PRESS OFFICE
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Contact: Jake Goshert, Coordinator of Information Services
Tel: (212) 686-0710 Ext. 60; Fax: (212) 779-3558
E-mail: [email protected]
Website:
October 8, 2004
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HOLY CROSS CHURCH MARKS 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF CONSECRATION
On Sunday, September 19, 2004, the Holy Cross Church of Armenia in upper
Manhattan marked the 75th anniversary of its consecration.
To mark the occasion, the parish, which has about 90 active
parishioners, welcomed Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), who celebrated a
special Divine Liturgy, and held a banquet which brought out more than
200 people.
The historic church in upper Manhattan has seen its share of joys and
challenges. But the parishioners have always retained their devotion,
said the church’s pastor for the past three years, Archbishop Anania
Arabajyan.
“It is a very faithful parish. They’re strong believers and they help
keep the Armenian tradition alive,” he said. “They’re strongly
dedicated to the church and are always doing the work to keep it alive.”
HONORING THE STEWARD
One long-time parishioner at the Holy Cross Church was honored during
the anniversary celebration. Archbishop Barsamian presented the St.
Nersess Shnorhali Medal and a pontifical encyclical from His Holiness
Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, to Holy Cross parishioner
Deacon Krikor Anoushian.
“He is truly a devout and dedicated steward, not only of his parish but
of the Armenian Church in general,” the Primate said. “A tireless
worker, his passionate service has been an example for his fellow
parishioners.”
A parishioner at Holy Cross for more than three decades, Anoushian
currently serves as a deacon on the altar, is the parish council
treasurer, and a Diocesan delegate. He is also a leader of the Komitas
Choir.
“He is important to the life of our church,” Archbishop Arabajyan said.
“He is originally from Turkey, where the Armenians have the tradition of
being close to their parishes. He came here and brought his dedication
and faith with him to this church.”
— 10/08/04
E-mail photos available on request. Photos also viewable in the News
and Events section of the Eastern Diocese’s website,
PHOTO CAPTION (1): During a banquet marking the 75th anniversary of the
consecration of the Holy Cross Church of Armenia in Manhattan,
Archbishop Anania Arabajyan, parish pastor, congratulates Krikor
Anoushian after Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate, presented him with
the St. Nersess Shnorhali Medal and a pontifical encyclical from His
Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, on Sunday, September
19, 2004.