PRESS RELEASE
Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America
138 East 39th Street
New York, NY 10016
Tel: 212-689-7810
Fax: 212-689-7168
e-mail: [email protected]
Website:
Contact: Iris Papazian
MAY 11, 2006
NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY
WILL CONVENE IN NEW JERSEY NEXT WEEK
Plans are complete and the New Jersey community of Sts. Vartanantz
Church is prepared to welcome delegates and guests to the Eastern Prelacy’s
National Representative Assembly next week. Clergy conference begins on
Tuesday, May 16. The general assembly will begin Wednesday afternoon, May 17
and conclude on Friday, May 19.
The concluding reception and banquet will take place Friday evening, May
19, at the Fort Lee Hilton, Route 4 East, Fort Lee, New Jersey. During the
banquet program a number of individuals will be honored including “Persons
of the Year,” and “Youth Leadership” awards. “Certificates of Merit” will be
presented to deserving members of the local host community. To make
reservations for the banquet ($75. per person) contact any of the following:
Sts. Vartanantz Church, 201-943-2950; Bea Movsesian, 201-445-6867; Sonia
Setrakian, 201-313-7157; Lynn Mahlebjian, 201-440-3018.
The following four items all pertain to special events during the
Assembly.
CONFERENCE FOR YERETZGEENS
Archbishop Oshagan and the Religious and Executive Council are pleased
to announce that a conference for Yeretzgeens of the Eastern Prelacy will be
held in New Jersey on May 16-17, in conjunction with the National
Representative Assembly. All Yeretzgeens are invited to attend the
conference. Archbishop Oshagan will open the session with a prayer and
deliver the opening message. The remainder of the conference will feature
two sessions on various aspects of the life of a priest’s wife (family,
parish life, work) by Presvytera Athanasia Papademetriou of the Greek
Orthodox faith and one session titled, “Women of Noble Character,” by
Yeretzgeen Joanna Baghsarian.
VESPERS AND BOOK PRESENTATION
TUESDAY EVENING
Clergymen serving the Prelacy will begin their conference on Tuesday,
May 16, at 8 a.m. and continue through the day. The public is invited to
attend the Vespers service at 7:30 pm, and the book presentation that will
follow in the church’s large hall, 461 Bergen Blvd., Ridgefield, New Jersey.
The newly published Light from Light: An Introduction to the History and
Theology of the Armenian Church, by Professor Michael B. Papazian, will be
introduced with a wine and cheese reception at 8 pm, immediately following
Vespers. Archbishop Oshagan will present the book and the author, who will
be available to autograph copies of his book.
VISIT TO CATHEDRAL, PRELACY AND
ANOTHER BOOK PRESENTATION
On Wednesday evening, delegates and guests will cross the Hudson River
to visit St. Illuminator’s Cathedral, 221 E. 27th Street, where Vespers
service will take place. Immediately afterward they will go northward to the
Prelacy office on 39th Street for a reception and introduction of another
newly published book, “The Historiography of Fifth Century Armenia,” by
Archbishop Hrant Khatchadourian, of blessed memory. This work is the
doctoral dissertation of the late Archbishop, the first Prelate of the
Prelacy. It has never been published in book form. Archbishop Oshagan will
make the presentation in the presence of members of Archbishop Hrant’s
immediate family, including his brother, Antranig Khatchadourian, from
Providence, Rhode Island.
DELEGATES AND GUESTS WILL VISIT HOVNANIAN SCHOOL
On Thursday evening, May 18, delegates and guests will visit the
Hovnanian School in New Milford, New Jersey. The Hovnanian School, which
started at Sts. Vartanantz Church, is celebrating its 30th anniversary and
was recently featured in The Record, one of New Jersey’s major newspapers.
The students will make a presentation including their acclaimed Dzalabadig,
a rendition of a moving story of school children in Aleppo after the
Genocide, reading and writing while sitting cross-legged (dzalabadig). Since
the students’ original presentation in 2004 it has been repeated several
times by popular demand.
PRELATE ATTENDS JOINT MEETING TODAY
Archbishop Oshagan attended the third meeting of “Christian, Arab and
Middle Eastern Churches Together” today, at the Eparchy of St. Maron in
Brooklyn, hosted by Archbishop Gregory Marsour.
VICAR IS ATTENDING POST-ASSEMBLY WCC EVENT
V. Rev. Fr. Anoushavan Tanielian, Vicar General of the Eastern Prelacy
and Ecumenical Officer for the Eastern and Western Prelacies, is attending
the U.S. Conference for the World Council of Churches Post Assembly Event in
San Jose, California, today and tomorrow, May 11 and 12. The Conference will
focus on a discussion of the 9th Assembly of the WCC which took place in
Brazil in February.
On Sunday, May 14, Father Anoushavan will officiate at the Divine
Liturgy and deliver the sermon at St. Gregory Armenian Church in San
Francisco, California.
PRELATE WILL PRESIDE AT ST. ILLUMINATOR CATHEDRAL
Archbishop Oshagan will preside over the Divine Liturgy this Sunday, May
14-Mothers’ Day-at St. Illuminator’s Cathedral, 221 East 27th Street, New
York City.
REGISTER NOW FOR DATEV SUMMER PROGRAM
Urge your teenagers to enroll in the St. Gregory of Datev Summer
Institute. The weeklong program will take place July 2 to 9 at the St. Mary
of Providence Center in Elverson, Pennsylvania. This year the Institute is
marking its 20th anniversary and various commemorative events are being
planned. Watch the Prelacy’s web site for details.
EMMA GREGORYAN EXHIBIT OPENS TOMORROW
An exhibit of the works of noted artist, Emma Gregoryan, will open
tomorrow evening, Friday, May 12, at the Prelacy’s Vahakn and Hasmig
Hovnanian Hall, 138 E. 39th Street, New York City. The opening reception
will begin at 7 pm. The artist will be present to welcome guests.
Refreshments will be served.
Ms. Gregoryan’s works are currently being shown at the Susquehanna Art
Museum in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, as part of an exhibition of the Armenian
art collection of the late John Vartan.
Born in Gumri, Armenia, Emma Grigoryan graduated from the Fine Arts and
Theatrical Institute of Yerevan. Her paintings have been exhibited in
Yerevan, Paris, Beirut, New York, Washington and throughout Canada.
PLG MOTHERS DAY LUNCHEON BIG HIT
The Prelacy Ladies Guild’s Mothers Day luncheon this past Monday was a
crowd pleaser on many different levels. The Roof Garden of The St. Regis was
the site of the annual luncheon, which attracted many attendees from near
and far.
Archbishop Oshagan presented the Mother of the Year award to Mrs. Araxie
Varjabedian in the presence of members of her family and friends. Mrs.
Varjabedian accepted the award with humility and thankfulness. At the
conclusion of the event a gift of $5,000 from Mrs. Varjabedian to the
Prelacy Ladies Guild was announced.
Entertainment this year included a wonderful musical interlude entitled
“Voices of Spring.” The program was put together specially for this event by
the vocalists, Ross Chitwood, Jeanette Vecchione, and Solange Merdinian,
with Vlad Iftinka on the piano.
CAMP HAIASTAN EXTENDS CAMPERSHIPS
TO EASTERN PRELACY PARISHES
Archbishop Oshagan and the Board of Directors of the AYF Camp Haiastan
of Franklin, Massachusetts, recently announced a joint program. Each parish
in the Eastern Prelacy is extended one two-week fully paid campership by
Camp Haiastan. Eastern Prelacy clergymen will select a boy or girl in their
Sunday School or church community who have never attended the camp. The
sessions being offered for the camperships are the Teen Session for 15 and
16 year olds, or Session 3 for 8 to 14 year olds.
TWO NEW VOLUMES IN KAREKIN I SERIES ARE PUBLISHED
Two new volumes in the “Karekin I Theological and Armenological Studies
Series,” were issued last week. Volume six of the series, “The Council of
Chalcedon and the Armenian Church,” is a new edition of the classic work
which was the late Catholicos’ thesis at Oxford University. Although
faithful to the original, this new edition includes translations of the many
long passages in Greek, Latin, French and German.
The seventh volume (in Armenian) is titled “Encyclicals and Messages,”
and includes the Catholicos’s major pontifical encyclicals and messages.
The series editors are Dr. Vazken Ghougassian and Iris Papazian. The
sponsor of the series is “The Haig and Elza Didizian Fund.”
The next volume (number eight in the series) is “Think and Enter,” a
translation of His Holiness’s early work in Armenian, Khorheh yev Medir.
Translated by Iris Papazian, this volume is expected to be issued later this
year.
FEAST OF THE APPARITION OF THE HOLY CROSS
This Sunday, May 14, is the Feast of the Apparition of the Holy Cross
(Yerevman Khach), which is celebrated on the fifth Sunday of Easter in
remembrance of the sign of the cross that stretched in the sky over the city
of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives to Golgotha in 351 A.D. This cross in
the sky remained for hours and was seen by the people in Jerusalem, many of
whom rushed to church to glorify God and give thanks.
