forced to conclude the Armistice of
Mudros on October 30, 1918, to end the hostilities with the Allies in
the Middle
Eastern theater. The armistice was signed by Ottoman Navy Minister
Rauf Bey and British Admiral Somerset Arthur Gough-Calthorpe on board
the British ship Agamemnon in Mudros, a harbor on the Greek island of
Lemnos.
As part of several conditions, the Ottomans surrendered their
remaining garrisons outside Anatolia and granted the Allies the right
to occupy forts controlling the Straits of the Dardanelles and the
Bosporus. Any Ottoman territory could be also occupied by the Allies
in case of a threat to security. The Ottoman army was demobilized.
Armenia had proclaimed its independence on May 28, 1918, but according
to the Treaty of Batum (June 4), its borders had been reduced to an
area surrounding Yerevan, Alexandropol, and lake Sevan of
approximately 12,000 square
kilometers. Armenians anxiously waited for the end of the war, hoping
that
the Allies would fulfill their promises.
Several clauses of the armistice referred to Armenians:
`IV. All Allied prisoners of war and Armenian interned persons and
prisoners to be collected in Constantinople and handed over
unconditionally to the Allies.
XI. Immediate withdrawal of the Turkish troops from Northwest Persia
to the rear of the pre-war frontier has already been ordered and will
be carried
out. Part of Trans-Caucasia has already been ordered to be evacuated
by Turkish troops; the remainder is to be evacuated if required by the
Allies after they have studied the situation there.
XV. Allied Control Officers to be placed on all railways, including
such portions of the Trans-Caucasian Railways as are now under Turkish
control, which must be placed at the free and complete disposal of the
Allied authorities, due consideration being given to the needs of the
population. This clause to include Allied occupation of Batoum. Turkey
will raise no objection
to the occupation of Baku by the Allies.
XVI. Surrender of all garrisons in Hedjaz, Assir, Yemen, Syria, and
Mesopotamia to the nearest Allied Commander; and the withdrawal of
troops from Cilicia, except those necessary to maintain order, as will
be determined under Clause V.
XXIV. In case of disorder in the six Armenian vilayets, the Allies
reserve
to themselves the right to occupy any part of them.
Calthorpe had dictated the conditions of the armistice on behalf of
the Allies without consultation with the other members of the
Entente. Those conditions were discussed during the Peace Conference
of Versailles, opened on January 18, 1919. At the end of January, the
Allied Supreme Council approved a resolution to separate Armenia,
Syria, Palestine, Arabia, and Mesopotamia from the Ottoman Empire.
However, in the future the Allies did not take any serious measure to
execute the clauses of the armistice, which would have favored the
solution of the Armenian Question. The signature of the Treaty of
Sevres in August 1920
was the legal follow-up to the armistice, but it was never ratified
due to
the Turkish victory in the so-called `war of independence.'
Previous entries in `This Week in Armenian History' can be
read on the Prelacy's web site (www.armenianprelacy.org).
FROM THE BOOKSTORE
The Prelacy Bookstore has an extensive collection of books (in
Armenian and English) about the Genocide including histories,
historical novels, memoirs, eye witness testimonies, essays, and
poetry. From now through next April we will feature one or two books
each week from the Bookstore's collection.
>From Empire to Republic:
Turkish Nationalism and the Armenian Genocide
By Taner Akcam
This book is the first serious scholarly attempt to study the Armenian
Genocide in the context of Turkish political history.
Softcover, $36.00 plus shipping and handling
Hagop: An Armenian Genocide Survivor's Journey to Freedom
By Theodore D. Kharpertian
This memoir of a survivor, written by his son, recounts the lifelong
struggle and tenacity of Hagop Kharpertian, the only survivor in his
family. It is a story of crime without punishment and the narrative of
a remarkable life.
Softcover, $13.00 plus shipping and handling
To order these books or for information contact the Armenian Prelacy
Bookstore by email ([email protected]) or by phone
(212-689-7810).
PODCAST WITH FATHER NAREG TERTERIAN: EPISODE 9
click the image below to listen to Podcast No. 9 with Rev. Fr. nareg
terterian featuring an interesting interview with Arthur Hayrabedian,
the first chairman of the Borad of St. Sarkis Church.
(https://t.e2ma.net/click/sunof/4f4cee/kky3nb)
DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ENDS THIS WEEKEND
We are back to Standard Time as of 2 am Sunday. Don't forget to FALL
BACK.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
November 2-All Saints Church, Glenview, Illinois, 71st Anniversary
under auspices of Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, following the Divine
Liturgy, at Shahnasarian Hall, 1701 N. Greenwood, Glenview, Illinois.
