POINTS OF LIGHT In This Issue Pastor’s Points of Light
Transcript of POINTS OF LIGHT In This Issue Pastor’s Points of Light
POINTS OF LIGHT The Badarak or Divine Liturgy is the Source,
Goal, Summit and Peak of our religious
experience both on earth and in this earthly life. I
say this not because it is embellished and adorned
with mystery, beauty, music, radiant paraments,
ornate language, but because it is the sacred
vessel that contains the True and Living Presence of Christ
Himself! It is truly a manifestation of the “labor” of love that
God‘s people offer in the spirit and by the inspiration of the
Holy Spirit are mutual offering of praise and thanksgiving told
me to God where they become the recipients of the supernatural
nourishment and fellowship of Christ and with Christ himself.
The Divine Liturgy with Christ at its center and purpose is
therefore the intersection or incarnation of the heavenly with
the earthly. It is the place, time and space where the Presence
of God is fully manifest among His Church and His people.
This is most certainly true not because of any work of our own
but because of Christ's own promise, His own presence and His
own true and unfailing Word, "where two or three are gathered
in my Name, there am I among you" (Matthew 18:20) for "Lo.
I am with you always until the end of the age." (Matthew 28:20)
While the restriction of the distribution of Holy Communion
was a tremendous spiritual challenge to me as I’m sure that it
was for faithful, I can’t but thank Almighty God for the return
to the chalice where I have been overwhelmed by the great
demonstration of faith of so many people coming to church and
the great percentage of worshipers who approach the chalice to
be communicates with the living body of Christ. With prayer I
offered to God these words on your behalf, “Lord save your
people and guard your inheritance, feed them shelter them and
lift them up from now on forever more,
amen”
The Badarak is the taste of the eternal
and the continuing incarnation where
Christ continues His "ministry" of
salvation.
Prepare to receive His gift and discern
His Presence and do not neglect the gift
offered in Holy Communion throughout
the summer months. My mission is to proclaim the Good News of
Jesus Christ according to the holy apostolic teaching, practice and doctrine
of the Armenian Church in order to equip the parishioners of Saints Sahag
and Mesrob Armenian Church with faith, hope and love, to live and to serve as members of His Church in a wholesome Armenian Christian Family.
In This Issue
Pastor’s Points of Light .......................................................... 1
Index ......................................................................................... 1
Publication Information .......................................................... 1
Catholicos of All Armenians ................................................... 2
Bishop Danial Primate ............................................................ 2
Parish Council Corner ............................................................. 3
Father. Nigoghos Aznavourian .............................................. 3
Father. Haroutiun Sabounjian ................................................ 4
New Pastoral Intern ................................................................. 6
Saint Nersess to Honor First 12 ............................................. 6
Jeopardy .................................................................................. 7
Representative Chris Smith Calls For Artsakh Aid .............. 7
Baptisms/Chrismation/Marriages/ Funerals 7
Garen Yepremian 7
Vartan Gregorian ..................................................................... 7
Bazaar SAVE THE DATE .......................................................... 7
7
Easter Sunday 2021................................................................ 8
400 Year Old Armenian Wagon .............................................. 8
Rhode Island Orthodox Clergy Fellowship Retreat .............. 8
Mother’s Day ............................................................................ 9
Primate’s Appointment Letter ................................................ 10
Easter Offerings ...................................................................... 11
Armenian School Handes ....................................................... 12
Special by Fr. Shnork – Dual Ordinations 13
Sunday School Corner ............................................................ 14
Armenian Cultural Hour / Choir /Art Education .................... 14
News from the Cultural Committee ........................................ 15
Sunday School Graduation .................................................... 15
Summer Church Feast Days 16
Flyer BBQ Back to School 18
Armenian Festival “Formerly Picnic” ................................... 19
Prayer Card Ministry/Amazon Smile ...................................... 21
Vemkar ..................................................................................... 21
Cultural Committee Schedule ................................................ 21
Membership / Stewardship ..................................................... 22
Newsletter Committee / Advertise in the Paros .................... 22
Administrative Information ..................................................... 23 “Paros” June 30tht, 2021 Published 4 times per year Issue 21-02 – FREE Saints Sahag and Mesrob Armenian Church 70 Jefferson St, Providence, RI 02908-4923
FR. SHNORK SOUIN, PASTOR
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 2
Pontifical Visit of the
Catholicos of All
Armenians to the
Republic of Artsakh
On June 04, concluding His
Pontifical visit to the
Diocese of Syunik, His
Holiness Karekin II,
Supreme Patriarch and
Catholicos of All menians
left on a three-day visit for Artsakh. On the occasion of the visit,
the Armenian Patriarch took the relics of the St. Gregory the
Illuminator being kept in the Mother See, as a source of
Blessings and consolation for the pious people of Artsakh.
The Delegation presided by the Armenian Patriarch and the
AGBU President Mr. Berge Setrakian was welcomed on the
borders by His Grace Bishop Vertanes Abrahamyan, Primate of
the Diocese of Artsakh, together with the clergy of the Diocese
and Chaplain Boris Grishin, of the Russian peacekeeping
troops.
Then, His Holiness left for Stepanakert, where He visited the
Fraternal Cemetery. In front of the monument, the Catholicos
of All Armenians was welcomed by Mr. Arayik Harutyunyan,
President of Artsakh, and the government members. After
laying a wreath in front of the eternal fire and paying tribute;
His Holiness, together with the Clergy, prayed to God for the
peace of the souls of the Armenian heroes martyred in the
Second War of Artsakh. Accompanied by the authorities of the
country, the Armenian Patriarch visited the graves of the fallen
soldiers.
On the same day, the Catholicos of All Armenians,
accompanied by the Honored President of the Republic of
Artsakh Mr. Bako Sahakyan and the Clergy, visited the Amaras
Monastery, where His Holiness was greeted by the Armenian
sons and servicemen been united from nearby communities on
this occasion.
Following the “Hrashapar” service offered in the St.
Grigoris Church of Amaras, under the presidency of His
Holiness Karekin II, a Requiem service was offered for the
peace of the souls of the heroes martyred for the defense of the
Fatherland. A joint prayer was raised to the Merciful God to
keep Artsakh in peace and security, and the Armenians of
Artsakh and All Armenians under His boundless mercy and the
protection of His Holy Right Hand.
At the conclusion, His Holiness conveyed his Blessings and
message to the attendees.
AYO! | FAR (farusa.org)
The Easter Message of Bishop Daniel
Primate of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian
Church of America
Tribulation—and Overcoming
It was the last night of our
Lord’s earthly ministry: his
last chance to speak freely, and
openly, to the people he loved.
And Christ chose to spend
those precious hours in the
company of his friends,
breaking bread at the supper
table, praying to the Father.
On that night, Jesus spoke
to the disciples tenderly. But he was burdened with
sadness, and with an urgent desire to give his loved ones
the Spirit they would need to carry on. “Little children,”
he called them, “I am with you only a little while longer.”
He explained that, like lost children, they would soon find
themselves searching for him; but “where I go, you cannot
come.” Nevertheless, he enjoined them to “love one
another; as I have loved you” (Jn 13:33-34).
For Christ, the specter of his crucifixion was standing
before him. Yet he still tried to reassure his followers that
the World—the source of pain and suffering—would not
have the last word.
“These things I have spoken to you, that in me you
might have peace. In the world you will have tribulation,”
Jesus warned. “But be of good cheer: I have overcome the
world” (Jn 16:33).
It must have been hard to believe his assertion at the
time. But it was true: on Easter Sunday, Christ was raised
from the dead—Krisdos haryav ee merelots. And with his
resurrection, he overcame a world long held hostage by sin
and death. Nearly two thousand years later, all that Jesus
said and did during his Last Supper remains life-giving
through the Holy Badarak: we are his disciples, and we
have the privilege to join our Lord at the holy table and
listen to his Word.
From the depths of his love, Christ has spoken to his
children in many ways. As Armenian Christians, we might
reflect that every decisive turn of our history has been a
response to the way Jesus Christ has mystically revealed
himself to us. Of course, he speaks to us still, even in this
time of isolation, separation, pain and loss—physical as
well as spiritual—that we have all been enduring.
Most of us have now been separated from friends and
family, from the everyday life of the church, for longer
than we dared to imagine. We have all been diminished
by the loss of loved ones, fellow citizens, and countrymen.
Untold numbers of people throughout the world have been
lost to sickness; but Armenians have borne the added
burden of our losses incurred in the disastrous explosion
in Beirut and—most painfully of all—the casualties
suffered in defense of our precious ancestral homeland of
Armenia and Artsakh, during forty-four bitter days of war
and in the bitter aftermath.