SUNDAY IS MOTHERS’ DAY
This Sunday, May 14, is Mothers’ Day. Mothers’ Day was first celebrated
in 1907 when Anna Jarvis of Philadelphia persuaded her mother’s church in
West Virginia to celebrate Mothers’ Day on the second anniversary of her
mother’s death.
It was an idea that took on a life of its own. By 1911 Mothers’ Day was
being celebrated in nearly every state. Three years later, in 1914,
President Woodrow Wilson made it official, by proclamation, that Mothers’
Day would be a national holiday to be celebrated each year on the second
Sunday of May.
HAPPY MOTHERS’ DAY!
Calendar of Event
May 12-Exhibition of the works of artist Emma Gregoryan at the Prelacy, 138
E. 39th Street, New York City.
May 13-Dinner-Dance organized by the St. Sarkis Church Ping-Pong Club. For
details 718-224-2275.
May 17-19-National Representative Assembly (NRA), hosted by Sts. Vartanantz
Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey. Concluding reception and banquet will take
place Friday, May 19, at the Fort Lee Hilton, Fort Lee, New Jersey.
Reception at 7 pm, followed by dinner. For information/reservations: Sts.
Vartanantz Church office, 201-943-2950.
May 16 and 17-Conference of Yeretzgeens in conjunction with the National
Representative Assembly, hosted by Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New
Jersey.
May 20-Year-end Hantes for Sunday School and Saturday School, St. Sarkis
Church, Douglaston, New York. For information, 718-224-2275.
June 4-16th Anniversary Celebration of the new St. Sarkis Church,
Douglaston, New York. For information, 718-224-2275.
July 22-Ladies Guild of Sts. Vartanantz Church, Providence, Rhode Island,
and Ani Chapter of Armenian Relief Society co-host gala dance at Greek
Orthodox Annunciation Church. For information, 401-286-8107.
September 28-4th Annual Golf Outing hosted by Sts. Vartanantz Church,
Ridgefield, New Jersey. Bergen Hills Country Club, River Vale, New Jersey.
For reservations and/or information: 201-943-2950.
Visit our website at

Azad-Hye
Dubai
06 May 2006
Giragos Kuyumjian is one of the prominent members of the Kuwaiti
Armenian community. He has been active in the last two decades, not
only in the Armenian community, but also in the Arab press, where he
has signed dozens of significant articles mostly on Armenian subjects
(history, politics, literature, etc.).
During the latest visit of His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of Cilicia, to
Kuwait (November 2005), Kuyumjian wished to inform the Catholicos on the
present situation of the Armenian community in Kuwait and the difficulties
the members are facing, especially in the administrative domain. He prepared
a letter in Armenian language and handed it over to His Holiness during the
above visit.
Although generally speaking the visit of Catholicos Aram I to Kuwait was
considered – in terms of contacts with the Kuwaiti officials and the
presentation of the Armenian subjects to the journalists – a successful one,
nevertheless this success did not have any impact in resolving inner
problems of Kuwaiti Armenians, some deeply rooted in the existing structure.
Kuyumjian notices that the public figures in the Kuwaiti Armenian community
are forming groups of influence, pursuing their own benefits, thus wasting
the time of the other members and burdening the meetings with trivial
issues.
 
He believes that this and other negative aspects in the community could be
corrected only with the direct intervention of Catholicos Aram.
Kuyumjian refers to the malpractice of assigning people with no
qualification to important positions in the community. He says that
efficient individuals are being excluded from the public life and the stage
is occupied with those who have moderate capabilities. As a result,
community life quality is deteriorating. Same persons are being `elected’ to
the same or similar positions, thus projecting the impression that there are
no new talents.
The authoritarian aspects of community rule are shown when the decisions
taken during official meetings are replaced with other decisions, tailored
by people of influence.
Another deadly aspect of the society, Kuyumjian says, is the `hidden or
sometimes even noticeable tendency of ignoring each other’. The result is
that hundreds of Armenians are left out and their capabilities are ignored,
without giving them the chance to bring any benefit to the society.
Kuyumjian concludes his thoughts be underlining the need for `genuine
reforms’. He regrets that no development has been achieved in community life
during the last period. Only few acts of individual bravery have been
recorded.
Kuyumjian pleads to the Catholicos `to wipe up and burn once and for all the
thorns and shrubs that are spreading under the fruitful trees of our
national orchard starting from Kuwait’.
He believes that Kuwaiti Armenians can serve as a model for reforms, if only
the Catholicos acknowledges the existing situation and gives the signal for
long awaited changes.
________________________________________
Below is Giragos Kuyumjian’s translated letter. See original Armenian letter
at the end of the English translation.
To His Holiness Aram I
Catholicos of Cilicia
Your Holiness,
The Armenians of Kuwait had been the first organized and active progressive
community in the Gulf and enjoyed a good reputation for long. Unfortunately,
this process that lasted for several decades, has not reached to the point
of genuine maturity, a fact that is highlighted every year with recurring
setbacks.
Regrettably, we are all witnesses of the prevailing undesirable conditions.
A general hopeless view is nestling inside many of us, according to which it
is not possible to confront the declining trend of events.
With overwhelming zeal, I would like to mention herein several phenomena,
against which I cannot remain silent or inactive, leaving matters to sheer
luck or fate, especially that the issues under perspective need your serious
and decisive intervention.
I have been dealing with community affairs for more than two decades now,
during which I have been closely following the affairs concerning the
society, maintaining always the hope that the main issues concerning our
community will be eventually resolved and open new horizons in front of our
new generations and prosperous community life.
Sadly, I have noticed that the issues under discussion, are not only
remaining without solution, but also they are adding new complications to
the already existing one (examples are abundant). Thus the Armenians of this
country are facing more difficulties & challenges:
Please allow me to elaborate:
1- In order to lead a public life, it is important to be organized in a way
that each individual undertakes a certain responsibility, under the general
understanding of pursuing common goals. This organized effort, however,
becomes an objective in itself and ceases to provide any benefit to the
community, if the participating individuals start forming distinctive groups
of people. In that case, others who are outside this group are under the
risk to be disadvantaged, ignored and rejected.
Such tendency to form group cliques leads to antagonism, as individuals will
be easily carried away with intense feelings of blind revenge and changing
temperaments. They always and intentionally waste the time of the other
members and the official meetings with trivial matters, harm the efforts of
achieving harmony amongst the different elements of the society and lead the
step of the public life: church, school, unions, etc. from one failure to
another.
The remedy of this phenomenon that has taken firm roots in our community
cannot be done without the intervention of Your Holiness, because it has
come to the level of endangering the future of the community.
2- Supported individuals in leading positions are used to intervene in all
fields, without taking into consideration any limit or right to do so.
Moreover, they continue to deal with the national establishments as if they
were dealing with their own possessions, by arbitrarily appointing the
members of different national councils, without evaluating their
qualifications or what they have achieved in practical life to get the said
positions. As a result, efficient individuals are excluded from public
positions and are replaced with individuals who are void of personal
opinion, ready to say yes and no according to what is required from them,
thus exhibiting excellent flexibility towards the desires of their sponsors.
Individuals with moderate capabilities and low ceiling ambitions are pushed
forwards. Our national structure has become a playing toy in the hands of
such people, who – it is painful to admit – have the support and blessing of
some of our political and religious higher circles.  
The appointing and especially the selection of the Chairmen of the various
councils is continuing to take place in the most inherited manner. As if
there are no other personalities with capacity and intelligence in this
community. The same names are mentioned in the community bodies, inheriting
the positions from one session to another, just changing their assistants or
deputies in the course of this rotation. Sometimes certain reshuffling of
positions may take place, but still this happens within the circle of the
same group of people. Due to political interference, some loud-speaking
personalities may occupy the stage, displaying their pompous characters. The
masses are not able anymore to recognize its leadership. It is not clear who
decides what: The National Council, the Diocesan Council, the Prelacy, etc.
The majority of the members of the above bodies also do not recognize their
duties and rights and they are not certain about the sphere of their
influence. The implementation of the greater part of the decisions taken
during these meetings is not guaranteed. On the contrary, entirely different
decisions are adopted by influence (dictatorial principles and no democracy
at all).
3- A hidden or sometimes even obvious tendency of ignoring each other is
prevailing in the community, something that has started from the days of
Archbishop Father Oshagan. It is a policy that has served the targets of
those who have started it, but which had and continues to have harmful
implications on the society. As a consequence dozens, if not hundreds, of
powerful, graduate high dignity generous Armenians have stayed away from the
mainstream community life, because they have not found the necessary
respect, consideration and sympathy. It is regretful that the persons behind
this harmful tactic still have under their disposal all the opportunities
and means to continue their destructive behaviour. Only with Your
intervention these people would refrain, at least on temporary basis, from
practicing their bad habits. Hence in order to get steady results it is
imperative to reconsider the way we are administrating our national affairs.
