Author: Baghdasarian Karlen

ARMENIAN PM SAYS HIS STANCE ON ARMENIA’S MEMBERSHIP IN CUSTOMS UNION NOT CHANGED

YEREVAN, September 20. / ARKA /. Armenian Prime Minister Tigran
Sargsyan told reporters on Thursday that his position on Armenia’s
accession to the Customs Union has not changed.

Earlier, Tigran Sargsyan had repeatedly said that Armenia’s accession
to the Customs Union was impractical, because of the absence of a
common border with a Customs Union member country.

The prime minister said President Serzh Sargsyan’s announcement that
Armenia would join the Russia-led Customs Union was not a surprise
to him. -0-

10:47 20.09.2013

From: Baghdasarian

HERITAGE PARTY LEADER HOLDS RALLY IN YEREVAN

20:02 20.09.13

Heritage party Chairman Raffi Hovannisian held a rally in Yerevan’s
Freedom Square on Friday.

Speaking of Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan’s statement on Armenia’s
accession to the Customs Union, Hovannisian said that officials making
autocratic decisions must resign.

“We must all create a new all-national front, regardless of our
political and civil preferences,” Hovannisian said.

He called for a joint struggle for justice and implicitly demanded
Serzh Sargsyan’s resignation.

“Election riggers must resign. This is not a matter of one person. It
is a national imperative. The mastermind behind the February 18 crime,
disgraceful Armenian-Turkish protocols, anti-constitutional Madrid
principles, autocratic decision, which subjected Armenia’s sovereignty
to another nation, must resign,” Hovannisian said.

According to him, the decision on Armenia’s joining the Customs Union
“with the participation of Armenia’s illegitimate authorities is a
ratification of a Bolshevik agreement of the 21st century.”

“We must realize the necessity of Armenia’s recognition of Artsakh’s
[Nagorno-Karabakh] independence. Our people must not live in
humiliating conditions, which is the case now,” Hovannisian said.

According to him, the nation that recognizes Armenia’s interests must
be Armenia’s strategic partner.

“But let no one in the East or in the West try to persuade us or
strip us of our independence,” he said.

Armenian News – Tert.am

From: Baghdasarian

Serzh Sargsyan: Armenian State means realization of the Armenian dream

20:01 21.09.2013

On the occasion of the 22nd anniversary of Independence of the
Republic of Armenia, President Serzh Sargsyan today at the Karen
Demirjian Sport and Concert Complex invited a festive
reception,President’s Press Office reports. At the reception, the
President of Armenia made a congratulatory address on the occasion of
Independence Day.

Congratulatory Address by President Serzh Sargsyan on the occasion of
Independence Day

Your Holiness,
Distinguished President of the Republic of Nagorno Karabakh,
My Fellow Compatriots,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

I cordially congratulate you on the occasion of Independence Day.

In the past twenty-two years, we have been traveling a new road, which
has often appeared narrow and rocky just as our mountain pathways. We
have been moving forward cautiously and prudently because we carry
great responsibility on our shoulders. The is the Armenia of Orontids
and Artaxiads, this is the Armenia of Arsacids and Bagratids, this is
the Republic of Armenia of the beginning of the previous century, this
is the Armenia which has already entered the third millennium After
Christ.

Our path is full of ups and downs but it is our way. We are besieged
from right and left; sometimes defiant, sometimes vexed, we
nevertheless are moving forward towards the light. We will bring back
all those whom at times we have not been able to keep by our side. We
will reinstate all our losses and will leave all privations behind. We
will look back and register with pride that together we have passed
gingerly the only possible narrow pathway. We should have no doubts
about that.

My Fellow Compatriots,

For a long time our nation was compelled to solve not development but
primarily existential problems. Today, the task has changed: now we
are calling to life projects which are dealing with the strengthening
and development of the Armenian Statehood. Certainly, security is the
number one priority for everyone in this world, and we are no
exception. Security-related issues will always be in the focus of our
attention, just as they are today. We are constantly searching for
ways to boost our economy, and we have achieved certain results. We
are setting goals to expand the borders of possible, so that each year
with a precise regularity we are able to increase salaries and
pensions. Along the way, we are carrying out our reforms, which
provide steady development for stronger democracy, good governance,
the rule of law, and progress in all other areas. Our policies are
directed towards these objectives.

