the pastor s corner mst. sahag & st. mesrob armenian church mer doon winter/spring 2010 page 1...
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St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 1
The Pastor’s Corner
Dear Parishioners,
other’s Day will soon be here and it is a time to reflect and appreciate the
value of our mothers. Young mothers today can be overwhelmed with the
pressures of the modern world and unreasonable expectations of what they should do to
ensure the upbringing of their child or children but sometimes it is the simplest things that are actually
far more important. Time is the most precious gift for any child; spend time with your child and you
will go some way to having a happy and contented youngster.
We can all remember our own childhood and how important our mothers were. We all have busy lives,
juggling work commitments with our family responsibilities, yet somehow mothers have to steer the
development of their child’s life while ensuring all around is also running smoothly. Traditional family
and community values should not be neglected and it has never been more important to instill into our
children a strong moral direction. So take time on Mother’s Day to say “thank you mom” for helping
you through your life from playground traumas to board-room dilemmas – remember it is your mom’s
basic guidance as a child that makes the adult you grow into. Show you Mother how much you love her
and especially on Mother’s Day give your Mom a hug and kiss and remember these are the most
precious moments spent that you will never forget and do not want to ever regret.
Very Rev. Fr. Oshagan Gulgulian, M. Div.
The Mother with the Father’s Heart
If I'm not sure of who I am,
I just need to look at you.
You’re the kind of person I'd like to be...
One who strives to be like Jesus.
I won’t compare your beauty to that Rose,
Although I’ve seen you display God's grace
when life handed you thorns.
No, your humility would not allow it.
Instead I will just remind you, Mom,
that even a little green sprig is celebrated
in a sun-scorched desert.
Yes, you are a sign of living water
in a land of thirsty hearts and souls.
I won’t compare your strength to a mighty tree,
although you’ve shaded many weary people,
in the healing leaves of your prayers;
and fed them by the fruits of the Spirit
abundantly growing from
He Who dwells within you.
Instead I will remind you, Mom,
that all it takes is a few broken twigs
to create a storm-sheltering nest.
And the faith of a little mustard seed
moves God’s heart to produce miracles.
And I won’t compare your loving heart
to all the mothers’ hearts of the world,
because you have the heart
of the loving Heavenly Father.
I love you, Mom,
the way you have taught me to love,
With the love of the Lord.
~~ Melanie Cummings
M
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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Èáõé»ñ سÛñ ²Ãáé êáõñµ ¾çÙdzÍÇÝ¿Ý
From the Holy See of Etchmiadzin His Holiness Karekin II Honored in Moscow
The International Foundation for Unity of Orthodox Christian Nations has bestowed upon His Holiness Karekin II, the
Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, this year’s Unity of Orthodox Peoples Award. His Holiness traveled to
Moscow, Russia in early December to receive the honor, which was presented by His Holiness, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow
and All Russia, who chairs the Foundation for Unity. Other recipients of this year’s Unity of Orthodox Peoples Award
include Russia’s President Dmitry Medvedev and filmmaker Emir Kusturica. Now in its tenth year, the program was
established by His Holiness, Patriarch Alexy II, who led the Russian Orthodox Church until his passing in 2008.
Priests Ordained at Holy Etchmiadzin
On December 13, 12 deacons were ordained into the holy priesthood at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. Of the 12, three
deacons were ordained as celibate priests and became members of the Brotherhood of Etchmiadzin. The newly-ordained
priests were assigned to serve Armenian communities following the completion of their 40-day seclusion period of fasting,
mediation, and prayer. This ordination follows the ordination held last summer at the St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral
in Yerevan. During that service, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America
(Eastern), ordained 27 deacons into the holy priesthood.