November 2-Family Brunch following the Divine Liturgy, Sts. Vartanantz
Church, 461 Bergen Boulevard, Ridgefield, New Jersey, sponsored by the
Nareg Armenian School. Adults $15; children under twelve $5.00. All
proceeds will benefit the Nareg Saturday School.
November 6-Avak Luncheon, sponsored by St. Gregory Church, 158 Main
Street, North Andover, Massachusetts, at noon. Speaker: Sonya
Vartabedian, `Diary of a Community Editor,' reflections from Sunday
School student here to award-winning journalist and editor of The
Andover Townsman and Andover Magazine.
November 7-8-9-Rouben Mamoulian Film Festival, 7 pm, at the Museum
of the Moving Image in Astoria, New York. Sponsored by the
Anthropology Museum of the People of New York, the Armenian Cultural
Educational Resource Center Gallery at Queens College, and The Museum
of the Moving Image. Opening night and reception will feature Love Me
Tonight, the 1932 musical comedy film produced and directed by
Mamoulian, with music by Rodgers and Hart, starring Jeanette MacDonald
and Maurice Chevalier. For tickets and information:
[email protected] or 718-428-5650.
November 7 & 8-St. Stephen's Church, Watertown, Massachusetts, 58th
Armenian Bazaar, 10 am to 9:30 pm at Armenian Cultural & Educational
Center, 47 Nichols Avenue, Watertown, Massachusetts. Meals served from
11:30 am to 8:30 pm (take out is available). Enjoy delicious meals,
Armenian pastries, gourmet items, arts and crafts, books, raffles,
attic treasures. For information: 617-924-7562.
November 8-ARF Day Celebration, hosted by the New York Armen Garo
Gomideh. Dinner followed by patriotic songs by Karnig
Sarkissian. Guest speaker, Vicken Hovsepian, Central Committee Western
Region, at Armenian Center, 69-23 47th Avenue, Woodside, New York, at
8 pm. For reservations/info: 718-651-4687.
November 14-15-Holy Trinity Church, Worcester, Massachusetts, Annual
Fall Fest. Friday, 4 to 8 pm; Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm. Shish, chicken,
losh kebab and kheyma dinners. Home made pastries and special
desserts. For information: 508-852-2414.
November 15 &16-Sts. Vartanantz Church, Providence, Rhode Island,
Armenian Fest 2014 at Rhodes-on-the-Pawtuxet, Broad Street, Cranston,
Rhode
Island. Largest indoor festival in Rhode Island. Delicious shish and
losh kebob, chicken and kufta dinners and Armenian pastry available
all day. Live dance music. The Mourad Armenian School and Providence
Hamazkayin dance groups will perform on Saturday and Sunday at 5
pm. Hourly
raffles, silent auction, country store, gift baskets, flea-market,
arts and crafts. Main raffle prizes worth total $2,700. Fun for all
ages. Free admission, parking and valet. For information: 401-831-6399
or www.stsvartanantzchurch.org.
November 21, 22, 23-Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey,
Annual Bazaar, Food Festival, and Hantes. Mezze and Kebab dinners
(chicken, shish, luleh); dessert table and trays of home-made
delicacies; Boutique
Booths; Chinese Auction; Supervised Game Room for children;
Pre-packaged Monte, Sou Buereg, Kufteh, and Lehmejun; Take-out
available; Live Music for dancing and listening. Traditional Kavourma
dinner on Sunday served immediately after church service. For
information: 201-943-2950.
December 6-Armenian Winter Dessert Festival, Soorp Khatch Church,
Bethesda, Maryland.
December 6-Lowell Gomideh anniversary celebration, 6 pm, at
St. Gregory Church, 158 Main Street, North Andover,
Massachusetts. Dinner, entertainment, program, speaker: David
Boyajian, `The Survival of Armenia: Dangers and
Opportunities. Admission: $20 adults; $10 students. For information:
[email protected] or 978-373-1654.
December 6-St. Asdvadzadzin Church, Whitinsville, Massachusetts,
Annual Bazaar at Christian Reform Church, Whitinsville, 10 am to 5 pm.
December 7-Ladies Guild of St. Stephen's Church of New Britain and
Hartford, Connecticut, will host a Wine Tasting Party at noon in the
church hall, 167 Tremont Street, New Britain. A wine talk and tasting
will be provided by Taylor Brooke Winery, Woodstock, Connecticut,
owned by Linda Varjabedian Auger.
December 7-8th Annual ANC Eastern Region Banquet, Ritz-Carlton Battery
Park, NY. Freedom Award Honoree: former Manhattan District Attorney
Robert Morgenthau and the Morgenthau family; Vahan Cardashian Award
Honoree: ANCA activist Alice Movsesian. Tickets are $250. For
reservations and information, please visit www.anca.org/erbanquet or
917.428.1918.