In the face of these realities, we hear an echo of our
Lord’s words to his first disciples: “In the world you will
have tribulation.” We recall that Christ himself was no
stranger to our present pain and sorrow, to our feelings of
torment, exile, and loneliness.
(Bishops Easter Message Continued on Page 8)
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 3
Parish Council Corner
It is with great enthusiasm that we are
able to fully open the doors of our church
after the past 15 months. We are able to
pray and be together without a mask (if you
have been vaccinated). The Church is now
open for all services as well as rentals.
I am also pleased to announce that
Deacon Alex Calikyan has been officially assigned to us as a
pastoral intern. Deacon Alex comes to us from the Holy
Martyrs Armenian Church in Bayside, NY. Deacon Alex will
be officially joining our parish family effective July 1. Please
join me in welcoming Deacon Alex.
We are also looking forward with great enthusiasm to our
church picnic which will take place on Saturday, August 21.
Chairman Jeff Boghossian has promised delicious food, great
music and a few surprises. Please plan on joining us.
It was a privilege for me to witness the ordination of our own
Timothy Aznavourian on May 29 at St. Mark Armenian Church
in Springfield. We wish Father Nigoghos and Yeretzgin
Julianne well as they begin their new ministry. The following
Saturday, June 5, our former Pastoral Intern Deacon Michael
Sabounjian was also ordained to the priesthood. We
congratulate Fr Haroutuin and Yeretzgin Lucine.
We look forward to seeing you all soon!!
John Megrdichian
Parish Council Chairman
Father. Nigoghos Aznavourian
Ordaned to the Priedthood
In Springfield, MA
The ordination of a new priest of the Armenian Church was
a memorable “first” for the Diocesan parish in Springfield, MA.
The milestone event occurred over Memorial Day weekend,
as faithful of Springfield’s St. Mark Church witnessed the
historic ordination of their new pastor, Fr. Nigoghos
Aznavourian (formerly Deacon Timothy), by the hand of
Bishop Daniel Findikyan, Primate of the Eastern Diocese of the
Armenian Church of America.
The ordination took place over two days, beginning on
Friday evening, May 28, with the Service of Calling to the
Priesthood, and culminating on Saturday, May 29, with the
Sacrament of Ordination and Divine Liturgy.
More than 130 clergy, parishioners, and family and friends
of the former Dn. Timothy Aznavourian were in attendance for
Saturday’s ordination—which was not only the first such
service to be held at St Mark Church, but also marked the first
time an American-born deacon has been ordained to the
Armenian priesthood by an American-born bishop.
Changed Identity
During Friday evening’s Service of Calling, Bishop Daniel
reflected on all the clergymen and faithful present in St. Mark’s
sanctuary—representing the greater mystical Body of Christ—
to witness the process by which a young man would become
consecrated to the service of God. “Tonight, in a very real sense,
the entire Armenian Church is gathered here together in prayer
and in the mystery of the Holy Spirit,” he said. “Today and
tomorrow, the body of Christ grows, and is built up, by one
more priest, one more special servant of God.”
Turning to the deacon, he said: “Tomorrow your identity
will change. Your heart, brain, and talents will all be the same;
but we as the church are welcoming you. We are here to hold
you up, to help you and pray for you, as you help us build up
the Body of Christ.”
It was during the following day’s Sacrament of Holy
Ordination that Bishop Daniel revealed for the first time the
name he had chosen to bestow on the new priest: Fr. Nigoghos
(Nicholas, in English).
During his sermon, Bishop Daniel explained that the name
was inspired by the great saint of the worldwide church, a native
of Asia Minor and a contemporary of St. Gregory the
Illuminator, who remains greatly honored in Armenian
tradition. His reputation for charity and Christian virtue led to
St. Nicholas’ association with gift-giving, embodied in the
kindly “St. Nick” or Santa Claus figure of Western Christmas
traditions. But the gifts of the historical St. Nicholas were of a
different order, the Primate said.
“St. Nicholas had the gift of godliness. He was able to grow
so close to God, that he had the virtues of God himself:
goodness, humility, holiness. He was ready to leave his ego
behind, to throw it away for the sake of offering everything he
had to others. Looking out for others before looking out for
himself. That’s where his reputation as a giver of gifts comes
from. That’s where his connection with Christmas comes
from,” he said.
“Today is a day of gifts, and the most beautifully wrapped
gift is standing here in front of us,” said Bishop Daniel,
gesturing towards the new Fr. Nigoghos. He continued: “Today
we have been given a gift for the church: the gift of a young
deacon, now a young priest, and also his gracious wife,
Yeretzgin Juliann. And this is just the start of many more gifts,
for Der Nigoghos, and for St. Mark Armenian Church.”
Prayers of Healing
Our wounded and missing soldiers of the Artsakhian War;
Marian Goshgarian (Encino, California-Requested by
Gregory Yekhtikian), David Bazor (Hospitalized Tufts); Dr.
Justin Shaghalian, Peter Megrdichian, Lucy Megrdichian,
Rose Masoian, Jack Chakoian (Fla.), Dino Ricci, Gloria
Kasparian, Bertha Mugurdichian, Debra Altounian,
Roxanne, Suzanne Mangoian, DeeAnn Bauer, Lena, David
Pilibossian, Der Nerses Jebejian, Ausia Reed, Suren Hagop
Anmahian and family, Nishan Serabian, Vivian Karian,
Jessica Boyajian, and all those who are suffering throughout
the world especially those diagnosed with the COVID-19.
PLEASE UPDATE
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 4
A Goal Fulfilled
During the banquet that followed the ordination service, Bishop
Daniel took up the theme of gifts again, this time with reference
to his own role in the drama of an individual’s calling.
“This is the best part of being Primate,” he remarked. “The
greatest gift is that I get to be a small part of the promotion of a
wonderful young man to become a priest, a servant, a shepherd
of our church, and of one of our precious parishes.”
The newly-ordained Fr. Nigoghos was born in Boston to
parents David and Patricia Aznavourian. Baptized as Timothy,
he grew up in Malden, MA, later moving to Rhode Island as a
young adult. He is a 2020 graduate of St. Nersess Armenian
Seminary and St. Vladimir Orthodox Theological Seminary. He
also received a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Rhode
Island College.
He met his wife Julianne (née Tavitian) of Haverhill, MA,
on a Diocesan Youth Pilgrimage to Jerusalem in 2015. He and
Yeretzgin Julianne also spent 10 months studying at Gevorkian
Theological Seminary in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin
in Armenia. Dn. Timothy served a pastoral internship at Holy
Trinity Church of Cambridge, MA, under the tutelage of Fr.
Vasken Kouzouian, prior to being assigned as Deacon-in-
Charge of the Springfield parish in February of this year.
Fr. Nigoghos’ sponsoring priest during his ordination was
Fr. Shnork Souin, pastor of Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church in
Providence, RI, who supported the younger man’s spiritual
journey to the priesthood. Fr. Shnork’s ordination anniversary
happens to be May 29: the same as Fr. Nigoghos.
In his remarks during the banquet, Fr. Shnork explained how
he got to know the young Timothy Aznavourian when he was
in his early 20s. He recalled that Tim would travel by bus to
lenten services from Pawtucket, where he lived at that time, and
then return to work the overnight shift at a local Stop & Shop,
where he would use free time to study for his college classes.
Fr. Shnork expressed how impressed he was with his
dedication, and supported his interest in Theology, encouraging
him to take a class at Holy Cross Orthodox Seminary in
Brookline, MA.
Fr. Shnork continued: “A question was asked of me when I
became ordained, ‘What is your goal in life?’ My answer was,
if I could somehow impact some young man to somehow
decipher, discern and respond to a call to serve, to be able to
pass the baton, that would be a fulfillment of my ministry. I feel
like I have achieved my goal.”
Mr. Ralph Rafaelian of Rhode Island, who has been a good
friend of Fr. Nigoghos since his baptism as a young adult at Sts.
Sahag and Mesrob Church in Providence, served as the
ordination godfather.
During the banquet, Yn. Julianne surprised Fr. Nigoghos by
screening a video that showed their journey together and the
many life events leading up to the ordination. (Click here to
watch it.)
Armen Asik, Jr., a talented musician and parishioner of St.
Mark, performed a beautiful piece on classical guitar during the
banquet—a skill and passion he shares with Fr. Nigoghos, who
studied classical guitar in college.
Addressing guests for the first time as a priest, Fr. Nigoghos
reflected on his newly-given name. “The importance of St.
Nicholas is that he had an emphasis on visitation,” he said:
“visitation to the poor, to the odar, to the stranger in our midst.
To the people who are ‘down and out.’ He had not only the
intellectual faith of the holy Council of Nicea, but he had the
works that went along with that. And my prayer is that we
together will be able to emphasize that in our ministry as well.”
The parish’s ordination events were led by chair Diane
Boghosian and co-chairs Anna Garabedian and Donna
Scagliarini, with the help of many other parishioners, who
organized the Friday evening reception and Saturday formal
banquet for more than 130 clergy, parishioners, and friends.
The new Fr. Nigoghos Aznavourian will now proceed with
the traditional 40 days of seclusion and prayer that follows on
the heels of a priestly ordination. He will spend that time at St.
Nersess Seminary, and after completing it he will return to St.
Mark Church to serve as the parish’s full-time pastor.
By Talene Jermakian
Father. Haroutiun Sabounjian
Ordaned to the Priesthood
In New Britain, CT
On the weekend of June 4-5, 2021, the Armenian Church of
the Holy Resurrection in New Britain, CT, and the entire
Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, witnessed
the holy sacrament of ordination, culminating in the
consecration of a new priest to lead the faithful.
In two moving services—a Friday “Service of Calling,” and
a Sacrament of Ordination badarak on Saturday—Diocesan
Primate Bishop Daniel Findikyan ordained and anointed
Deacon Michael Sabounjian into the holy priesthood,
conferring on him the new name “Fr. Haroutiun.” Dn. Michael
had been serving as Deacon-in-Charge since February at New
Britain’s Holy Resurrection Church.
The sponsoring priest was Rev. Fr. Krikor Sabounjian, Fr.
Haroutiun’s father, and the ordination godfather was Stepan
Piligian, a longtime friend of the Sabounjian family. Fr. Krikor
noted that his son’s priestly name—Armenian for
“Resurrection”—was personally meaningful to him, not only
for its beautiful intrinsic meaning, but also because it is a name
he associates with a dear, now sadly departed, clergy colleague.
The calling service, of about 45 minutes duration on Friday
June 4, began in classic fashion, with a column of clergy and
deacons processing to the front of the Armenian Church of the
Holy Resurrection, with the ordination candidate traversing the
distance on his knees.
“if I could somehow impact some young man to somehow decipher, discern and
respond to a call to serve, to be able to pass the baton, that would be a fulfillment of my ministry. I feel like I have achieved my goal.”
Fr. Shnork Souin – Sponsoring Priest of Fr. Aznavourian’s Ordination
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 5
All approached the presiding bishop, who was seated below
the altar. The age-old ceremony proceeded as a series of
questions and answers involving the bishop, candidate, and his
sponsors, culminating in the declamation from the onlookers
that “He is worthy”—in Armenian, “Arzhani eh.”
Addressing the congregation directly, Bishop Daniel compared
the calling service to a “rigorous final exam” in which “you are
the jury: you are the ones to determine whether Dn. Michael is
worthy to be promoted, tomorrow, to the holy priesthood of the
Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church.”
“I’ve been his teacher,” the Primate said; “I’ve known him
since he was a boy. The clergy are here to offer their testimony
as well, along with his classmates. We’ve all done the best we
can to be sure that we are presenting to God a many who is
worthy—as worthy as a human being can be—to do God’s
work, to lead God’s people, and to do the will of God. That’s
why we are here tonight.”
Seeking New Life
More than 170 people attended the Holy Ordination badarak
on June 5, while many others viewed the live-streamed Internet
broadcast. As during the Calling Service, in attendance was a
large delegation of clergy from the region and beyond. In one
portion of the service, the elder clergy approached the newly
anointed and consecrated Fr. Haroutiun to pay their respect to
him by kissing his hand. The rest of the congregation followed
suit at the end of the service, congratulating the new priest and
his new Yeretzgin Lucine. Clergy also assisted in other parts of
the ceremony, including the vesting and anointing of the new
priest.
In his sermon, Bishop Daniel returned to themes he had
touched on the night before, recalling the newly ordained priest
had been his student, and is the son of a priest. “This young
priest is very bright, and graced with talents—graced with a
fiery love for God which goes back to his very junior years,” he
said. “Many of you already in just a few months have caught a
glimpse of that … you’ve caught a glimpse of something living
and holy.”
He noted the significant, more-than-coincidental
circumstances underlying the ordination day: that it was taking
place on the Feast of St. Gregory the Illuminator’s Deliverance
from the Pit; that the day’s reading from Isaiah 61 proclaimed
that “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed
me…”; and that the ceremony was happening in a church
named for the Holy Resurrection, or Sourp Haroutiun in
Armenian.
“The Church of the Holy Resurrection: the church of ‘New
Life’—that’s what you are,” the Bishop said, gesturing towards
the congregation, “on this day of new life for St. Gregory. On
this day of new priestly life for a young man. A day of new life
for his entire family…. A day of new life for the clergy here,
who all feel enriched by another bright priest to do God’s
work.”
The Primate also touchingly remembered a beloved priest of
the Diocese, the late Fr. Haroutiun Dagley, who departed this
world long before his time, and said that the spirit of the late
priest was present among them “as another Der Haroutiun steps
forward, to bring Good News and New Life to the people who
have been entrusted to him. He’ll do that in his own way, with
the gifts given to him. And he’ll do that with an awareness of
all the intersecting details surrounding his ordination day.”
Bishop Daniel challenged his listeners to be attentive to such
intersecting details in daily life, and through them to ask: “How
is God inviting me to get a glimpse of that New Life He wants
every person to have?”
“God has anointed Der Haroutiun today; and through him,
He has called all of you to be ministers of God’s will, God’s
new life, God’s resurrection in the world.”
Work of the Entire Community
Growing up in Massachusetts, for most of his youth Fr.
Haroutiun was a member of Holy Translators Church in
Framingham, where his father has long served as pastor. He
received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy, while
minoring in Music and French, from Boston College. He then
graduated from St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary
and St. Nerses Armenian Seminary in 2018 with a Masters of
Divinity and a certificate in Armenian Studies, respectively. He
completed a pastoral internship under the guidance of the Fr.
Shnork Souin at the Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church in
Providence, RI.
Fr. Mardiros Chevian, St. Nersess Seminary’s dean,
described Fr. Haroutiun’s seminary studies as “a three-year
program studying a host of subjects, including theology, church
history, and Scripture. It also involved spending time overseas
in an Armenian monastery abroad.” Fr. Haroutiun has spent
time in Jerusalem as well as Armenia.
Fr. Haroutiun is married to Lucine Sabounjian. His parents
are Fr. Krikor Sabounjian and Yeretzgin (and now also
Diramayr) LuAnn Sabounjian.
The ordination represented the fifth priestly ordination
performed by Bishop Daniel since his own elevation to the
episcopal rank in 2019, and his third in as many months.
In a message made in the days prior to his ordination, then-
Deacon Michael had said: “I ask everyone for their prayers, that
Christ might embolden me in my faith, strengthen me in my
perseverance, and guide me in my ministry. It is clear to me that
no success in my pastorate will come as a result of my own
efforts, but rather from each member of our parish coming
together in Christ’s self-sacrificial love. In that spirit, I pray that
the Holy Spirit might direct all that I do in this new chapter of
my service within the Body of Christ.”
Bishop Daniel said that ordaining Fr. Haroutiun was a
pleasure, having known his family for many years. “My role as
the bishop is to make sure we have leadership, shepherding, and
care within our church communities,” said the Primate of the
Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America.
Fr. Haroutiun’s transition to become the pastor of Holy
Resurrection Church was greatly assisted by two parish
committees. The first was a Transition Committee chaired by
Dn. Matthew Cannata, and the second an Ordination
Committee chaired by Elisa Griego and Robbin Haboian. The
Transition Committee focused on welcoming Dn. Michael to
the parish and introducing him to the faithful; the Ordination
Committee attended to every detail of the sacred weekend,
culminating in a well-attended banquet at Tunxis Country Club
in Farmington, CT. Both committees received invaluable
guidance and direction from seminary dean Fr. Chevian.
The banquet following the ordination provided an
opportunity for fellowship and public reflections on Fr.
Haroutiun, the Armenian Church, and its role in the lives of its
faithful.
Gary Hovhanesian served as an able Master of Ceremonies
for the banquet program, bringing a blend of solemnity and
humor to the occasion. Guy Simonian, chair of the Holy
Resurrection Parish Council, stated that the church had been
impressed with what Fr. Haroutiun had accomplished as a
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 6
deacon, and looked forward to working with him as their new
priest.
Poignant observations were also offered by Fr. Krikor
Sabounjian, godfather Stepan Piligian, and Fr. Haroutiun
himself. Bishop Daniel inspired all in attendance with his
stirring closing remarks and challenges.
As is customary following an ordination, the new priest has
entered a 40-day period of seclusion, during which he will
devote his time to prayer, reflection, and preparation. He will
spend his time at St. Nersess Seminary, where he will reflect on
his new ministry and the responsibilities of the priesthood of
Jesus Christ in the Armenian Church.
On Sunday July 18, Fr. Haroutiun will celebrate the Divine
Liturgy for the first at the Armenian Church of the Holy
Resurrection, his new parish.
By Harry Mazadoorian and Chris Zakian
New Pastoral Intern
Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church
Dn. Alex Calikyan
Dn. Alexander (Deacon Alex) Calikyan is an ordained
deacon of the Armenian Church. The first of two sons born to a
father from Istanbul and a mother from New Jersey, he was
raised in his faith and began his initial service at the Armenian
Church of the Holy Martyrs in Queens, New York. He received
a Master of Divinity Degree from St. Vladimir's Orthodox
Theological Seminary in 2018 and completed his studies at St.
Nersess Armenian Seminary in 2019. He holds a Bachelor of
Science Degree in Philosophy from the Catholic University of
America. He completed a CPE residency with the New York
VA in 2020. In addition to his studies at seminary and
experiences in chaplaincy, Dn. Alex's interests include the
unique role of diaconal ministry in the parish as well as non-
parish setting, and the relationship between pastoral theology
and canon law, as understood in the Armenian Church.
Saint Nersess to Honor First 12
St. Nersess Armenian Seminary will be celebrating its 60th
Anniversary on November 13 at a special banquet which will
honor the vocations of the first 12 priests who graduated from
St. Nersess and St. Vladimir's Seminaries and were ordained.
The celebratory dinner will take place at the Old Tappan
Manor in Old Tappan, N.J. This event is the first in a series to
recognize the alumni of St. Nersess, both ordained and lay, who
are in service to the Armenian Church, in any capacity.
This year's honorees, listed by ordination dates, are Rev. Fr.
Kevork Arakelian (1973); Rev. Fr. Garabed Kochakian (1976);
Rev. Fr. Yeprem Kelegian (1977); Rev. Fr. Mardiros Chevian
(1985); Rev. Fr. Shnork Demirjian (1991); Rev. Fr. Diran
Bohajian (1993); Rev. Fr. Sahak Kaishian (1993); Rev. Fr.
Tavit Boyajian (1993); Rev. Fr. Arakel Aljalian (1993); Rev.
Fr. Vasken Kouzouian (1994); Rev. Fr. Stepanos Doudoukjian
(1996); Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Odabashian (1996). Two
honorees are from the Western Diocese.
he tribute has ignited numerous memories amongst the
honorees. “When reflecting upon the first time I knew I wanted
to become a priest, I recall how impactful the first St. Nersess
Summer Conference was in 1963,” reveals Fr. Kevork
Arakelian, the first American-born graduate of St. Nersess
Armenian Seminary to be ordained a priest. Another
recollection, by Fr. Yeprem Kelegian, includes the greatest
influences on his path to the seminary. “I remember the
‘luminaries’ of my youth - Archbishop Torkom Manoogian,
Archbishop Tiran Nersoyan, Der Arsen Barsamian, Der Dajad
Davidian, and Der Karekin Kasparian.”
The evening will be filled with more nostalgic and
celebratory reflections, as well as a special award. Invitations
will be mailed in August, as well as commemorative keepsake
booklet information to include your best wishes to the honorees.
All donations will benefit the seminary and its ongoing mission.
For more information, please contact event co-chair Lynn
Beylerian at (201) 914-0354 or email
[email protected] or go to www.stnersess.edu.
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 7
Jeopardy
I hope everybody’s was
watching Jeopardy on
May 12th, 2021.
The category was seven
letter countries, and the
question was:
No one got it correct. The
only guess was Albania which of course is wrong
Vartan Gregorian Vartan Gregorian -- the former President of Brown University and
global intellectual force who led the resurrection of the New York
Public Library and headed one of the most important foundations in
America -- has died.
His personality and influence dazzled Providence. He was friends with
Vincent “Buddy” Cianci and top American executives. Gregorian was
an intellectual tour de force.
"The ebullient Armenian immigrant who
climbed to pinnacles of academic and
philanthropic achievement but took a detour in
the 1980s to restore a fading New York Public
Library to its place at the heart of American
intellectual life, died on Thursday in
Manhattan. He was 87. The death, at a hospital,
was confirmed by his son Dareh Gregorian. No cause was given,”
writes the New York Times.
"Gregorian was a fighter: proud, shrewd, charming, a brilliant
historian and educator who rose from humble origins to speak seven
languages, win sheaves of honors and be offered the presidencies of
Columbia University and the Universities of Michigan and Miami. He
accepted the presidency of Brown University (1989-1997),
transforming it into one of the Ivy League’s hottest schools, and since
then had been president of the
Carnegie Corporation of New
York, a major benefactor of
education,” the Times added.
In Providence, the Vartan
Gregorian Elementary School
was named in his honor and as
a thank you for his
contributions to Providence. – GoLocalProv.com
BAPTISMS -Victoria Ann Ayvazyan (6-6-21)
-Zara Marie Zorabedian (6-13-21)
-Jackson Edward Goulart (6-20-21) May these children be raised in the love
and care of the Lord.
FUNERALS -Shirley Ventrone (3-28-21)
-David Wayne Bazor (4-1-21)
-Skon Semerjian (4-12-21)
-George Moorachian (6-1-21)
-Dino Ricci (June) Expressions of sympathy and prayers are
extended to the families that their loved ones may be at peace in the
care of the Lord and their memory be eternal.
Marriages: Arrangements for weddings are to be made at least eight
months in advance. Marriage preparation and counseling often called
Pre-Cana, is required before the celebration of the sacrament. The Best
Man (Khachyeghpayr) must be a confirmed communicant of the
Armenian Orthodox Church. The parish office will make all necessary
arrangements for the deacon, organist and soloist. Marriages are not
celebrated during Great Lent.
Baptisms and Chrismations: All baptisms must be scheduled at least
two months in advance. Pre-baptismal preparation for the parents and
godparents is strongly encouraged. At least one of the godparents must
be a member of the Armenian Orthodox Faith.
Regulation of Sacramental Services: In accordance with Diocesan
discipline mandated by the Primate, all sacraments, e.g. weddings,
baptisms and rites of Christian burial, can only be administered in the
church sanctuary which has been consecrated for the celebrations of
these sacred rites.
Hokehankisd/Memorial/Requiem
You can make your requiem request by
calling the office @ 401-272-7712 or online
www.armenianchurchri.org
Remember the Church in your Will
NEW INTERNET ADDRESS
armenianchurchri.org
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 8
Easter Sunday 2021
I am the Light of the world.
Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness.
(John 8:12)
(Bishops Easter Message Continued from Page 2)
But this is our greatest point of contact with the Lord.
Indeed, we are never closer to God—and He is never closer to
us—than when we are hanging on the Cross with His only
begotten Son, Jesus Christ. That is the deep, supremely unique
meaning of the Christian faith, affirmed by St. Paul when he
wrote: “I am crucified with Christ—and it is no longer I who
live, but Christ who lives in me. The life I now live in the body,
I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself
for me” (Gal 2:20).
We should not delude ourselves that the Apostle was merely
using a figure of speech here. To be “crucified with Christ” is
an admission that to follow Jesus as Lord means to follow him
all the way to Golgotha. It is to understand, as martyrs through
the ages understood, that Christ was speaking directly to us
when he said: “In the world you will have tribulation.” That is
the sad, unflinching truth our Lord reveals to those he loves.
But on the night before his own terrible ordeal of suffering,
Jesus also told his loved ones another truth: “Be of good cheer,”
he said: “I have overcome the world.” That is the promise we
should all hear, as we confront our own Golgothas, great and
small; as we join the Lord Jesus on the Cross. It is the faith for
which Armenian martyrs throughout history—down to our own
day—gave their very lives. It is the duty we undertake when
we resolve to Build Up the Body of Christ in our own lives:
among our families, our parishes, our homeland and our world.
It is the message that should ring in our ears, this year and
every year, when we hear the mysterious words that have
always allowed our people—and all true disciples of Christ—
to overcome the world:
Krisdos haryav ee merelotz!
Orhnyal eh harootiunun Krisdosee!
Christ is raised from the dead!
Blessed is the resurrection of Christ!
Annual retreat of our brothers of the Rhode Island
Orthodox clergy fellowship hosted by Fr. Shnork at
Husenig Grove. Thanks to Louise Janigian, Dorothy
Masoian, Marc & Krista Janigian, Anthony Maldonado and
Aren Antranik for their hospitality!!
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 9
Mother’s Day
Martyrs Day
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 10
FROM THE PRIMATE
BISHOP DAMIEL FINDIKYAN
A HUGE THANK YOU TO ALL WHO
SUPPORTED, AND PARTICIPATED IN OUR
MOST SUCCESSFUL GOLF OUTING
EVER!!
THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS US ALL.
THE GOLF COMMITTEE
MARC, JEFF, STEVE, PAUL, JOHN, GARY,
NAYIRI AND DER HAYR
Christ as Hope Begins July 6 at 7;00pm
Register now at:
http://www.qrco.de/bcDRjh
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 11
Easter Offerings
Alter Pascal Candles
Two large Easter Pascal Candles have been donated in loving memory of Deacon Hachadoor Madenigian, Zartar Madenigian, Helen
& John Seplocha by Dr. Holly Seplocha; Joy & Patrick Ramsier and Children; and Joni Cochran.
YOUGHAKIN
• The Ararat Association
• Mark & Ida Aramli and BedJet
• Fr. & Yn. Souin and Family • Marjorie Martiesian
• Azarig & Elizabeth Kooloian • Alan & Marilyn Zartarian
• Peter Kaloostian
• Candace Kaloostian • Linda Grant
• Leon & Veronica Nahigian
• Faith Danielian • Naomi Thovmasian Marsh
• The Hills Family
• Edna Hovagimian • John Melkonian
• Mike & Gloria Church
• The Hazian Family • Kathy Seropian
• Timothy DerMarderosian
• Nick & Susan Souin • Gary Dombrowski
• Shelley Kaloostian Conti
• In loving memory of our parents Jacob & Haiganoosh Barran by Sadie
& Lucy Barran.
• Ronald & Rosemary Sepe • Agnes Killabian
• Dr. Beverly Serabian
• Jeff & Dianne Boghossian • Bill & Karen Brannon
• Mr. & Mrs. George Moorachian
• Vincent & Eleanor Palumbo • Susan Tashjian
• Kushigian – Secor Family
• Andrea Hazian
• Edward Mourachian & Joanne
Gonsalves
• Stephen & Dorothy Masoian • Myron & Rosemary Kuzirian
• In memory of Joan A Parnagian by Parnagian Family (Yervant Sr.,
Michael and Sema-Jean).
• In memory of Misak & Agavne Berberian and Khachadoor &
Shoushan Norigian by Lillian
Klanian. • Robert & Barbara Muksian
• Stephen Kasparian
• David Zartarian • Arthur & Shirley Ventrone
• Anna-Marie and Danayan Family
• Lawrence & Karen Miller • Michele Kazarian
• John & Kerrie Avjian
• Dr. Martin & Kara Papazian • Gary & Linda Kashmanian
• Vernon M. and Cynthia Samoorian
• John Derderian • Barbara Kemalian Stone
• Robert Zartarian
• Kenneth & Carol Pjojian • Pierre Massoyan
• Seta Ohanian – Chateaneuf
• Edward & Irene Eranosian • Dr. Martin & Margaret Hanoian
• Jeffrey Hovhanesian
• Marilyn Woloohojian • Rose Sherestanian
• Melanie Krikorian
• Linda Angell • Edward & Evelyn Mazmanian
• Ardemis & Deron Hazian
• Sue and Ann Ayrassian
• Nathalie Yaghoobian • Kevork & Elvira Hovagimian
• Grigor & Nayiri Odabashyan • Taylor Conti & Rich Campopiano
• Marlin Keshishian
• Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Nahigian • Kevork Kechichian
• Anna Simmons
• Charles & Susan Karagozian • Elenor Jorjorian
• Diane Verdolotti Lowe
• Sarkis & Elizabeth Berberian • Zita & Elizabeth Butler
• Seta Hanoian
• Margaret Chevian • Greg Yekhtikian
• Martha Jamgochian
• Hosanna Derderian • Jean Ricci
• Katherine Seropian
• Ghajanian Family • Sylvia Dulgarian
• Karen Curran
• Aurora Emdjian • Mary & Alfred Pagel
• Arsen & Joan Shamshoian
• David & Linda Bazor • Laurie Onanian
• Rose Masoian
• Agnes Toumasian • Mary Ann Zamanigian
• George & Susan Hanoian
• Alice (Bajakian) Ianniello
Palms • In loving memory of Angel Kalashian by Aline & B.J. Cariglio. In loving memory of Sema & Michael (Manoog) Parnagian & Barsam Parnagian by Parnagian Family (Yervant Sr., Michael and Sema-Jean).
• In loving memory of her brother Yetvart Arzoumanian & her aunt Anna Arzoumanian, by Diane Arzoumanian and family with love.
• In loving memory of Rose Jamgochian & Margaret Arakelian by Rosemary & Ronald Sepe. • In loving memory of Mary Serabian and In honor of Nishan Serabian by Dr. Beverly Serabian.
• In loving memory of Vahe, Margaret, Vahe H., Maritza Samoorian by Vernon M. Samoorian. • In loving memory of Aram Danelyan by Diana Danelian.
• In loving memory of Agnes Pashaian Bossian Rogers by Susan Agnes Rotondo.
Holy Friday Flowers for the Tomb of Christ
• In Memory of David Bazor by Fr. Shnork and Yn. Julie Souin.
• Agnes Killabian • In loving memory of Samual & Anoush Meklian & Elizabeth Curran by Meklian Family.
• In loving memory of Mary Serabian and In honor of Nishan Serabian by Dr. Beverly Serabian.
• In loving memory of Mary (Parnagian) Cakircian – 34 Year Memorial 4/6/1988 by Parnagian Family (Yervant Sr., Michael and Sema-Jean). • In loving memory of Arky, Anna, Malcohm, Raffie Najarian by Vernon M. Samoorian.
• In loving memory of Andre & Sadie Martiesian by Dorothy & Terrance Martiesian.
• In loving memory of Wartouhie Chamelian by Ghajanian Family. Easter Lilies
• In loving memory of Armik & Michael Bagdasaryan by Diana Danelian.
• In loving memory of Rose Jamgochian & Margaret Arakelian by Rosemary and Ronald Sepe. • In loving memory of Khoren and Shooshanig Avedisian by Deborah Onanian & Eric Stickler.
• In loving memory of Queenie & Harry Krekorian by Deborah Onanian & Eric Stickler.
• In loving memory of Jack & Ruth Stickler by Eric Stickler & Deborah Onanian. • In loving memory of George & Helen Bliss by Eric Stickler & Deborah Onanian.
• In loving memory of Mary Serabian and In honor of Nishan Serabian by Dr. Beverly Serabian.
• In loving memory of Joan A Parnagian by Parnagian Family (Yervant Sr., Michael and Sema-Jean). In loving memory of The Janigian and Masoian Family's deceased Members by Stephen & Dorothy Masoian.
• In loving memory of Rev. Arnak Kasparian & Salvatore Romeo by Stephen Kasparian.
• For all the prayers and support of my family during my illness by Vernon M. Samoorian. • In loving memory of George & Irene Zartarian by Robert Zartarian.
• In loving memory of Arshag & Mary Derderian by Dorothy & Terrance Martiesian.
• In memory of James H. Woloohojian by Marilyn Woloohojian. • In loving memory of George Kevork Ayrassian by Sue and Ann Ayrassian.
• In loving memory of Siranoush Ghajanian by Ghajanian Family.
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 12
Armenian School Year End Handess 5th Anniversary
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 13
The Dual Ordiantions of Frs. Nigoghos (Nicholas) Aznavourian and Haroutiun (Michael) Sabounjian
by Bp. DANIEL in June, 2021 ~ Fr. Shnork’s Thoughts
The month of June for me was the highlight of my life’s
ministry where two very important young men in my life were
called to serve the Armenian church as priests by the episcopal
laying on of hands. One, Fr. Nigoghos, a “child” of our church
and a young man who I served as a priest and who I watched
transform from catachumen to priest, and one, Fr. Haroutiun,
who I’ve know from childhood and who came to servemost
magnificently as an intern in my minsitry here at Sts. Sahag
and Mesrob! ~ Fr. Shnork I am so thankful to almighty God for the privilige and honor to have been
the Sponsoring priest for Fr. Nicholas and to be the assisting priest at the
ordiantion of Fr. Haroutiun. What made it also very special was that our
faithful parishioner, Ralph Rafaelian was the Godfather of ordiantion for Fr.
Nigoghos. A month that I will
forever cherish and two brothers
They are both “WORTHY!!!!!”
God grant them and Yns. Juliane
and Lucine many years!!!
Armenian School Ice Cream Social at
Garden City
In his remarks during the banquet, Fr. Shnork explained how he got
to know the young Timothy Aznavourian when he was in his early
20s. He recalled that Tim would travel by bus to lenten services from
Pawtucket, where he lived at that time, and then return to work the
overnight shift at a local Stop & Shop, where he would use free time
to study for his college classes. Fr. Shnork expressed how impressed
he was with his dedication, and supported his interest in Theology,
encouraging him to take a class at Holy Cross Orthodox Seminary in
Brookline, MA.
Fr. Shnork continued: “A question was asked of me when I was ordained, ‘What is your goal in life?’ My answer was, ‘if I could somehow impact some young man to somehow decipher, discern and respond to a call to serve, to be able to pass the baton, that would be a fulfillment of my ministry. I feel like I have achieved my goal.’”
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 14
Sunday School Corner Our school
year came to a
close on
Sunday, May
23rd when we
celebrated the
graduations of
our 2020 and
2021
classes. While
there has been
nothing
traditional about this past school year, the week prior,
restrictions were relaxed and we were able to hold the
traditional graduation ceremony in the sanctuary, followed by a
luncheon in the Egavian hall immediately thereafter. Our
graduates were able to join together during the week leading up
to graduation where they met with Der Shnork to review their
essays, and read them aloud in the sanctuary, followed by a
pizza dinner. It was truly heartwarming to see the students
come together again after being apart for so long. I would also
like to extend special thanks to Linda Grant, Laurie Onanian,
Rosemary and Ron Sepe for all their help in organizing our
graduation luncheon. The day of graduation we were blessed with the visit of a
very special guest, Ms. Elisa Griego. Elisa joined the graduates
for one last round of Jeopardy, much like was done by her dear
brother David when this group of students was in his class. It
brought us much joy to have Elisa be a part of such a special
day - and I think it is safe to say that Mr. David’s presence was
felt by all.
Congratulations to our 2020 and 2021 Graduates Nicholas Ferrara Allan Kevorkian Bedros Kevorkian Eliz Ohanian Susanna Ovsepian Ani Poghosyan
Gohar Vorperian May God bless you all and we very much look forward to
seeing you become further involved in our church family.
Our goals for the coming year are simple - return to
normalcy and expand our student population! We have very
much missed seeing all of the children this year, but are so
blessed to have had a solid core group who were with us every
week. It also bears noting that the year could not have
happened without the efforts of our teachers who stepped up to
the plate and taught in person (at first) then shifted to “distance
learning” for the majority of the school year. We kept the boat
afloat and didn’t give up! Thank you to all of our 2020/2021
teachers! Our hopes are high for the coming year, we can’t wait to see
everyone again. To that end, Sunday School will be registering
students at our annual church Festival this year on August
21. A paper registration form will be sent to your homes along
with the picnic flyer this summer. We hope to start in person
classes on September 12, the Feast of the Exaltation. As always, feel free to reach out to me, Deb Onanian, with any
questions, ideas or to even volunteer to be part of our
team! Send an email to [email protected]. All our
very best for a healthy and happy summer!!
-Deborah A. Onanian
Church Choir
During this difficult time, many members of the Church choir
participate in the Divine Liturgy every week. They prepare
special chants and sing with beautiful voices. I want to express
my sincere gratitude to all members of the choir and organist
for their important mission. Maestro Konstantin Petrossian Cultural & Music Director.
Sgt. Haig Yaghoobian visits his former parish and
conducts the readings
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 15
Armenian Cultural Hour
Every Friday at 7:30 PM
Dear friends,
For more than a year now, the Cultural Committee has been presenting special cultural and educational programs on-line that are of
great interest. During this time we have prepared about 60 programs. Our programs were viewed by about 42,000 people. This is a big
number and we are happy about it. The Cultural Committee continues its online concerts, and we offer our program for July: Before
each event, our parishioners will receive special flyers with information about the upcoming concert. In August and September, you can
watch our programs of your choice at any time convenient for you, which you can find on the Facebook website of our church.
JULY
July 2 - Vahan Artsruni concert "Modern Fusion, Progressive and Song Gender"
July 9 - Hekimyan Band from Yerevan, Armenia
July 16 - "Flutes & Sopranos", featuring Soloists and Symphony Orchestra of the Armenian National Academic Theatre of Opera and
Ballet, Harutyun Arzumanyan, Music Director & Conductor
July 23 - Favorite Armenian Songs, featuring Armen Hovhanessyan & Salbi Mailyan
July 30 – “Happy Days Will Come Again”, Berj Turabian
News from the Cultural Committee.
At the last meeting of the committee, which took place in June, it was decided to hold a traditional Spiritual Music Festival with the
participation of choirs of Orthodox churches. The festival is scheduled for Sunday, 24 October at 5 PM in sanctuary of our Church.
It was also decided to organize a Christmas Concert in December. The day and time will be specified additionally.
“Nazeli” dance group will perform at the picnic on Sunday 22 August.
The Arts Education program will start the 2021-2022 academic year in September. The applications will be presented to your attention
in August.
Sunday School Graduation Sunday School Essays
Eliz Ohanian
A Biblical story that has always been one of my favorites
and resonated with me throughout the years has been the
Parable of the Lost Son. This parable tells the story of a son who
asks for his inheritance early and proceeds to squander it, yet
his father is still instantly quick to welcome him back into his
home with open arms. The older son is understandably
confused and upset by the actions of his father, and how his
forgiveness was immediate, despite the younger son’s display
of disloyalty. The father responds with what I think of as one of
the most memorable lines from the Bible, saying “this brother
of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”
The father in this parable is of course representative of God, and
a constant emphasis and reminder of the fact that there is
nothing we can do that will ever make God love us any less.
Regardless of how much we may stray from the path He has
planned for us, He will always be there for us and lead us back.
And despite our shortcomings and failures as people, we will
always be able to turn to God, and be welcomed, as we are all
created in His perfect image and likeness. This is definitely a
parable that helps to strengthen the faith of the reader, and act
as a reassuring and almost comforting story. It is a story that my
Sunday School teachers throughout the years have made a
staple part of their lessons, reiterating the important lessons
within the parable, and also taking on the parenting role of the
Father in the parable. All of my teachers have made it possible
for me to be where I am today, having been a constant
motivation and inspiration to me, whether it be through their
teaching, their musical abilities, or their school advice. They
will continue to shape faithful young members of this church,
and be constant welcoming figures within this parish. I am
forever blessed to have had the opportunity to be taught by such
faithful people, and I will keep the lessons learned close to my
heart.
Nicholas Ferrera
As I tried to choose from among seven essay questions that
Der Hayr asked us to prepare, one of the questions piqued my
curiosity. Why is the Armenian Church unique and how is it the
same or different from other churches? I am a student of both
our Sunday School and of LaSalle Academy, a Catholic high
school. I thought I would be able to cite many differences, such
as the way we take communion and how we confess our sins,
but these differences seemed trivial. After some research, I
learned some interesting things about the history of our
churches.
At one time we were one church, led by five patriarchs in
Rome, Constantinople, Alexandria, Antioch, and Jerusalem.
Eventually Alexandria, Antioch and Jerusalem fell to Muslim
conquest leaving a rivalry between the Patriarch of
Constantinople and the Pope of Rome. There were
disagreements on theological issues, such as whether to use
leavened or unleavened bread for communion, the wording of
the Nicene Creed and whether priests should be allowed to
marry. This rivalry eventually led to the Roman Catholic
Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church split in 1054 with
each Church believing that they were the one “true” Church.
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 16
I began to think about this division and the many things that are divided in our world today. The past political division of our own
Armenian Church, our presidential elections when our country becomes even more divided and the continuous racial divide in our
communities today.
As I thought about our differences, I realized that we always seem to be focused on what divides us instead of what unites us. Both
the Catholic and Orthodox churches believe salvation is a process and that the Bible is inspired by God. In the end, we are taught to be
good Christians, to embrace the Sacraments and follow God’s Commandments. We understand the importance and true meaning of the
Holy Cross and the significance of Holy Communion. We believe in one God.
I have come to realize that it is the music, the families, the community, my Sunday School teachers and Der Hayr that have made the
Armenian Church unique to me. It is not often that I hear my friends talk about a hockey team rivalry with their priest. That is unique
to me. Mr. Mark’s creative ways of keeping us interested in learning at such a young age, Mr. Steve’s memorable biblical teachings,
Miss Debbie’s dedicationto follow in her mother’s footsteps, and the thoughtful card that I received from Miss Anna during the pandemic
have made the Armenian Church unique to me. When I think of how our church has manifested in my life, I can’t help but to think of
Mr. David, a teacher, a mentor and a friend. It is Mr. David that has guided me to be the best Christian I can be.
I have enjoyed my years of coming to Sunday School and being part of the Church community and I look forward to continuing my
journey in faith with you all.
Feast of the Transfiguration -
Sunday July 11, 2021 Referred to as Baydzaragerbootiun, the Feast of
the Transfiguration is one of the five principal
feasts of the Armenian Church, so named because
of Christ’s luminous appearance. In Armenia, it
is also known as Vartavar (the Festival of Roses)
after the old pagan feast, which it replaced.
The feast marks Christ’s appearance with a
resplendent countenance to three of His disciples,
Peter, John, and James, on the holy mountain of
Galilee, also known as Mount Tabor.
The Bible tells us that when Jesus was considering
going to Jerusalem, he spoke with his disciples of
the torture that was in store for Him and of the end
of His life on earth. Jesus wanted His disciples to
be prepared for the coming events.
His disciples, however, did not believe that Jesus
could possibly face such tribulations and Peter
adamantly said none of Jesus’ predictions would
come true, and Jesus admonished his disciples. About a week later, Jesus had
his miraculous Transfiguration.
He went up Tabor Mountain with three of His disciples—Simon Peter, James,
and John Zebedee—to pray as the other tired disciples remained at the bottom
of the mountain. It was there that Jesus began to assume a new
appearance. The three disciples were amazed when they saw His new radiant
being.
Though it was nighttime, the disciples saw light coming from the sun in the
sky. Among the light, they saw two other men—said to be Moses and Elijah—
speaking to Jesus about His remaining time left on earth and the sacrifice He
would soon make.
Then a cloud came upon the group. The voice of God was heard, saying the
same phrase He said when Jesus was baptized, “This is my Son, my Chosen;
listen to Him!” (Luke 9:35).
After the Transfiguration, Jesus asked His disciples not to talk about it until
His coming Resurrection.
This scene can be found in four different places in the New Testament:
Matthew 17:1-8; Mark 9:11-7; Luke 9:29-36; and Peter II 1:17-18.
In the Armenian calendar, the feast takes place on the 14th Sunday after
Easter—98 days later—so it is movable within an interval of 35 days, from
June 28 to August 1. The Orthodox and Catholic churches observe the feast
of Transfiguration on a fixed day, August 6. The official observance takes
three days. Sunday is the principal feast, Monday likewise is an ordained feast
day and includes the commemoration of the dead, and Tuesday is a non-festal
or weekday dominical.
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 17
Feast of the Assumption of the Holy
Mother-of-God - Sunday August 15
The Feast of the Assumption of the Holy
Mother-of-God is a non-variable
commemoration and the oldest of all those
dedicated to St. Mary. The Armenian
Church celebrates this feast day on the
nearest Sunday to August 15, a practice
adopted at the time of St. Nersess the
Graceful.
Assumption comprises a week of
fasting, Navagadik, and a Memorial
Day. In the early centuries, the observance
took place over the course of three days;
but as arranged by Shnorhali, it was
extended to nine days.
According to tradition, following the
Ascension of Christ, Mary lived out the rest
of her days in Jerusalem, cared for by St.
John the Evangelist. She died in Jerusalem
some 15 years after Christ’s Ascension and
was buried in her family tomb in
Gethsemane. After she passed away, all the
apostles—save Bartholomew who was
absent at that time—conducted her funeral
with great ceremony at a cave-like tomb in
the Garden of Gethsemane. Later, St.
Bartholomew returned and wished to see
Mary one last time.
He convinced the apostles to open the
tomb, but they could not find her body
inside. Angels’ voices were heard for three
days and nights. The apostles interpreted
the angels’ singing as a sign that our Lord
had assumed, or taken up, his mother into
heaven as he had promised her.
They found the empty tomb a confirmation of that promise for she had not been dead, but had fallen asleep. For this reason,
the church refers to the end of Mary’s earthly life as “the dormition” rather than “death.”
The tradition concerning the dormition of the Holy Mother did not become a basic teaching (doctrine) of the church until
the 9th century, and it wasn’t until the 12th century that the feast was titled “the Assumption.”
The Blessing of Grapes | Khaghogh Orhnek
On the Feast of the Assumption, the blessing of grapes takes place immediately after the Divine Liturgy. The ceremony is
rich in symbolism and emphasizes the important role the Virgin Mary assumed in the revelation of God. The custom of blessing grapes, the first fruits of the harvest, can be traced back to Old Testament times, when farming was
a common vocation. Of the vast variety of produce, grapes had a special place of honor
and were considered the “first fruits” because they were the first produce of harvest.
Among the Israelites, as among many neighboring cultures, grapes were regarded as
belonging in a special way to God since they were the first fruits. It was He who gave the
gift of the whole harvest and to offer Him the first fruits was to acknowledge complete
dependence on Him. Special services of thanksgiving were conducted by priests in the
temple, a tradition that prevailed to the time of Christ.
With the birth of Jesus, these dedications took on a new meaning. Jesus Christ was the
first born—or the first fruit—of Mary and, as such, was offered to God in the temple.
(Luke 2:25-30)
Armenian Church doctrine teaches that Mary has a primary place of honor because it was of her
and by the Holy Spirit that God became incarnate (took human flesh). She is seen as the image of
humanity fully obedient to God and ultimately sanctified by doing God’s will. Therefore, on the
feast remembering her dormition (falling asleep in Christ) and Assumption (ascending to heaven),
we celebrate the blessing of grapes. Christ gave His blood to us for eternal life, and in remembrance
we bless the grapes, the fruits of the earth. It is traditional to use seedless grapes to emphasize that
this fruit came into being without seed, just as Christ became man without any human agent.
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 18
On the Feast of the Exaltation Sunday September 12
(End of Summer Hours Badarak 10:00am) Following the Divine Liturgy and the blessing of the Rahan (Basil)
EVERYONE Is invoted to a fellowship BBQ
Hot Dogs, Burgers, salads, drinks in the Egavian Hall Hosted by The Parish Council
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 19
You Can Order On-Line: https://tinyurl.com/2021STSAHFest
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 20
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
(Check on-line armenianchurchri.org )
July
10 - Fr. Nigoghos Aznavourian -1st Badarak Springfield 11 - Feast of the Transfiguration/Vartavar
TBA - Young Adult Cliff Walk and Picnic 18 - Fr. Haroutiun Sabounjian – 1st Badarak New Britain
29-30 Deacons Retreat Husenig Grove August
6 - Friday Family Cookout TBA
7 - Men's Night TBA 15 - Feast of the Assumption and the Blessing of the Grapes (MARY NAME DAY and GRAPE
DONATIONS)
21 - SSMAC SUMMER FESTIVAL (Formerly called the Picnic) September
12 - Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross 1st Day of Sunday School Sunday School
BBQ Family Fellowship following Badarak for
EVERYONE sponsored by the Parish Council October 24 - Spiritual Music Festival November 6-7 - 2-DAY SSMAC BAZAAR!!!
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 21
Home Blessings
Fr. Shnork Souin will be joining parishioners for home blessings at their homes on request.
If you would like your home blessed, please contact the church office at [email protected] or 401-272-7712.
NEW - MAY THEIR MEMORY BE ETERNAL Establish Membership in the Perpetual Memory Endowment – PME
There are many parishioners who we have lost over the years and their memory has been forgotten in the continuing life and
spiritual memory of this parish and sadly there is no one to continually pray for them and for their souls to be remembered. While
some are fortunate enough to have family members remember them, even yearly, there may come a time that that too will be forgotten.
There is now a wonderful and pious way to ensure that the names of loved ones will be remembered annually in the prayers of
Requiem at Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church. Membership in the PME.
Have your name and the names of loved ones forever embedded into the annual prayers of memorial as a member of the new
PME at Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Armenian Church. Perpetual Memory Endowment Application Form
Saints Sahag and Mesrob Prayer Card Ministry
WHY SEND A HALLMARK CARD?
Offer instead the Card that Shares and Cares at Prayer! The
church will happily end a card on your behalf, to your friend,
acquaintance, colleagues, coworker or anyone else, for almost
any occasion in order to show that you have requested prayers
for them during our church services. What a great way to show
them that you hold them in prayer! (Weddings, deaths,
graduations, births, illness, well wishes etc.)
Information about the Prayer Card Ministry of Saints Sahag &
Mesrob Armenian Church is available through the church
office. If you would like to request a Healing Prayer Card,
Memorial Prayer Card for a loved one, or some other special
occasion Prayer Card, please call the office (272-7712).
The name of your loved one and the one requesting the card
will be included in this bulletin on the Sunday of your request
and the person will be remembered in prayer by the pastor
during the Liturgy.
Requested
by_______________________________________
Date of Request:____________________________________
Requested for:_____________________________________
Occasion:_________________________________________
_
Donation: ____________________________
(Suggested Minimum $10)
Donate to Saints Sahag and Mesrob Church
Through Amazon Smile
Did you know if you make any purchases through Amazon,
you can pick our Church as a charity? Amazon Smile gives a
portion of all your purchases to the Saints Sahag and Mesrob
Armenian Church
Simply go to
https://smile.amazon.com/
Sign into your regular Amazon Smile Account
When asked to pick a charity
Cultural Committee Programs
July 16 "Flutes & Sopranos", featuring Soloists and
Symphony Orchestra of the Armenian National Academic
Theatre of Opera and Ballet, Harutyun Arzumanyan, Music
Director July 23 Favorite Armenian Songs, featuring Armen
Hovhanessyan & Salbi Mailyan
July 30 “Happy Days Will Come Again”, Berj
Turabian
August 21 Festival-“Nazeli” dance group
performance
October 24 Spiritual Music Festival with the
participation of choirs of Orthodox churches
Arts Education Program
First Semester of 2020 – 2021
begins on Saturday, October 10, 2020.
Art classes (drawing, sculpture) at 12:30 pm
(piano, guitar, violin, voice training)
by individual appointments.
For music classes schedule, and other questions
please contact Mrs. Janna Guegamian, Chair of Program
Tel. No. (401) 861 3573, email: [email protected]
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 22
Membership / Stewardship
Let’s Start Building Our Future! Become a member
and/or a steward of Saints Sahag and Mesrob Armenian
Church of Providence, RI.
It only takes a few minutes to complete the
Membership form and $175.00 ($100.00 for students and
$125.00 senior citizens) to become a dues paying member
of Saints Sahag and Mesrob Church of Providence.
While many churches of other faiths use the method of
tithing, Saints Sahag and Mesrob Church simply asks a
minimum fixed amount to be a dues paying member of
the church, and that amount is $175.00. That’s only $3.37
a week! Membership for senior citizens and students is
even less: $125.00 a year or $2.40 per week.
Please fill out the form, print it out and mail it, along
with a check (unless you choose to use your credit card),
to the church office:
Please mail this completed form and payment
information to the church office:
Saints Sahag and Mesrob Armenian Church
70 Jefferson Street
Providence, Rhode Island 02908
The logo depicting a stylized Armenian Cross with the
threefold elements of stewardship was created by
Father Shnork Souin, showing that all 3 elements
are required of the life in Christ.
(DSS Der Shnork Souin)
Membership and Stewardship of Time and Talent and
Treasure, are the building blocks of your commitment to the
church. By your membership you are an architect in the life and
building of the church and community
Your dues are not only essential, but facilitate the realization
of the day to day operations of the mission of Saints Sahag and
Mesrob Armenian Church. In conjunction with your dues, your
annual stewardship pledge is a way to express support of,
involvement in and concern for the welfare and growth of our
church with her many ministries offered.
We kindly ask that you that you fulfill your dues and
stewardship pledges now.
Point your smart phone here to pay
your dues!
Stewardship
Please Remit 2021 Membership and
Stewardship
If you have not paid your dues for 2021,
please complete the form below and send your
donation to the church office.
You can pay your membership and/or
stewardship with your MasterCard or Visa or
use Paypal through our website at
www.stsahmes.org .
2021 Membership Application Saints
Sahag and Mesrob Armenian Church of
Providence, RI
I/WE would like to be year 2021 dues-paying
member(s) of Saints Sahag and Mesrob
Armenian Church of Providence.
$175.00 Adults;
$125.00 Senior Citizens;
$100.00 Students)
Members #1 Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms:
_______________________________________
Members #2 Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms:
__________________________________________________________
Address:________________________________
_______________________________________
City: _______________________State: ______
Zipcode: _______________________________
Phone: (______) ______________________
Email: ______________________________
Check enclosed
Charge my MasterCard/Visa/Discover/AE
Credit Card Number:
_________ _________ _________ _________
Expiration Date: ____/____
(Membership and/or Stewardship donations are tax deductible.)
_____________________________________________________
For Office Use Only:
Account No(s): ________________________________________
Date Received: ____________ Amount Received: ___________
Check # __________________ Amount: ___________________
START THE NEW YEAR OFF RIGHT!
LOOK FOR AUTOMITIC PAY BY THE MONTH OPTIONS
IN 2021 ON OUR WEBSITE
You can now pay Dues/Stewardship on-line at:
http://stsahmes.org/dues/
AprilMay/June 2021 “Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob 23
The Newsletter Committee Editor-in-Chief
Reverend Father Shnork Souin, Pastor
Editor
Leonard J Arzoomanian
Proofing
Ponsonby Britt O.B.E.
Layout and Design
Leonard J Arzoomanian
The Saints Sahag and Mesrob Church Newsletter is a publication of Saints Sahag and Mesrob Church of 70
Jefferson St., Providence, RI 02908. Submission of news articles, photos, essays, poetry, book reviews, and letters
are welcomed and should be sent to the church office ([email protected]). All text must be submitted in
electronic format, preferably in Microsoft Word, as a text file or as e-mail. Please note that the editorial board
reserves the right to modify and/or reject articles, photos, etc. All materials must be received no later than the
published submission deadlines per issue as published in the church bulletins.
Church Office Hours
Summer -The Church Office is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. (Social Distance Policy in Place)
If you would like to contact Fr. Shnork, call 201-306-4304 [email protected]. To submit items for the Sunday Lighthouse Bulletin,
please contact the office at 401-272-7712 or [email protected]. If you call after hours, please leave your requests, and the
administrative assistant will be happy to process them promptly. For Emergencies, please contact the Pastor at 201-306-4304
Administrative Information
Pastor
Reverend Father Shnork Souin,
401-272-7712
Cell 201-306-4304
Pastoral Intern
Dn. Alex Calikyan
516-761-6573
Administrative Assistant
Nayiri Odabashyan, 401-272-7712
Parish Council Chairperson
John Megrdichian
Home: 401-944-3201
Cell 401-742-2887
Vice Chairperson
Martin Papazian
Home: 401-475-9905
Cell: 401-529-5288
Secretary
Dorothy Martiesian
Cell 401-749-0269
Treasurer
Jeff Boghossian,
Cell 401-340-7053
Assistant Treasurer
Eric Stickler
Home: 401-398-0485
Cell: 401-578-2621
Advisors
Len Arzoomanian
Cell 508-958-7391
Margret Chevian
401-368-9234
Melanie Krikorian
Home: 401-353-4519
Cell: 401-465-1957
Jason Martiesian
Home: 401-785-1953
Cell: 401-339-9750
Stephen Megrdichian
Cell 401-419-4392 [email protected]
Gary Nahabedian
Cell 401-871-8331
Diocesan Delegates
Joyce Avedisian
Cell: 401-724-3978
Ann Ayrassian
Home 401-272-4743
Cell: 401-529-5210
Stephanie Masoian
Home 467-6202
Stephen Megrdichian
Cell 401-419-4392 [email protected]
Organizations
ACYOA
Dn. Alex Calikyan
516-761-6573
Altar Guild
Ann Ayrassian
Home 401-272-4743
Armenian School
Lilit Amroyan
401 941-4748
Arts Education Program
Janna Guegamian
Home 401-861-357
Bazaar Committee
Marc Janigian
Cell 401-523-3276
Building Rentals
Marc Janigian
Cell 401-523-3276
Choir and Junior Choir
Konstantin Petrossian
Home 401-861-3573
Sunday School
Deb Onanian 401.398.0485(home)
401.261.4914 (cell)
Cultural Committee
Konstantin Petrossian
Home 401-861-3573
Investment Committee
Doctor Robert Janigian
Memorial Dinner Committee
Marc Janigian
Cell 401-523-3276
Newsletter/Website/Kiosk
Leonard J Arzoomanian,
Cell 508-958-7391
Sports Committee
Terrance Martiesian
401-272-0269
Membership/Stewardship
Jason Martiesian
Home 401-455-3975
Women’s Guild
Stephanie Masoian
401-862-6323
Advertise in "Paros" Full Page $500/4 Issues Half Page $300/4 Issues
Quarter Page $150/4 Issues Business Card $75/4 Issues
• 1100+ newsletters mailed 4 times a year
• Predominantly Rhode Island addresses
• Predominantly Armenian Subscribers
• Ads accepted on a first come, first serve basis
For information, please call the Church Office 401-272-7712 [email protected] Subject to USPS rules