Month: February 2012

PRESS RELEASE
Catholicosate of Cilicia
Communication and Information Department
Contact: V.Rev.Fr.Krikor Chiftjian, Communications Director
Tel: (04) 410001, 410003
Fax: (04) 419724
E- mail: [email protected]
Web:

PO Box 70 317
Antelias-Lebanon

Watch our latest videos on YouTube here:

PROFESSOR TANER AKCAM MEETS HIS HOLINESS ARAM I

On Thursday 23 February 2012, Professor Taner Akcam met His Holiness
Catholicos Aram I. The focus of their discussion was the Genocide conference
organized by the Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia. His Holiness emphasized
the importance of reparation which should become the focal point of the
conference. His Holiness and Taner Akcam then discussed various
possibilities of initiating a legal process concerning the return of church
properties to its legal owner the Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia.

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Photo:

PRESS RELEASE
Armenian Studies Program
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA 94720-2550
Contact: Prof. Stephan Astourian
Tel: 510-642-3230
Email: [email protected]

The Armenian Studies Program at UC Berkeley is hosting a symposium on
Eghishe Charents on February 26, 2012. This symposium will address central
aspects of his life and oeuvre. Part of the program will include a screening
of Charents: In Search Of My Armenian Poem, which takes place at 10:30am. At
2:00pm, Dr. Azat Yeghiazaryan, Vartan Matiossian, and James Russell will
give lectures on Charents¹ works.

Venue: 370 Dwinelle Hall
UC Berkeley,
Berkeley, California
Date: February 26, 2012
Time: 10:30am to 5:30pm

For more information, please contact the Institute of Slavic, East European,
and Eurasian Studies at (510) 642-3230 or email Stephan Astourian at
[email protected].

From: Baghdasarian

PRESS RELEASE

February 23, 2012

Armenian International Women’s Association (AIWA)
San Francisco Affiliate
Contact: Gaiane Khachatrian, President
E-mail: [email protected]

AIWA Launched an Affiliate in San Francisco

San Francisco
– Immediately following the AIWA conference held in San Francisco in
October of 2011, a group of young professional Armenian women took the
initiative with a great enthusiasm to establish an affiliate in San
Francisco. They started ground work in late November of 2011, and the
AIWA San Francisco affiliate was officially recognized by the Central
Board of Directors on January 3, 2012. Dr. Susanne Moranian welcomed
the group on board wishing them the very best in promoting the AIWA’s
goals in the years ahead.
Eight out of the ten women, who launched the San Francisco affiliate,
born and raised in Armenia, moved to the United States to pursue their
graduate studies or fulfill their career aspirations. Today, they all
are ambitious, successful young professionals, ready to give back to
their country by empowering women in Armenia.
The Affiliate is currently developing its internal structure and
planning a launch event in September 2012.

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:

February 23, 2012

ARS REMEMBRANCE DAY THIS SUNDAY

Archbishop Oshagan announced that this Sunday, February 26, all
Prelacy churches will observe Remembrance Day for the Armenian Relief
Society. Requiem service for all deceased members and benefactors will
be offered following the Liturgy. Remembered specifically will be the
founder of the ARS, Agnouni (Khatchadour Maloomian), in remembrance of
the 97th anniversary of his death, and benefactors George and Beatrice
Lazarian, Levon and Sophia Hagopian, Karekin and Virginia Siroonian,
Samuel and Agnes Yeremian, Araxie Proodian, Haiganoush Garabedian,
Doris Norian Lentzi, Alice Norian, Arpkes Kelerchian, Hagop Jacques
Mouradian, Alice Haigazian Berman, Genevieve Yekeshian, Yervant and
Helen Terzian, and Albert Bagian.

Archbishop Oshagan noted, This is a day for us to honor those who
served the Armenian people for many decades in the field of education
and humanitarian and social welfare. It is also an opportunity for us
to express appreciation of the Armenian Relief Societys noble service
for the past century.

PRELATE WILL PARTICIPATE IN LITURGY
AT ST. PATRICKS CATHEDRAL

Archbishop Oshagan will participate in the Liturgy this Sunday,
February 26, at St. Patricks Cathedral in New York by the newly
elevated Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Bishop of New York. Following the
services, Archbishop Oshagan will attend a banquet in honor of
Cardinal Dolan.

BISHOP OF ARMENIAN CATHOLICS VISITS PRELACY

Bishop Mikael Mouradian, Exarch of the Armenian Catholic Eparchy of
the United States and Canada, visited the Prelacy yesterday, February
22, where he met with Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan and Bishop
Anoushavan Tanielian. Accompanying Bishop Mikael was Father Andon. The
clergymen discussed areas of mutual concern, and enhanced their
friendship. Bishop Mikael began his service to the Catholic Eparchy
last year.

>From left to right, Bishop Anoushavan, Bishop Mikael, Archbishop
Oshagan, and Father Andon.

PRELATE AT STS. VARTANANTZ COMMEMORATION IN PROVIDENCE

Archbishop Oshagan celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the
sermon last Sunday at Sts. Vartanantz Church, Providence, Rhode
Island, on the occasion of the churchs name day and in celebration of
Vartanantz. Archpriest Fr. Gomidas Baghsarian, pastor, assisted His
Eminence at the altar. During the Liturgy, Archbishop Oshagan,
ordained Nerses Donoyan as a tbir (acolyte).

Archbishop Oshagan ordains Nerses Donoyan as an acolyte.

Archbishop Oshagan consecrates a picture of Saint Kevork (George).

Archbishop Oshagan and Rev. Father Gomidas Baghsarian photographed
with the deacons and acolytes of Sts. Vartanantz Church of Providence,
RI.

Archbishop Oshagan pictured with the Homenetmen Boys and Girl Scouts
of Providence, RI.

VICARS 40th ANNIVERSARY OF ORDINATION
TO BE CELEBRATED ON MARCH 25

The 40th anniversary of the ordination of Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian,
Vicar General of the Eastern Prelacy, will be celebrated on Sunday,
March 25. His Grace will celebrate the Divine Liturgy Sunday morning
at St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, where he served as the
parish priest for many years. This will be followed by a celebratory
banquet at Terrace on the Park in Flushing, New York.