December 12-Children of Armenia Fund (COAF) 11th Annual Holiday Gala,
Cipriani 42nd Street, New York City. Cocktails and Silent Auction, 7
pm; Dinner & Program, 8 pm; Dancing & After Party, 10 pm. For tickets
and information www.coafkids.org or 212-994-8234.
December 13-St. Gregory Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, =80=9CA
2014 Christmas Celebration' at 7pm in the Sanctuary. Usher in
the Christmas season with family and friends. Featuring master
organist, Ara Eloian, group caroling in Armenian and
English. Reception following in Terhanian Hall. Admission is
Free. RSVP to church office 215-482-9200.
February 9-11, 2015-Ghevontiantz gathering of clergy serving the
Eastern Prelacy.
March 13-15, 2015-`Responsibility 2015,' International conference for
Armenian Genocide's centennial at Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York,
featuring prominent historians, policymakers, authors, and
artists. Organized by the ARF Eastern US Centennial Committee, under
the auspices of the Armenian Genocide Centennial Committee of America,
Eastern Region. www.responsibility2015.com for information.
March 20, 2015-Musical Armenia, presented by Eastern Prelacy and
Prelacy Ladies Guild, Weill Recital Hall, 8 pm, Carnegie Hall, New
York City.
October 5-9, 2015-Clergy gathering of Eastern, Western, and Canadian
Prelacies.
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: A. Papazian
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/
October 30, 2014
PRELATE OF ALEPPO VISITS EASTERN PRELACY
Archbishop Shahan Sarkissian, Prelate of Aleppo, met last week with
parishes of the Eastern Prelacy. His Eminence has been visiting
Armenian communities across the United States to brief the community
about the Syrian crisis
and the current state of the Syrian Armenian community. All
contributions received are being allocated to the Armenian schools in
Aleppo and other areas.
The history of Armenians in Syria goes back to the 11th century, but
it was the survivors of the 1915 Genocide that established the
community that became the premiere community of the Diaspora.
As we reported last week, on Wednesday, October 22, the Archbishop,
accompanied by Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, visited the community of
St. Stephen's Church in Watertown, Massachusetts. A public gathering
took place in the evening hosted by the Armenian Relief Society. Here
are some subsequent visits made by Archbishop Shahan:
Philadelphia, October 23
Archbishop Shahan and Archbishop Oshagan, accompanied by Archpriest
Fr. Nerses Manoogian, pastor of St. Gregory Church, gathered at the
home of Mr. and Mrs. Sam and Nellie Nalbandian of Huntington Valley,
Pennsylvania, for a
reception to raise funds to help keep the Armenian schools open in
Aleppo.
Speaking about the general situation in Aleppo as well as other
cities, Archbishop Shahan said that `although we live in difficult
times, we never lose hope. We are without water and electricity, but
hope is very much alive in us.'
Douglaston, October 24
A public briefing took place at St. Sarkis Church in Douglaston, New
York on Friday evening, October 24. Rev. Fr. Nareg Terterian, pastor
of St. Sarkis, welcomed the Archbishop assuring him of the support of
the Armenian American community. The Prelate of Aleppo spoke softly
and plainly, but eloquently, about the Syrian Armenian community and
the community's determination to remain in Syria. He described how
every effort is being made to
keep the schools open and functioning so that the young people will
not be
deprived of an education. He noted that in some areas schools were
consolidated in safer areas.
Ridgefield, October 25 and 26
On Saturday evening, a public briefing took place at Sts. Vartanantz
Church in Ridgefield, New Jersey, where once again Archbishop Shahan
introduced several videos vividly showing the current situation in
Syria. Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian and the Board of Trustees hosted the
event that brought together many members of the community. On Sunday,
His Eminence celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered a sermon on
the occasion of the Feast of the Discovery of the Holy
Cross. Following the Liturgy, Archbishop Shahan spoke to a gathering
of parishioners about the general situation and introduced the videos
that were shown. The Aleppo Prelate answered questions from the
audience.
Woodside, October 27
On Monday evening, Archbishop Shahan once again presented his briefing
to a gathering at the Armenian Center in Woodside, New York, sponsored
by St. Illuminator's Cathedral and the ARF Armen Garo Gomideh. Opening
remarks were offered by Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian. As he did at each
of the events, the Prelate, Archbishop Oshagan, concluded the
gathering with his words of encouragement and appealed to the
community to continue supporting the Syrian Armenian community with
prayers and financial assistance.
