eNewsletter of the Eastern Diocese – 11/15/2012

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 November 15, 2012
————————————————————
St. Mary
Detail of an 18th-century painting of St. Mary by an unknown artist
(collection of the National Gallery of Armenia).

** Presentation of the Mother-of-God to the Temple
————————————————————

On Wednesday, November 21, the worldwide Armenian Church will
celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Holy Mother-of-God to
the Temple.

Shortly after Mary was born, her parents Joachim and Anna took their
daughter to the Temple of Jerusalem to be consecrated to God in
thanksgiving for the gift of their child. According to tradition, Mary
remained there for a time and was given over to the care of pious
widows and maidens who lived at the temple. Later, as a young woman,
Mary became betrothed to Joseph the carpenter.

Click here
()
to learn more about Mary’s life.

Annual Appeal

** Support the Diocese’s 2012 Annual Appeal
————————————————————

The Eastern Diocese has launched its 2012 Annual Appeal-and we need
your help to make it a success! The Appeal is the only Diocesan-wide
fundraiser conducted each year to help the Diocese undertake the many
ministries, programs, and resources that enrich life in our local
parishes.

We have set a target of $825,000 for the 2012 Annual Appeal. Funds
raised beyond that target will help to support one of the great
institutions of our community: the Armenian Church Youth Organization
of America (ACYOA). Please consider making a contribution to the 2012
Annual Appeal to help spread the good work of the Armenian Church
across our local communities=80’and across the generations.

Follow these links to donate now
()
, and to learn more
()
about the 2012 Annual Appeal.

St. Mary Church, Livingston, NJ

** St. Mary Church of Livingston, NJ, to Unveil New Hall
————————————————————

St. Mary Church of Livingston, NJ, will celebrate a highly-anticipated
milestone this Friday, when it welcomes His Holiness Karekin II, the
Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, to the parish.

His Holiness will preside over the opening and dedication of the
church’s newly expanded `Haroutune and Siranoush Toufayan Hall.’

Diocesan Primate Archbishop Khajag Barsamian will join His Holiness,
parish pastor the Rev. Fr. Arakel Vardazaryan, and the main
benefactors of the hall expansion, Mr. and Mrs. Hratch and Suzanne
Toufayan, as the St. Mary parishioners open a new chapter in their
history.

A dedication service at 6:30 p.m. will be followed by a grand banquet
in the new hall, which is named in honor of Mr. Toufayan’s late
parents. Hratch and Suzanne Toufayan are not only benefactors of their
parish, but also of the Diocese and Holy Etchmiadzin, and are the
sponsors of many productive and inspiring projects in Armenia.

The parish is deeply honored to share the occasion with His Holiness
Karekin II, who has been visiting the U.S. to meet privately with
community leaders. Click here
()
to visit the parish website and view photos of the new construction.

Church of Our Saviour, Worcester, MA

** Primate to Visit Church of Our Saviour in Worcester, MA
————————————————————

On Sunday, November 18, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate,
will visit the Church of Our Saviour in Worcester, MA, where he will
celebrate the Divine Liturgy and ordain eight acolytes.

Following services, the parish will hold its `Recognition Day Banquet’
to honor dedicated parishioners. Click here
()
to view a flyer for information.

** Scripture of the Week
————————————————————

Is 25:9-26:7
Phil 1:1-11
Lk 9:44-50

** Prayer of the Week
————————————————————

Let us hold the holy Mother-of-God and all the saints as intercessors
with the Father in Heaven, that He may be pleased to have mercy and
compassion on us, His creatures, and save us. Almighty Lord, our God,
save us and have mercy on us. Amen.

** Upcoming Saints & Feasts
————————————————————

18 November: Barekendan of the Fast of Advent

21 November: Presentation of the Holy Mother-of-God to the Temple

25 November: First Sunday of Advent

** CHURCH NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
————————————————————
New Leader for Church of England
Bishop Justin Welby was named the 105th Archbishop of Canterbury this
month.

** Church of England Names New Leader
————————————————————

On Friday, November 9, Bishop Justin Welby was named the 105th
Archbishop of Canterbury. He will succeed Archbishop Rowan Williams as
the leader of the Church of England and the spiritual head of 77
million Anglicans worldwide. Archbishop Williams is retiring after a
decade in the position.

Bishop Welby studied law and history at Cambridge University and
worked in the oil sector before preparing for the priesthood in the
late 1980s. Most recently he served as the Bishop of Durham. He will
be enthroned as Archbishop of Canterbury in March 2013.

** DIOCESAN NEWS
————————————————————
Clergy Conference
Clergymen from parishes across the Eastern Diocese took part in this
week’s workshop.

** Young Clergy Meet to Build “Model” Parishes
————————————————————

Thirteen clergymen from parishes across the Eastern Diocese met at the
Diocesan Center in New York this week, for an innovative three-day
exercise in envisioning and building towards a `model’ parish. The
conference was geared towards new, young clergymen in the Eastern
Diocese.

Taking inspiration from a discussion of what a `model’ parish might be
like, the clergymen were encouraged to create their own visions of
what their respective parishes could become. With the help of Diocesan
administrators, leaders, and staff, the clergymen then developed
strategic action plans to guide their practical efforts to strengthen
and enrich the local churches.

In remarks offering his vision for the conference, Diocesan Primate
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian said that he wanted to give new pastors
the tools to be successful and creative in their ministries. The
Primate presided over the entire gathering, sharing his ideas and
experience with the young clergymen, and emphasizing that they needed
to be proactive and accountable.

During Tuesday’s session the gathering was graced by the presence of
His Holiness Karekin II, the Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All
Armenians, who has been visiting the U.S.

Each of the three conference days began with a reflection on a
pertinent text from the Bible or from Armenian Church history. The
clergy also heard presentations from Diocesan departments and
organizations on subjects like Christian education, Armenian language
and culture, youth outreach through camps and ACYOA, communications,
stewardship, sacred music, and upcoming plans for St. Nersess
Seminary.