For reservations to the banquet ($100 per person), or to donate to the
booklet being prepared for this occasion, contact the Prelacy office
at 212-689-7810.

MUSICAL ARMENIA ON FRIDAY, MARCH 30

The Prelacys 2012 Musical Armenia concertthe 29th in the serieswill
take place Friday March 30, at 8 pm, at Carnegie Halls Weill Recital
Hall. For the first time in the series, the concert is taking place on
Friday evening, rather than the customary Sunday afternoon. Responding
to requests by loyal concertgoers, the program is scheduled for Friday
evening, providing those working in New York the opportunity to attend
the concert before returning home, and an opportunity for
out-of-towners to plan on a weekend visit to New York City, attending
Musical Armenia and then partaking in the many varied cultural events
in the City.

The featured artists this year are cellist Marta Bagratuni and pianist
Hayk Arsenyan. Ms. Bagratuni is currently a masters degree student at
the College of Music at Michigan State University, with a
distinguished list of accomplishments. Mr. Arsenyan holds a doctor of
musical arts degree from the University of Iowa, and is currently a
faculty member at the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University.

Tickets for the concert ($25) are available at the Carnegie Hall box
office or through the Prelacy office, 212-689-7810, or by email at
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected]).

BECOME A FRIEND OF MUSICAL ARMENIA

The Musical Armenia series began in 1982 and as noted above the 29th
concert in the series will take place Friday evening, March 30. The
series is dedicated to promoting young Armenian artists and to the
performance of music by Armenian composers. Over the past 30 years,
many of the performers have established solid professional
careers. Supporters have played a major role in the growth of the
Musical Armenia series.

If you would like to join in supporting this important endeavor,
please consider becoming a sponsor at any of the following levels:
$1,000 diamond; $500 platinum; $300 gold; or $200 gold. Please contact
the Prelacy by email at [email protected]
(mailto:[email protected]) or by telephone at 212-689-7810.

PRELACY LENTEN PROGRAM BEGAN YESTERDAY

The Prelacys Lenten program began yesterday, February 22, the first in
a series of six consecutive Wednesday evening programs at St.
Illuminators Armenian Cathedral in New York City, with the overall
theme of The Book, the Bible (Asdvadzashoonch). His Eminence
Archbishop Oshagan, the Prelate, gave the keynote lecture entitled
Armenian Bible translations yesterday and today.

Archbishop Oshagan, a seasoned Bible translator, together with
Archbishop Zareh of blessed memory have translated the entire New
Testament and the Book of Psalms into western Armenian, which was
published by the Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia in conjunction with
the Bible Society of Lebanon (1993), a translation used in public
readings in our churches, as well as in private devotion.

His Eminence first spoke about the ancient translations of the Bible,
starting with the translation of the Hebrew Old Testament into Greek,
known as the Septuagint (sometime after 300BC), from which the
Armenian translation of the Old Testament was made. After the
invention of the Armenian alphabet, translating the Bible into
Armenian was the very first thing our Church Fathers did, first from
Syriac and then from Greek, he said. The Bible has been translated
into over 2000 languages. The Armenian version is one of the earliest
translations after the Syriac, Latin and Coptic. The Armenian
translation is recognized as the Queen of translations.

His Eminence then turned his attention to modern Armenian
translations, in both eastern and western Armenian dialects,
translations made by Armenians and non-Armenians. He spoke about
different schools of translation, their advantages and disadvantages,
giving ample examples. The purpose of translating the Bible, then as
now, is to make the Word of God available and understandable for the
faithful, said Srpazan Hayr. A lively discussion ensued after Srpazans
informative presentation.

The evening program also included Lenten Service and table
fellowship. Next Wednesday, His Grace Bishop Anoushavan, Vicar
General, will speak on The Bible in our worship services. For details
about the upcoming programs, please click here (

).

Archbishop Oshagan leads the vespers service with Bishop Anoushavan,
Rev. Father Mesrob Lakissian and Archdeacon Shant Kazanjian.

Archbishop Oshagan explains bible translations.

BIBLE READINGS

Bible readings for Sunday, February 26, Second Sunday of Lent, Sunday
of the Expulsion are: Isaiah 33:2-22; Romans 12:1-13:10; Matthew
5:17-48.

Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I
have come not to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I tell you, until
heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a
letter, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Therefore,
whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches
others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven;
but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the
kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds
that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of
heaven.

You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, You shall
not murder; and whoever murders shall be liable to judgment; and if
you insult a brother or sister, you will be liable to the council; and
if you say, You fool, you will be liable to the hell of fire. So when
you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your
brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift before
the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and
then come and offer your gift. Come to terms quickly with your accuser
while you are on the way to court with him, or your accuser may hand
you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you will be
thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you will never get out until you
have paid the last penny.

You have heard that it was said, You shall not commit adultery. But I
say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already
committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you
to sin, tear it out and throw it away; it is better for you to lose
one of your members than for your whole body to be thrown into
hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw
it away; it is better for you to lose one of your members than for
your whole body to go into hell.

It was also said, Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a
certificate of divorce. But I say to you that anyone who divorces his
wife, except on the ground of unchastity, causes her to commit
adultery; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.

Again, you have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, You
shall not swear falsely, but carry out the vows you have made to the
Lord. But I say to you, Do not swear at all, either by heaven, for it
is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by
Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. And do not swear by
your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. Let your word
be Yes,Yes or No, No; anything more than this comes from the evil one.

You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a
tooth. But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone
strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone
wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if
anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. Give to
everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to
borrow from you.

You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate
your enemy. But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who
persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven;
for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain
on the righteous and on the unrighteous. For if you love those who
love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do
the same? And if you greet only your brothers and sisters, what more
are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Be
perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. (Matthew
5:17-48)

For a listing of the coming weeks Bible readings click here (

).

SUNDAY OF THE EXPULSION

As of Monday we entered the period of Great Lent (Medz Bahk) and the
Church has taken on a somber, mournful and penitential
manifestation. Beginning last Sunday (Poon Paregentan) the altar is
closed with a dark curtain, symbolic of the expulsion of Adam and Eve
from the Garden of Eden. Holy Communion is not offered during the
Liturgy. It is a period of repentance and reflection on our spiritual
journey toward Easter.