Սուրբ Յարութեան տօնը Մայր Աթոռ Սուրբ Էջմիածնում
“Քրիստոս յարուցեալ կեանքի ճանապարհն է,
Քրիստոսով զօրութիւնն ունենք նորոգուելու եւ կեանքը բարեփոխելու”
Ապրիլի 4-ին Մայր Աթոռ Սուրբ Էջմիածնում մեծ հանդիսաւորութեամբ
նշուեց Յիսուս Քրիստոսի հրաշափառ Սուրբ Յարութեան տօնը:
Տէրունական տօնի առիթով Միածնաէջ Մայր Տաճարում պատարագ
մատուցեց Ն.Ս.Օ.Տ.Տ. Գարեգին Բ Ծայրագոյն Պատրիարք եւ Ամենայն
Հայոց Կաթողիկոսը: Զանգերի աւետաբեր ղօղանջների ներքոյ
խաչվառներով զարդարեալ եկեղեցականաց թափօրը Վեհարանից դէպի Սուրբ Տաճար առաջնորդեց
Վեհափառ Հայրապետին եւ ՀՀ նախագահ Սերժ Սարգսեանին:
Հայրապետական ամպհովանակիրներն էին ՀԲԸՄ Վարչութեան անդամներ Արիս Ադամեանը եւ Վազգէն
Եակուբեանը, ―Փիւնիկ‖ բարեգործական հիմնադրամի նախագահ Լեւոն Սարգսեանը եւ ԱԺ պատգամաւոր
Արա Բաբլոյեանը: Սուրբ եւ Անմահ Պատարագի ընթացքին Նորին Սրբութեան առընթերականներն էին Մայր
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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Աթոռ Սուրբ Էջմիածնի դիւանապետ Տ. Արշակ եպիսկոպոս Խաչատրեանը եւ Երեւանի Սբ. Գրիգոր
Լուսաւորիչ մայր եկեղեցու հոգեւոր տեսուչ Տ. Անուշաւան եպիսկոպոս Ժամկոչեանը:
Պատարագի սրբազան արարողութեան ընթացքին Նորին Սրբութիւնը Հայրապետական իր պատգամը յղեց
Փրկչի Յարութեան տօնի առիթով համայն հայ ժողովրդին` ամենքին փոխանցելով “Քրիստոս յարեաւ ի
մեռելոց” կենդանարար աւետիսը` պատգամի բնաբան ընտրելով “Հաւատի բարի մարտը մղիր եւ պինդ
կառչիր յաւիտենական կեանքից, որին կանչուեցիր” առաքելական խօսքը: (Ա Տիմ. Զ 12)
Հանրապետութեան նախագահից բացի Սուրբ Պատարագի արարողութեանը ներկայ էին նաեւ ՀՀ ԱԺ
նախագահ Յովիկ Աբրահամեանը, ՀԲԸՄ նախագահ Պերճ Սեդրակեանը եւ ՀԲԸՄ Վարչութեան անդամներ, ԱԺ
պատգամաւորներ, ՀՀ կառավարութեան անդամներ, Գերագոյն Հոգեւոր Խորհրդի անդամներ, Հայաստանում
հաւատարմագրուած դիւանագիտական առաքելութիւնների ղեկավարներ, միջազգային
կազմակերպութիւնների ներկայացուցիչներ, բարերար հայորդիներ, գիտութեան, կրթութեան եւ մշակոյթի
գործիչներ:
Յաւարտ Սուրբ Պատարագի Վեհարանում տեղի ունեցաւ պաշտօնական ընդունելութիւն, որի ընթացքում
Ամենայն Հայոց Կաթողիկոսը հրաւիրեալներին վերստին բերեց Հայրապետական իր օրհնութիւնն ու
բարեմաղթանքները:
Around the World
Jerusalem Patriarch Torkom Manoogian is Honored
by Catholicos and the Republic of Armenia with the St. Mesrob Mashdotz Medal
His Holiness Karekin II traveled to Jerusalem on February 15, where he presented His Beatitude, Archbishop Torkom
Manoogian, the Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem, with the Medal of St. Mesrob Mashdots. Archbishop Khajag Barsamian
and Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, the Diocesan Legate of the Eastern Diocese, were invited by His Holiness to attend the
presentation ceremony as members of the Brotherhood of St. James of the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem. Also
attending the ceremony were the Primates of other Dioceses of the Armenian Church, government officials, and guests. The
Mesrob Mashdots Medal is an exemplary distinction awarded by the Republic of Armenia, at the order of its President.
Armenian President Serge Sargsian issued the medal to Patriarch Torkom Manoogian on the occasion of the 20th anniversary
of the Patriarch’s enthronement, and in recognition of his lifetime devotion to, and leadership of, the Armenian Church and
nation.