On Tuesday, October 28, Archbishop Shahan departed for Canada where he
is continuing his public briefings and appeals.
A fundraising reception at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Nalbandian was
attended by many from the Philadelphia area.
The clergy are surrounded by parishioners and friends at St. Sarkis
Church in Douglaston, New York.
The attendees at a reception at Sts. Vartanantz Church, New Jersey on
Saturday evening.
Archbishop Shahan celebrated the Divine Liturgy in New Jersey.
A briefing and presentation on Sunday after the Liturgy in New Jersey.
The attendees at the public briefing at the Armenian Center in New
York with the clergy.
Archbishop Oshagan and Archbishop Shahan with Salpi Ketchelian, Anna
Mari Manoukian, and Taleen Lakissian who presented $750 to Bishop
Shahan collected by St. Illuminator's Sunday and Saturday school
students.
SYRIAN ARMENIAN COMMUNITY NEEDS OUR HELP MORE THAN EVER
The crisis in Syria requires our financial assistance.
Please keep this community in your prayers, your hearts, and your
pocketbooks.
PLEASE DO NOT FORGET OUR ONGOING RELIEF EFFORTS FOR THE ARMENIAN
COMMUNITY
IN SYRIA WHERE CONDITIONS ARE BECOMING INCREASINGLY MORE DIFFICULT.
THE NEED IS REAL.
THE NEED IS GREAT.
DONATIONS TO THE FUND FOR SYRIAN ARMENIAN RELIEF CAN BE MADE ON
LINE. TO DONATE NOW CLICK HERE
(https://t.e2ma.net/click/sunof/4f4cee/ozw3nb) AND SELECT SYRIAN
ARMENIAN RELIEF IN THE MENU. OR IF YOU PREFER YOU MAY MAIL YOUR
DONATION TO:
Armenian Prelacy
138 E. 39th Street
New York, NY 10016
Checks payable to: Fund for Syrian Armenian Relief
Thank you for your help
PRELATE WILL TRAVEL TO ILLINOIS
Archbishop Oshagan will travel to Illinois this weekend where on
Sunday he
will celebrate the Divine Liturgy and deliver the sermon at All Saints
Church in Glenview, on the occasion of the 71st anniversary of the
parish. Following the services His Eminence will preside over an
anniversary banquet at Shahnasarian Hall.
VICAR WILL VISIT SPRINGFIELD
On Sunday, November 2, Bishop Anoushavan will celebrate the Divine
Liturgy
and deliver the sermon at St. Gregory Church, of Springfield & Indian
Orchard, Massachusetts. During the service His Grace will ordain
Stephen Michael Sherokey to the diaconate and consecrate an icon of
Saint Sarkis the Warrior. The Vicar will preside at the banquet that
will follow the liturgical services.
VICAR VISITS RACINE AND WAUKEGAN
Last weekend Bishop Anoushavan visited St. Hagop Church in Racine,
Wisconsin, and St. Paul Church in Waukegan, Illinois.
On Saturday evening the Vicar met with the leadership and parishioners
of St. Paul Church in Waukegan that also included the blessing of a
recently installed church sign in the front of the church, and
concluded with a moving and uplifting candlelight service.
On Sunday His Grace celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the
sermon
at St. Hagop Church in Racine. During the services, His Grace granted
the right to wear stoles to altar servers, Vahan Mahdasian and Arakel
Khaligian. The Vicar also read the encyclical from His Holiness Aram
I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia, elevating Rev. Fr. Daron
Stepanian, pastor of St. Hagop, to the rank of Archpriest. A dinner
celebration of the 76th anniversary of the parish took place after the
services. On behalf of the pastor and the board of trustees, Bishop
Anoushavan presented a Certificate of Merit to Archdeacon Dikran
Mahdasian for fifty years of service to St. Hagop. In his comments,
Der Daron congratulated the parish on its 76 years of religious and
national leadership and expressed thanks to the Prelate, Archbishop
Oshagan, and the Vicar, Bishop Anoushavan, for their fatherly guidance
and for the honor of being elevated to the rank of Archpriest.
Bishop Anoushavan and Archpriest Fr. Daron with members of the
St. Paul Church community.
Following the Liturgy at St. Hagop Church, the Vicar and Der Hayr with
the
altar servers and parishioners.
Bishop Anoushavan reads the pontifical encyclical elevating Der Daron
to rank of Archpriest.
CAMECT REPRESENTATIVES MEET AT PRELACY
Representatives of Christian and Arab Middle Eastern Churches Together
(CAMECT) met on Tuesday, October 28, at the Prelacy offices in New
York City. CAMECT is comprised of faith communities in the United
States who belong to
or are associated with churches in the Middle East. The organization
meets
at least twice a year to discuss the current situation and to deepen
the bonds of fellowship, awareness, respect and love for one another.