Each of the Sundays during Lent has a theme. This Sunday, February 26,
is the Sunday of the Expulsion (Artaksman Kiraki). The message is a
continuation of last Sundays Paregentan theme, namely, Adam and Eves
fall and banishment from Paradise because of their disobedience. Of
the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat,
for in the day that you eat of it you shall die, (Genesis 2:17). With
Adam and Eves expulsion from Paradise, humankind was thus condemned to
experience death, pain, and sorrow. The hymns sung on the first two
Sundays of Lent remind us of the expulsion, and give sinners the good
tidings that they may render themselves worthy through repentance.

O Lord, you first gave the holy observance of the law in paradise. But
the first creatures disobeyed you by eating the forbidden fruit and
thus tasted the bitterness of sin and death. Therefore, enable us to
taste the sweetness of your commandments.
(From the hymn sung on the Sunday of the Expulsion)

THE SUNRISE (AREVAKAL) SERVICE

During Lent the Armenian Sunrise Service (Arevakal) takes a prominent
place. Traditionally, this service takes place on Wednesday and
Friday mornings during Lent. Here in the United States and elsewhere,
it is performed on Sundays immediately after the closed-altar Liturgy.

Although the Church takes on a mournful appearance during Lent, the
Sunrise Service is joyous with its main theme being light, which is
Christ our Lord. The word light (looys) appears more than any other
word throughout the service, whereas the word darkness (khavar) is
used just once. The upbeat music of the hymns and the positive lyrics
make this one of the most pleasant and uplifting services in the
Armenian Church. Sung properly, it inspires you to sing with joy unto
the Lord.

ST. THEODORE THE WARRIOR

This Saturday, February 25, the Armenian Church commemorates the life
of Theodore the Warrior, a captain in the Roman army during the reign
of emperor Licinius. Theodore was born into a Christian family and was
educated in the teaching of Christianity. He was noted for his
bravery, and was noted for killing a serpent that was terrorizing
people and animals. Theodore armed himself with a sword, and with a
prayer to the Lord vanquished the serpent and became a heroic
figure. He was appointed commander of Heraclea where he combined his
military duties with the preaching of the Gospel. Soon nearly all of
Heraclea had accepted Christianity. Emperor Licinius began a campaign
against the Christians. Theodore was a main target. He was arrested
and given an opportunity to renounce his Christian religion, which he
refused to do. He was martyred in 319 A.D. in Heraclea, Thrace.

FROM THE BOOKSTORE

Armenians under the Ottoman Empire and the
American Missions Influence on their
Intellectual and Social Renaissance

By Archpriest Dr. Gorun Shrikian

This long-awaited and valuable study of the American Missions work
recounts the influence it had in many different realms for the
Armenians in the Ottoman Empire. Based on Der Goruns doctoral
dissertation this is a readable and illuminating history of an era
that has not been sufficiently studied.

Hardcover, 355 pages, with photographs and map
$25.00 plus shipping & handling

To order this book contact the Prelacy Bookstore by email,
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) or by
telephone, 212-689-7810.

ON OUR WEB PAGE

For Tom Vartabedians coverage of the renovations at St. Gregory
Church, North Andover, Massachusetts, described in last weeks
Crossroads, as well as photos of the event click here (

).

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

February 24-March 23St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, NY, presents
Liturgy, Education & Tradition Series, every Friday evening during
Lent. Pray the great vespers of the Armenian Church, learn more about
the tenets of our faith and savor traditional Lenten homemade
foods. Vespers: 6:30pm, Lecture: 7:30pm, Q&A: 8:00pm, Fellowship:
8:15pm. For additional information: 718-224-2275.

February 26St. Illuminators Cathedral, New York City, presents a
lecture by Dr. Arthur Martirosyan on Child Protection System and
Problems in Armenia, at 1 pm. Refreshments will follow. For
information: 212-689-5880.

March 1Avak lenten luncheon hosted by St. Gregory Armenian Church,
North Andover, MA at 12pm. Richard Mullen, a nationally known
hypnotherapist and humorist will present Laugh Yourself Silly, a
presentation based opn humor and laughter as a stress reducer and
health optimizer. This event is open to the public.

March 3Mid-Atlantic Regional Seminar for Sunday School teachers, 10 am
to 3 pm, organized by the Armenian Religious Education Council (AREC)
at Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey.

March 3Hovnanian Schools 35th Anniversary Gala at Westmount Country
Club, Woodland Park, New Jersey. Honorees are Dr. John Apovian and
Mr. Hratch Kaprielian. Cocktail hour 6 pm; dinner and dancing 7:30
pm. Art Exhibition during cocktail hour. Entertainment by Kevork
Artinian and his band; Ara Dinkjian; and Yuri Yunakov. $175 per
person. For reservations, information or sponsorship contact at:
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) or
201-967-5940.

March 4Book reading and signing by childrens author, Talene Dadian
White, at 1 pm, in Pashalian Hall, St. Illuminators Cathedral, New
York City. Proceeds will benefit the Cathedrals Armenian Day and
Sunday Schools. For information: 212-689-5880.

March 9Annual Mark Kyrkostas Remember Me With Music concert of music
and dance will feature Ivy Adrian on the piano and the original
musicians of the Mark Kyrkostas Jazz Quintet, bass, Cosmo Steve
Mallard and flute, Anne Pollack. Joining them will be saxophonist
Arnold Lee and percussionist Lamy Istrifi. At the Armenian Society
Center, 39-03 Little Neck Parkway, New York, at 7 pm. Ample parking
and accessible by Long Island Railroad. For information: 718-428-5650.

March 10Lenten luncheon hosted by the ARS Shakeh Chapter at 1:30pm in
Sts. Vartanantz Church hall. Traditional Armenian lenten dishes will
be served and entertainment will be provided by the Huyser Music
Ensemble. Donations are $30. For tickets: (201) 969-8797.

March 11St. Gregory the Illuminator Church, Granite City, Illinois,
Annual Membership meeting, on Sunday of the Steward, 12:30 pm.

March 17Mid-West Regional Seminar for Sunday School teachers, 10 am to
3 pm, organized by the Armenian Religious Education Council (AREC) at
St. Sarkis Church, Dearborn, Michigan.