This will be possible through genuine reforms. Decades of deteriorated state
of affairs had taken us to the point where no whatsoever development or
progress is noticed, not any success is achieved in the level of external
relationships, not any progress in the domain of public and religious life
of the community, excluding very few acts of heroism, which have personal
characters, which, as much as they are effective, they cannot replace the
expression of the collective will.
Your Holiness, as a member of the Armenian community of Kuwait, my direct
concern is the situation of the Armenian community here, in the way that I
tried to describe with the most sincere and honest words. However the circle
of my concerns is wider and includes the other Diasporan communities.
Father, if there are similar situations in our other communities, I would
like – in the sake of the preservation of the noble feelings of our suffered
Armenians, in the sake of our Holy Church and the safeguarding of our
faithful people – To plead you to wipe up and burn once and for all the
thorns and shrubs that are spreading under the fruitful trees of our
national orchard, so that our nation and specially our young generation,
would breathe healthy fresh air, they would progress and develop according
to the best prevailing political and social needs, far away from any
artificial obstacles and polluted national atmosphere starting from Kuwait.
Very respectfully yours,
Giragos N. Kuyumjian
Kuwait
24 November 2005
=112ahz92

YEREVAN PRESS CLUB WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
MAY 5-11, 2006
HIGHLIGHTS:
TIGRANUHI TYUTYUNJYAN PASSED AWAY
“PRESS-CLUB+”: COMMUNIST PARTY DISCUSSING THE POLITICAL ORGANIZATION OF
ARMENIA AND COOPERATION WITH CIS COUNTRIES
“FOURTH ESTATE” AND “THIRD SECTOR” CONSIDERED POSSIBILITIES OF JOINT
INITIATIVES
GOVERNMENT ALLOCATED PREMISES TO “A1+”
“YERKIR-MEDIA” NEWS ON MEDIASCRAPE
NEW PRESS-SECRETARY OF FOREIGN MINISTRY APPOINTED
PRESS WON THE DIALOGUE ON THE GREEN FIELD
TIGRANUHI TYUTYUNJYAN PASSED AWAY
On May 5 at the age of 55 having suffered through a long disease the Chief
Editor of TV broadcasting of “Mir” Interstate TV and Radio Company Tigranuhi
Tyutyunjyan passed away. She was a wonderful person and a true professional,
who educated numerous generations of journalists. At her rare leisure time
she had a particular hobby – collecting photographs of smiles. Smile never
left her face either. We all call her Tiga…
Yerevan Press Club expresses its condolences to the family and friends of
Tigranuhi Tyutyunjyan.
“PRESS-CLUB+”: COMMUNIST PARTY DISCUSSING THE POLITICAL ORGANIZATION OF
ARMENIA AND COOPERATION WITH CIS COUNTRIES
On May 9 the seventh talk show of “Press Club+” series went on the evening
air of “Yerkir-Media” TV company.
The invitees of the program host, the Chief Editor of “Aravot” daily Aram
Abrahamian were the leaders of Communist Party of Armenia as guests and NGO
and media representatives as experts. The TV discussion focused on the
political organization of Armenia; prospects of cooperation between Armenia
and former USSR republics, involved in CIS.
It is expected that at 21.00, May 16 (next Tuesday) “Press Club+” will give
floor to the representatives of “National Unity” party, sharing their
opinions on the issues of the day.
“FOURTH ESTATE” AND “THIRD SECTOR” CONSIDERED POSSIBILITIES OF JOINT
INITIATIVES
On May 4-5 in Yerevan seminar “Cooperation of Media, Journalistic and Other
NGOs to Develop Freedom of Speech and Press” was held. The event was
organized by Yerevan Press Club under “Strengthening Advocacy Potential and
Networking of Journalistic Associations of Armenia” project, supported by
the Open Society Institute. YPC President Boris Navasardian presented to the
representatives of NGOs and regional media the YPC strategy on networking of
journalistic communities of Yerevan and the regions of the country. The
meeting participants also discussed the possibilities for the improvement of
media legislation, activation of work to protect rights of journalists,
cooperation between regional media and NGOs, development of their potential.
GOVERNMENT ALLOCATED PREMISES TO “A1+”
On May 4 at the session of the RA Government it was decided to allocated
premises to the “A1+” TV company founder, “Meltex” LLC. The press release of
the Department of Information and Public Relations of the RA Government
informs that territory of 221 sq. m in a building in the center of Yerevan
is allocated to “Meltex” LLC “with a right of free use for five years’
term”.
As it has been reported, on July 20, 2005 “A1+” TV company Director Mesrop
Movsesian addressed a written request of assistance to the Prime Minister of
Armenia Andranik Margarian. The request was due to the demand of the RA
National Science Academy to vacate the premises that “A1+” had been renting
from NSA since 1992. “A1+” motivated the refusal to comply with this demand
by the violation of existing financial agreement by the National Academy. In
early 2005 the NSA filed an appropriate suit with the RA Commercial Court.
On April 11, 2005 the suit was secured, and the “A1+” founder challenged the
ruling with the RA Court of Cassation, which left it unchanged on May 26,
2005. On March 16, 2006 NSA made another attempt to evict “A1+”: the
representatives of RA Compulsory Execution Service who visited the editorial
office demanded to vacate the premises until 12.00 March 17 to implement the
court ruling. The intervention of the Prime-Minister prevented the
“expedient” eviction. A little later the Department of the State Property at
the RA Government, as commissioned by the Prime-Minister, offered “A1+” to
use the new premises above (see details in YPC Weekly Newsletter, March
17-23, 2006).
“YERKIR-MEDIA” NEWS ON MEDIASCRAPE
Since May 10 the main news of “Yerkirn Aysor” newscast of “Yerkir-Media” TV
channel can also be viewed on the Internet. This became possible due to the
cooperation of the TV channel with Canadian MediaScrape Internet Broadcast
News Company. According to the Vice-President Tyler Cavell, MediaScrape is
the information global network, uniting companies from around the world,
whose news pieces are translated into English and placed on the site.
“Yerkir-Media” video news with English subtitles is accessible on
NEW PRESS-SECRETARY OF FOREIGN MINISTRY APPOINTED
On May 10 the web-site of the RA Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the
replacement of the Press-Secretary of the Ministry. Hamlet Gasparian, who
held the position since September 2003 as well as headed the Department of
Press and Information, was appointed Envoy in the Embassy of Armenia in
France. The duties of the Press-Secretary are temporarily assumed by
Vladimir Karapetian, the Head of the Media Relations Division of the same
Department.
PRESS WON THE DIALOGUE ON THE GREEN FIELD
On May 8 at “Pyunik” stadium in Yerevan a football match between teams of
journalists and public officials of Armenia was held. The game had a slogan
of “Dialogue on the Green Field” and was organized under the project “Role
of Media in the Process of Monitoring Government Programs”, implemented by
the British Council Armenia and UNDP Office in Armenia. Assistance in the
conductance of the match was provided by the Football Federation of Armenia.
The victory in “The Dialogue…” with a score of 4:2 was gained by the team
of journalists. The hat-trick was made by the correspondent of “Zhamanaki
Ughekits” newspaper David Nazarian, and another goal was stricken by the
sports observer of the Public Television of Armenia Edward Kalantarian. In
the team of public officials goals were hit by Mher Badalian (RA Ministry of
Foreign Affairs) and Edward Badoyan (RA National Assembly).
The revenues from the ticket sale will be transferred to the assistance
account to the families of passengers and crew members of Yerevan-Sochi air
plane, who periled on May 3.
When reprinting or using the information above, reference to the Yerevan
Press Club is required.
You are welcome to send any comment and feedback about the Newsletter to:
[email protected]
Subscription for the Newsletter is free. To subscribe or unsubscribe from
this mailing list, please send a message to: [email protected]
Editor of YPC Newsletter – Elina POGHOSBEKIAN
_____________________________________ _______
Yerevan Press Club
9B, Ghazar Parpetsi str.
0002, Yerevan, Armenia
Tel.: (+ 374 10) 53 00 67; 53 35 41; 53 76 62
Fax: (+374 10) 53 56 61
E-mail: [email protected]
Web Site:

PRESS RELEASE
Armenian Center for National and International Studies
75 Yerznkian Street
0033 Yerevan, Armenia
Tel: (+374 – 10) 52.87.80 or 27.48.18
Fax: (+374 – 10) 52.48.46
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Website:
May 11, 2006
ACNIS Takes Part in Vilnius Conference 2006
Vilnius–Armenian Center for National and International Studies (ACNIS)
director of research Stiopa Safarian and director of administration Karapet
Kalenchian represented Armenia respectively at the NGO and the Intellectuals
fora, entitled “Common Vision for Common Neighborhood,” which were
separately convened in the capital of Lithuania from May 3 to 5. On May 5,
the ACNIS officials attended the Heads of State Summit held under the
auspices of President Valdas Adamkus of Lithuania and Polish President Lech
Kaczynski.