Iraq’s Armenian Church Helps in Creation of Ecumenical Body
The Diocese of the Armenian Church of Iraq is a member of the newly established Council of Christian Church Leaders of
Iraq, which includes representatives of the Roman Catholic, Orthodox, Oriental, and Protestant churches. The meeting to
launch the council was held at St. Garabed monastery of the Diocese of the Armenian Church in Baghdad on February 9.
Archbishop Avak Asadourian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of Iraq, was elected General Secretary of the
Council. The goal of the new organization is to promote ecumenical projects and programs and to allow church leaders to
share experiences about their ministry throughout the country.
In the Diocese of the
Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
New Clergy Appointments
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian recently appointed four priests to serve parishes in Waukegan, Ill.,
Cheltenham, Pa., Cleveland, OH, and St. Paul, Minn. The four priests – Rev. Fr. Paren Galstyan, Rev. Fr.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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Hakob Gevorgyan, Rev. Fr. Martiros Hakobyan, and Rev. Fr. Hratch Sargsyan – completed their studies in Armenia and
were ordained there prior to their arrival in the U.S., with the blessings of His Holiness Karekin II and at the invitation of the
Primate. They spent the last few years interning with clergy in the Eastern Diocese to learn more about the Armenian Church
of America and to prepare to serve the local Armenian communities. Of these four new clergy, the Rev. Fr. Hakob
Gevorgyan has been appointed as the new Pastor of our local sister parish, Holy Trinity Armenian Church, in Cheltnehm,
PA. Fr. Gevorgyan began serving as the pastor of Holy Trinity Armenian Church on January 2, 2010. He is a graduate of the
Vaskenian and Gevorkyan seminaries in Armenia. Fr. Gevorgyan also studied at the Oriental Churches Institute in Germany,
and while still a deacon, he worked as the administrator of the storehouses of Holy Etchmiadzin’s Treasury and Pontifical
Residence. He was ordained into the holy priesthood in December 2007 by Bishop Marcos Hovhannesian. In February
2008, Fr. Hakob traveled to New York and began his internship at St. Gregory the Enlightener Armenian Church of White
Plains, under the guidance of the Rev. Fr. Karekin Kasparian. At the same time, he enrolled in English language courses at
Concordia and Manhatanville colleges, and completed the Clinical Pastoral Education Program at Westchester Medical
Center in Valhalla, NY. Fr. Hakob Gevorgyan and Yn. Anna Gevorgyan have one son, Narek. On Sunday, January 17, the
Parish Council had its official welcome banquet in his honor with over 300 parishioners and other members of the Armenian
community present.
A Departure from the Diocesan Staff
College Ministry facilitator, Julie Hoplamazian, has left her position in the Department of Youth and Education to take up a
teaching position in New York City. Julie joined the Diocesan staff in 2006 and was a creative and inspiring leader of the
College Ministry outreach effort. To Armenian college students across our Diocese, Julie was a mentor, a friend, and an
encouraging presence in their lives over these past several years. She was especially helpful to young people facing their first
extended time away from the security of home, and who felt a need to connect with their church and heritage in a meaningful
way. Seizing upon her formal training in music and education, Julie has moved on to teach music to elementary school
students in Harlem and the Bronx. We know that Julie’s many friends and colleagues throughout our Diocese will keep fond
memories of working with her to advance the mission of the Armenian Church in America.
Women’s Guild School Bag Project to Provide Over 1,000 Bags for Children of Armenia
Some 50 volunteers gathered last October at St. Leon Armenian Church of Fair Lawn, NJ, to assemble 1,140 school bags for
shipment to students in Armenia, as part of the School Bag Project of the Women’s Guild Central Council. The bags were
distributed to students in rural schools by local Fund for Armenian Relief representatives. The School Bag Project was
launched in 1992, and has been chaired by Yn. Violet Kasparian. Since its inception, the program has provided more than
10,000 children with school supplies.
Armenian Church of the Holy Martyrs Hosts
Farewell Banquet for the Very Fr. Vahan Hovhanessian
The Armenian Church of the Holy Martyrs of Bayside, NY, hosted a farewell banquet on January 24, for its pastor, the Very.