March 18Armenian Relief Society, NY Erebouni Chapter presents, Yeraz
Dance Ensemble, Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main Street, Suite 1,
Port Washington, New York, at 3 pm. For tickets ($25 & $35): Nairy,
631-922-3414; Loucine, 516-352-1069.

March 24New England Regional Seminar for Sunday school teachers, 10 am
to 3 pm, organized by the Armenian Religious Education Council (AREC)
at St. Stephens Church, Watertown, Massachusetts.

March 25Celebration of the 40th anniversary of Bishop Anoushavan
Tanielians ordination to the priesthood. Save the date.

March 30Musical Armenia 2012 (29th concert of the series), sponsored
by the Eastern Prelacy and Prelacy Ladies Guild, 8 pm, Weill Recital
Hall, at Carnegie Hall, New York City. Featured artists: Marta
Bagratuni, cello (with Zhao Zhao Yank, piano); Hayk Arsenyan,
piano. Please note that this year Musical Armenia is on Friday
evening.

April 29Ladies Guild of Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New
Jersey, will present the New Jersey premier of The Hye LegionThe
Gamavor, a musical true story performed by the actors and singers of
The Way We Were Ensemble. Light lunch and program following church
services. Adults, $20; Children, $10.

May 9-12National Representative Assembly of Eastern Prelacy, hosted by
Sts. Vartanantz Church, Providence, Rhode Island. Clergy conference on
May 9; full delegation May 10 to 12. Accommodations at Crowne Plaza
Hotel, Warwick, Rhode Island. Details will be forthcoming to parishes
and delegates.

May 11-12National Association of Ladies Guilds (NALG), 30th
anniversary celebration and annual conference in conjunction with the
National Representative Assembly, Crowne Plaza, Warwick, Rhode
Island. For information: Mary Derderian 781-762-4253.

May 4 thru May 24Sixteen performances in May (including matinee
performances on Saturdays and Sundays) of Herand M. Markarians new
play commissioned by the New York State Theater Institute,
Silence. With award-winning actress Lorraine Serabian. This story of
love, loss, and relentless search by a women for her son after the
Armenian genocide of 1915, is directed by Kevin Thomson. Performances
at the Shell Theater in the Times Square Arts Building, 300 West 43rd
Street, New York City. Reserve tickets now ($18): SmartTix.com or
212-868-4444. For information: [email protected]
(mailto:[email protected]).

June 24St. Hagop Church, Racine, Wisconsin, annual Madagh Picnic at
Jonsons Park, Racine.

July 14Sts. Vartanantz Church Ladies Guild and ARS Ani Chapter,
Providence, Rhode Island, A Hye Summer Night VI dance, featuring
Hachig Kazarian, Richard Hagopian, Kenneth Kalajian, Jason Naroian, 8
pm to 1 am; $35 adults; $15 children 16 and under. At the Annunciation
Greek Orthodox Church, 175 Oaklawn Avenue, Cranston, Rhode
Island. Mezza will be served. Limited seating. For tickets and
information: 401-434-4467 (Joyce Bagdasarian); 401-354-8770 (Joyce
Yeremian).

Web pages of the parishes can be accessed through the Prelacys web
site.

To ensure the timely arrival of Crossroads in your electronic mailbox,
add [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) to
your address book.

Items in Crossroads can be reproduced without permission. Please
credit Crossroads as the source.

Parishes of the Eastern Prelacy are invited to send information about
their major events to be included in the calendar. Send to:
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

PRESS RELEASE
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-0710
Fax: (212) 779-3558
Web:
Email: [email protected]

TOP STORY February
23, 2012

Great Lent in the Armenian Church
The closed altar curtain denotes the start of Lent in the Armenian
Church.

New Lenten Video Series

Monday, February 20, marked the first day of Great Lent: the season
when Christians consciously turn away from worldly matters and make the
effort-through prayer, fasting, study, and introspectionâ=80’to prepare for
the spiritual drama of Holy Week and Easter Sunday.

The Scriptural basis for Lent resides in the 40-day period Christ spent
in the wilderness following his baptism. In the words of St. Matthewâ’s
Gospel (4:1-2): “Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the
wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And he fasted forty days and
forty nights, and afterward he was hungry.”

During Lent we are called to follow the Holy Spirit to confront our own
`inner wildernessâ’-the realm of spiritual emptiness engendered by sin,
laziness, and vanity. Through prayer, fasting, Bible-reading, and
self-examination, we are given an opportunity to renew our commitment
to God, and gain the strength to work at being more loving, humble, and
gentle. [4]Click here to learn more about the Armenian Church
traditions concerning Great Lent.
Links:
4.

This year, the Diocese is offering a video series on Great Lent.
[5]Click here to view the first video, in which the Very Rev. Fr.
Simeon Odabashian discusses the tradition of fasting in the Armenian
Church.
Links:
5.

Scripture of the Week

Is 33:2-22
Rom 12:1-13:10
Mt 5:17-48

Prayer of the Week

By the holy cross let us beseech the Lord, that through it He may
deliver us from our sins and save us by the grace of His mercy.
Almighty Lord, our God, save us and have mercy on us. Amen.

Upcoming Saints & Feasts

25 February: St. Theodore the Warrior

26 February: Sunday of the Expulsion

CHURCH NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE

St. Mary Armenian Church in Vaghuhas village
A weathered sign points to Vaghuhas, Nagorno-Karabagh, where a church
was consecrated last Sunday.
(photo by Marut Vanyan)

Newly-Built Church Consecrated in Nagorno-Karabagh

On Sunday, February 19, a new church was consecrated in the village of
Vaghuhas, in Nagorno-Karabagh’s Martakert region. Archbishop Barkev
Martirossian, Primate of the Artsakh Diocese, consecrated the house of
worship, which was given the name St. Mary Armenian Church.

The celebration of the first Divine Liturgy followed the consecration
service. In his sermon, Archbishop Martirossian encouraged the faithful
to renew their faith by becoming active in the life of St. Mary Church.
The blessing of madagh and a cultural program concluded Sunday’s
celebration.

Construction of St. Mary Church began in 2007 and was sponsored by
Krikor Hayrapetyan, a native of Vaghuhas who resides in Russia.

DIOCESAN NEWS

Diocesan Council met at the Diocesan center on February 23, 2012
The Diocesan Council met on Thursday, February 23, at the Diocesan
Center in New York.