Archbishop Oshagan is the chairman of CAMECT that includes
representatives
of the following churches with roots in the Middle East: Antiochian
Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America; Armenian Orthodox
Church; Armenian Catholic Church; Armenian Evangelical Church;
Assyrian Church of the East; Chaldean Catholic Church; Coptic Orthodox
Church; Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; Maronite Catholic
Church; Melkite Greek Catholic Church; Presbyterian Church; Syriac
Orthodox Church of Antioch; Syriac Catholic Church of Antioch.
Archbishop Oshagan said, `The presence of Christianity in the Middle
East is a deep-rooted reality. For fourteen centuries Christians have
coexisted and cohabited with the Arab people who always regarded the
Christian people as the indigenous people of the Book and encouraged
and protected the Christian presence and rights. The Christian
leadership in the Middle East stands firm in its determination to
maintain the Christian presence in the Middle East and to help the
people remain in the countries they consider their home.'
A meeting of CAMECT representatives took place at the Prelacy on
Tuesday, October 28.
HALLOWEEN PARTY IN PHILLY
St. Gregory Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, held its annual Sunday
School Halloween Party last Sunday. More than 60 students joined in
the festivities of the day, which included lessons about the Discovery
of the Holy Cross and the origins of Halloween; they marched in the
Parade of Saints, danced to music, played games, made caramel apples,
engaged in a group competitive Scripturally-based modified
Jeopardy/Wheel of Fortune/Hangman tournament, feasted at an
overflowing table of kids' favorite delectable foods, and took home
goodie bags to enjoy later that night. Serving in various capacities,
the junior and senior high students fulfilled their stewardship
responsibilities in this their first Day of Stewardship, where they
learn to give back to the church. It was a fun-filled, action-packed
day that everyone enjoyed.
The day began with lessons on the Feast of the Discovery of the Holy
Cross
that was being celebrated that day.
The Halloween table was filled with treats, plus `goodie bags' to take
home.
FOOD FESTIVALS AND BAZAARS
Whatever we call it-Bazaar, Food Festival, Fall Fair, or Holiday
Fair-it is the beginning of the season that our parishes present their
annual event that for most parishes is a major part of their annual
income. St. Gregory Church, North Andover, Massachusetts hosted their
annual Fall Fair last weekend.
At the pastry table in North Andover are, from left, Christine
Kourkounian, chair of the Board of Trustees, Susan Kulungian, and
Melanie Tokatlian.
Rev. Stephan Baljian, pastor of St. Gregory is joined at the Fall Fair
by his parents, Archpriest Fr. Antranig Baljian and Yeretzkin Cheryl.
BIBLE READINGS
Bible readings for Sunday, November 2, Eighth Sunday of the Exaltation
of the Holy Cross, are: Isaiah 22:15-25; Ephesians 1:1-14; Luke
8:17-21.
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints who
are
in Ephesus and are faithful to Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace
from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has
blessed us
in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, just
as he
chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and
blameless before him in love. He destined us for adoption as his
children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his
will, to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on
us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the
forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace
that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and insight he has made known
to us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure that he
set forth in Christ, as a plan for the fullness of time, to gather up
all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance, having been destined
according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according
to his counsel and will, so that we, who were the first to set our
hope on Christ, might live for the praise of his glory. In him you
also, when you had heard the word of truth, the gospel of your
salvation, and had believed in him, were marked with the seal of the
promised Holy Spirit; this is the pledge of our inheritance toward
redemption as God's own people, to the praise of his glory. (Ephesians
1:1-14)
For a listing of the coming week's Bible readings click here
(https://t.e2ma.net/click/sunof/4f4cee/4rx3nb).
ST. JOHN CHRYSOSTOM
Today, October 30, the Armenian Church remembers St. John Chrysostom
(Hovhan Voskeperan), a notable Christian bishop and preacher in Syria
and Constantinople. He is famous for his eloquence-Chrysostom means
`golden mouth.' The Orthodox Church honors him as a saint and one of
the `three holy hierarchs' (along with Basil the Great and
Gregory the Theologian). He is also recognized and honored by the
Catholic
Church and the Church of England.
John converted to Christianity in 368 when he was barely 21 years
old. He renounced a large inheritance and promising legal career and
went to live in a mountain cave where he studied the Bible. He was
later ordained a priest and soon his sermons were attracting huge
audiences. He challenged wealthy Christians, whose generosity was
confined to donating precious objects for display in churches. `The
gift of a chalice may be extravagant in
its generosity,' he said, `but a gift to the poor is an expression of
love.'