By the conclusion of the conference, each of the clergymen had
developed a vision of future parish progress, which they will now
share with their parish councils. Plans call for the group to
reconvene in a year to evaluate progress. The November 12-14
conference was the latest in a series of workshops organized by the
Diocese to educate and energize young clergy and to familiarize them
with Diocesan resources.

Archbishop Barsamian, Diocesan Vicar the Very Rev. Fr. Simeon
Odabashian,
Diocesan Council chair Oscar Tatosian, and executive director Michael
Guglielmo organized the workshop.

Click here
()
to view photos.

Diocesan Council meeting
The Diocesan Council held its monthly meeting at the Diocesan Center
this afternoon.

** Diocesan Council Committed to Success of 2012 Appeal
————————————————————

Meeting at the Diocesan Center in New York on Thursday, November 15,
members of the Diocesan Council reviewed the progress of the 2012
Annual Appeal. Council members are committed to ensuring the Appeal’s
success in the coming weeks. An Appeal reception is planned for New
York City next month (see the item below); additional receptions will
be held throughout the Diocese.

Jennifer Morris, the Diocese’s Youth Outreach coordinator, gave a
report on the 2012 summer camp season. Council members discussed the
camp program, and spoke of other youth programs in the Diocese. They
also brainstormed ways to get more young people involved in the life
of the Armenian Church.

Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, spoke about last
month’s funeral service for His Beatitude Archbishop Torkom Manoogian,
the late Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem. Dr. Raffy Hovanessian, who
with the Primate attended the Diocesan Representative Assembly at Holy
Etchmiadzin in early November, gave a report on the topics reviewed at
that meeting.

The council also discussed new clergy assignments (see the item below)
and preliminary plans for the 2014 Diocesan Assembly, which will be
held at the Diocesan Center in New York.

Flags

** New Clergy Assignments
————————————————————

Three new clergy assignments were announced earlier this week. They go
into effect on Thursday, November 15.

The Rev. Fr. Mardiros Chevian, longtime dean of St. Vartan Cathedral,
has accepted a new post to serve as dean of St. Nersess Armenian
Seminary. The Very Rev. Fr. Mamigon Kiledjian, the long-serving pastor
of St. Stepanos Church of Elberon, NJ, will take up a new role as dean
of St. Vartan Cathedral in New York City. Finally, the Very
Rev. Fr. Daniel Findikyan, who has served for many years as the dean
of St. Nersess Seminary, will serve as the new director of the
Diocese’s Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information Center.

In the coming weeks, the Diocesan newsletter will profile each of
these priests. Click here
()
to read this week’s article about Fr. Mardiros Chevian.

Armine Zambak
Armine Zambak (1916-2012).

** In Memoriam: Armine Zambak (1916-2012)
————————————————————

It is with great sorrow that the Eastern Diocese learned of the
passing of Armine Zambak-a generous philanthropist and the mother of
Fund for Armenian Relief Board member Agavni Pontish
Yeramyan. Mrs. Zambak was 96.

A native of Ankara, Turkey, Mrs. Zambak is a graduate of the Uskudar
American College in Istanbul. Following the passing of her husband,
Garabed Zambak, Mrs. Zambak moved to the United States, where she was
a member of St. Sahag and St. Mesrob Church in Wynnewood, PA, and an
active supporter of local Armenian organizations.

In the early 1990s, she funded a scholarship program for Armenian
graduate students in the United States. The fund, transferred to the
Fund for Armenian Relief in 2010, now supports graduate students
pursing studies in political science and public administration in
Armenia.

Mrs. Zambak is survived by her daughters Agavni Pontish Yeramyan and
her husband Ara Yeramyan; and Marie Zambak Gregory; two
granddaughters; and five great-grandchildren. Click here
()
to read more.

FAR
Thanks to the Zambak Scholarship Fund, students in Armenia pursue
careers in political science and public administration.

** Zambak Scholarship Fund Supports Students in Armenia
————————————————————

Since 2010, the Fund for Armenian Relief has been administering the
Garabed and Armine Zambak Scholarship Fund. The fund was established
in the 1990s by Armine Zambak in memory of her late husband Garabed
Zambak.

Like her husband, Mrs. Zambak strived to further educational
opportunities for Armenian students. Each fall the program provides
full scholarships to four graduate students at Armenian universities.

Pontish Yeramyan, Armine Zambak’s eldest daughter, has been a member
of FAR’s Board of Directors since 2006. She, too, continues in her
parents’ footsteps, working to strengthen Armenia through a commitment
to continuing this scholarship program.

Click here
()
to read more.

** PARISH NEWS
————————————————————
St. John Armenian Church
Dr. David Aprahamian and Aram Sarkisian were ordained to the diaconate
last Sunday. (photo by Julia Papiyants)

** A Celebration of Service in Detroit, MI
————————————————————

Diocesan Primate Archbishop Khajag Barsamian visited the St. John
Church of Southfield, MI, last Sunday, where he ordained two altar
servers to the diaconate and joined the community in recognizing the
dedication of several longtime parishioners.

Archbishop Barsamian celebrated the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, November
11, with the Rev. Fr. Garabed Kochakian, parish pastor,
assisting. During services, Archbishop Barsamian ordained Dr. David
Aprahamian and Aram Sarkisian to the diaconate.

Later in the afternoon, the parish hosted a banquet titled `A
Celebration of Service,’ to honor parishioners for their dedication to
the Armenian Church. Several members were recognized with the parish’s
`St. John the Forerunner Award’ and the Diocese’s `St. Vartan Award.’
Emma Tabibyan Sogoian was presented with the `St. Gregory Medal’ and
Pontifical Encyclical.

The program concluded with an homage to Veterans Day: Dn. Rubik
Mailian sang `I Vow to Thee, My Country’ with the accompaniment of the
parish’s newly formed Komitas Bell Choir. Click on the following links
to read more
()
and to view photos
()
.