Diocesan Council Prepares for Spring Events

Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, opened today’s Diocesan
Council meeting with a Bible study focusing on today’s Scripture
reading (Romans 6:3-14). Council members had an opportunity to reflect
on the passage and to speak about the significance of the Lenten period
for their spiritual renewal.

The day’s agenda included finalizing plans for a special meeting of
Diocesan organizations and departments scheduled for Saturday, March
24. The daylong event will bring together Diocesan leaders to discuss
the mission of the Eastern Diocese and to strategize about the future
of the Armenian Church in America.

The council is making preparations for the 110th Diocesan Assembly,
which will be hosted by St. Mark Church of Springfield, MA, from May
3-5. The assembly will continue to focus on the Diocesan theme
`Vocations-The Call to Serve: Ministry of the Faithful,â’ and to explore
ways to enrich lay ministry initiatives across the Diocese. Also in
May, council members will attend the ACYOA General Assembly and Sports
Weekend in Chicago, IL.

Turning to fundraising efforts, council members reviewed the results of
the successful 2011 Annual Appeal and discussed the 2012 budget.

Clergy workshop at St. Nersess Armenian Seminary
Clergy and recent seminary graduates gathered at St. Nersess Armenian
Seminary earlier this week for a continuing education program focusing
on parish leadership.

Clergy Meet for Continuing Education Workshop

Clergy and recent seminary graduates met at St. Nersess Armenian
Seminary earlier this week for a continuing education program focusing
on parish leadership. The program was coordinated by the Very Rev. Fr.
Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan Vicar. Archbishop Khajag Barsamian,
Diocesan Primate, presided over the 3-day meeting.

The sessions were designed for the younger clergy of the Diocese,
including those who have come from Armenia to serve in the Eastern
Diocese in recent years, as well as recent graduates of St. Nersess
Seminary. Topics included building a sense of community in the church,
fostering team-building at the parish level, developing strategic
plans, and deploying effective communication tools.

Presentations were made by Archbishop Barsamian, Fr. Odabashian, the
Very Rev. Fr. Daniel Findikyan, the Rev. Fr. Untzag Nalbandian, the
Rev. Fr. Diran Bohajian, Dr. Carnegie Calian, Sandra Shahinian Leitner,
George Marootian, Dr. Sam Mikaelian, and the staff of the Dioceseâ=80=99s
Communications Department.

Participants also had an opportunity to come together for Bible study
and prayer in the seminary chapel.

Vartanants Day obsrvance at the Diocesan Center
Fr. Arakel Vardazarian celebrated the Divine Liturgy at St. Vartan
Cathedral on Sts. Vartanantz Day.

Feast of Sts. Vartanantz Celebrated in New York

At New York’s Sts. Vartanantz Day observance, young people read
excerpts from St. Vartan’s stirring speech to his soldiers, recited
poetry, and reflected on the legacy of the 5th-century Treaty of
Navarsag, which allowed the Armenians to freely practice their
Christian faith in the Persian Empire.

The commemoration at St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral on Thursday evening,
February 16, went forward under the auspices of the Diocese of the
Armenian Church of America (Eastern), with the participation of the
Mid-Atlantic Region of the Knights and Daughters of Vartan.

The evening began with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, with
Diocesan Primate Archbishop Khajag Barsamian presiding. Celebrating the
badarak was the Rev. Fr. Arakel Vardazarian, who is serving as an
intern priest at St. Gregory the Enlightener Church of White Plains,
NY.

A program and dinner in the Diocesan Center’s Haik and Alice Kavookjian
Auditorium followed services. Three students of the Diocese’s Khrimian
Lyceum-Chris Artun, Varujan Belekdanian, and Tamar Tokmanâ=80’made a
presentation about the Battle of Avarayr. The Shnorhali Choir of Holy
Martyrs Church of Bayside, NY, offered a fine performance of vocal
selections. Grand Commander of the Knights of Vartan Dr. Dennis
Papazian offered remarks, and Archbishop Barsamian delivered a message
to the large crowd.

Click to [6]read more and to [7]view photos.
Links:
6.
7.

Christian Churches Together meeting
Fr. Aren Jebejian (second from left) during a prayer service at this
month’s “Christian Churches Together” meeting.

“Christian Churches Together” Meets in Memphis

The Very Rev. Fr. Aren Jebejian, pastor of St. Gregory the Illuminator
Church of Chicago, IL, represented Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, the
Diocese’s Ecumenical Director, at the annual meeting of the ecumenical
group “Christian Churches Together” in Memphis, TN, earlier this month.

The February 14-17 meeting focused on the history of the civil rights
movement, and included visits to the National Civil Rights Museum, the
Slave Haven Museum, and the historic Mason Temple where Dr. Martin
Luther King, Jr. delivered his “I’ve Been To The Mountaintopâ’ address.

Participants issued a statement at the conclusion of the meeting: â=80=9CIn
gathering together we experience Christ tearing down the walls that
otherwise divide usâ=80¦. Our common humanity and our witness to the Christ
of all peoples summons our churches to act for the wellbeing of all, to
advocate for equity for the poor, to pursue justice, and to practice
the love and nonviolence that Jesus teaches.â’

Fund for Armenian Relief

FAR Announces 17th Annual Young Professionals Trip

This year the Fund for Armenian Relief’s Young Professionals Trip will
again include a tour of historic Armenian lands in eastern Turkey.
Participants will be able to visit incredible historic sites like
Armenia’s magnificent former capital of Ani, the holy island of
Aghtamar, as well as Kars and Van. The two-week trip, now in its 17th
year, will also include an extensive and enriching tour around Armenia.

The trip provides an ideal opportunity for young professionals between
the ages of 23 and 40 to travel to Armenia as a group, and to go beyond
a tourist’s itinerary to learn firsthand about Armenia’s place in the
world. Participants will visit FAR’s projects, engage in dialogue with
religious and government leaders, and gain an understanding of how
Armenia’s future is being shaped with the support of the diaspora.

The trip is scheduled for June 17-30. [8]Click here to learn more
about this year’s program.
Links:
8.

St. Nersess Seminary online lectures

CORRECTION: St. Nersess Seminary Online Course

Last week’s announcement about an online class offered by St. Nersess
Armenian Seminary misstated the class time. It is held on Wednesdays
from 7 to 8 p.m.