His outspoken criticism was not appreciated by the hierarchy and he
was sent into exile at various times. He had a profound influence on
the doctrines and theology of the Armenian Church because he spent the
final years of his exile in Armenia. Some of his important works have
survived only in Armenian manuscripts.
Muse of the deep and ineffable Divine Mysteries.
Wise Prefect and Great Doctor of the world,
Like the rock of the Church, you were faithful to the key to heaven.
>From the beloved disciple, you received the gospel.
>From the Holy Virgin Birth-giver you received your symbol of
authority.
O Patriarch John, by the grace of the Holy Spirit you received wisdom.
(An Armenian Church ode dedicated to St. John Chrysostom)
FEAST OF ALL SAINTS
This Saturday, November 1, the Armenian Church commemorates the Feast
of All Saints, Old and New, Known and Unknown. The western churches
always celebrate All Saints Day on November 1. In the Armenian Church
tradition the date is variable depending on the season of the
Cross. It can occur in late October or in November. The commemoration
is rooted in the belief that there
are many saints who are not known to us. Therefore, on this day all
saints
are honored.
NEWS FROM THE CATHOLICOSATE
NEW JULFA ARMENIANS MARK 400 YEARS OF HISTORY
His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia, attended a
three-day conference dedicated to the 400 years of Armenians living in
New Julfa that took place at the Ararat Community Hall in Isfahan/New
Julfa. In his opening message, His Holiness congratulated the
organizers for the timely
event and the theme, `New Julfa: Symbol of Conviviality amongst the
Three Monotheistic Religions.' Also attending the opening were the
Governor and Vice Governor of Isfahan, the Head of Religious Affairs,
the
President of Isfahan University, and Professors from Yerevan
University.
The Catholicos spoke about the rich experience of Armenians, which he
said
has been well documented in the region's literature. The three day
conference concluded with the celebration of the 350th anniversary of
the Cathedral of Holy Saviour Monastery of New Julfa, in the presence
of the Catholicos, and the Prime Minister of Armenia, Hovik
Abrahamian, who was accompanied by seven government ministers.
As part of the celebrations a conference of scholars took place on
October
21. Dr. Vazken Ghougassian, Executive Director of the Eastern Prelacy
was invited to participate. The topic of his presentation was `The
Social, Administrative and Ecclesiastical Structure of the New Julfa
Armenian Community in the 17th Century.'
The Divine Liturgy on the occasion of the 350th anniversary of the
Cathedral of All Savior's Monastery (Sourp Armenaprkich) in New
Julfa. The
Cathedral was completed in 1664.
Catholicos Aram officially re-opens the renovated library.
The conference of scholars was attended by high-ranking government
officials, the clergy, and the general public. Dr. Vazken Ghougassian,
Executive Director of the Eastern Prelacy, was one of the presenters.
THIS WEEK IN ARMENIAN HISTORY
Prepared by the Armenian National Education Committee (ANEC)
Armistice of Mudros (October 30, 1918)
The defeat of the Central Powers in World War I triggered the
capitulation
of the Ottoman Empire, which was forced to conclude the Armistice of
Mudros on October 30, 1918, to end the hostilities with the Allies in
the Middle
Eastern theater. The armistice was signed by Ottoman Navy Minister
Rauf Bey and British Admiral Somerset Arthur Gough-Calthorpe on board
the British ship Agamemnon in Mudros, a harbor on the Greek island of
Lemnos.
As part of several conditions, the Ottomans surrendered their
remaining garrisons outside Anatolia and granted the Allies the right
to occupy forts controlling the Straits of the Dardanelles and the
Bosporus. Any Ottoman territory could be also occupied by the Allies
in case of a threat to security. The Ottoman army was demobilized.
Armenia had proclaimed its independence on May 28, 1918, but according
to the Treaty of Batum (June 4), its borders had been reduced to an
area surrounding Yerevan, Alexandropol, and lake Sevan of
approximately 12,000 square
kilometers. Armenians anxiously waited for the end of the war, hoping
that
the Allies would fulfill their promises.
Several clauses of the armistice referred to Armenians:
`IV. All Allied prisoners of war and Armenian interned persons and
prisoners to be collected in Constantinople and handed over
unconditionally to the Allies.
XI. Immediate withdrawal of the Turkish troops from Northwest Persia
to the rear of the pre-war frontier has already been ordered and will
be carried
out. Part of Trans-Caucasia has already been ordered to be evacuated
by Turkish troops; the remainder is to be evacuated if required by the
Allies after they have studied the situation there.