Rev. Fr. Vahan Hovhanessian. Diocesan Vicar, the Very Rev. Fr. Haigazoun Najarian, represented the Primate on the
occasion. Fr. Hovhanessian served Holy Martyrs Church for nine years and was recently asked by His Holiness Karekin II to
continue his ministry as the Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of England.
Sacred Music Council Meets at Diocesan Center
Meeting at the Diocesan Center on January 23, members of the Sacred Music Council discussed the upcoming summer
Junior Choir Leadership Program and began planning for this inaugural National Choir Workshop, a series of seminars,
rehearsals, and performances designed to strengthen the work of parish choirs, choir directors, and organists. Both the Junior
Choir Leadership Program and the National Choir Workshop will be held at the Ararat Center in upstate New York, with the
former scheduled for August 15-22, and the latter for August 20-22. Parishes are encouraged to recruit young choir members
interested in the Junior Choir Leadership Program.
Christian Education Coordinator Attends Meeting of the NCC’s
Education and Leadership Ministries Commission in Nashville, TN
Elise Antreassian, the Diocese’s Christian Education Coordinator, attended the annual Administrative Board and general
meeting of the Education and Leadership Ministries Commission (ELMC) of the National Council of Churches (NCC). The
meeting was held January 24-27 in Nashville, TN. The ELMC, representing 36 denominations including the Armenian
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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Church, and working through 14 program committees, is devoted to concerns of parish and congregational Christian
education, higher education, leadership development, and biblical translation. Elise serves on the Administrative Board, and
was elected this year to serve as interim vice chair of the commission. She had served as worship leader in the past, sharing
the liturgical experience of the Armenian Church with a very appreciative ELMC membership.
Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information Center Launches New Blog
Blog Launch: The Zohrab Center is proud to announce its new blog, http://zohrabcenter.wordpress.com. Visit the online
publication for information on upcoming events, news about the center’s work, and other updates. To contact the Zohrab
Center, call (212) 686-0710, or e-mail [email protected].
St. Leon Armenian Church Women’s Guild Publishes Recipe Collection
The Women’s Guild of St. Leon Armenian Church of Fair Lawn, NJ, recently completed a
collection of treasured Armenian and American culinary offerings, titled Recipes & Recollections.
Accompanying the recipes are brief stories and useful tips to guide the reader. The book is
dedicated to grandmothers, mothers, and departed members of the St. Leon Church Women’s Guild.
Now in its 82nd year, the St. Leon Church Women's Guild is known for its excellent culinary
creations. Please visit our Armenian Heritage store in Hayatian Hall if you wish to purchase a copy.
Women’s Guild Releases Hye Reflections Newsletter
The Women’s Guild Central Council has released a new edition of its newsletter, Hye Reflections. Highlights include
updates on the School Bags project, a review of last fall’s symposium in Philadelphia, and the recent publication of New
Faith to New World: Stories from the History of the Armenian Church, which was sponsored by the Women’s Guild through
funds raised during past Saintly Women’s Day commemorations across the parishes.
Parishioner of St. Kevork Armenian Church of Houston, TX Distributes New Film
Filmmaker Garen Topalian recently secured distribution for his second feature film The Beatnicks, which is available for rent
via Netflix, and will be available for retail sale in April 2010. Set in Los Angeles, The Beatnicks follows a poet (Norman
Reedus) and a musician (Mark Boone Jr.) who are in search of a new gig. Topalian served as executive producer of the
project.
Mission Parish of Nashville Continues Virtual Sunday School Program
The mission parish of the Armenian Church of Nashville is continuing its recently developed Virtual Sunday School
program, which allows teachers to conduct lessons online using web conferencing software. Classes are held weekly for 30
minutes, and separate sessions are offered for the 9-13 and 4-8 age groups. Once a month, students and teachers meet in
person to supplement the virtual classes with review sessions and art projects.