The Very Rev. Fr. Daniel Findikyan, dean and professor of liturgical
studies at St. Nersess Seminary, is teaching the course titled
“Patristic Commentaries on the Armenian Divine Liturgy.” The course
explores how the fathers of the Armenian Church interpreted the Divine
Liturgy.

The weekly course is accessible via the seminary’s Global Classroom.
[9]Click here for more information.
Links:
9.

Diocesan Center News

Diocese Seeking Development Director

The Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern) is currently
seeking candidates for the position of Director of Development.

The Development Director will report to the Diocese’s Executive
Director. He or she will be responsible for planning and implementing
all fundraising strategies for the Eastern Diocese. Responsibilities
include the areas of donor research, cultivation, and solicitation;
leadership identification and planning; reporting to donors and the
public; among other areas.

Qualified applicants should have a bachelor’s degree (advanced degree
preferred) and a significant record of success in fundraising. Please
consult the job description and list of qualifications posted on the
[10]Eastern Diocese’s website.
Links:
10.

Send résumé and cover letter via e-mail to
[11][email protected]. Only those applicants meeting
the requirements for the position will be interviewed. The review of
applications will begin immediately.
Links:
11. mailto:[email protected]

PARISH NEWS

Primate visits Atlanta mission parish
Archbishop Barsamian celebrated the Divine Liturgy in Atlanta, GA, last
Sunday.

Leadership Workshop Held in Atlanta

A weekend-long leadership workshop was held at the Armenian Church of
Atlanta mission parish in Roswell, GA, on February 17-19. Archbishop
Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, presided over the workshop
sessions, which focused on the structure of the Armenian Church, parish
administration, fundraising and membership, and Diocesan resources,
among other topics.

In addition to the Primate, presentations were made by the Rev. Fr.
Tateos Abdalian, the Diocese’s director of Mission Parishes; Dr. Raffy
Hovanessian, Diocesan Council member; and Dr. Sam Mikaelian, the
Diocese’s Development coordinator. The Diocese’s Music Ministry
director, Maestro Khoren Mekanejian, led workshops for choir members
and altar servers.

The sessions concluded with the formulation of a parish strategic plan
for the coming months. It calls for the establishment of a school to
teach the faith and cultural traditions to young parishioners, choir
development opportunities and meetings with the Diocesan Scared Music
Council, the creation of a schedule of monthly home visits, and the
establishment of a Bible study and ACYOA Seniors groups.

On Sunday, Archbishop Barsamian celebrated the Divine Liturgy, with
some 125 parishioners taking part. A Great Barekendan luncheon followed
services.

[12]Click here to view photos.
Links:
12.

Very Rev. Fr. Daniel Findikyan
Fr. Daniel Findikyan will give a series of sermons at St. Sahag Church
in St. Paul, MN, beginning on Sunday, February 26.

Fr. Findikyan to Give Three Sermons in St. Paul, MN

The Very Rev. Fr. Daniel Findikyan, dean of St. Nersess Armenian
Seminary, will give a series of sermons at St. Sahag Church in St.
Paul, MN, beginning on Sunday, February 26. The sermons will be
followed by a question and answer session at the conclusion of the
Divine Liturgy. For more information, call the church at (651)
603-1940.

February 26: “The Armenian Way of Worship”
Prayer and worship in the Armenian Church are quite different from what
one finds in many Christian denominations. Stylized rituals, opulent
vestments and furnishings, as well as elaborate hymns and prayers can
make the experience of worship overwhelming and even burdensome. Why
all the fuss? What lies beneath layers of lavish liturgy?

March 4: “The Badarak: From the Upper Room to Minnesota”
In our Divine Liturgy we do exactly what Jesus commanded of his
disciples and church at the Last Supper: To receive him in Holy
Communion, and to remember him. Why did the Armenian badarak develop as
it did? What are some distinctive features of the Armenian Divine
Liturgy, and what is their importance for Armenian people of faith
today?

March 11: “Finding My Way and My Place in the Badarak”
For anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by the badarak or who wishes
to engage in the service in a deeper, more meaningful and satisfying
way, Fr. Findikyan will offer a practical approach to the badarak. Be
inspired and grow in Christian faith, hope and love.

St. David Armenian Church
Fr. Nareg Berberian with executive members of the parish’s Mr. & Mrs.
Club.

Pre-Lenten Social Gathering Held in Boca Raton, FL

The Mr. & Mrs. Club of St. David Church of Boca Raton, FL, hosted a
`Yerevan Nightâ’ dance on Saturday, February 18. More than 150 people
attended the social event.

The event was organized by the following committee members: Marieta
Agopyan, Vartuhi Malkhasian, Anahit Sarkisyan, Karine Markaryan,
Arusiak Stambolyan, Dr. Nona Kalfayan, Araksia Manvelyan, Sona
Khachatrian, Armine Mnatsakanian, Armenui Grigoryan, Ashken Azatyan,
Liliya Boghossian, Hasmig Davtyan, and Alla Gularyan.

Committee members donated the food and covered other event-related
expenses. Mr. and Mrs. Hratch Boghossian sponsored the evening’s music
and entertainment for children. The Very Rev. Fr. Nareg Berberian,
parish pastor, thanked the community for supporting the event and
encouraged parishioners to continue to be involved in the life of the
church.

Upcoming Parish Events

St. David Church | Boca Raton, FL
St. David Church of Boca Raton, FL, will host an `Armenian Food Festâ’
on Saturday, February 25 (10 a.m. to 8 p.m.), and Sunday, February 26
(12 to 6 p.m.).

Enjoy Armenian dishes, browse vendor booths, and more. For information,
call the church at (561) 994-2335.

Armenian Church of Southwest Florida
The Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at the Armenian Church of
Southwest Florida mission parish on Sunday, February 26, at 1 p.m.
Services are held at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Bonita Springs, FL.
Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, the Diocese’s Ecumenical Director, will be
the celebrant. A Lenten luncheon will follow in the Parish Life Center.