XV. Allied Control Officers to be placed on all railways, including
such portions of the Trans-Caucasian Railways as are now under Turkish
control, which must be placed at the free and complete disposal of the
Allied authorities, due consideration being given to the needs of the
population. This clause to include Allied occupation of Batoum. Turkey
will raise no objection
to the occupation of Baku by the Allies.
XVI. Surrender of all garrisons in Hedjaz, Assir, Yemen, Syria, and
Mesopotamia to the nearest Allied Commander; and the withdrawal of
troops from Cilicia, except those necessary to maintain order, as will
be determined under Clause V.
XXIV. In case of disorder in the six Armenian vilayets, the Allies
reserve
to themselves the right to occupy any part of them.
Calthorpe had dictated the conditions of the armistice on behalf of
the Allies without consultation with the other members of the
Entente. Those conditions were discussed during the Peace Conference
of Versailles, opened on January 18, 1919. At the end of January, the
Allied Supreme Council approved a resolution to separate Armenia,
Syria, Palestine, Arabia, and Mesopotamia from the Ottoman Empire.
However, in the future the Allies did not take any serious measure to
execute the clauses of the armistice, which would have favored the
solution of the Armenian Question. The signature of the Treaty of
Sevres in August 1920
was the legal follow-up to the armistice, but it was never ratified
due to
the Turkish victory in the so-called `war of independence.'
Previous entries in `This Week in Armenian History' can be
read on the Prelacy's web site (www.armenianprelacy.org).
FROM THE BOOKSTORE
The Prelacy Bookstore has an extensive collection of books (in
Armenian and English) about the Genocide including histories,
historical novels, memoirs, eye witness testimonies, essays, and
poetry. From now through next April we will feature one or two books
each week from the Bookstore's collection.
>From Empire to Republic:
Turkish Nationalism and the Armenian Genocide
By Taner Akcam
This book is the first serious scholarly attempt to study the Armenian
Genocide in the context of Turkish political history.
Softcover, $36.00 plus shipping and handling
Hagop: An Armenian Genocide Survivor's Journey to Freedom
By Theodore D. Kharpertian
This memoir of a survivor, written by his son, recounts the lifelong
struggle and tenacity of Hagop Kharpertian, the only survivor in his
family. It is a story of crime without punishment and the narrative of
a remarkable life.
Softcover, $13.00 plus shipping and handling
To order these books or for information contact the Armenian Prelacy
Bookstore by email ([email protected]) or by phone
(212-689-7810).
PODCAST WITH FATHER NAREG TERTERIAN: EPISODE 9
click the image below to listen to Podcast No. 9 with Rev. Fr. nareg
terterian featuring an interesting interview with Arthur Hayrabedian,
the first chairman of the Borad of St. Sarkis Church.
(https://t.e2ma.net/click/sunof/4f4cee/kky3nb)
DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ENDS THIS WEEKEND
We are back to Standard Time as of 2 am Sunday. Don't forget to FALL
BACK.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
November 2-All Saints Church, Glenview, Illinois, 71st Anniversary
under auspices of Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, following the Divine
Liturgy, at Shahnasarian Hall, 1701 N. Greenwood, Glenview, Illinois.
November 2-Family Brunch following the Divine Liturgy, Sts. Vartanantz
Church, 461 Bergen Boulevard, Ridgefield, New Jersey, sponsored by the
Nareg Armenian School. Adults $15; children under twelve $5.00. All
proceeds will benefit the Nareg Saturday School.
November 6-Avak Luncheon, sponsored by St. Gregory Church, 158 Main
Street, North Andover, Massachusetts, at noon. Speaker: Sonya
Vartabedian, `Diary of a Community Editor,' reflections from Sunday
School student here to award-winning journalist and editor of The
Andover Townsman and Andover Magazine.
November 7-8-9-Rouben Mamoulian Film Festival, 7 pm, at the Museum
of the Moving Image in Astoria, New York. Sponsored by the
Anthropology Museum of the People of New York, the Armenian Cultural
Educational Resource Center Gallery at Queens College, and The Museum
of the Moving Image. Opening night and reception will feature Love Me
Tonight, the 1932 musical comedy film produced and directed by
Mamoulian, with music by Rodgers and Hart, starring Jeanette MacDonald
and Maurice Chevalier. For tickets and information:
[email protected] or 718-428-5650.
November 7 & 8-St. Stephen's Church, Watertown, Massachusetts, 58th
Armenian Bazaar, 10 am to 9:30 pm at Armenian Cultural & Educational
Center, 47 Nichols Avenue, Watertown, Massachusetts. Meals served from
11:30 am to 8:30 pm (take out is available). Enjoy delicious meals,
Armenian pastries, gourmet items, arts and crafts, books, raffles,
attic treasures. For information: 617-924-7562.