CBS’ 60 Minutes Program Airs Segment on the Armenian Genocide
Long-running CBS news program 60 Minutes aired a segment on the Armenian Genocide
during its broadcast on Sunday, February 28, featuring an interview with Prof. Peter
Balakian, author of Black Dog of Fate and The Burning Tigris, and co-translator/editor of
Armenian Golgotha. Reporting the story was senior correspondent Bob Simon, who
previously reported on a segment on the Greek Orthodox Ecumenical Patriarch of
Constantinople. The program also included footage from a visit to Der Zor, Syria, where
450,000 Armenians perished during the Genocide, among other interviews and details
documenting the 1915 massacres in the Ottoman Empire.
For those who did not get a chance to see the segment on the Armenian Genocide, please visit
http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/60minutes/main3415.shtml?tag=hdr;cnav for a summary. For those who did view the
segment, please take a moment to thank CBS and 60 Minutes for featuring the Armenian Genocide:
You can email them at [email protected] or phone them at 212-975-3247.
If you wish to send a message to Bob Simon, the 60 Minutes correspondent who reported the segment about the
Armenian Genocide, you can email him at [email protected].
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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If you wish to comment on the segment, you can go to www.cbs.com, scroll down to the very bottom, click on the
small words saying User Feedback and write your comments or you can send a letter to: 60 Minutes, 524 West
57th Street, New York, NY 10019.
To order tapes and DVDs, either visit the CBS Online Store, or send an email to CBS News Archives (email is on their
website) or call 800-338-4847. DVDs are also available at http://www.Amazon.com.
To order a transcript of the segment, call (212) 975-6441 (transcripts are not available on the web.)
Everyone Prays at Holy Etchmiadzin Nominated for 2010 New York Emmy Award
Everyone Prays at Holy Etchmiadzin, a documentary about the Armenian Church, has been nominated for a 2010 New York
Emmy Award. The film details the history and spiritual heritage of the Armenian Church, with a particular focus on the
efforts of the modern Armenian Church to foster Christian unity and interfaith dialogue. The project was produced by Diva
Communications under the leadership of the Eastern Diocese and the National Council of Churches. It aired on ABC-
affiliated stations throughout the United States in December 2008. The awards gala will be held in New York City on
Sunday, April 18. Other nominees in the Religious Programming category include Heavenly Harmony, The Holy Mountain,
The McDonald's Gospelfest 2009, Million Dollar Mistake, and Mysteries of the Church.
Summer Internship Program at the Eastern Diocese
This summer the Eastern Diocese will once again partner with the AGBU Summer Intern Program to offer an eight-week
internship at the Diocesan Center from June 13 to August 7. The program is open to young adults between the ages of 20 and
26. Interns may choose to work in areas such as accounting, development, public relations, education, music ministry, or in
the Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information Center. They will be housed with other AGBU interns in New York University
dormitories, and will engage in various AGBU-sponsored educational, cultural, and social activities. There is no cost to
participate in the program. The application deadline is May 1, 2010. For information or to receive an application, contact
Nancy Basmajian at [email protected], or (212) 686-0710, ext. 143.
News on St. Vartan Camp and Hye Camp
Announcing the 2010 Diocesan Summer Camp Programs
Mark your calendars for a summer filled with friendship, fellowship, and fun at St. Vartan Camp. The beginning of the 2010
camp season is only months away and the brochures for St. Vartan Camp have all been distributed. Online registration began
on February 15 and the Diocese is looking forward to another summer. To apply for camp, please go to
www.armenianchurch.net/stvartancamp.
St. Vartan Camp 2010 at the Ararat Center in Greenville, NY
Staff Training: Wednesday, June 23–Saturday, June 26
Session A: Sunday, June 27–Saturday, July 10
Session B: Sunday, July 11–Saturday, July 24
Session C: Sunday, July 25–Saturday, August 7
To receive more information about either camp program, contact Jennifer Morris, Youth Outreach coordinator, at
[email protected], or at (212) 686-0710 ext. 118.