Stiopa Safarian participated in the Non-Governmental Organizations’ Forum on
“Europe’s New Democracies and the Euro-Atlantic Agenda” where the conferees
examined the ex-socialist bloc’s and post-Soviet countries’ integration
process into Euro-Atlantic structures and the challenges they face to that
end. Against the backdrop of the conference, Safarian also held meetings
with Hilde Hardeman, the European Commission’s director general on external
relations and head of unit for relations with Ukraine, Moldova and Belarus;
Michael Emerson, senior research fellow at the Center for European Policy
Studies (EU); Andrei Illarionov, president of the Institute of Economic
Analysis and the Russian president’s former adviser on economic issues
(Russian Federation); Professor Oleksandr Potyekhin of the Diplomatic
Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Ukraine); Zeyno Baran, senior
fellow at the Hudson Institute’s Center for Eurasian Policy (US); founder
and president Bruce Pitcairn Jackson of the Project on Transitional
Democracies (US); Wojciech Kononczuk, coordinator of the Stefan Batory
Foundation (Poland); director Cornelius Ochmann of the Bertelsmann
Foundation (Germany); president Jean-Dominique Giuliani of the Robert
Schuman Foundation (France); and several others.
Meanwhile, Karapet Kalenchian attended and addressed the Intellectuals Forum
held at the conference hall of the Presidential Palace of Lithuania. The
participants discussed the advancement of democracy in Europe’s east, the
formation of a European neighborhood domain, and the pacific regulation of
disputes. In the margins of the event, Kalenchian met with distinguished
post-Soviet scholars and academicians: Dean Leonidas Donskis of the Vytautas
Magnus University School of Political Science and Diplomacy (Lithuania);
director Jurij Afanasjev of the Russian State University of Human Science
(Russian Federation); journalist and political analyst Evgeny Kiselev
(Russian Federation); director Andrei Piontkovsky of the Center for
Strategic Studies (Russian Federation); writer Andrey Kurkov (Ukraine);
historian Igor Sarov (Moldova); executive director Igor Munteanu of the
Institute for Development and Social Initiatives (Moldova); opera singer
Mihail Muntean (Moldova); poet and former Belarus ambassador to the United
Nations Genady Buravkin (Belarus); journalist Vladimir Dorokhov of Deutsche
Welle (Belarus); director Irma Khvedeliani of the “Civic Dialogue and
Counsel” European Integration Forum (Georgia); and many others. The
resolution adopted by the delegates summarized the issues raised throughout
their active deliberations.
On May 5, the Armenian representatives attended the Heads of State Summit,
the official conclave of Vilnius Conference 2006, as observers. The meeting
brought together Presidents Valdas Adamkus, Lech Kaczynski, Georgi Parvanov
(Bulgaria), Arnold Rüütel (Estonia), Mikheil Saakashvili (Georgia), Vaira
Vike-Freiberga (Latvia), Vladimir Voronin (Moldova), Traian Basescu
(Romania), and Viktor Yushchenko (Ukraine); US Vice President Richard
Cheney; Secretary General Javier Solana of the Council of the European
Union; UK Minister of State for Europe Douglas Alexander; and others. The
open atmosphere of the convention afforded the Armenian delegates an
opportunity to hold informal meetings and conversations with prominent
individuals who shape European and Eurasian policy, to explore their vision
for the future of the Euro-Atlantic system, and to present Armenia’s course
in that connection.
Founded in 1994 by Armenia’s first Minister of Foreign Affairs Raffi K.
Hovannisian and supported by a global network of contributors, ACNIS serves
as a link between innovative scholarship and the public policy challenges
facing Armenia and the Armenian people in the post-Soviet world. It also
aspires to be a catalyst for creative, strategic thinking and a wider
understanding of the new global environment. In 2006, the Center focuses
primarily on civic education, conflict resolution, and applied research on
critical domestic and foreign policy issues for the state and the nation.
For further information on the Center call (37410) 52-87-80 or 27-48-18; fax
(37410) 52-48-46; email [email protected] or [email protected]; or visit

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA
—————————————— —-
PRESS AND INFORMATION DEPARTMENT
Government House # 2, Republic Square
Yerevan 0010, Republic of Armenia
Telephone: +37410. 544041 ext 202
Fax: +37410. 562543
Email: [email protected]
PRESS RELEASE
11-05-2006
Minister Oskanian Met with Crew of Cilicia
Minister Oskanian met with the crew of the Cilicia ship as they
prepare to leave for their third seafaring voyage.
During the meeting, the sailors discussed their work in preparation
for the final stage of their voyage repeating the routes traveled by
medieval Armenian sailors from Cilicia.
Minister Oskanian assured the crew of 12 that the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs will do what it can to assist in their efforts and in journey.
The Minister underscored the significance of this extraordinary
journey and commended the courage and determination of the crew. He
also noted that in this sense the Cilicia has become a symbol of
Armenia. He wished the sailors good luck.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

Armenian Assembly of America
1140 19th Street, NW, Suite 600
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: 202-393-3434
Fax: 202-638-4904
Email: [email protected]
Web:
PRESS RELEASE
May 11, 2006
CONTACT: Christine Kojoian
Email: [email protected]
Assembly attends annual Days of Remembrance Commemoration
Armenian Assembly Board of Trustees Executive Committee Member Annie
Totah and Executive Director Bryan Ardouny attended the annual Days of
Remembrance Commemoration for victims of the Jewish Holocaust in
Washington, DC last month. The event included a special keynote speech
by Deputy Secretary of State Robert B. Zoellick. Following Zoellick’s
remarks, Totah and Ardouny discussed with him the importance of learning
the lessons of the Holocaust, and the Armenian Genocide, as well as
other instances of man’s inhumanity to man. Under cover of World War I
and II, Armenians and Jews respectively were subjected to genocide.
The Armenian Assembly of America is the largest Washington-based
nationwide organization promoting public understanding and awareness of
Armenian issues. It is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt membership organization.
Photograph available on the Assembly’s Web site at the following link:
/2006-048-1.JPG
Caption: Deputy Secretary of State Robert B. Zoellick flanked by
Assembly Board of Trustees Executive Committee Member Annie Totah and
Executive Director Bryan Ardouny at the Days of Remembrance
Commemoration at the United States Capitol Rotunda in Washington, DC.
###
NR#2006-048

PRESS OFFICE
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Contact: Jake Goshert, Coordinator of Information Services
Tel: (212) 686-0710 Ext. 60; Fax: (212) 779-3558
E-mail: [email protected]
Website:
May 11, 2006
___________________
DELEGATES RE-ELECT PRIMATE
By Jake Goshert
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian was re-elected to the position of Primate during
the 2006 Assembly.
Speaking to the delegates after his re-election, the Primate thanked them
for their efforts to strengthen the Armenian Church and spoke about the joy
he feels from his job.
“On many occasions young people ask me why I became a priest, what was the
moving force. I tell them why I made the decision, and then I say it has
been a very fulfilling experience for me as a priest, as a clergyman for the
Armenian Church, as a servant of the Armenian Church,” he said. “I thank
God for giving me this opportunity. Even though life is not always smooth
— there are ups and downs and challenges — overall it has been a moving
experience.”
He said serving the Diocese for the past 16 years as Primate has been very
satisfying. He said it is a job made easier by the dedicated clergy,
devoted parish and Diocesan leadership, and the work of the Diocesan staff.
“It is the most rewarding experience for me as a clergyman, when I visit our
parishes to celebrate badarak and to ordain tbirs, sub-deacons, and deacons.
In one word, it is wonderful to visit parishes and to be in communion with
the parishioners and together to continue our communion with God, fulfilling
the mission of the Armenian Church,” he said.
— 5/9/06
E-mail photos available on request. Photos also viewable in the News and
Events section of the Eastern Diocese’s website,
PHOTO CAPTION (1): Delegates cast their vote for primate during the 2006
Diocesan Assembly.
PHOTO CAPTION (2): Diocesan clergy line up to congratulate Archbishop
Khajag Barsamian on his re-election to Primate, during the Diocesan Assembly
on Saturday, May 6, 2006.
PHOTO CAPTION (3): Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate, addresses the
delegates at the Diocesan Assembly hosted by St. Leon Church of Fair Lawn,
NJ.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

PRESS OFFICE
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Contact: Jake Goshert, Coordinator of Information Services
Tel: (212) 686-0710 Ext. 60; Fax: (212) 779-3558
E-mail: [email protected]
Website:
May 11, 2006
___________________
ASSEMBLY BANQUET ENDS WITH HONORS
By Jake Goshert
Delegates and guests from throughout the Diocese of the Armenian Church of
America (Eastern) gathered at the Hilton in Woodcliff Lake, NJ, on Saturday,
May 6, 2006, for the Diocesan Assembly’s farewell dinner and banquet.