For more information, contact Parish Council chair Carole Meghreblian
at
(239) 348-3804, or via e-mail at [13][email protected].
Links:
13. mailto:[email protected]

St. Leon Church | Fair Lawn, NJ
St. Leon Church of Fair Lawn, NJ, will host a “Bridal and All-Occasion
Showcase” on Thursday, March 1, beginning at 7 p.m. The event will be
held in the ballroom at St. Leon Church (12-61 Saddle River Road in
Fair Lawn).

It will feature a bridal, prom, and sweet 16 fashion show, as well as
exhibitions with photographers, florists, chefs, and makeup artists.
The evening will also include a honeymoon giveaway and other gifts.
Admission is free.
For more information, call (201) 681-7671.

EVENTS

Events

Learn to Cook a Lenten Meal

On Tuesday, March 13, the Diocese will host a food preparation
demonstration with Sahan Arzruni. Mr. Arzruni, who has an extensive
knowledge of Armenian cuisine, will guide participants in the
preparation of a Lenten meal.

The program is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. in Vartan Hall of the
Diocesan Center (630 Second Avenue, New York City). It will be followed
by a rest service at St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral.

The event is free and open to the public.

YOUTH NEWS

ACYOA Sports Weekend

ACYOA Assembly/Sports Weekend to be Held in Chicago

This year’s ACYOA General Assembly and Sports Weekend will be hosted by
the ACYOA Seniors of St. Gregory the Illuminator Church of Chicago, IL,
from May 24-28.

Participants will stay in Chicago, and enjoy spiritual, social, and
athletic activities throughout the weekend. Save the date, and look for
updates in our newsletter and on Facebook.

GOOD PROGRESS REGISTERED IN THE ARMENIA-EU ASSOCIATION AGREEMENT TALKS

armradio.am
21.02.2012 15:03

Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian received the delegation
of the Foreign Relations Committee of the European Parliament.

Minister Nalbandian hailed the high-level political dialogue with the
EU and the high-level visits, the dynamically developing relations,
emphasizing the importance of inter-parliamentary ties.

The parties noted that considerable progress has been registered in
the negotiations over the Association Agreement since the start of
the negotiations in July of 2010. It was stressed that so far 22
Chapters of future Agreement have been negotiated and temporarily
closed by the economic, sectoral and financial cooperation group,
and a good progress has been achieved in the spheres of political
dialogue and reforms, foreign and security policy, and justice.

The sides stressed the importance of the EU’s decision to start the
negotiations over the creation of the Deep and Comprehensive Free
Trade Area with Armenia. In this regard, it was noted that serious
reforms were implemented in Armenia and considerable results were
achieved in some areas.

Upon the request of the delegation of the European Parliament
Committee on Foreign Affairs Minister Nalbandian presented in detail
the current stage of the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh issue. In
this context it was mentioned that the EU fully supports the efforts
being undertaken by the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairmanship, which has
an appropriate mandate and rich experience of mediation.

The sides discussed a number of regional issues of reciprocal interest.

EXPERT DISCUSSION DEDICATED TO THE INTERNATIONAL MOTHER LANGUAGE DAY

armradio.am
21.02.2012 16:35

More than 30 experts discussed development and role of the Armenian
language in the modern world at the event held today at the UN
Armenia Office.

Linguists, translators, editors, experts, civil society activists,
students and journalists participated in this event, which was
dedicated to the International Mother Language Day. The day is observed
on February 21 as proclaimed by the UNESCO in 1999.

The discussion was titled “Armenian language in the context of the
modern world requirements: new terminology as a factor contributing
to the development of language”.

The key speakers who led the debate were Marine Hovyan, Deputy Chief
of the National Inspectorate of Language, Narine Tukhikyan, Director
of Hovhannes Tumanyan Museum, Hakob Avetikyan, Editor-in-chief of
Azg Daily, Levon Galstyan, Deputy Director of Armenian Public TV.

Maria Dotsenko, UN Department of Public Information Representative
said: “UNDPI supports efforts aimed at preservation and promotion of
Armenian language, which is among world ancient and linguistically
rich languages. We contribute to its development by translation of
various UN materials into Armenian, maintaining bilingual web site
and working on the development of the comprehensive English-Armenian
dictionary of international terminology.”

“We must further increase awareness of the value of the world’s
linguistic and cultural diversity. It is crucial to promote respect for
linguistic and cultural rights, peaceful co-existence in multicultural
societies and the preservation of our bio-cultural heritage,”
she added.

SAVE TEGHUT’ REDEFINES ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVISM IN ARMENIA
by Mary Matosian

Armenian Weekly
February 21, 2012

Young Armenians concerned with environmental threats in Armenia created
the Save Teghut civic initiative in Nov. 2007. Many participated
in successful actions to save Kacharan, in the Syunik region, from
harmful mining and Trchkan waterfall from destruction.

These activists are not affiliated with any organization or political
party and they insist on covering their expenses either through their
own means or donations from the general public. While they started
with about 20 activists, today Save Teghut has over 6,000 followers on
Facebook, and many more supporters in the regions of Armenia without
internet access. Groups who support the Save Teghut movement have so
far been established in Moscow, Germany, and Los Angeles.

Save Teghut addresses the disastrous environmental situation in
Armenia. (Photo by Photolure) Save Teghut addresses the disastrous
environmental situation in Armenia. It aims to raise awareness among
Armenians of the environmental dangers looming over our country, as
well as the irresponsible, illegal, and secret activities of mining
companies in collaboration with the oligarchic system in Armenia. The
group works to protect the ecosystem and promote public health by
ensuring that Armenia’s water, air, and land are clean. In the Teghut
forest, specifically, the civic initiative demands the end of the
mining project.

Unfortunately, environmental restrictions are not enforced in Armenia
for most of the major mining operations, which results in damages to
the ecosystem of the surrounding areas. Often corruption originates
at the stage of issuing licenses and acquiring permits. Corruption in
the forest sector is widely believed to be associated with businesses
sponsored by high-level government officials. The government’s actions
have been insufficient to stop the destruction of Armenia’s forests
as a result of illegal logging. In addition, the government has
recently reclassified many forest areas without due justification,
and has allocated them to local communities or private individuals.