The stance of the Armenian authorities and our society is clear-cut.
We have had enough of wars, perturbations, abrupt U-turns and
adventurism. We need unfailing defense, peaceful work and sustainable
development, and we are doing just that. Perhaps a little slowly,
perhaps with some slip-ups along the way but definitely not when it
comes to the most important issues and definitely not when it comes to
fateful decisions.

Armenian State means realization of the Armenian dream – this is the
greatest symbolism of today’s holiday. The re-establishment of our
independence in 1991 made our nation’s centuries-long dream come true.
Our brothers and sisters in Diaspora and, first and foremost, the
citizens of Armenia nourish and make part of their own dream, which
came true. Are we able to raise our dream fulfilled to new heights in
the contemporary world? Yes, we are, if we neither underestimate, nor
overestimate our capabilities. For one who is traveling down a rocky
pathway it is absolutely crucial to evaluate painstakingly each step
along the way.

The Orontids’ Armenia and the Artaxiads’ Armenia were manifestations
of Armenian dream. Today, the situation is quite different, and we
have quite another country. This is a new reality which our people
started to create fighting and defending ourselves while relying on a
substantial legacy inherited from the Soviet Armenia. A glance back
reveals the huge distance we have already covered and enormous risks
we have avoided. It also inspires us with hope that we can accelerate
our advancement. Every offspring of the Armenia nation has a mission
to be accomplished in this process. If anyone has not learned it yet,
it is high time to do so.

My Fellow Compatriots,

Independence is an objective and daily routine at the same time. It
has to be conquered every day through living, adopting decisions and
implementing them as free citizens of independent Armenia. We are
living in a free country, and can discuss anything we want to. One
thing, however, is unalterable under any circumstance: the sovereignty
of the Republic of Armenia. It is a dream and duty fulfilled, which is
always with us. This is a feast that we inherited paying the price
with our heroes’ blood and this is a duty which we shall pass on to
our grandchildren.

I once again congratulate all citizens of the Republic of Armenia and
the entire Armenian nation. I wish us all peaceful work for the
benefit of our families and our country. I wish we allot our
capabilities wisely on different turns of the path and crown with
success our dreams and programs. Joint together they make what we call
the Republic of Armenia.

Long live the Republic of Armenia!
Glory to the Armenian Nation!

From: Baghdasarian

Mkhitaryan increases Borussia’s creative potential: Nuri Å?ahin

16:04, 21 September, 2013

YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 21, ARMENPRESS: The Turkish midfielder of the
Borussia Dortmund Nuri Å?ahin highly evaluated the newcomers
of the team and highlighted the midfielder of the Armenian National
Football team and Borussia Dortmund Henrikh Mkhitaryan. `Micki
(Henrikh Mkhitaryan) increases the creative potential of Borussia and
adds additional craft to the game of our team with his passes
and moves. `Obama’ (Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang) makes our game quicker:
first the opponent should think before getting him’, –
said Nuri Å?ahin, as reported by Armenpress, quoting the website bvb-russia.com.

In the next stage of the Bundesliga Borussia will meet Nuremberg on
September 21. Earlier the media spread the news, according to
which the head coach of the team Jürgen Klopp will provide Henrikh
Mkhitaryan with the opportunity to rest during this match.
The midfielder of the Armenian National Football team and Borussia
Dortmund Henrikh Mkhitaryan moved to the German Borussia
Dortmund from the Ukrainian Shakhtar. The transfer of Henrikh
Mkhitaryan is the fourth most expensive transfer during the history
of the German Bundesliga. The Shakhtar got ?¬27,5 million for the
midfielder of the Armenian National Football team.

Henrikh Mkhitaryan was born 21 January 1989. He is an Armenian
football player who currently plays as a midfielder for German
Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund and the Armenian national team.
Mkhitaryan has participated in 39 international matches and scored
11 goals for the Armenian national team since his debut on 14 January 2007.

His previous clubs include Pyunik Yerevan, where he came through the
youth system, and Metalurg Donetsk. Mkhitaryan was chosen
Armenian Footballer of the Year in 2009, 2011 and 2012. He was also
voted as the best Shakhtar player of 2011`12 season by the fans. In
2012 Mkhitaryan was named in UEFA’s Top 100 players by UEFA European
Football Yearbook 2012-13. In the second-round games of the
current season in the German Bundesliga, Borussia Dortmund hosted the
Eintracht Braunschweig and won with the score 1:2 due to the
double by Mkhitaryan.

From: Baghdasarian

Russia rejects exerting pressure on neighbors

September 21, 2013 | 16:22

Russia is not exerting pressure on any states, including Ukraine,
regarding integration with the EU and will respect any decision, the
Kremlin chief of staff Sergey Ivanov said.

`We are not pressing the states on their choice of future economic and
political development. Saying so, you, in fact, reject sovereignty of
the states be it Ukraine, Moldova or Armenia,’ he told reporters.

The Russian official noted that the countries and their parliaments
are to decide which way of economic cooperation is better, Interfax
reported.

`We will respect any Ukrainian decision whatever it will be,’ Ivanov emphasized.

News from Armenia – NEWS.am

From: Baghdasarian

Hollande attaches great importance to friendly relations between
Armenia and France

September 21, 2013 | 16:02

French President François Hollande issued a congratulatory message to
President Serzh Sargsyan, in connection with Armenia’s Independence
Day.

`Ever since [its] independence, Armenia has gone forward, especially
owing to the reforms which were implemented within the framework of
its dialogue with the European Union. I would like to reaffirm
France’s assistance in the continuation of this endeavor.

`I attach great importance to the friendly relations and cooperation
between Armenia and France. I would like to continue with you the
activities toward strengthening these relations.

`Please allow me to also stress the importance which France, as a
[OSCE] Minsk Group co-chair, attaches to a progress in the talks
toward a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

`I am glad to be hosting you in Paris soon, to discuss these topics,’
the French President’s congratulatory message reads, in particular.

News from Armenia – NEWS.am

From: Baghdasarian

200 cases of ceasefire violations reported in the past week

15:35 21.09.2013

ceasefire violation

According to the data of the NKR Defense Army, about 200 cases of
ceasefire violation were registered at the line of contact between the
armed forces of Nagorno Karabakh and Azerbaijan from September 15 to
21.

The rival fired more than 1,000 shots from weapons of different
caliber in the direction of the Armenian positions.

The front divisions of the NKR Defense Army gave a worthy response to
the rival and continue the protection of the military positions all
along the line of contact.

From: Baghdasarian

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 September 19, 2013
————————————————————
Armenian Independence Day

** Celebrating Armenia’s Independence
————————————————————
Saturday, September 21, marks the 22nd anniversary of the
establishment of the Republic of Armenia. Celebrations are planned in
the homeland and in Armenian communities across the diaspora.

The rebirth of the Armenian homeland is one of the most momentous
developments in the history of the Armenian people. Armenia’s citizens
voted for independence from the Soviet Union on September 21, 1991,
and the resulting free republic became a member of the United Nations
on March 2, 1992.

To mark this 22nd anniversary, the Eastern Diocese and Armenia’s UN
Mission are jointly sponsoring a bicycle ride down the East Side of
Manhattan on Saturday, September 21. Participants will meet at
St. Vartan Cathedral (Second Ave. at 34th St., New York) at 10 a.m.,
have a flag-raising ceremony at 10:15, and start the ride at 10:30,
returning to the cathedral by 12 noon for refreshments.

The ride-led by Armenia’s UN ambassador Garen Nazarian, cathedral dean
Fr. Mamigon Kiledjian, and Diocesan vicar Fr. Simeon Odabashian-is
free and open to the public. To view a flyer with information on
reservations and other important details, click here
()
.

On Sunday, September 22, parishes of the Eastern Diocese will conduct
the `Order of Thanksgiving Prayer of the Republic of Armenia’. Click
here
()
to download the prayer booklet.

May our risen Lord bestow his grace on our homeland, keep it under his
loving protection, and guide all its citizens-our brothers and
sisters-in their heroic work to build a decent, prosperous, and just
society.

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

Is 14:3-17
2 Cor 10:18-11:10
Mk 10:1-12

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

O Lord our God, listen to the voice of supplications of your servants
and keep unshaken the Republic of Armenia, which you restored through
the grace of your mercy. Bless, O Lord, our ancestral land, so that
the site where you first established the blessed paradise would again
bloom with flowers. Bless, O Lord, everything that is good in it, and
especially its appellation, the name Armenia. Amen.

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

21 September: Armenian Independence Day

22 September: Barekendan of the Fast of the Holy Cross of Varak

24 September: Holy Virgins Febronia and Maryann, and Shushan, daughter
of Great Vartan

** CHURCH NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
————————————————————
Holy Transfiguration Church in Russia
The newly-consecrated Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Transfiguration,
in Moscow, Russia.

** Holy Transfiguration Cathedral Consecrated in Moscow
————————————————————

His Holiness Karekin II, the Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All
Armenians, presided over the consecration of the newly-built Cathedral
of the Holy Transfiguration, located in Moscow, Russia, on September
17. The occasion included opening ceremonies for the cathedral’s
adjacent cultural complex.

The mammoth cathedral and its surrounding buildings will serve as the
seat of the Armenian Church Diocese of New Nakhichevan and Russia,
whose Primate Bishop Yezras Nersisyan led the seven-year construction
effort, and played a prominent role in the consecration
service. Catholicos Karekin II raised Bishop Yezras to the rank of
`archbishop’ on the occasion.

His Holiness Kirill I, the Russian Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow and
All Russia, attended the September 17 ceremony, accompanied by clergy
of the Russian Orthodox Church.

Armenia’s President Serge Sargsyan, Nagorno-Karabagh President Bako
Sahakyan, dignitaries of the Armenian and Russian governments, and
cathedral benefactors were also present.

Among the high-ranking figures from the worldwide Armenian Church were
Eastern Diocese Primate Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Western Diocese
Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, United Kingdom Primate Bishop
Vahan Hovhanessian, and Eastern Diocese ecumenical director Archbishop
Vicken Aykazian.

At the conclusion of the consecration service, a cross-shaped
reliquary containing a fragment of a relic of Christ’s Holy Cross was
brought to the altar, as a gift from the Catholicos of All Armenians
to the Armenian faithful of the Russian diocese.

Click on the following links to read more
()
about the consecration, view a gallery
()
of photos, or visit the new website
()
of the Armenian Church’s Russian Diocese.

Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

** Bishops to Convene at Mother See
————————————————————

In the coming week, an historic gathering of Armenian Church bishops
will convene at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, with the blessing
and presence of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and
Catholicos of All Armenians, and His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of
the Great House of Cilicia.

All of the bishops of the worldwide Armenian Apostolic Church,
including those belonging to the Great House of Cilicia, will
participate in this first-of-its-kind gathering. From the Eastern
Diocese, Diocesan Primate Archbishop Khajag Barsamian and ecumenical
director Archbishop Vicken Aykazian will be taking part in the
proceedings.

The gathering scheduled for September 24-27 will inquire into
important issues and challenges facing our church and the Armenian
people today. His Holiness Karekin II has asked that all the church’s
faithful should be encouraged to pray for the success and productivity
of the conference.

In the coming days, may our Lord grant wisdom to his servants, and
guide our church in this and all endeavors.

** DIOCESAN NEWS
————————————————————
Abp. Barsamian presents the Relic of St. Vartan.
Abp. Khajag Barsamian displays the cross containing a relic of
St. Vartan the Brave, during the celebration of the 45th anniversary
of St. Vartan Cathedral.

** A “Sanctuary of Hope” Turns 45
————————————————————

During an inspirational day on Sunday, September 15, more than 200
faithful friends gathered at the Diocesan Center in New York to
celebrate the 45th anniversary of the consecration of St. Vartan
Cathedral.

Diocesan Primate Archbishop Khajag Barsamian celebrated the badarak on
the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. During a special
requiem service, the names of more than 150 departed St. Vartan
godfathers and Cathedral Project committee members were read aloud.

A procession led by members of the Knights of Vartan brought the relic
of St. Vartan the Brave into the cathedral. A gift of His Holiness
Karekin II to the Eastern Diocese, the 1500-year-old relic was
unveiled to the American public for the first time during the service.

The congregation-which included numerous descendants of the original
godfathers and founders of the cathedral-adjourned to Haik and Alice
Kavookjian auditorium for a celebratory luncheon, which featured
musical performances, recitations, and inspiring remarks by the
keynote speaker, Prof. Mark Movsesian. Armenia’s UN Ambassador Garen
Nazarian and the Primate also offered congratulatory words. A video on
the cathedral concluded the day.

Click on the following links to read more
()
about the celebration, read Prof. Movsesian’s keynote speech
()
, view a photo gallery
()
, and view a video
()
on St. Vartan Cathedral.

FAR interns
Six FAR scholarship recipients have begun internships at Armenia’s
Acopian Center for the Environment.

** Helping to Preserve Armenia’s Environment
————————————————————

Through a new collaboration between the Fund for Armenian Relief and
the American University of Armenia (AUA), recipients of FAR
scholarships and beneficiaries of the Armenian National Science and
Education Fund
()
‘s grant program will be included on research teams at the Acopian
Center for the Environment.

Through internships, beneficiaries will gain experience in a
professional setting and familiarize themselves with environmental
concerns facing Armenia. These young scholars and researchers will
work to preserve Armenia’s beautiful natural resources for future
generations.

Six FAR scholarship recipients have already been placed as interns to
work with specialists at the Acopian Center on such subjects as
biology, environmental statistics, and the international relations
aspect of environmental policy. These internships make up one segment
of the civic education that FAR beneficiaries receive, in addition to
support through FAR scholarships and stipends.

The Acopian Center for the Environment has been promoting
environmental conservation and restoration in Armenia through
research, education, and community outreach since 1992. To read more
about this effort, click here
()
.

** PARISH NEWS
————————————————————
Armenian Chorale
Maestro Petrossian and the Greater Worcester Armenian Chorale.

** Armenian Chorale Sings in Worcester
————————————————————

The Greater Worcester Armenian Chorale presented its 13th annual gala
concert and dinner on Sunday, September 8, at the Armenian Church of
Our Saviour in Worcester, MA.

The chorale’s selections included songs from the opera `Anoush’ as
well as a rousing rendition of Vara-Vara led by tenor Vasken
Yaghmourian. Konstantin Petrossian directed the chorale.

The concert also featured the `Arevig’ Children’s Dance Group with
choreography by Ani Yaghmourian. Guest soloist soprano Narine Ojakhyan
enchanted the audience with Armenian and operatic pieces, exhibiting a
powerful voice with delicate shadings and vibrant emotion. Karine
Avanesov accompanied on the piano, with Mark Donabedian on the dumbeg.

Armenian Church of the Holy Martyrs
Fr. Abraham Malkhasyan cuts the ribbon to dedicate the new plaza
outside Holy Martyrs Church.

** New Church Plaza Dedicated in Bayside
————————————————————

At the Holy Martyrs Church of Bayside, NY, Sunday, September 15, was a
day of celebration and joy, as the community gathered for the
ribbon-cutting and dedication of a new church plaza.

After badarak, parish pastor the Rev. Fr. Abraham Malkhasyan
ceremonially cut the ribbon along with Michelle Blandenburgo, niece of
the major donors for the plaza, the late Nazaret and Lillian Der
Kazarian. A traditional antasdan service followed, with Sunday School
students holding basil plants in honor of the Feast of the Exaltation
of the Holy Cross.

The parish acknowledged the generosity of the Der Kazarian family, as
well as that of Mr. and Mrs. Hrant Candan, Mr. and Mrs. Stepan
Minakyan, and Mr. and Mrs. Edward Jamie. To conclude the ceremony,
Fr. Malkhasyan and parish council chair Vartan Ajamian released doves
into the clear blue sky, in honor of the plaza and its benefactors.

Golf Tournament in Worcester
Participants in the Worcester church’s annual golf outing.

** Golf Tournament Benefits Dagley Memorial Fund
————————————————————

The Armenian Church of Our Saviour of Worcester, MA, held its 20th
annual golf tournament on Monday, September 16. Some 108 golfers and
100 sponsors took part in the tournament, which is the parish’s
largest fundraiser.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Dagley Memorial Fund,
in memory of the late Fr. Haroutiune and Yn. Patricia Dagley. A former
youth director and assistant to the pastor in Worcester, Fr. Dagley
was the inspiration behind the annual golf tournament.

Wynnewood Parish
Philadelphia-area Sunday School teachers.

** Philadelphia Holds Sunday School Workshop
————————————————————

Philadelphia-area parishes took part in a five-hour workshop titled
=80=9CWhat Every Sunday School Teacher Needs to Know’ on Saturday,
September 14. Greta Wiley and Alice Pakhtigian, co-superintendents of
the St. Sahag and St. Mesrob Sunday School of Wynnewood, PA, hosted
the day, working with Nancy Hovnanian, superintendent of the Holy
Trinity Sunday School of Cheltenham, to bring together 16 teachers
from their schools.

Elise Antreassian, coordinator of Christian Education at the Diocese,
facilitated the gathering, along with Nancy Basmajian. `You don’t have
to be a teacher by profession to be a great Sunday School teacher. But
there are approaches, understandings, and a core of knowledge that you
do need to `own’ in order to be an on-target teacher,’ said the
facilitators.

The workshop included a quiz on `Basic Armenian Christian literacy,’
an introduction to best practices in using curriculum, and a lesson
planning exercise. The day ended with an open discussion and a
spiritual self-assessment, confirming that a commitment to one’s faith
journey is essential for a great Sunday School teacher.

Further workshops are being scheduled throughout the Diocese for the
2013-14 academic year.

Upcoming Events

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

St. Mary Church | Livingston, NJ
St. Mary Church of Livingston, NJ, will host its annual Armenian Food
Festival on Saturday, September 21 (1:30-10:30 p.m.) and Sunday,
September 22 (12:30-5:00 p.m.) at the parish’s new Toufayan Hall.

The event will feature live music by the John Vartan Band and dancing
by the Hamazkayin Dance Ensemble. Enjoy homemade Armenian food, shish
kebab and other grilled items, pilaf, pastries, lahmajun and other
delicacies. Click here
()
to view a flyer, or call the parish office at (973) 533-9794.

St. Vartan Cathedral | New York, NY
Registration and the first day of St. Vartan Armenian School will take
place Saturday, September 21 at 10 a.m. Classes are geared towards
children ages 2 to 14, with bi-lingual sessions available. For
information, contact the school principal Shakeh Kadehjian at (718)
729-7265, or e-mail [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) .

Holy Resurrection Church | New Britain, CT
On Sunday, September 22, at 12:30 p.m., Matthew Karanian will present
a photographic slide show and talk on his latest book, Armenia and
Karabakh: The Stone Garden Travel Guide. Admission is free and open to
the public; copies of the book will be available for purchase and
signing by the author. The event is being co-sponsored with the city’s
St. Stephen’s Church. Holy Resurrection Church is located at 1910
Stanley St., in New Britain.

St. James Church | Richmond, VA
St. James Church of Richmond, VA, will hold its food festival on
September 19-22. Enjoy Armenian food and music, featuring members of
the Akh’tamar Dance Ensemble performing with the parish’s own dance
group. St. James Church is located at 834 Pepper Ave., Richmond,
VA. For information, log onto the parish website
()
.

St. Stepanos Church | Elberon, NJ
St. Stepanos Church will hold its Independence Day picnic on Sunday,
September 22, on the church grounds. The picnic will follow church
services and last until 7 p.m. St. Stepanos Church is located at 1184
Ocean Ave., Elberon, NJ. To view a flyer, click here
()
.

Holy Trinity Church | Cambridge, MA
Holy Trinity’s `1000 Club’ will hold its annual Fall Dinner and
drawing on Thursday, September 26, at 6:30 p.m., in the church’s
Charles and Nevart Talanian Cultural Hall (145 Brattle St.,
Cambridge). Enjoy losh kebab and kheyma dinners. Open to the public,
with tickets on sale at the door, and the raffle drawing at 8 p.m.

For information, contact the church office at (617) 354-0632, e-mail
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) , or view a flyer by
clicking here
()
.

St. John Church | Southfield, MI
St. John Armenian Church of Greater Detroit will hold its 44th annual
=80=9CLand of Noah’s Ark Festival,’ Friday through Sunday, September
27-29. Visitors can tour the church sanctuary and its adjacent Alex
and Marie Manoogian Museum, learn some elementary Armenian, feast on a
full array of Armenian delicacies, shop at the vendors’ booths, and
enjoy Armenian music.

For information call (248) 569-3405 or visit the parish website
()
. Click here
()
to view a flyer (which includes details of the pre-festival events on
September 20-26).

Holy Cross Church | New York, NY
Celebrate the church’s name day and the 27th annual pilgrimage to
Charkhapan Sourp Asdvadzadzin on Sunday, September 29. A traditional
madagh meal, program, and awarding of the Mabel Fenner scholarships
will follow badarak. Admission is free. Holy Cross is located at 580
W. 187th St., New York.

Holy Ascension Church | Trumbull, CT
On Friday, October 4, at 7:00 p.m., the Holy Ascension Church of
Trumbull, CT, will hold a traditional kinetson ceremony to honor the
publication of a new book by parish pastor Rev. Fr. Untzag Nalbandian,
titled Fate, Faith, Fun. Via Armenian and English vignettes, the book
follows Fr. Nalbandian’s life journey in different parts of the world.

Abp. Khajag Barsamian will preside at the book presentation and
commemoration of Fr. Nalbandian’s 35th ordination anniversary. The
event is open to the public, and books will be available for
purchase. RSVP to Sonia Trapasso at (203) 916-7156, or via e-mail at
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) . Holy Ascension Church
is located at 1460 Huntington Tpk., Trumbull, CT.

St. James Church | Watertown, MA
On Saturday, October 5, St. James’ ACYOA Seniors will host a Fall
Reunion Dance, featuring music by Markos and the Hayasa Band. All ages
welcome; mezze will be served. Click to view a flyer
()
with ticket information. To reserve, contact Aaron Derderian at (781)
264-8680, or [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) .

Holy Translators Church | Framingham, MA
On the weekend of October 5-6, Holy Translators Church of Framingham,
MA, will celebrate the 10th anniversary of its consecration. The
celebration will include a dinner-dance on Saturday evening at the
Verve Crowne Plaza in Natick, MA.

Abp. Khajag Barsamian will preside over the badarak on Sunday, which
will include ordinations of deacons and tbirs. For information or to
make reservations, log onto the parish website
()
.

** EVENTS
————————————————————
Karine Poghosyan
Pianist Kariné Poghosyan.

** Bach and Liszt at the Cathedral
————————————————————

Pianist Kariné Poghosyan, with the St. Vartan Chamber Orchestra, will
present a concert at St. Vartan Cathedral on Wednesday, September 25,
at 7:30 p.m.

Featuring selections by Bach and Liszt, the event is part of the
2013-14 season of `Concerts @ Saint Vartan.’ A reception will follow.

Click here
()
to view a flyer with ticket information.

Khrimian Hayrig
Catholicos Mkrtich I, affectionately known as “Khrimian Hayrig.”

** Khrimian Lyceum Embarks on 26th Year
————————————————————

The Diocese’s Khrimian Lyceum will begin its academic year on
Saturday, September 28, at New York’s Diocesan Center. The cultural
education school for Armenian teens began in 1987, and is an offering
of the Diocesan Armenian Studies program.

This year a pair of recent Khrimian Lyceum alumni-Tamar Tokman of the
St. Thomas Church of Tenafly, NJ, and Armen Bijimenian of the Holy
Martyrs Church of Bayside, NY-will serve on the staff. The lyceum is
also welcoming two new instructors: Ani Manuelian and Hovhannes
Khosdeghian.

The Khrymian Lyceum program is also being implemented at the
St. Kevork Church of Houston, TX, with a pilot program in the works at
the St. James Church of Evanston, IL. For information, contact
Armenian Studies coordinator Gilda Kupelian at
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) .

A Place Far Away

** Author’s Talk with Vahan Zanoyan
————————————————————

The Eastern Diocese’s Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information Center, in
collaboration with the Diocesan Armenian Studies program and the Fund
for Armenian Relief, will present a talk by author Vahan Zanoyan on
Thursday, September 26, at 7 p.m.

Mr. Zanoyan will discuss his recent book, A Place Far Away, which
deals with the horrors of human trafficking in Armenia. The event,
followed by a reception, will take place in Haik and Alice Kavookjian
Auditorium at the Diocesan Center in New York. Admission is free.

Click here
()
to view a flyer.

** YOUTH NEWS
————————————————————
Retreat Schedule

** ACYOA Plans Retreat for Young Adults
————————————————————

The prophet Ezekiel talked about a new heart and a new spirit;
St. Paul wrote of a new creation and a new life; and Jesus himself
proclaims “Behold, I make all things new!” (Rev 21:5).

“Called to a New Life’ is the title of a one-day regional retreat on
Saturday, October 5, for young adults in the New England area. The
ACYOA Central Council will be sponsoring the day-long program at Holy
Trinity Church in Cambridge, MA.

Young adults 18 years old and over are encouraged to join the retreat,
which will explore the fresh and transforming message of the Gospel,
and how it instructs our daily lives. There is no registration fee;
but interested young adults are asked to register by sending an e-mail
message no later than September 30 to [email protected]
(mailto:[email protected]) . Click here
()
to view a flyer with information.

From: Baghdasarian

PRESS RELEASE
Catholicosate of Cilicia
Communication and Information Department
Tel: (04) 410001, 410003
Fax: (04) 419724
E- mail: [email protected]
Web:

PO Box 70 317
Antelias-Lebanon

His Holiness Aram I decorates Kevork Bebedjian

Antelias – 13 September 2013. Following a concert in Antelias, His Holiness
Aram I decorated the nationally acclaimed classical and traditional singer
with the insignia of “St. Mesrob Mashdotz”. In his Letter of Blessing,
Catholicos Aram I described Kevork Bebedjian as a singer who transmits the
hopes and expectations of the Armenian people to non-Armenians.
##
Photo:

From: Baghdasarian

L’ENGAGEMENT ARMENIEN DE REJOINDRE L’UNION DOUANIERE N’EST QU’UNE ” TENTATIVE ”

ARMENIE

L’Armenie a seulement provisoirement accepte de rejoindre l’union
douanière dirigee par la Russie que le Kremlin veut etendre a une
nouvelle alliance des pays ex-sovietique a declare le president du
parlement Hovik Abrahamian.

Hovik Abrahamian a dit que les dirigeants armeniens doivent clarifier
toutes les conditions de l’adhesion a l’Union avant de prendre une
decision finale. Erevan ne sait pas encore exactement ce qu’elle
gagnerait dans ce processus a-t-il dit.

” Le president a decide de l’adhesion a l’union douanière ” a dit
Hovik Abrahamian a la presse. ” Cette volonte sera suivie par un
vaste processus. Quand on voit les conditions, les accords et les
formats nous devons en discuter et comprendre. Cela doit convenir
aux interets de l’Armenie “.

” Nous avons besoin d’avoir des avantages sur les points economiques,
politiques et autres. Nous ne savons pas encore ce que ces avantages
seront “.

” Si ce n’est pas un bon document, si cela ne correspond pas a
l’interet de notre etat, nous ne l’accepterons pas. Il s’agit d’une
entente de principe. Le document peut etre telle que l’Assemblee
nationale ne l’approuvera pas. Donc, tout reste a faire ” a-t-il
ajoute en reference a des dizaines de modifications legislatives
que l’Armenie doit faire avant de rejoindre officiellement l’union
douanière de la Russie, la Bielorussie et le Kazakhstan.

Les commentaires d’Hovik Abrahamian ont laisse les journalistes
perplexes. Certains d’entre eux lui ont demande pourquoi le president
Serge Sarkissian a promis l’entree de l’Armenie dans l’Union au cours
de ses entretiens du 3 septembre avec le president russe Vladimir
Poutine.

” Parce qu’aujourd’hui notre partenariat strategique et des relations
economiques sont avec la Russie ” repondit l’influent president de
l’Assemblee nationale. ” Vous ne voyez pas que la Russie est notre
marche ? “. Il a egalement precise qu’il se tient personnellement a
rejoindre l’union douanière.

Dans une declaration conjointe avec le president Poutine, Serge
Sarkissian s’est engage non seulement a faire partie du bloc commercial
mais aussi ” de participer a la formation ” d’une Union economique
eurasiatique plus vaste des ex-Etats sovietiques. La decision est
susceptible de faire echouer l’entente d’association entre l’Armenie
et l’Union europeenne, qui devait initialement etre acheve en Novembre.

vendredi 20 septembre 2013, Stephane ©armenews.com

From: Baghdasarian