Appointment of St. Vartan Camp Director for Session C
Over the past several years, both Diocesan camp programs have witnessed an encouraging expansion in scope and
participation, under the leadership of our camp directors—Fr. Krikor Sabounjian at St. Vartan Camp, and Fr. Aren Jebejian at
Hye Camp—and our Diocesan Youth Outreach Coordinator, Jennifer Morris. Their leadership will continue to guide our
camp programs, which provide unparalleled opportunities for our children to grow in their faith and heritage. The Diocese
has also appointed a new camp director for Session C of St. Vartan Camp – Fr. Vasken Kouzouian, Pastor of the Holy Trinity
Church of Cambridge, MA. Fr. Vasken returns to this position with a strong background in youth ministry, having spent
many summers attending camp and serving in various capacities. It is worth noting here that St. Vartan Camp has provided
its vital ministry to our youth for 30 years, and Hye Camp will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2011. This year, well
over 500 campers, counselors-in-training, and staff will take part in Diocesan camp programs.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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News from St. Nersess Armenian Seminary
St. Nersess Armenian Seminary Offering
Online Course on the Divine Liturgy
On February 3, St. Nersess Armenian Seminary offered the second session of its
online course titled Worthy and Right: The Divine Liturgy of the Armenian Church.
Broadcast live online through the seminary’s Global Classroom program, the course
is taught by the Very Rev. Fr. Daniel Findikyan, seminary dean and professor of Liturgical Studies. The course focuses on
the meaning and significance of the Divine Liturgy, the main worship service of the Armenian Church. Lectures and related
electronic materials explore the biblical roots of the Divine Liturgy, the development of the service, and other topics. The
online format allows those who do not live near the seminary’s New Rochelle, NY, campus to benefit from the unique
educational resources of St. Nersess. To view the lectures delivered, go to www.stnersess.edu and visit the video archives in
the Global Classroom section of the website.
Walk For Faith
St. Nersess Armenian Seminary held its second annual Walk-for-Faith event on Sunday, April 11, with more than 60 people
turning out to support the seminary. The day began with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, followed by lunch and the
3K-walk.
Diocesan Legate’s Activities
At National Council of Churches Assembly,
Archbishop Aykazian Reflects on Term as President
The National Council of Churches’ annual general assembly met
November 11-13 in Minneapolis, Minn., under the joint presidency of
Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, NCC President and Legate of the
Diocese, and Bishop Johncy Itty (who chairs the board of directors of
the NCC’s outreach arm, Church World Service). The meeting
marked the last time the country’s largest ecumenical organization
would gather under Archbishop Aykazian’s presidency. Elected to a
standard two-year term of office in 2007, he is the first Armenian
clergyman (and the first of the Oriental Orthodox family of churches)
to be elected to head the NCC. Archbishop Aykazian also serves on
the central committee of the World Council of Churches, and is an
active figure in the national and international ecumenical arenas.
Primate and Legate Attend Evening in Honor of Dr. Vartan Gregorian
On December 1, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian and Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, attended an awards dinner honoring Dr.
Vartan Gregorian. Dr. Gregorian – past president of Brown University and the New York Public Library, who now heads
the Carnegie Corporation of New York – was presented with the Andrew Heiskell Lifetime Achievement Award for his work
―in advancing the cause of education and promoting its importance to the successful functioning of democracy.‖ The award
was presented by Thomas Kean, former governor of New Jersey. The event was hosted in New York by the local chapter of
Common Cause, a national advocacy organization.
Diocesan Legate Addresses Christian Churches Together Meeting in Seattle, WA
Archbishop Vicken Aykazian addressed U.S. religious leaders during the January 12-15 annual meeting of Christian
Churches Together in Seattle, WA. Archbishop Aykazian spoke about poverty and evangelism. He called on churches,
businesses, and communities to work together to reduce poverty worldwide, noting that in the U.S. alone some 37 million
people live below the poverty level. Archbishop Aykazian also discussed concerns raised by proselytizing activities in
Armenia, where missionaries from the West have posed challenges for the Armenian Church. Archbishop Aykazian is a
member of the Steering Committee of Christian Churches Together.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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Archbishop Aykazian Speaks at Annual Meeting of the Massachusetts Council of Churches
On January 23, Archbishop Aykazian was the guest preacher at the 2010 Annual Meeting of the Massachusetts Council of
Churches, held at Assumption College in Worcester, MA. More than 100 representatives from 17 member denominations
gathered for the meeting, which included a prayer service for Christian unity. During the meeting's business session,
Archbishop Aykazian spoke on The Challenge of Environmental, Economic, and Social Justice. The Armenian Church
joined the Massachusetts Council of Churches four years ago, with the Rev. Fr. Arakel Aljalian, Pastor of St. James
Armenian Church in Watertown, MA, serving on the organization’s Board of Directors.