November 8-ARF Day Celebration, hosted by the New York Armen Garo
Gomideh. Dinner followed by patriotic songs by Karnig
Sarkissian. Guest speaker, Vicken Hovsepian, Central Committee Western
Region, at Armenian Center, 69-23 47th Avenue, Woodside, New York, at
8 pm. For reservations/info: 718-651-4687.
November 14-15-Holy Trinity Church, Worcester, Massachusetts, Annual
Fall Fest. Friday, 4 to 8 pm; Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm. Shish, chicken,
losh kebab and kheyma dinners. Home made pastries and special
desserts. For information: 508-852-2414.
November 15 &16-Sts. Vartanantz Church, Providence, Rhode Island,
Armenian Fest 2014 at Rhodes-on-the-Pawtuxet, Broad Street, Cranston,
Rhode
Island. Largest indoor festival in Rhode Island. Delicious shish and
losh kebob, chicken and kufta dinners and Armenian pastry available
all day. Live dance music. The Mourad Armenian School and Providence
Hamazkayin dance groups will perform on Saturday and Sunday at 5
pm. Hourly
raffles, silent auction, country store, gift baskets, flea-market,
arts and crafts. Main raffle prizes worth total $2,700. Fun for all
ages. Free admission, parking and valet. For information: 401-831-6399
or www.stsvartanantzchurch.org.
November 21, 22, 23-Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey,
Annual Bazaar, Food Festival, and Hantes. Mezze and Kebab dinners
(chicken, shish, luleh); dessert table and trays of home-made
delicacies; Boutique
Booths; Chinese Auction; Supervised Game Room for children;
Pre-packaged Monte, Sou Buereg, Kufteh, and Lehmejun; Take-out
available; Live Music for dancing and listening. Traditional Kavourma
dinner on Sunday served immediately after church service. For
information: 201-943-2950.
December 6-Armenian Winter Dessert Festival, Soorp Khatch Church,
Bethesda, Maryland.
December 6-Lowell Gomideh anniversary celebration, 6 pm, at
St. Gregory Church, 158 Main Street, North Andover,
Massachusetts. Dinner, entertainment, program, speaker: David
Boyajian, `The Survival of Armenia: Dangers and
Opportunities. Admission: $20 adults; $10 students. For information:
[email protected] or 978-373-1654.
December 6-St. Asdvadzadzin Church, Whitinsville, Massachusetts,
Annual Bazaar at Christian Reform Church, Whitinsville, 10 am to 5 pm.
December 7-Ladies Guild of St. Stephen's Church of New Britain and
Hartford, Connecticut, will host a Wine Tasting Party at noon in the
church hall, 167 Tremont Street, New Britain. A wine talk and tasting
will be provided by Taylor Brooke Winery, Woodstock, Connecticut,
owned by Linda Varjabedian Auger.
December 7-8th Annual ANC Eastern Region Banquet, Ritz-Carlton Battery
Park, NY. Freedom Award Honoree: former Manhattan District Attorney
Robert Morgenthau and the Morgenthau family; Vahan Cardashian Award
Honoree: ANCA activist Alice Movsesian. Tickets are $250. For
reservations and information, please visit www.anca.org/erbanquet or
917.428.1918.
December 12-Children of Armenia Fund (COAF) 11th Annual Holiday Gala,
Cipriani 42nd Street, New York City. Cocktails and Silent Auction, 7
pm; Dinner & Program, 8 pm; Dancing & After Party, 10 pm. For tickets
and information www.coafkids.org or 212-994-8234.
December 13-St. Gregory Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, =80=9CA
2014 Christmas Celebration' at 7pm in the Sanctuary. Usher in
the Christmas season with family and friends. Featuring master
organist, Ara Eloian, group caroling in Armenian and
English. Reception following in Terhanian Hall. Admission is
Free. RSVP to church office 215-482-9200.
February 9-11, 2015-Ghevontiantz gathering of clergy serving the
Eastern Prelacy.
March 13-15, 2015-`Responsibility 2015,' International conference for
Armenian Genocide's centennial at Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York,
featuring prominent historians, policymakers, authors, and
artists. Organized by the ARF Eastern US Centennial Committee, under
the auspices of the Armenian Genocide Centennial Committee of America,
Eastern Region. www.responsibility2015.com for information.
March 20, 2015-Musical Armenia, presented by Eastern Prelacy and
Prelacy Ladies Guild, Weill Recital Hall, 8 pm, Carnegie Hall, New
York City.
October 5-9, 2015-Clergy gathering of Eastern, Western, and Canadian
Prelacies.
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: A. Papazian