During the evening, filled with food, music by the Washington Armenian Folk
Music Ensemble, and fellowship, the Diocese presented two awards.
Congressman Steven Rothman of New Jersey was presented with the “Friend of
the Armenians” award, given each year to an individual for notable efforts
on behalf of the Armenian people or nation.
Also, three departed leaders of the host parish, St. Leon Church of Fair
Lawn, NJ, were posthumously presented with the “Armenian Church Member of
the Year” award. They were George Dabagian, Sarkis Gabrellian, and Sarkis
Soultanian.
HONORING FRIENDS
With Congressman Rothman, the Diocese honored not only a friend, but a
former neighbor, as he used to live right next door to the St. Leon Church.
A member of Congress since 1997, he has always been a supporter of Armenian
causes, specifically during his time on the House Appropriations Committee’s
sub-committee on foreign aid.
“He has demonstrated his friendship to us by devoting his attention to the
Armenian people and the Armenian nation,” said St. Leon delegate Sandra
Leitner, who was a high school friend of the congressman. “I am grateful he
has applied his principals to support the Armenian people.”
When presented with the award by Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the
Eastern Diocese, the congressman hoisted it above his head, proudly
proclaiming “It’s now in writing. I’m officially a friend of the Armenians.
It doesn’t get any better than that.”
He spoke of meeting Leitner’s family, the Shahinians, in high school, and
immediately feeling a connection to the Armenian people. Later in life, as
he read more about the history of the Armenians, he saw a horrible
connection between their tragedies and those suffered by his Jewish
ancestors.
“As I learned more about history and the history of the Armenian people, I
noticed some striking similarities between my ethnic-religious group and the
Armenains,” he said. “We’re both pretty tough people, though. We have
experienced great sadness in our history. We are ancient peoples. We
suffered the Holocaust and the Genocide, unspeakable horrors. Yet, we
remain hopeful and faithful.”
He said he was proud that over the past 10 years he was part of the effort
to provide $1 billion in foreign aid to the Republic of Armenia.
“There’s more work to do,” he added. “We know the economy is moving around
Yerevan, but we need to do much more in the rural areas. But we’re going to
be sure America’s great friend and fellow democracy grows stronger and
stronger.”
He also spoke of efforts in Congress to officially recognize the Armenian
Genocide as a “genocide,” and efforts he has taken to pressure the Turkish
government to also accept its history.
“We are allies, but we can never be friends until you do what is right,” he
said was his message to Turkish officials. “Acknowledge the truth of the
slaughter of a million people. Until you recognize that fact, our
relationship will not go forward.”
He said he hopes to see the United States government officially recognize
the Genocide soon, and urged the delegates to keep pressuring lawmakers.
“Congressman Steve Rothman is a man who has been a true friend of the
Armenians, both in America and in our historic homeland,” the Primate said.
“Especially with his dynamic leadership in the Congress, Congressman Rothman
has been a strong, effective, and reliable ally of our people.”
HONORING PILLARS
In honoring three late leaders of the St. Leon Church, the Diocese was also
honoring three close friends who built successful lives in their adopted
American home, created strong legacies in their communities, and passed to
their children a deep love of the Armenian Church.
“The story I have to tell is of three men. But in a profound sense, it is a
single story,” said Diocesan Council Secretary Lillian Chapian, as she spoke
about the honorees. “It is the story of a certain kind of man — a certain
quality of man — who exemplifies excellence not only in terms of his
achievement and industriousness, but in terms of his personal character,
imagination, and innate humanity.”
George Dabagian was born in Turkey, and went on to create a successful
business, Jersey Printing. Sarkis Gabrellian came from Iran, and built
Gabrellian Associates, a successful real estate development firm. After
emigrating from Israel, Sarkis Soultanian found success with National
Utility Service.
“These three men stood out. They were considered examples within their own
circle: looked up to by other businessmen, and admired by their peers. Each
of them took their success to another level,” Chapian said. “It is also
significant that each of these men made their mark by providing a service to
other people. That is a characteristic that was embodied in their
professional as well as personal lives.”
The awards were presented by the Primate to the wives of the three honorees
— Lucy Dabagian, Siran Gabrellian, and Takouhi Soultanian.
“I’m very proud that all three men whose memories we are honoring were true
Armenians, both in service to country and allegiance to our mother church,”
Takouhi Soultanian said. “They set a great example for other Armenians to
follow.”
“They loved their church and their Diocese and were always proud to be able
to serve,” Lucky Dabagian said.
The three men not only served in leadership positions in their parish, but
also served the Diocese and the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin in a variety
of capacities.
“They were three distinguished individuals who made us proud and grateful
during their lifetimes,” Archbishop Barsamian said. “All three were true
leaders of the Armenian Church and dear, personal friends to many of us
here, including myself. I miss them very much. They were exemplary human
beings, exemplary Armenian Church members, and wonderful friends.”
“It was a great loss for our whole church, our whole family, when these
three pillars fell in such succession,” the Primate added. “We are all
poorer from having lost them.”
— 5/11/06
E-mail photos available on request. Photos also viewable in the News and
Events section of the Eastern Diocese’s website,
PHOTO CAPTION (1): Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate, presents the
Eastern Diocese’s “Friend of the Armenian” award to Congressman Steven
Rothman of New Jersey during the Diocesan Assembly banquet on Saturday, May
6, 2006.
PHOTO CAPTION (2): Archbishop Barsamian presents the “Armenian Church
Member of the Year” award to Takouhi Soultanian, posthumously awarding it to
her husband Sarkis.
PHOTO CAPTION (3): Archbishop Barsamian presents the “Armenian Church
Member of the Year” award to Siran Gabrellian, posthumously awarding it to
her husband Sarkis.
PHOTO CAPTION (4): Archbishop Barsamian presents the “Armenian Church
Member of the Year” award to Lucy Dabagian, posthumously awarding it to her
husband George.
# # #
ASSEMBLY BANQUET ENDS WITH HONORS
By Jake Goshert
Delegates and guests from throughout the Diocese of the Armenian Church of
America (Eastern) gathered at the Hilton in Woodcliff Lake, NJ, on Saturday,
May 6, 2006, for the Diocesan Assembly’s farewell dinner and banquet.
During the evening, filled with food, music by the Washington Armenian Folk
Music Ensemble, and fellowship, the Diocese presented two awards.
Congressman Steven Rothman of New Jersey was presented with the “Friend of
the Armenians” award, given each year to an individual for notable efforts
on behalf of the Armenian people or nation.
Also, three departed leaders of the host parish, St. Leon Church of Fair
Lawn, NJ, were posthumously presented with the “Armenian Church Member of
the Year” award. They were George Dabagian, Sarkis Gabrellian, and Sarkis
Soultanian.
HONORING FRIENDS
With Congressman Rothman, the Diocese honored not only a friend, but a
former neighbor, as he used to live right next door to the St. Leon Church.
A member of Congress since 1997, he has always been a supporter of Armenian
causes, specifically during his time on the House Appropriations Committee’s
sub-committee on foreign aid.
“He has demonstrated his friendship to us by devoting his attention to the
Armenian people and the Armenian nation,” said St. Leon delegate Sandra
Leitner, who was a high school friend of the congressman. “I am grateful he
has applied his principals to support the Armenian people.”
When presented with the award by Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the
Eastern Diocese, the congressman hoisted it above his head, proudly
proclaiming “It’s now in writing. I’m officially a friend of the Armenians.
It doesn’t get any better than that.”
He spoke of meeting Leitner’s family, the Shahinians, in high school, and
immediately feeling a connection to the Armenian people. Later in life, as
he read more about the history of the Armenians, he saw a horrible
connection between their tragedies and those suffered by his Jewish
ancestors.
“As I learned more about history and the history of the Armenian people, I
noticed some striking similarities between my ethnic-religious group and the
Armenains,” he said. “We’re both pretty tough people, though. We have
experienced great sadness in our history. We are ancient peoples. We
suffered the Holocaust and the Genocide, unspeakable horrors. Yet, we
remain hopeful and faithful.”
He said he was proud that over the past 10 years he was part of the effort
to provide $1 billion in foreign aid to the Republic of Armenia.
“There’s more work to do,” he added. “We know the economy is moving around
Yerevan, but we need to do much more in the rural areas. But we’re going to
be sure America’s great friend and fellow democracy grows stronger and
stronger.”
He also spoke of efforts in Congress to officially recognize the Armenian
Genocide as a “genocide,” and efforts he has taken to pressure the Turkish
government to also accept its history.
“We are allies, but we can never be friends until you do what is right,” he
said was his message to Turkish officials. “Acknowledge the truth of the
slaughter of a million people. Until you recognize that fact, our
relationship will not go forward.”
He said he hopes to see the United States government officially recognize
the Genocide soon, and urged the delegates to keep pressuring lawmakers.
“Congressman Steve Rothman is a man who has been a true friend of the
Armenians, both in America and in our historic homeland,” the Primate said.