The Armenian Copper Program (ACP), whose majority shareholder is
the Vallex F.M. corporation, has been awarded a 25-year exploitation
license by the Armenian government to extract the copper and molybdenum
ore buried in the Teghut mountains. ACP is in the process of developing
an open pit mine. The amount of forested land the company plans
to clear cut is around 1,500 hectares (approximately 650 football
fields). Several rivers will be polluted or dry up. It takes around
200 years for a forest to recover. Armenia has lost 7-12 percent of
its forests since 1998.

Furthermore, villagers relate that they received miserable
remuneration. One villager stated that he applied to the mining
company for a job and was offered a salary of 60,000 AMD ($155)
per month for very hard work, and had to decline the job offer. He
complained that parcels of lands were announced as eminent domain
and were bought by the mining company for 38 AMD ($0.9 cents) per 1
square meter. No effort has been made by the government to develop
agriculture or to invest in the area.

Since November 2007, environmentalists have tried to halt the further
development of copper and molybdenum processing near the village of
Teghut in the Lori province, which, they say, will irrevocably damage
the ecology and surrounding villages. Twenty-five years from now,
when the Vallex Corporation finishes mining in the region, the arable
and surrounding land will no longer be fertile or usable.

The health risks of mining are quite apparent, especially in
Armenia where no regulations, safety standards, and monitoring are
implemented. Irresponsible mining in Armenia has created devastating
health problems for the population, including unnaturally high rates
of birth defects, developmental defects, and chromosomal disorders
accompanied by increased respiratory diseases, allergies, and other
health problems.

Many environmental problems in Armenia-including those related to water
resources, mining, forests, and protected areas-are closely associated
with corruption. The exploitation of natural resources takes place
without due justification of decisions and with restricted public
access to information. Furthermore, decisions can typically be traced
to special interest groups and are made without due attention to the
declared long-term sustainable development goals of the government.

The Zhoghovurd Daily, for example, reported that a 148-hectare forest
was allocated to Arab Sheikh Mohammed Musallam by Armenian Nature
Protection Minister Aram Harutyunyan, but in return for what, it asked.

The construction of the ore processing plant, as another example,
and the exploitation of the copper-molybdenum mine in Teghut will
ostensibly result in a breach of 77 Armenian laws and a range of
international conventions signed and ratified by the Republic of
Armenia, such as the UN Aarhus Convention Compliance Committee. In
2009, the UN Economic Commission for Europe (ACCC/C/2009/43) condemned
the decisions of the government of Armenia regarding its exploitation
of the mine in Teghut and adjacent territory since it does not comply
with the Aarhus Convention.

The 44 members of the UN Economic Commission for Europe have strongly
condemned Armenia’s continuing violations of international obligations
and demand that all decisions regarding the Teghut mining exploitation
be considered invalid. On Jan. 25, 2012, the members also signed a
declaration condemning the flagrant human rights violations associated
with the exploitation, and demanded a stop to mining in Teghut forest.

Armenia’s laws do not allow the exploitation of areas populated by
endangered species, nor do they allow damage to archeological sites.

Teghut forest houses 19 animal and plant species that are part of
Armenia’s Red Book of Endangered Species, and an archeological team
from Armenia’s Academy of Sciences uncovered many artifacts dating
back to the Bronze Age and many other Christian-era monuments. If
mining continues, these will be completely lost.

Activists, energized by the results from Trchkan and Kacharan, have
undertaken the defense of the Teghut forest. On Jan. 15, around 250
people visited the area in a hiking action initiative to familiarize
people with the issue. Media coverage was significant, and the
Teghut issue was featured in articles, TV interviews, and YouTube
clips. The country has finally taken notice of the damage created by
the ACP/Vallex group and the environmental dangers awaiting us.

Irreversible environmental damage, unfortunately, has already resulted
from the lack of strict mining regulations, coupled with barbaric
exploitation and corruption, as government and interested parties
have proved they are only concerned with making a profit.

Activists were able to energize the Armenian youth in Moscow and many
have extended their support. The Save Teghut movement is proud of this
achievement and is in the process of involving diasporan youth into
the civic movement in Armenia. The “Shant” AYF Western U.S. region
has already been active in supporting the movement, raising awareness
among diasporans, and extending various skills to support the group.

Save Teghut activists have contacted German environmental activists and
groups and are working in unison to raise awareness in international
organizations about the ecological and environmental disasters
in Armenia.

The young activists ask that Armenians in the diaspora create support
groups and pressure the Armenian government to obey the laws and
environmental conventions it has signed, and to condemn its harmful
mining policy. Soon, Save Teghut will launch its website and an
online petition. Donations to the group are helpful to organize future
initiatives and disseminate information. The group is also appealing
to businesses in the diaspora to look into investment options in the
Teghut region, so that they can help protect the eco-system of the
forest and the fundamental rights of the local population to live in
a healthy and safe environment.

Information for this article was provided by Save Teghut, as well as
the Public Forum Armenia (PFA) Environmental Report.

RUBEN MATEVOSYAN RECEIVES GOLD MEDAL IN GYUMRI

ARMENPRESS
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
YEREVAN

YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 21, ARMENPRESS: People’s Artist of Armenia Ruben
Matevosian was awarded with the golden “Varpet” (Master) medal on the
initiative of the mayor of Gyumri, Vardan Ghukasian. The surprise gift
and the medal were given to the beloved singer at the beginning of
the concert held in Vardan Achemyan theater, Armenpress reports. The
singer noted that being recognized as a Master in the “city of masters”
was the best gift he had had in 70 years.

The concert celebrating the singer’s 70th birthday was a unique
opportunity for the citizens of Gyumri to enjoy old and new songs
once more. The singer emphasized the importance of the concert in
Gyumri calling it a “report of the work done in past years”.

DOLLAR’S EXCHANGE RATE STABILIZES IN ARMENIA

news.am
February 21, 2012 | 17:21

YEREVAN. – After Monday’s relatively sharp increase, the US dollar’s
average exchange rate against the Armenian dram (AMD) stabilized at
NASDAQ OMX Armenia stock exchange on Tuesday.

As a result of trading, the average exchange rate was AMD 389.50/$1,
which is mere 0.01-point growth from Monday’s indicator.

The total sales were $950 thousand.

There is no change in the exchange rates of Armenia’s cash foreign
currency market. Just like on Monday, the exchange offices are
purchasing the US dollar at AMD 388-388.5/$1 and selling it at AMD
390-391/$1.

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress