PRESS OFFICE
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Contact: Chris Zakian
Tel: (212) 686-0710 or (973) 943-8697
E-mail: [email protected]
Web:
** TOP STORY July 24, 2014
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Transfiguration
A detail from a manuscript illumination depicts the apostles Peter and
John on Mount Tabor (from the 13th-century Lady Keran Gospel).
** Feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord Jesus Christ
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On Sunday, July 27, the Armenian Church will observe one of its five
major feasts: the Feast of the Transfiguration of our Lord Jesus
Christ.
The observance recalls Christ’s ascent up Mount Tabor, accompanied by
his disciples John, James, and Peter. At the mountain’s summit, to the
disciple’s frightened amazement, Christ was transfigured in a blinding
white light; the Old Testament figures Moses and Elijah emerged from
the mists of time to confer with the Lord; and the voice of God boomed
from out of the heavens to affirm Jesus as his Son.
Jesus was characteristically reticent about the episode: he urged the
disciples not to speak of it. But the gospels recorded it for
posterity, and his church-including local Armenian parishes across the
Diocese-celebrates it every year.
To learn more about this feast day, download the Diocese’s
Transfiguration iBook
()
. It is packed with interactive features, including video, music,
photo galleries, and more. A version of the book is also available for
non-iPad users; click on the following links to view it in your
browser
()
or to download a PDF
()
.
** Scripture of the Week
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Wis 7:25-8:4
Zec 14:16-21
1 Jn 1:1-7
Mt 16:13-17:13
** Prayer of the Week
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Look with love, O merciful Father, on the created works of your hand,
and grant the camps of the angels to be guardians of our feeble
persons. Deliver us from temptation, from the wandering demons of
night, that by day and by night, we may give you glory
incessantly. Amen.
** Upcoming Saints & Feasts
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27 July: Feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord
28 July: Remembrance of the Dead
31 July: St. Isaiah the Prophet
** CHURCH NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
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Karekin I
His Holiness Karekin I, the 131st Catholicos of All Armenians, began
his pontificate in 1995, at a critical moment in Armenian history.
** A Requiem for His Holiness Karekin I (1932-1999)
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As the 131st Catholicos of All Armenians, His Holiness Karekin I had
the distinction of being the first catholicos elected in the free
Republic of Armenia. That fact alone would have secured his place in
our history.
But it was not in his character to be a mere by-stander in the parade
of events. `Let us be makers of history,’ was his credo=80’which he
recited in countless sermons and public speeches. More importantly, he
exemplified that advice throughout his life.
That life came to an untimely end in the summer of 1999-15 years
ago. At the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin this month, a solemn
requiem service was held to mark this sad milestone, presided over by
his successor, the 132nd Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All
Armenians, His Holiness Karekin II. (Click here
()
to view video of the service.)
Karekin I began his pontificate in 1995, at a critical moment in
Armenian history. His blessed predecessor, Catholicos Vasken I, had
led the church for almost 40 years, and had been a beacon of light in
the darkness of Armenia’s Soviet period. Our homeland was taking its
first steps into a new era of independence. Armenians around the world
needed to be reminded of their heritage, and the church itself needed
renewal.
At this fragile moment of transition, Catholicos Karekin was called to
lead the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. It was a heavy burden; but he
did not bear it alone. His Holiness was always aware that there is a
greater hand at work in the affairs of men; and he had faith that this
Hand would guide our people through all afflictions, to a better
place.
That faith endures, even 15 years after his death. Those of us who
knew Catholicos Karekin I will never forget his great strength and
courage. Even during his final, painful days as he battled cancer, he
never grew dismayed or fearful. His faith, his sense of duty, his
awareness of God’s hand in his own life-and in the life of the
Armenian people-gave Vehapar powerful spiritual reserves, which even
the approach of death could not exhaust.
His spirit will endure in all of us who were inspired by his
example. May God grant light to his soul.
To become acquainted with the life and legacy of Catholicos Karekin I,
of blessed memory, view video footage
()
of his pontificate, and read this survey
()
of his thought and writings.
** DIOCESAN NEWS
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Diocesan Council Meets
Diocesan Council member Tom Ashbahian reviews a report at today’s
meeting.
** Diocesan Council Meets in New York
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Meeting at the Diocesan Center on Thursday, July 24, members of the
Diocesan Council received and discussed reports pertaining to the
National Sunday School Superintendents Summit held last weekend in New
England (see story below), the activities and projects of the ACYOA
and Women’s Guild Central Council, as well as the events planned for
the commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide of
1915.
The Council also discussed the requests and concerns received from the
various Diocesan parishes.
Other items on the agenda included reports from the Primate and Vicar,
updates from the Diocesan summer camp programs, proposals to renovate
the Diocese’s Haik and Alice Kavookjian Auditorium, and preparations
for the upcoming National Representative Assembly at Holy Etchmiadzin.
Armenian Genocide Centenial
** Genocide Centennial Commemoration Announced
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The National Centennial Committee to Commemorate the Armenian Genocide
has issued its first official announcement of the events planned for
2015.
Commemorating the passage of 100 years since the start of the first
genocide of the 20th century, a schedule of events including an
ecumenical prayer service at the National Cathedral, a memorial
concert, public exhibitions and a Pontifical Divine Liturgy will take
place from May 7 to 10, 2015, in Washington, DC.
His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All
Armenians, and His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of
Cilicia, will both journey to the United States to lead and
participate in the commemorative events.
A National Centennial Committee is planning the commemorative
activities. Click here
()
to read more.
Sunday School Teachers Meet
National Sunday School Superintendents Summit participants pose for a
group photo.
** Sunday School Superintendents Summit
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Sunday School superintendents from parishes across the Eastern Diocese
gathered for the first-ever National Sunday School Superintendents
Summit held last weekend in New England.
The goal of the three-day event was to develop new approaches to the
way educators teach, worship, and witness the church in today’s
world. Session addressed perceptions of the Armenian Church, the
difference between managing and leading, and visioning exercises.
Interspersed throughout the weekend-which was sponsored by the
Diocese’s Department of Christian Education-were reflections,
faith-building activities, and prayer experiences. The proposals that
emerged will influence local programming, as well as the priorities of
the Department of Christian Education and the Diocese overall.
The weekend concluded at the Holy Translators Church of Framingham,
Mass., with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy by parish pastor
Rev. Fr. Krikor Sabounjian. Superintendents offered the Kiss of Peace,
read Scripture, delivered a message, and shared prayers that the group
had composed during its meetings.
Click on the following links to read more
()
and to view photos
()
.
FAR
Residents of Berd look on as the town’s new tractor is put to use.
** A New Tractor for Farmers in Berd, Armenia
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A new tractor has been purchased for farmers in Berd, Armenia, through
the Fund for Armenian Relief’s `Breaking the Cycle of Poverty Program’
(BCPP)
()
, the non-profit Care International in the Caucasus
()
, and the Berd municipality.
The modern tractor-the first of its kind in Armenia-will help local
farmers restore more than 700 acres of formerly abandoned
farmland. `We will see the initial results this fall,’ said Berd mayor
Harutyun Manucharyan, adding that the new tractor is helping fulfill
the region’s larger goal of supporting farming and creating jobs in
Berd.
Click here
()
to read more on FAR’s blog.
Diocesan Director Search
** Search for Diocesan Director of Administration
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The Eastern Diocese is searching for candidates for the position of
Director of Administration.
Based in New York City, the Director of Administration will be
responsible for the management and operations of the Diocesan Center;
management of the administrative, operations, and business staff; and
coordination of Diocesan programs, in accordance with the directives
and policies established by the Primate and Diocesan Council.
Click here
()
to view a complete job description and list of
qualifications. Qualified applicants should send resume and cover
letter to the Primate’s office at the e-mail address
[email protected]
(mailto:[email protected]?subject=Diocesan%20Director%20Applicant)
.
** PARISH NEWS
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Armenian Church in Kansas City
Fr. Abdalian anoints parishioner Anita Zakarian as part of the
ceremony of holy confirmation.
** A Confirmation Ceremony in Kansas City
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St. Garabed Mission Parish of Kansas City, MO, received a visit this
past weekend from the Rev. Fr. Tateos Abdalian. The director of
Diocesan Mission Parishes met with parish leaders, and led services in
the community.
In a meeting with Parish Council members he heard their plans for an
upcoming visit from the Diocesan Primate, Archbishop Khajag
Barsamian. The parish is planning to welcome Archbishop Khajag with a
family picnic, where he will be able to meet and interact directly
with the people of the community. The Primate will celebrate the
Divine Liturgy, during which a new baptismal font will be consecrated
and anointed.
Fr. Abdalian met with the craftsman manufacturing the font last
weekend, to advise him on the proper Armenian stylings for church
vessels. He also conferred the sacrament of holy confirmation on
parishioner Anita Zakarian, wife of church organist John Zakarian.
`Anita has been attending services and participating in the life of
the community,’ said Fr. Abdalian, `but she felt that there was
something incomplete in her participation, and expressed a desire to
become a confirmed member of the Armenian Church.’
Fr. Abdalian had spent time instructing Anita in matters of faith, and
provided her with resources to help her understand and accept
confirmation into the Armenian Church. Last Sunday she humbly and
joyfully stood before the altar of God alongside her godfather and
sponsor, Gary Hatutian, St. Garabed’s Parish Council chair. In the
presence of family, parishioners, and friends, Anita was anointed and
received her first Holy Communion during badarak. The entire community
celebrated the occasion at a reception after services.
Holy Martyrs Church, Bayside, NY
Fr. Malkhasyan and Parish Council chair Pat Apelian Aitken with ACYOA
members at Holy Martyrs Church.
** Holy Martyrs ACYOA Members Receive Recognition
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Members of the ACYOA Seniors Sports Weekend Planning Committee at Holy
Martyrs Church of Bayside, NY, were recognized earlier this month for
their efforts in planning and executing the successful ACYOA Seniors
General Assembly and Sports Weekend last May.
Rev. Fr. Abraham Malkhasyan, parish pastor, and the Parish Council
presented committee members with certificates of appreciation during
fellowship hour on Sunday, July 13. Diocesan Primate Archbishop Khajag
Barsamian, who was visiting the parish to bless its new elevator that
day, congratulated the ACYOA committee and commended them on their
vision and leadership.
Sarine Atamian, a member of the ACYOA Central Council and chair of the
Holy Martyrs ACYOA Seniors, was also recognized for her recent
participation in the meeting of the international Pan-ACYO governing
board at Holy Etchmiadzin. Sarine was chosen by Archbishop Barsamian
to represent the Eastern Diocese at the meeting from July 2 to 4.
Upcoming events
** Upcoming Parish Events
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Hye Pointe Church | Haverhill, MA
Hye Pointe Church of Haverhill, MA, will sponsor a spaghetti dinner on
Friday, August 1, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. The dinner will be held in the
church hall. Click here
()
to view a flyer for information.
The ACYOA chapter of Hye Pointe Church will sponsor a fishing trip to
Seabrook, NH, on Saturday, August 9, from 1 to 5 p.m. Click here
()
to view a flyer for information.
St. Gregory the Illuminator Church | Chicago, IL
St. Gregory the Illuminator Church of Chicago, IL, will host its 40th
annual Armenian Fest on August 9 and 10. Join the Chicago parish for
traditional Armenian food, live music and dancing, and activities for
children. Click here
()
to view a flyer for information.
St. John Church | Southfield, MI
St. John Church of Greater Detroit will hold its annual Assumption Day
picnic following services on Sunday, August 17.
Enjoy chicken, lamb, and veggie kebab, rice and bulgur pilaf, and
other Armenian dishes. Other activities include the Women’s Guild bake
sale and cookie contest, games for children, and a classic car
show. Click here
()
to view a flyer for information.
St. Mary Church | Livingston, NJ
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, will ordain altar
servers at St. Mary Church of Livingston, NJ, on Sunday, August 17.
Matthew Hagop Dalakian will be ordained to the diaconate; Yetvart
Eddie Istanbul, Joseph Artin Casali, Christopher Albert Kapoian, and
Bedros Vartavar Maldjian will be ordained to the rank of acolyte.
A luncheon will follow services. Click here
()
to view a flyer for information.
** YOUTH NEWS
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St. Nersess Summer Conference
St. Nersess High School “A” Conference participants with clergy.
** High School Conferences Underway at St. Nersess
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On Wednesday, July 16, Diocesan Primate Archbishop Khajag Barsamian
visited the High School “A” Conference at St. Nersess Armenian
Seminary in New Rochelle, NY. He was accompanied by Diocesan Vicar
Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Odabashian, and Very Rev. Fr. Mesrob Parsamyan,
the Pontifical Legate of the Armenian Diocese of France, who is
visiting the Eastern Diocese this month.
The Primate spoke with the summer conference participants about
preserving the Armenian identity. He also shared his impressions from
the recent Youth Pilgrimage to the Holy Land, and answered questions
about the Armenian presence in Jerusalem.
On Saturday, July 19, the High School “A” group welcomed Jonathan
Pelaez, vice chair of the ACYOA Central Council. Jonathan spoke about
the activities of the ACYOA Central Council, and answered questions
from participants about their local ACYOA chapters. He also assisted
during the day’s Bible study session, and joined the group for dance
instruction and the evening service.
The High School `A’ Conference was held from July 14 to 23. It was led
by the Rev. Fr. Tavit Boyajian, pastor of Sts. Joachim and Anne Church
of Palos Heights, IL. Click here
()
to view photos.
The High School `B’ Conference will be held from July 26 to August
4. The summer conferences offer young people Bible study sessions,
daily worship, lectures from clergy and lay leaders, Armenian language
instruction, as well as sports and outings.
St. Vartan Camp
Archbishop Barsamian talks with a camper at the Ararat Center, home of
St. Vartan Camp.
** A Perfect Day at Camp
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On Monday, July 21, the St. Vartan Camp family welcomed Diocesan
Primate Archbishop Khajag Barsamian.The Primate observed campers
during a day filled with classes, sports, swim, and other activities.
He spoke about the importance of remaining involved in the life of the
Armenian Church and presented campers with Armenian crosses from
Bethlehem.
Additional visiting clergy and instructors for session `B’ over the
past week have included the Rev. Fr. Mardiros Chevian, dean of
St. Nersess Armenian Seminary in New Rochelle, NY; Rev. Fr. Krikor
Sabounjian, pastor of Holy Translators Church of Framingham, MA;
Maestro Khoren Mekanejian, director of Music Ministry at the Eastern
Diocese; and Stepan Piligian, a parishioner of Holy Translators Church
of Framingham.
Session `B’ was led by the Rev. Fr. Vart Gyozalyan, pastor of Hye
Pointe Church of Haverhill, MA. The camp is now preparing for the
start of session `C,’ which will be directed by the Rev. Fr. Vasken
Kouzouian, pastor of Holy Trinity Church of Cambridge, MA.
Click on the following links to view photos
()
and read blog posts
()
from St. Vartan Camp.
Sunday, July 27, will mark the opening of Hye Camp in Ingleside,
IL. The Very Rev. Fr. Aren Jebejian, pastor of St. Gregory the
Illuminator Church of Chicago, IL, will serve as the Hye Camp
director.