“Especially with his dynamic leadership in the Congress, Congressman Rothman
has been a strong, effective, and reliable ally of our people.”
HONORING PILLARS
In honoring three late leaders of the St. Leon Church, the Diocese was also
honoring three close friends who built successful lives in their adopted
American home, created strong legacies in their communities, and passed to
their children a deep love of the Armenian Church.
“The story I have to tell is of three men. But in a profound sense, it is a
single story,” said Diocesan Council Secretary Lillian Chapian, as she spoke
about the honorees. “It is the story of a certain kind of man — a certain
quality of man — who exemplifies excellence not only in terms of his
achievement and industriousness, but in terms of his personal character,
imagination, and innate humanity.”
George Dabagian was born in Turkey, and went on to create a successful
business, Jersey Printing. Sarkis Gabrellian came from Iran, and built
Gabrellian Associates, a successful real estate development firm. After
emigrating from Israel, Sarkis Soultanian found success with National
Utility Service.
“These three men stood out. They were considered examples within their own
circle: looked up to by other businessmen, and admired by their peers. Each
of them took their success to another level,” Chapian said. “It is also
significant that each of these men made their mark by providing a service to
other people. That is a characteristic that was embodied in their
professional as well as personal lives.”
The awards were presented by the Primate to the wives of the three honorees
— Lucy Dabagian, Siran Gabrellian, and Takouhi Soultanian.
“I’m very proud that all three men whose memories we are honoring were true
Armenians, both in service to country and allegiance to our mother church,”
Takouhi Soultanian said. “They set a great example for other Armenians to
follow.”
“They loved their church and their Diocese and were always proud to be able
to serve,” Lucky Dabagian said.
The three men not only served in leadership positions in their parish, but
also served the Diocese and the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin in a variety
of capacities.
“They were three distinguished individuals who made us proud and grateful
during their lifetimes,” Archbishop Barsamian said. “All three were true
leaders of the Armenian Church and dear, personal friends to many of us
here, including myself. I miss them very much. They were exemplary human
beings, exemplary Armenian Church members, and wonderful friends.”
“It was a great loss for our whole church, our whole family, when these
three pillars fell in such succession,” the Primate added. “We are all
poorer from having lost them.”
— 5/11/06
E-mail photos available on request. Photos also viewable in the News and
Events section of the Eastern Diocese’s website,
PHOTO CAPTION (1): Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate, presents the
Eastern Diocese’s “Friend of the Armenian” award to Congressman Steven
Rothman of New Jersey during the Diocesan Assembly banquet on Saturday, May
6, 2006.
PHOTO CAPTION (2): Archbishop Barsamian presents the “Armenian Church
Member of the Year” award to Takouhi Soultanian, posthumously awarding it to
her husband Sarkis.
PHOTO CAPTION (3): Archbishop Barsamian presents the “Armenian Church
Member of the Year” award to Siran Gabrellian, posthumously awarding it to
her husband Sarkis.
PHOTO CAPTION (4): Archbishop Barsamian presents the “Armenian Church
Member of the Year” award to Lucy Dabagian, posthumously awarding it to her
husband George.

PRESS OFFICE
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Contact: Jake Goshert, Coordinator of Information Services
Tel: (212) 686-0710 Ext. 60; Fax: (212) 779-3558
E-mail: [email protected]
Website:
May 11, 2006
___________________
WORK OF ASSEMBLY INCLUDES EXPLORATION OF DIOCESAN PROGRAMS, EFFORTS
By Jake Goshert
The 140 delegates at the 2006 Diocesan Assembly, hosted by the St. Leon
Church of Fair Lawn, NJ, tackled a number of business items during the
three-day gathering, which ran from May 4 to 6. The business of the
Assembly included reports from the Diocesan Council and various affiliated
organizations.
LEGATE COMMITTEE
Michael Haratunian, a member of the Legate Committee, told the delegates
that it was important to note that Bishop Vicken Aykazian, legate, was
elected president-elect of the National Council of Churches (NCC). He was
recently elected to the executive committee of the World Council of
Churches.
“To show the breadth and depth of the activities,” he outlined the
activities of the Legate’s Office this year, which included a high profile
Episcopalian trip to Armenia with the Presiding Bishop, activities with
Habitat for Humanity, and efforts to build a larger ecumenical organization
in the United States, “Christian Churches Together.”
Bishop Aykazian welcomed leaders from Habitat for Humanity, including Dr.
Rev. Ken Bensen, president of Habitat for Humanity in Michigan. Bishop
Aykzaian and Rev. Bensen recently returned from Armenia where they met with
the Catholicos to discuss the new His Holiness Karekin II Work Project,
which will be an annual drive to build homes in Armenia for needy families.
The first one will be this fall.
So far Habitat has helped build homes for 1,000 Armenians. The Habitat
representatives told the Delegates that 500,000 people could use better
housing.
“He sees the opportunity to help the people in Armenia who have been living
in these trailer trucks,” Rev. Bensen said of the Catholicos. “We have come
here today to ask for your help, this is going to be an annual event.”
He told delegates that if they cannot make it to Armenia to work on a
construction project, they should try to raise the $7,000 it costs to build
a house in Armenia. “You can make a difference for a family’s entire
lifetime if your churches can put up $7,000,” he said. He also encouraged
the delegates to go to Armenia and work on a build.
ARARAT CENTER
In the report of the Ararat Center, the Diocesan-owned conference center
facility in upstate New York State, leadership stressed the on-going success
of the facility.
Karnig Durgarian, treasurer of the Ararat Center board, spoke about the
revenues and income of the Center. In 2005, the Center saw income grow to
$167,000. Losses have also dropped off drastically, with the Ararat Center
projected to basically break even in 2006.
In the spring of 2007 the Ararat Center plans to begin construction of a
pavilion to greatly expand its usability. The board also praised the recent
donation of $30,000 from the Guleserian family’s Sheraton Commander Hotel in
Cambridge, MA.
“These rooms are really very, very nice. They’re Sheraton level and it
gives us a much wider opportunity to use these facilities for different
folks,” Durgarian said.
Board members highlighted the fact that each building on the property is
named not after donors, but after regions in historic Armenia. The names
were done geographically, overlaying a map of historic Armenia with the
aerial view of the center.
“We have set in motion a plan that incorporates elements of Armenia in every
corner,” said Yn. Paulette Doudoukjian, a board member, noting that when the
Primate blessed the grounds he used soil from Armenia.
The Ararat Center will also host a Father and Son retreat in June, details
are available at
FUND FOR ARMENIAN RELIEF
Following the Ararat Center, delegates heard a report from the Fund for
Armenian Relief (FAR), the Diocesan-affiliated international aid
organization. Since it was created 17 years ago, FAR has managed $265
million in humanitarian assistance and helped millions of people through 221
programs.
The programs operated by FAR have covered a wide area of need, from
agricultural programs to career developing, supporting children at-risk and
seniors.
“We will always continue to provide assistance to those who need it in
Armenia. But what if we can start to think about creating programs that
transcend what we are doing now, programs where we think about life stage
continuity, where we build relationships with families from neonatal
programs until they become seniors,” said FAR’s Chairman Randy Sapah-Gulian.
“Our programs have to teach the people of Armenia how to fish,” he added,
using the saying that if you give a man a fish he eats for a day but if you
teach him to fish he will eat for a lifetime. To achieve this goal, FAR has
developed a formula to prioritize programs to achieve meaningful,
coordinated benefits.
FAR is funded through loyal, committed individual donors throughout the U.S.
and the Armenian Diaspora. It has also earned grants from the U.S.
government to implement major infrastructural projects in Armenia and
Karabagh. FAR uses almost 90% of its income for programs, rather than
administrative fees, a high percentage in the world of non-profit
organizations.
Delegates were then introduced to some of the beneficiaries of donor
support, the faces of ordinary citizens in Armenia, Karabagh and Javakhk
whose lives have improved through FAR’s programs. Details of those programs
can be found at
ARMENIAN CHURCH ENDOWMENT FUND
Another report presented to delegates on Thursday came from the Armenian
Church Endowment Fund (ACEF). Individuals and parishes can put money into
ACEF, which is then invested with the help of professional advisors, to
benefit any non-profit organization affiliated with the church. Each year,
ACEF distributes funds from the income earned by the investments to the
beneficiaries, allowing organizations to receive a steady annual income.
ACEF recently became a separately incorporated entity.
“The function of ACEF is that of a money manager, that is here to invest
money the Diocese, individual parishes, and donors have invested through
it,” said ACEF Chairman Mark Gabrellian. “The role of an endowment is to
help provide long-term financial health for the beneficiaries of the funds
we are managing.”
Endowments can be designated to specific organizations, and also to specific
activities, such as choir training or renovations. ACEF maintains a diverse
portfolio in order to survive the ups and downs of the market. Because of
its size (more than 1,000 funds with a value of $75 million) and
professional advisors, ACEF is also able to get access to money managers and
investments that are closed to individual parish investments or others.