St. John the Baptist Church, Greenfield, WI
>From left: Fr. Nareg Keutelian, Fr. Simeon Odabashian, and Fr. Sahak
Kaishian with altar servers at St. John the Baptist Church.

** Greenfield, WI, Parish Marks Anniversary, Welcomes Vicar
————————————————————

On Sunday, November 11, the Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan
Vicar, visited St. John the Baptist Church of Greenfield, WI, where he
joined the parish in its observance of the parish’s 72nd anniversary.

Fr. Odabashian celebrated the Divine Liturgy and presided over a
requiem service for the founders of St. John the Baptist Church. At a
banquet following services, Chris Flieller, artistic director of
Milwaukee’s In Tandem Theatre, made a presentation on Richard
Kalinoski’s play on the Armenian Genocide. Titled `A Beast on the
Moon,’ the play will open in March 2013.

The Rev. Fr. Nareg Keutelian, parish pastor, spoke about the situation
of the Armenian community in Syria. Fr. Odabashian concluded the
program with a recollection of memories of his time in Milwaukee,
including his participation as a seminarian at the consecration of
St. John the Baptist Church in 1986.

Click on the following links to read more
()
and to view photos
()
.

St. Peter Church helps hurricane victims
Parishioners of St. Peter Church organize supplies at the Jersey
Shore. (photo by Jonathan Dadekian)

** Watervliet, NY, Parish Organizes Hurricane Relief Effort
————————————————————

The parishioners of St. Peter Church, under the leadership of the
Rev. Fr. Stepanos Doudoukjian, parish pastor, organized an outreach
effort to help hurricane victims on the Jersey Shore. Parishioners
made sandwiches, donated supplies, and collected more than $2,000 in
cash.

On Wednesday, November 7, a group of parishioners delivered the items
and funds to area residents and clean-up crews. The group visited
shelters, relief centers, a fire station, and a church.

Click here
()
to read Fr. Doudoukjian’s reflection about the “Rise-Up Relief
Mission’ to the Jersey Shore.

Armenian Studies Coordinator visits Palos Heights
Gilda Kupelian with young people from Racine, WI, at last week’s
seminar.

** Armenian Heritage a Focus of Seminar in Illinois
————————————————————

On Saturday, November 10, Gilda Kupelian, the Diocese’s coordinator of
Armenian Studies, led a daylong seminar on `The History and Richness
of the Armenian Culture’ at Sts. Joachim and Anne Church of Palos
Heights, IL. Through interactive PowerPoint presentations,
participants explored topics on language, literature, history, and
culture.

Ms. Kupelian began the day with an overview of the Armenian language,
literature, and culture, highlighting key figures and events in
Armenian history. In a session on pre-Christian Armenia, she spoke
about the origin of the Armenian people, drawing on anthropological
research to explain the culture and practices of prehistoric
Armenia. Another session focused on Armenian folklore and used
illustrations by artist Linda Ganjian to examine popular Armenian
proverbs. A final discussion reviewed the history of the medieval city
of Ani, touching on its architecture, military strategy, and more.

The event was jointly sponsored by Sts. Joachim and Anne Church and
the Eastern Diocese. Some 60 people attended the seminar, including
young people and adults from churches in Chicago, IL, and Racine, WI.

Sts. Vartanatz Church, Chelmsford, MA
Men’s Club chair Daniel Barooshian and Women’s Guild chair Milka
Jeknavorian with Fr. Khachatur Kesablyan.

** Chelmsford, MA, Parish Supports Dagley Fund
————————————————————

On Thursday, October 18, some 60 people gathered for dinner and the
screening of the film `From Ararat to Zion’ at Sts. Vartanantz Church
in Chelmsford, MA. The evening was hosted jointly by the parish’s
Women’s Guild and Men’s Club to raise funds for the Sona and Sarkis
Dagley Scholarship Fund.

The scholarship fund benefits the children of the late
Rev. Fr. Haroutiun Dagley and the late Yn. Patricia Dagley, both of
whom worked closely with the Sts. Vartanantz parish in the 1970s and
80s.

Dn. Ara Jeknavorian welcomed the group on behalf of the Men’s Club,
and Milka Jeknavorian offered a warm greeting from the Women’s
Guild. Following the screening of the film, the Rev. Fr. Khachatur
Kesablyan, parish pastor, and the Very Rev. Fr. Ghevont Samoorian,
former pastor of Sts. Vartanantz Church, moderated a discussion and
answered questions about the Armenian presence in Jerusalem.

At the conclusion of the evening, Fr. Kesablyan noted that October is
Armenian Cultural Month and called on the parishioners to continue to
preserve the Armenian heritage.

Fr. Tateos visits Jacksonville mission parish
Fr. Tateos Abdalian with altar servers in Jacksonville, FL, last
Sunday.

** Parishioners in Jacksonville, FL, Build New Center
————————————————————

Last weekend, the Rev. Fr. Tateos Abdalian, the Diocese’s director of
Mission Parishes, visited the mission parish of Jacksonville, FL,
where parishioners are continuing the work of renovating a new
property the parish purchased in the summer of 2011. The two-story,
3,600-square-foot building, located on two acres of land, will serve
as a community center where local Armenians can gather for worship and
for cultural and social programs.

Sooren Vardanian and members of the Parish Council are overseeing the
team of volunteers who are dedicating their time to the
project. Fr. Abdalian met with Mr. Vardanian to discuss the project’s
progress.

On Saturday evening, Fr. Abdalian led a Bible study session focusing
on Sunday’s Gospel reading. During services the next day, the reading
was given in Armenian, English, and Russian. Following the Divine
Liturgy on Sunday, the community enjoyed a Thanksgiving celebration,
and honored its veterans as well as members who are celebrating
birthdays and anniversaries this month.

Dolma Compatition winners
>From left: Karina Petrosyan, Yn. Anna Gevorgyan, and Nancy Hovnanian
won this month’s dolma cook-off.

** 16 Ways to Stuff a Dolma
————————————————————

Holy Trinity Church of Cheltenham, PA, held its first-ever dolma
cook-off on Sunday, November 11. Some 100 people gathered to enjoy the
many varieties of dolma prepared by the 16 entrants. One creative
entry featured a fondant dolma cake.

After some deliberation, the five judges selected three winners:
Yn. Anna Gevorgyan, Karina Petrosyan, and Nancy Hovnanian. Initiated
by parishioner Ashot Avakyan, the dolma cook-off will become an annual
tradition at Holy Trinity Church, parishioners said.

Click here
()
to view photos.

Upcoming Events

** Upcoming Parish Events
————————————————————

St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral | New York, NY
The St. Vartan Cathedral Council is sponsoring a food drive to help
the homeless in New York. The council will collect non-perishable food
items until December 16. Items may be dropped off at 630 Second Avenue
in New York City. For information, call (212) 686-0710, ext. 141.

St. Gregory the Enlightener Church | White Plains, NY
St. Gregory the Enlightener Church of White Plains, NY, will host an
Armenian Food Festival on Saturday, November 17 (1 to 6 p.m.), and
Sunday, November 18 (12 to 4 p.m.).

Enjoy Armenian food and sweets, and browse the `Holiday Vendor Fair.’
The festival is sponsored by the Women’s Guild of St. Gregory the
Enlightener Church. The church is located at 1131 North Street in
White Plains. Click here
()
to view a flyer for information.

Soorp Haroutiun Church | Orlando, FL
Soorp Haroutiun Church of Orlando, FL, will host a `Food Fest and
Bazaar’ on Saturday, November 17, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy
Armenian food and pastries, listen to Armenian music, and browse
vendor booths. Click here
()
to view a flyer for information.

Holy Resurrection Church | New Britain, CT
The Women’s Guild of the Church of the Holy Resurrection of New
Britain, CT, will host its annual Holiday Fair on Saturday, November
17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Enjoy Armenian and American baked goods and food, and stop by the
=80=9CKitchen Café’ to try homemade soup, lahmajoun, hot dogs, and
beverages. For the first time this year, the fair will also feature
vendor booths for holiday shopping. Click here
()
to view a flyer, or call the church office at (860) 223-7875 for
information.

Holy Cross Church | New York, NY
Holy Cross Church in Manhattan’s Washington Heights neighborhood will
host a food festival on Sunday, November 18, from 1 to 6 p.m. Enjoy
Armenian food, music, and a tavloo tournament.

The church is also looking for volunteer carolers to join its chorale
for an English-language Christmas concert on Sunday, December 23. The
program will be the Christmas story as told in Scripture and through
traditional Christmas carols.
Click here
()
to view a flyer for information.

St. Leon Church | Fair Lawn, NJ
St. Leon Church of Fair Lawn, NJ, will host a Classic Rock concert
featuring the “On the Lam Band” on Saturday, November 24, from 8
p.m. to 12 a.m. The concert will be held in the church’s Abajian
Hall. Click here
()
to view a flyer for information.

Holy Trinity Church | Cambridge, MA
Holy Trinity Church of Cambridge, MA, will host the `Trinity Christmas
Bazaar’ on Friday, November 30, from 3 to 9 p.m., and Saturday,
December 1, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The bazaar will be held at the
church (145 Brattle Street in Cambridge).

The two-day event will feature Armenian dinners, vendor booths,
`Santa’s Playland’ for children, and other activities. Click here
()
for information, or call the church at (617) 354-0632.

St. Peter Church | Watervliet, NY
The Women’s Guild of St. Peter Church of Watervliet, NY, will sponsor
a Holiday Bazaar on Saturday, December 1 (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and
Sunday, December 2 (12 to 4 p.m.).

Enjoy a lahmajoun lunch and dolma dinner on Saturday and a madzoonov
kufte on Sunday. A variety of homemade foods-including manti, michov
or sini kufte, boreg, string cheese, choreg, simit, kadayif, paklava,
and more-will be available for purchase. There will be family
entertainment on Saturday and Sunday.

Click here
()
to view a flyer for information.

St. John Church of Southfield, MI
The Parish Council and Apostolic Society of St. John Church of
Southfield, MI, will host an Armenian dance on Saturday, December 8,
featuring Onnik Dinkjian and his ensemble. The event will be held in
the church’s cultural hall, beginning at 7 p.m. Click here
()
to view a flyer for information.

** EVENTS
————————————————————
NYC

** Annual Appeal Reception to be Held in New York
————————————————————

The Diocesan Council will host a reception in support of the 2012
Annual Appeal on Thursday, December 6, at the Michael Aram flagship
store in New York. The evening will begin at 6:30 p.m.

All are invited to enjoy an evening of fellowship. A raffle will be
held for an original Michael Aram creation.

The store is located at 136 West 18th Street in New York City. RSVP by
December 3 by e-mailing [email protected]
(mailto:[email protected]) .

Click here
()
to view an invitation card.

**

————————————————————
Concert at St. Vartan Cathedral

** Classical Concert Postponed to December 8
————————————————————

Due to power outages caused by the recent hurricane in New York, the
classical concert scheduled to take place at the Diocesan Center on
November 3 was postponed. The concert has been rescheduled for
Saturday, December 8, beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Sopranos Anoosh Barclay, Hasmik Meikhanedjian, Narine Ojakhyan, and
Anahit Zakaryan-accompanied by pianist Garen Hagopian-will perform the
works of Pergolesi, Donizetti, Verdi, Rossini, Bizet, Dvorak, Komitas,
Tigranian, Melikian, and Abrahamian. The concert will go forward under
the direction of Maestro Khoren Mekanejian.

The concert will be held in Haik and Alice Kavookjian Auditorium of
the Diocesan Center (630 Second Avenue, New York City). Call the
Diocese at (212) 686-0710 for information. Click here
()
to view a flyer.

Archbishop Vicken Aykazian
Archbishop Vicken Aykazian will speak in Charlotte, NC, next month.

** Archbishop Aykazian to Speak in Charlotte, NC
————————————————————

Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, the Diocese’s Ecumenical Director, will
give a talk on the challenges facing Christians in the Middle East on
Saturday, December 8, at St. Nektarios Greek Orthodox Church in
Charlotte, NC. The event will begin at 7 p.m.

Archbishop Aykazian will discuss Christian communities in the Middle
East and offer ways Christians in the U.S. can help influence peace
building efforts.

Click here
()
to view a flyer for information.

** YOUTH NEWS
————————————————————
ACYOA Leadership Conference
Some 40 young people gathered for the annual ACYOA Leadership
Conference on November 9-11. (photo by Adrienne Ashbahian)

** ACYOA Members Sharpen Faith Literacy
————————————————————

ACYOA members attending a leadership conference in upstate New York
last weekend took an in-depth look at different aspects of the worship
and practices of the Armenian Church.

The conference, held November 9-11, brought together 40 young people
representing 16 parishes for a weekend of lectures, worship, and
reflections. The conference, titled “Faith Literacy for Young
Leaders,” was planned by the ACYOA Central Council, and held at the
Don Bosco Retreat Center in Stony Point, NY. Also joining the ACYOA
members were young representatives from the Coptic Orthodox Church.

Participants heard presentations by the Very Rev. Fr. Daniel
Findikyan, St. Nersess Armenian Seminary students Eric Vozzy and Saro
Kalayjian, and seminary graduate Dn. Ryan Tellalian.

Click on the following links to read more
()
and to view photos
(!i=2215426231&k=jW94bj4)
.

** A NOTE TO OUR READERS
————————————————————

The Diocese’s e-Newsletter will not be published on Thanksgiving Day,
Thursday, November 22. We look forward to resuming e-Newsletter
publication on Thursday, November 29.

From: A. Papazian

http://www.armenianchurch.org/
http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/feasts/annunciation/about-mary/?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://armenianchurch.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5&id=17704942c0&e=3aa2e2c3e9&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://armenianchurch.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5&id=52156772ca&e=3aa2e2c3e9&utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://www.myarmenianchurch.org?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/images/Worcester.jpg?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://smu.gs/Wa2YNI?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://bit.ly/TMbti2?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://blog.farusa.org/2012/11/14/far-new-york-a-great-humanitarian-remembered/?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://blog.farusa.org/2012/11/14/far-new-york-far-honors-the-memory-of-armine-zambak/?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://bit.ly/Wa3eMG?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://smu.gs/UJ9VnG?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://milwaukeearmenians.wordpress.com/2012/11/13/milwaukees-armenian-community-celebrates-an-anniversary/?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://smu.gs/StXls8?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/StPeterOutreach.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://smu.gs/SPOS2T?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/uploaded_files/tinymce/files/WhitePlainsFoodFestival2012.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/Food_Fest_and_Bazaar_Orlando_2012.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/uploaded_files/tinymce/files/eventspdf/NewBritainFair2012.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/ChristmasConcertHolyCross2012.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/St._Leon_Saturday_Nov._24_2012.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://bit.ly/S10ilC?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/StPeterBazaar2012.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/uploaded_files/tinymce/files/eventspdf/StJohnDance2012.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/Invitation.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/files/ClassicalConcertFlyerFinal.pdf?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://gallery.mailchimp.com/727aaae8ea56658ecf4a092d5/images/Abp_Aykazian_Charlotte_2012.jpg?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://bit.ly/U0gFB3?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email
http://easterndiocese.smugmug.com/ACYOA/ACYOA-Ledarship-Conference/26520929_gcPGsv?utm_source=Eastern+Diocese+E-Newsletter&utm_campaign=fbd4d1cc8d-February_9_20122_9_2012&utm_medium=email#

There Is Stable Progress In Armenia-Nato Relations, Head Of The Parl

THERE IS STABLE PROGRESS IN ARMENIA-NATO RELATIONS, HEAD OF THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMISSION SAYS

Mediamax
Nov 15 2012
Armenia

Yerevan/Mediamax/. Head of the Permanent Commission on Defense,
National Security and Internal Affairs of the National Assembly of
Armenia Koryun Nahapetyan.

“Developing relations with NATO, Armenia contributes to creating
stability and peace in the region”, noted the head of the Commission.

Koryun Nahapetyan added that the CSTO continues making part of ensuring
security in Armenia but simultaneously Yerevan is going to deepen
cooperation with NATO, particularly in the defense reforms sphere.

From: A. Papazian

Armenia ready for active coop with the new government of Georgia -PM

Armenia is ready for active cooperation with the new government of
Georgia. Tigran Sargsyan

18:58, 16 November, 2012

YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 16, ARMENPRESS: Armenia is ready for active
cooperation with the new government of Georgia. As Armenpress was
informed from the informational and public relations department of
Armenian government this has been declared by Armenian Prime Minister
Tigran Sargsyan during the meeting with CIS, Baltic and Georgian chief
editors’ club members.

Tigran Sargsyan has noted that Armenia is interested in the
establishment of regional peace and security.

`We respect the decision of Georgian nation and ready to actively
cooperate with the new government of Georgia. We are interested in the
prosperity of Georgia because it is beneficial for Armenia and
Armenian nation. Relations with Iran are also very important for us so
we pay great attention to them’ underlined the head of the government.

From: A. Papazian

Hovhannesyan: There Is An Attempt To Turn Arabs Against Armenians

Hovhannesyan: There Is An Attempt To Turn Arabs Against Armenians

November 9, 2012

On November 8, `Help Your Brother’ civic initiative sent the third
cargo airplane with humanitarian aid to Aleppo, Syria. Upon the
arrival of the cargo Arab some media reported that the aid was
intended for the Armenian community despite the continuous
announcement on behalf of the organizers that the aid will be
distributed not only to Armenians but to Syrians as well.
ARF-D MP, Vahan Hovhannesyan and coordinator of `Help Your Brother’
efforts when asked by yerkir.am said `this is a misunderstanding, an
artificially created misunderstanding because both the Armenian
Prelacy in Aleppo and Syria’s Red Crescent are registered as the aid’s
recipients. They receive the cargo together and so, to speak about
discrimination in this case, is clearly a misunderstanding and an
artificial one’ Hovhannesyan said. He also mentioned that when the
first cargo was distributed everyone saw that it was supplied to
Syrian families in need, too. `We never kept it a secret, that `Help
Your Brother”s incentive was the difficult situation that our
compatriots face. But we understand perfectly that they have Syrian
brothers, neighbors whom they are close to and with whom they share
not only friendly but brotherly relations, as well. Naturally, when we
speak about helping not only the Armenians do we have on our minds but
the Syrians, also’.
Hovhannesyan is sure that this attempt could be in the profit of some
political groups and that they have always tried to pull the Armenian
community into the conflict. `Armenians keep their neutrality; they
are lawful citizens of Syria, they don’t get in the conflict. And
since any other effort to drag them in has failed they are now trying
to achieve that with irresponsible statements and turn Arab circles
against the Armenians, even in regard to living conditions. It is not
happening on the political level and they have focused on living
conditions. These are merely fabrications but for circles who are not
developed this could have dangerous consequences and lead to more
pressure on the Armenians’ Hovhannesyan stressed.

Lilit Galstyan, `Help Your Brother’ Co-ordinator, when interviewed by
1in.am (November 11) said that for the time being `Help Your Brother’
is able to help Armenians who came from Syria, only with food supplies
and blankets. Commenting on the assistance provided to Armenians from
Syria, by `Help Your Brother’ and AGBU Galstyan pointed out that they
are in position of helping to a certain extent `from its part, the
state must provide jobs, housing so they can at least, temporarily
make it through. Since the war in Syria doesn’t seem to be coming to
an end soon and many are thinking of settling down in Armenia, the
solution to these problems must be a priority’ Galstyan said.

`Help Your Brother’ Initiative’s Third Cargo

The civic initiative that has mobilized hundreds of thousands of
Armenians in home and abroad sent a third cargo plane to Aleppo, on
November 8. Previously and according to an earlier agreement, the
cargo was landed in Erzerum, Turkey in order to be inspected before
reaching its destination. The inspection was thorough with the Turkish
authorities taking samples of the aid packages.

13 tons of food were sent with an Air Armenia cargo plane for the
relief of Aleppo’s population and the distribution started on November
11.

From: A. Papazian

http://www.arfd.info/2012/11/09/hovhannesyan-there-is-an-attempt-to-turn-arabs-against-armenians/

Detroit Begins Fundraising For Syrian-Armenian Relief

DETROIT BEGINS FUNDRAISING FOR SYRIAN-ARMENIAN RELIEF
By Georgi-Ann Oshagan

November 15, 2012

Greater Detroit’s Armenian community kicked off its ongoing fundraising
program on Oct. 26 to support Syrian-Armenian relief efforts, as
ongoing violence envelops the country’s major cities that have been
home to Armenians for hundreds of years.

Mouradian during his presentation

Sponsored by the Greater Detroit United Committee for Syrian Armenian
Relief Fund, the event at St. Sarkis Lillian Arakelian Hall raised over
$7,500. The committee continues to meet frequently to engage greater
segments of metro Detroit’s Armenian community in its work, with
ongoing phone-banking and planning of additional fundraisers underway.

Led by co-chairs Shakeh Basmajian and Shant Jamgotchian, the committee
is comprised of representatives from the following metro Detroit
churches and organizations: St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, St.

Vartan Armenian Catholic Church, and Armenian Congregational Church;
ARF Detroit “Azadamard” Gomideh; ARS “Maro,” “Shakeh,” “Sybille,”
“Tsolig,” and “Zabel” Chapters; Homenetmen of Detroit; Hamazkayin
of Detroit; Tekeyan Cultural Association; AYF Detroit “Kopernik
Tandourjian” Chapter; Knights of Vartan of Detroit, Daughters of
Vartan of Detroit; Detroit Armenian Women’s Club; and Armenian
Engineers and Scientists of America-Michigan Section.

Master of Ceremonies Hayg Oshagan set the tone with a moment of silence
for those who have lost their lives in the beleaguered country. Oshagan
noted that he accepted the master of ceremonies job because he felt
a particular responsibility to the Syrian-Armenian community for
personal and political reasons connected to the 1915 Armenian Genocide
and creation of the Armenian Diaspora. Oshagan’s grandfather, noted
author and literary critic Hagop Oshagan, is buried in Aleppo, and
was a 1915 Armenian Genocide survivor who joined his compatriots in
creating the Armenian Diaspora, which survives and thrives to this day.

“We need to feel a responsibility to our families,” Oshagan said. “As
diasporans, we are from different countries and we need to remember
our major diasporan cities: Beirut, Aleppo, and now Los Angeles and
New York. We share a sense of responsibility toward our nation when
our nation is suffering in some part of the world. We are suffering
when they are suffering. The Syria-Armenian community is part of the
Armenian nation.”

Oshagan also emphasized that the Oct. 26 effort was not merely “an
educational event.” Rather, he said, “This is an event to connect
with our nation and we want this to be a successful fundraiser. The
organizing committee here in Detroit is finding ways of creating unity
because no matter where we are from, we are one nation. Fundraisers
have occurred in many places and now it is our turn to help.”

The program’s emotional underpinning was also expressed by Dr. Taline
Hagopian in her recitation of poet Baruyr Sevag’s “Gank ou ge Menank,”
which was translated into English in the evening’s program booklet.

(L-R) Khatchig Mouradian, Hayg Oshagan, and Greater Detroit United
Committee for Syrian Armenian Relief Fund co-chairs Shakeh Basmajian
and Shant Jamgotchian.

“We are few, but they call us Armenians,” she recited in Armenian.

“When we were forced to leave our own land, wherever we reached,
wherever we went, everywhere we left an indelible trace. We do not
put ourselves above anyone, but we know ourselves. We are called
Armenians.”

Guest speaker Khatchig Mouradian continued to highlight the
genocide-diaspora connection to current events in Syria with his
slideshow and presentation entitled, “When Elephants Fight: The
Syrian-Armenian Community in Crisis.” The Armenian Weekly editor,
journalist, and genocide scholar explained, “When elephants fight,
it is the grass that suffers most,” and in today’s Syrian conflict,
the citizens are the “grass” that is being flattened by opposing
political forces.

Mouradian shared fresh news about Syria’s Armenian community and
political conditions on the ground and in the region, noting that
the ancient cities of Aleppo and Damascus are living museums that are
being destroyed and looted as communities are caught in the conflict.

“Several dozen Armenians have been killed that we know of,” he added.

Mouradian offered the poignant story of an Armenian who left Der Zor
to move to Aleppo, thinking the city would be safer that the small
desert community. Shortly after his move, he was killed by a bomb.

Mouradian used the story to connect 1915 genocide survivors and
orphans who arrived in Der Zor from the death marches to the current
death and injury resulting from the continued political upheaval,
which envelops Armenians whose links to that past connect them to an
unstable present and an unknowable future.

“With the link to Der Zor, we have come full circle,” Mouradian
observed.

Concerns over Syria’s Armenian and other minority populations center
on preserving civil and religious rights, staving off censorship
and oppression, and being watchful of Turkey’s influential role
in the Syrian conflict and its pointed effort with other allies
to overthrow the Assad regime and impose its own agenda. It’s an
agenda that threatens to result in chaos and havoc in a country whose
minority Christian populations “are not in the mix for cutting deals”
with big political players.

Some economic experts in Ankara view and approach Aleppo as a province
of Turkey, Mouradian added, noting the additional destabilizing threats
of the Kurdish Question and Turkey’s continuing denial of the Armenian
Genocide as factors that impact the Syrian-Armenian community and its
future security. “This is a huge regional game that Turkey is trying
to play.”

With regard to diasporan relief efforts, Mouradian reported that
supplies are reaching the Syrian-Armenian community. He also showed
a video clip of activity at a school that recently opened in Yerevan
for about 250 children of Syrian-Armenian families who escaped the
country for a safer haven in the homeland.

“But for every child who is in Armenia, there are 10-20 more in Syria
who deserve their education, and they need our help,” Mouradian said.

He concluded his presentation by noting that the Armenian community
has survived in Syria by supporting the state, and that the current
official community position is that the Syrian-Armenian community
is neutral.

United Committee co-chair Shakeh Basmajian thanked attendees and
donors, reminding them that the community has responded to emergency
situations in the past-including helping Beirut’s Armenian community
during the Lebanese civil war and in the aftermath of the 1988 Armenian
earthquake-and must again respond to this newest crisis facing Syria’s
Armenian community.

“The time to help is now,” Basmajian said, noting that with the
Christmas and New Year gift-giving season approaching, families should
“promise to give one gift less and use that money to donate to the
Armenians of Syria.”

The evening began with an invocation by St. Sarkis host-church pastor
Rev. Fr. Hrant Kevorkian and ended with a benediction by Rev. Dr.

Vahan Tootikian of the Armenian Congregational Church and Father Andon
Atamian of St. Vartan Armenian Catholic Church. The national anthems
were sung by Rubik Mailian, who was accompanied by Helen Movsessian.

From: A. Papazian

http://www.armenianweekly.com/2012/11/15/detroit-begins-fundraising-for-syrian-armenian-relief/

Shirak Center Uncovers Child Malnutrition In Gyumri

SHIRAK CENTER UNCOVERS CHILD MALNUTRITION IN GYUMRI

13:10, November 15, 2012

The Shirak Center, a civic organization focusing on social issues,
has been studying the socio-economic situation in and around Gyumri,
Armenia’s second largest city.

The Center has been focusing on the plight of families, mostly single
parent, on the threshold of poverty.

This story deals with one such family they came across living in the
neighbourhood of Ani. Gayaneh Gevorgyan, along with her two small
children and parents, survive on 16,000 AMD ($40) of social assistance
every three months. Gayaneh’s mother works and gets a meager salary
as well.

Two years ago the gas company turned off the gas because the family
owed 30,000 AMD. The utility even went so far as to remove the
gas meter.

Shirak Center staffers say they were struck by the small stature of
the kids. They say the likely culprit is malnourishment.

Gayaneh told them that her children are always sick due to a lack
of food and that her six year-old boy has contracted some type
of spinal illness. The family doesn’t have the funds needed for a
medical check-up.

From: A. Papazian

http://hetq.am/eng/news/20599/shirak-center-uncovers-child-malnutrition-in-gyumri.html

Kupelian To Make ”East Of Byzantium” Graphic Novel On Armenia Into

KUPELIAN TO MAKE ”EAST OF BYZANTIUM” GRAPHIC NOVEL ON ARMENIA INTO A MINI- DOCUMENTARY SERIES

13:03, 15 November, 2012

YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 15, ARMENPRESS: US Glendel Community College El
Vaquero student newspaper dwelled on the creator of some of the
most iconic worlds in contemporary cinema – Armenian descent film
director Roger Kupelian. As Armenpress reports, East of Byzantium is
Kupelian’s recently published graphic novel series and he is looking
to make it into not only a mini-documentary series, but into a major
motion picture. East of Byzantium spans 150 years of Armenian history
starting at 301 A.D. when Armenia became the first Christian state in
history. Persia and the Roman Empire were warring with one another and
between this collision is Armenia,” said Kupelian. Emperor Diocletian
sent an exiled Armenian king back to claim Armenia as an ally of Rome.