“For donors the interesting aspect of an endowment is they have the ability
to create a fund that will last in perpetuity and to designate a specific
purpose for which the income from that fund can be used,” Gabrellian added,
speaking of the importance of parishes tying the raising of ACEF endowment
funds into their stewardship drives.
Each year beneficiaries receive 4.5% of realized gains, over a trailing
12-quarter period. ACEF is hoping to grow investments to allow distribution
in lean years, grow distributions when returns allow, and grow the
endowments to keep up with inflation. This year ACEF will distribute $3.25
million to its beneficiaries.
“We have provided a steady, predicable, stream of income you can count on,”
said ACEF Treasurer Greg Zorthian said. “ACEF presents a real opportunity if
you’re looking to get more professional management of your funds and it
provides an opportunity to relieve yourself of a headache if you’re doing
that type of things yourself.”
ST. NERSESS SEMINARY
Delegates also heard from Fr. Daniel Findikyan, dean of St. Nersess
Seminary, which this year has its largest freshman class: six new students.
There are now 11 seminarians, eight full-time. In two weeks, one seminarian
will graduate, and another is scheduled to graduate in December.
“Most of them are the direct fruit of St. Nersess Summer Conferences. Our
youth programs are now achieving their most important purpose, leading young
Armenian Americans to a sense of belonging through the doors of the Armenian
Church,” he said.
Answering calls for increased accessibility of the St. Nersess programs, Fr.
Findikyan said the Seminary is exploring the possibility of setting up
distance learning programs to deliver its educational programs into the
entire Diocese.
To improve the education of the seminarians, Fr. Findikyan said there will
soon be an effort to provide increased education of inter-personal skills
along with theological studies.
“To train our students to be good pastors, we need to hone what might be
called pastoral arts,” he said, noting interpersonal communications and
counseling as well as preaching as such skills.
After discussing the seminary’s youth programs, youth director Fr. Stepanos
Doudoukjian said even with all the programs offered by St. Nersess, it was
the parishioners who build future clergy.
“We are all responsible for the cultivation of clergy and other leaders in
our church. Never underestimate the power you possess for helping us
recruit the future clergy of our Diocese,” he said.
Planned expansion of St. Nersess was delayed this year by excessive costs
and stringent zoning requirements. A committee formed by the board studied
the situation and decided relocation of the seminary was the only solution.
“The board of St. Nersess is well aware of the seriousness of the proposal
being made, and due diligence will be made as we move forward,” said board
member Dr. Raffy Hovanessian.
“We are in the midst of a critical review of every aspect of the seminary’s
actions and our goal is to decide what we need St. Nersess to become and to
spell out the actions we need to make to achieve that goal,” Fr. Findikyan
added.
DIOCESAN COUNCIL REPORT
Delegates also heard reports from the Diocesan Council and staff in a
presentation headed by Oscar Tatosian, vice chairman of the Council. The
presentations focused on the successes of the past year, as well as a look
at future plans.
“We’re looking to a trend toward an integrated, whole-parish approach to
Christian education,” said Elise Antreassian, coordinator of Christian
education for the Diocese. “We also want to have a hands-on, one-by-one
focus on improving our schools, with a focus on our mission parishes.”
“As far as our web-based programs, we’re working on a modular web-based
approach to language and culture appreciation,” said Gilda
Buchakjian-Kupelian, coordinator of Armenian studies. “We are rethinking
our teaching approach so it is more student-centered, and we’d like to teach
the foundational basics to equip our students without compromising the
integrity of the language.”
“We need to show our students that we are there, or we will lose them or not
reach them when they go to college,” said Jason Demerjian, the Diocese’s
college ministry facilitator. “For me, it is a time where I’m going to move
on and continue with my long-time goal to prepare for priesthood and will
soon be transitioning out of my work with college ministry, but it will
continue strong.”
After starting in her position last year, Jennifer Morris, coordinator of
youth outreach, asked parishes to help her by providing contact information
for youth workers and youth themselves.
“This continues to be an area I request your support in, so we can continue
to reach out to our ACYOA Jrs.,” she said, detailing the monthly HYE-mail
e-newsletter for young Armenians. She also urged the delegates to promote
the Diocesan summer camps to their young parishioners. “The ACYOA and summer
camp programs continue to be the main vehicle in which the Diocese reaches
out to our youth with ministry, by creating and implementing Christ-centered
programming.”
“I am working very hard with the Central Council of the Choir Association.
We have two big programs that are a good investment in our future,” said
Khoren Mekanejian, coordinator of music ministry at the Diocese. “The first
is our junior choirs, working to have them in every parish. The second is
the junior choir leadership program. The choir’s average age is up, and we
need young people. Today, with these programs, 500 young people can sing
the badarak.”
He added that young singers were to perform at the Divine Liturgy on Sunday
at the host parish of St. Leon Church in Fair Lawn, NJ.
“We must bring our support of mission parishes to the next level. Not only
providing clergymen, but building leaders for all aspect of parish life,”
said Fr. Untzag Nalbandian, director of the mission parish program, as he
spoke about efforts to conduct a survey of mission parishes and to create an
action plan to strengthen them. “I am happy to inform you that only
recently two of our parishes – St. Sahag of St. Paul, MN, and St. Sarkis in
Charlotte, NC – became full parishes and their delegates are sitting here at
their first Assembly. And St. Garabed in Baton Rouge, LA, will be
consecrated this month by the Primate.”
“We would encourage you to donate any books or periodicals you have
concerning Armenia,” said Aram Arkun, coordinator of the Zohrab Information
Center. “It’s a great responsibility you have as leaders of the Armenian
Church. And part of that responsibility is preserving and promoting our
heritage, and we at the Zohrab Center are ready to work with you.”
ACYOA CENTRAL COUNCIL
Under a series of photos of young Armenians, ACYOA Central Council Chair
Maria Derderian spoke in Armenian, then English, about the importance of a
strong ACYOA. She noted that this year marks the 60th anniversary of ACYOA.
“Rather than speak about our accomplishments, I’d like to talk to you about
what ACYOA needs,” she said, noting the strong commitment to ACYOA from the
Primate and Diocesan Council. “The ACYOA is at an important crossroads we
are doing well on so many levels, but an important part of the puzzle is
missing. We must now focus on the parish level. The Central Council has
tried to ensure every parish has the tools needed to have active ACYOA
groups. Yet somehow we have not been able to make the ACYOA part of the
life of every parish.”
“The matter at hand is not one of general assembly delegates or ACYOA
budget, for those are by-products of the ACYOA and the Armenian Church as a
whole. The ACYOA needs your witness. It needs you to share you feeling of
God’s love to those in your life. It is God’s will for us to be active
members in the body of Christ, we must do everything in our power to allow
that will to be done,” she added, acknowledging that it is a difficult task
for some.
“But it is a simple task, and it is what we need. The parishes with active
ACYOA groups are not a result of funding, but are a result of personal
relationships. Show your youth you need them right now, because they are as
essential to the life of the church today as they ever will be. Our youth
need Christ, and our youth need you to show them who Christ is.”
She asked delegates to make a list of young people in their parishes, to
provide updated contact information for the ACYOA mailing list, and to
nominate someone for one of the ACYOA leadership awards. She also encouraged
the delegates to attend the ACYOA General Assembly and Sports Weekend to
provide examples of successful Christian Armenians.
“We must own our faith and teach it to our youth so they can own it
themselves. People take care of what they own,” she added. “This must be
happening daily, from each one of us, between all of our faithful in our
churches. This is the only way to make a lasting impact.”
WOMEN’S GUILD CENTRAL COUNCIL
Through the Saintly Women’s Day celebration, the Women’s Guild Central
Council provided $10,000 to the Diocese to buy vestments for clergy, said
WGCC Chairman Lucy Murad, who also spoke about the guild’s School Bag
program and its Children of Armenian Sponsorship Program, which provides
financial assistance to children in Armenia.
“Being a member of the guild means being a part of a group of women that
have a shared interest and follow the teachings of Jesus Christ,” she said.
“All the projects sponsored by the WGCC were developed with a passionate
open heart.”
AACCA CENTRAL COUNCIL
Arpie Kouzouian, chairman of the choir association, spoke about the several
recent accomplishments of the AACCA, such as the junior choir badarak book
and its junior choir leadership development program, which trains future
choir directors.
“If our worship services are to continue in the manner we’re accustomed to,
such training is necessary,” she said of the two-year-old program, before
introducing a video detailing the program and its students. “They have made
a decision to serve the Armenian Church by using their talents to strengthen
worship in the Armenian Church.”
“If you share in our mission and believe in the value of our mission, I
encourage you to support our efforts this year,” she said, detailing the
upcoming trip of the young musicians to Armenia this summer.
SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY
At the request of last year’s Assembly, the Diocese began a sociological
study of Armenians in the eastern United States. The Diocesan Council hired
sociologist Dr. Sara Terian to conduct the study, and she spoke to the
delegates about the initial findings of her qualitative study.