That changed that region of the world forever. It set a series of
events in motion and altered not only the balance between empires, but
the balance of religions and cultures. The constant bloodshed leads
into the year 451 A.D. and Kupelian’s interpretation of St. Vartan
Mamigonian, the most venerated saint in the Armenian Orthodox Church.

I wanted a Vartan that was very different than the one history depicts,
said Kupelian. I wanted a Vartan that I can relate to. I wanted
someone that was in the mud, on the battlefield and was struggling
for his life, because that moment is glory for a warrior.

Kupelian painted his first image of Vartan in New Zealand, on
the set of “Lord of the Rings”. Kupelian also dwelled on Nagorno
Karabakh conflict. “Dark Forest in the Mountains” was Kupelian’s
first documentary, and the first time he directed a movie. He started
filming the war in the 1990s. Avedis Sangigian is an Armenian-American
veteran from the Nagorno-Karabakh War who attended Kupelian’s lecture.

Sangigian fought for a year and a half and was one of many Armenian
Americans that volunteered to fight. Garo Kyahkidjian was a friend
of Sangigian and is a main character in Kupelian’s documenatry.

Kyahkidjian died after the war. I watch that documentary everyday,said
Sangigian, in memory of his old friend. Sangigian and Kyahkidjian’s
bravery makes them warriors, according to Kupelian. I want our next
generation to see itself in terms of being a warrior,said Kupelian. We
must once again embrace and embody what it means to be a warrior tribe.

From: A. Papazian

Azerbaijan’s Proposal Of A New Roadmap Untimely, Armenian Fm Says

AZERBAIJAN’S PROPOSAL OF A NEW ROADMAP UNTIMELY, ARMENIAN FM SAYS
Anna Nazaryan

“Radiolur”
18:30 15.11.2012

Armenian President’s visit to France was productive and very war,”
Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian told a press conference
today, adding that the French President’s visit to Armenia is scheduled
for 2013.

Asked to comment on Baku’s statements on a new roadmap for the
settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict said he has an impression
that those who propose the roadmap have missed the train.

“I don’t think Azerbaijan’s proposal of a new roadmap is serious,
especially if we consider that the question refers to the proposals
of 17 years ago. If this roadmap was of any importance 17 years ago,
we would have followed it,” the Foreign Minister said, adding that
“we should be more realistic and consider the proposals of the
international community voiced by the Minsk Group Co-Chairs.”

Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars RinkÄ”viÄ~Ms expressed regret over
the lack of progress in the process of settlement of the Karabakh
conflict. He said, however, that his country is not ready to recognize
the independence of Nagorno Karabakh.

“I think this would not facilitate the resolution of this very
difficult and very complex situation,” he said, adding that the issue
must be addressed by Armenia,Azerbaijan, by the Minsk Group Co-Chairs
and the international community at large.

“We cannot speak about recognition of independence until the
negotiations reach a mutually acceptable solution,” Mr. RinkÄ”viÄ~Ms
said, advising to focus on the negotiations.

From: A. Papazian

Producer Of Armenian Descent Kidnapped In Aleppo

PRODUCER OF ARMENIAN DESCENT KIDNAPPED IN ALEPPO

15:11 15/11/2012 ” SOCIETY

Beirut-based Armenian writer, publicist, translator Sago Arean has
written on his Facebook page that young producer of Armenian descent
Avo Gabrielian has been kidnapped in Syria’s Aleppo.

When reached for a comment, Armenian Foreign Ministry spokesperson
Tigran Balayan said they have no exact information about this
issue yet.

Another Armenian, Sako Kozan, was kidnapped in Sarakib area, situated
in Edlib in Syria on November 5.

On October 30, 7 Armenians were kidnapped from bus en route from Beirut
to Aleppo. The names of five of them were revealed several days later:
Garo Bambelian, Arsen Aroian, Levon Zeitunian, as well as Bashar and
George Rabat. George Rabat has reportedly been released.

More than 3 dozen Armenians have been killed in the Syrian conflict.

They include 7 soldiers, 5 women, 26 men and one child, as reported
by Armenian Diaspora Minister Hranush Hakobyan a month ago. Armenians
were killed in Damascus, Deir Ezzor, Kamishli, but most of them were
killed in Aleppo.

Source: Panorama.am

From: A. Papazian

Azerbaijani Certain Steps Do Not Contribute To The Dialogue: Latvian

AZERBAIJANI CERTAIN STEPS DO NOT CONTRIBUTE TO THE DIALOGUE: LATVIAN MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

13:58, 15 November, 2012

YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 15, ARMENPRESS: Republic of Latvia as well as
European Union senior representatives have expressed their deep concern
over Azerbaijani criminal Ramil Safarov granting pardon, Latvian
Minister of Foreign Affairs Edgars Rinkevics stated at a briefing
with the journalists on November 15. “We had launched a meeting refer
to the incident in Vilnius at the level of Scandinavian and Baltic
countries and reportedly came forth with a statement. I deem similar
steps do not contribute to the dialogue in this complicated situation”
Minister noted.

In the words of Latvian Minister when the matters goes about the
coordinating of foreign policy they intensively cooperate with their
Scandinavian, Baltic as well as European partners, so they can state
they all perceive the issue seriously.

Azerbaijani Ramil Safarov axe murdering Armenian serviceman Gurgen
Margaryan in Budapest on February 19, 2004 while participating in
NATO’s English training courses was extradited to Azerbaijan on August
31, 2012 by Hungarian authorities despite the fact Hungarian court
had sentenced Ramil Safarov to a life imprisonment with no right t
to be pardoned in 30 years time . Yet the assassin was not mainly
released in Homeland but granted a mayor title.

From: A. Papazian