She focused her qualitative study on three general research questions: What
do people think about the church? Is there a disconnect between what people
expect and the church provides? And what could the church do to appeal to
more Armenians?
Delegates asked many questions in an extensive dialogue with Dr. Terian.
The final report will be drafted by September. Regional focus groups will
then be held to study the results. The final report with additional notes
will be turned into concrete implementation recommendations by February
2007.
BUDGET APPROVAL
During the Assembly, Delegates approved a 2007 Diocesan budget. In looking
at the proposed 2007 budget, Diocesan Council Treasurer James Kalustian
discussed the proposed rapid growth.
“It is an investment budget,” Kalustian said. “We would like to move the
Diocese to be investing even more in the future of our children.”
The Council’s budget for 2007 would see five new programs and ministries
positions based in each of the five regions of the Diocese, to work directly
with parishes on ministry efforts and youth outreach.
The budget also includes the creation of a three-person development office.
One staffer would be devoted to annual giving through the Archbishop’s
Annual Appeal, one to major donors, and a third person to planned giving and
endowments, which would be underwritten by support from the Armenian Church
Endowment Fund (ACEF).
“We feel we can generate substantial growth in the Archbishop’s Annual
Appeal and bring in major gifts from our major donors,” Kalustian said. “We
could continue with small incremental growth. But, if we really want to
drive the growth in investment in our youth programs, we need to take the
next step.”
Further details of the Diocesan Assembly sessions can be found on the
Diocese’s web-log:

— 5/11/06
E-mail photos available on request. Photos also viewable in the News and
Events section of the Eastern Diocese’s website,
PHOTO CAPTION (1): Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate, talks with Rev.
Ken Bensen, president of Habitat for Humanity-Michigan, during the 2006
Diocesan Assembly, hosted by the St. Leon Church of Fair Lawn, NJ.
PHOTO CAPTION (2): Fr. Garabed Kochakian, pastor of the St. John Church of
Southfield, MI, speaks to the delegates of the 104th Diocesan Assembly at
the Woodcliff Lake, NJ, Hilton.
PHOTO CAPTION (3): Dr. Sara Terian speaks about the sociological survey
commissioned by the Diocese. Behind her are the chair and vice chair of the
Assembly, Dr. Garo Garibian, right, and Michael Yapchaian.
PHOTO CAPTION (4): Dn. Nubar Kasaryan, from the St. Leon Church of Fair
Lawn, NJ, reads a portion of a worship service during the Diocesan Assembly,
May 4 through 6, 2006.

Caucasus Environmental NGO Network
(CENN)
90 Electronic Bulletin:
Caucasus Environmental News
Dear Colleagues! Dear Reader (DR)!
NEWS FROM GEORGIA
What Is this: Criminal Lobbyism or Incompetence?
Under such title on April 5, 2006 Entrepreneurs Party held press
conference in the building of State Parliament of Georgia.
The theme of press conference was duty on natural resources usage.
<; more Millennium Challenge Starts in Georgia Source: Prime-News, 2006-04-10 Implementation of Millennium Challenge Georgia started on April 9, 2005. The statement on the official start of implementation was made by Zurab Noghaideli, Georgian Prime Minister and John Danilovich, MCC Chief Executive in the State Chancellery of Georgia on Sunday. The decision on allocation of USD 295 m within a Millennium Challenge program for Georgia was made by the US State Department in 2005 autumn. <; more Conference on Biosafety and GMO-free Georgia 2006-04-11 On April 11, 2006 launched Conference under title Biosafety and GMO-free Georgia, organized by Green Movement of Georgia and Friends of Earth International with support of Rights Oppositionists' Party. The conference lastÕ× thee days (April 11-13, 2006). The first day of the event was held in the building of State Parliament of Georgia. < t; more NEWS FROM AZERBAIJAN BTC PIPELINE TO BECOME THE IMPORTANT FACTOR IN FINANCIAL SUPPORT OF GEORGIA Source: AzerTaj, 2006-04-06 As AzerTag learned from the BP Company, after the main export oil pipeline is put in operation, the annual transit revenues <; more Tentative Date For Final implementation OF BTC Source: Prime-News, 2006-04-06 An official ceremony on commissioning of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline at the full capacity will be held in the first half of July 2006. < ; more Kazakhstan to join to BTC pipeline in May Source: "Day.az", 2006-04-06 In the words of Andgar Shuklutov, Ambassador Plenipotentiary of Kazakhstan to Azerbaijan, the next round of negotiations of the <; more BAKU-NOVOROSSIYSK PIPELINE HAULS OVER 1 MILLION TONS OF CRUDE OVER THREE MONTHS Source: AzerTag, 2006-04-09 The Baku-Novorossiysk pipeline transported 1. 157 670 tons of crude in January-March, State Oil Company of Azerbaijan said. <; more NEWS FROM ARMENIA WORLD BANK TO ASSIGN $8 MLN TO ARMENIA TO IMPLEMENT PROGRAM OF REPRODUCTIVE POWER Source: ARMENPRESS, 2006-04-07 Today, Minister of Finance and Economy of Armenia, Vardan Khachatryan and Head of the World Bank's office in Yerevan, Roger Robinson will sign the WB-authorized Reproductive Power Program. <; more ARMENIA'S GOVERNMENT TO SELL IRAN-ARMENIA GAS LINE TO "ARMROSGASPROM" Source: ArmInfo, 2006-04-07 Yerevan, April 6. ArmInfo-RBC. According to the Gasprom's press-office information, the "Gasprom" and the government of Armenia signed an agreement on the purchase of the 40-km section of the Iran-Armenia gas line under construction and the Razdan HPP's Unit N5 (Razdan-5) by "ArmRosgasprom" CJSC from the Republic's government. It is envisaged to sign the preliminary purchase and sale agreement till April 14 and the final law of property transfer must be carried out till January 1, 2007. According to the agreement, the Armenia's government also engages itself to hand over the functions of the Principal of the Iran-Armenia gas line's second part construction with length of about 197 km to "ArmRosgasprom. < ml> more
THE POLLUTION OF SEVAN IS BECOMING DANGEROUS
Source: TV Company of Gavar, 2006-04-10
Nowadays the problem of cleaning up the slops in the Gegharkunik region
is
very actual. Only with surface sewage 4000 tons of manure, 80 tones of
phosphats, 290 tones of nitrats and more than 115 tones of oil-products
are
thrown into the lake Sevan annually.
<; more IMPLEMENTATION OF MILLENNIUM CHALLENGES CORPORATION'S PROGRAM IN ARMENIA TO CONTRIBUTE TO REGIONS' DEVELOPMENT Source: ARKA, 2006-04-13 The implementation of the Millennium Challenges Corporation's program in Armenia will essentially contribute to the development of the country's regions and rural poverty reduction, Speaker of the RA Parliament Artur Baghdasaryan stated at his meeting with a US delegation, which includes Chairman of the <; more INTERNATIONAL NEWS CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR, LEGISLATURE TAKE AIM AT CLIMATE CHANGE Source: ENS, 2006-04-04 Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is ready to do battle with climate change. Today he directed the California <; more E ARTH'S ICE MELTING UNDER BLANKET OF GREENHOUSE GASES Source: ENS, 2006-04-04 Large amounts of the greenhouse gas methane will be released into the atmosphere in the near future, according to a Dutch scientist speaking today at the European Geosciences Union meeting in Vienna. He said global warming could <; more TASMAN SPIRIT OIL SPILL SICKENED PAKISTANI COASTAL RESIDENTS Source: ENS, 2006-04-04 People living on the coast of Karachi near the location of the 2003 Tasman Spirit oil spill have experienced <; more B P facing criminal investigation over Alaskan oil spill Source: Belfast Telegraph, 206-04-07 BP, the energy giant that trumpets its green credentials, is believed to be under criminal investigation in the US following a massive oil spill in Alaska. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), an arm of the US government, is looking into whether BP properly maintained its pipelines in Alaska. <; more Civil society supports early warning system to minimise impact of natural disasters Source: e-Civicus, 2006-04-07 Civil society representatives from around the world have joined with senior government officials and representatives of international organisations in stressing the need for mobilising political commitment to minimise <; more Legal News the latest edition of the WATER CODE of the Russian Federation: Serious blow to water resources of Russia Source: ENWL, 2006-04-07 We call attention of all citizens to the latest version of the draft Water Code, currently under discussion in State Duma. If the Code is adopted, without taking a number of basic amendments into account, virtually opens up infinite possibilities of the intolerably dangerous environment impact. Also, it can become another source of the wide social protest. <; more International Seminar / Conference / Meeting Sustainable Economic Development in Ukraine: Addressing the Environmental Challenge Open Dialogue between Government, Industry & Civil Society 18-22 September 2006 On behalf of Mariupol State University of the Humanities and the conference organising committee, welcome to: <; more
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