President Sargsyan Visits Washington National
Cathedral; Diocesan Primate, Legate Attend Service
On Monday, April 11, President Serge Sargsyan of the Republic of Armenia visited the Washington National Cathedral in
Washington, DC, where he took part in a requiem service and placed a wreath on the tomb of President Woodrow Wilson,
who was an advocate of independent Armenia. Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, and Archbishop Vicken
Aykazian, Diocesan Legate, attended the day’s events. President Sargsyan— who traveled to Washington to take part in the
Nuclear Security Summit hosted by President Barack Obama—spoke about the Armenian Genocide and the importance of
handling the Armenia-Turkey protocols without preconditions. Washington-area Armenian Genocide survivors and other
community members also took part in the event.
Updates on the Fund for Armenian Relief
New Virtual Lab Opens at FAR’s Gyumri Information Technology Center
and Center Receives USAid Grant to Train New Instructors
In January, the Fund for Armenian Relief’s Gyumri Information Technology (―GTech‖) Center launched a new network
technology training program sponsored by D-Link, an international networking and data communications company
headquartered in Taiwan. The new program is a virtual lab offering courses in network technology. D-Link has also pledged
to award scholarships to two GTech students. Also, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Competitive
Armenian Private Sector Program is supporting a new project at GTech titled Training of Trainees, a program which will
help prepare future instructors for GTech. Recent GTech graduates will have the opportunity to work with Armenian high
tech companies to prepare to teach new generations of GTech students.
Dr. Edgar Housepian Honored by FAR
On January 15, FAR marked its 20th anniversary and honored one of its founding members, Dr. Edgar M. Housepian, at a
gala banquet in Manhattan. His Holiness Karekin II presided, as some 450 people gathered to recognize Dr. Housepian’s
many contributions to medicine, and his involvement in the relief and medical efforts in Armenia. His Holiness presented
Dr. Housepian with the Soorp Krikor Loosavorich medal, the highest honor in the Armenian Church. In addition, Dr.
Housepian received the Mkhitar Heratzi Medal, presented to him by Tatoul Markarian, Armenia’s Ambassador to the United
States, on behalf of Armenia’s President Serge Sargsyan. The evening also focused on Dr. Housepian’s vision for the future
of medicine and medical education in Armenia through FAR’s programs. Randy Sapah-Gulian, Chair of FAR’s Board of
Directors, outlined the organization’s current projects, and spoke about the impact FAR has had on the lives of Armenia’s
citizens over the past two decades. The event helped raise nearly $1 million for the Dr. Edgar M. Housepian Medical
Education Fund.
Recent Donations to FAR Make Possible Improvements
at Vanadzor Orphanage and Nubarashen Special School
FAR recently received generous donations from Mr. and Mrs. Michael and Mary Haratunian, of Glen Head, NY, which
allowed FAR to purchase Gas Pressure Regulation equipment for the Vanadzor Orphanage, which will help reduce costs and
improve the natural gas supply. Additionally, a water tank was installed to temporarily supply water to the orphanage
kitchen. The funds were also used to purchase winter shoes for children and a vacuum cleaner for the Nubarashen Special
School.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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Helping the Victims of the Haitian Earthquake
It has been 21 years since the earthquake that destroyed large areas of Armenia—and 21 years since the world’s beautiful
outpouring of goodwill towards our country and its people. In mid-January, another such tragedy struck on the island nation
of Haiti. In a region already beset by difficulties, this natural disaster was especially destructive, and the news and images
were terribly disheartening. All parishes of the Eastern Diocese were asked to contribute to the relief of this disaster. The
Diocese, through FAR, coordinated this relief effort, working with the National Council of Churches. Thanks to the
generosity of our faithful, over $30,000 was raised. The funds were distributed through Church World Service, the
humanitarian aid arm of the National Council of Churches, with a long record of effective outreach to those in need around
the world.
Join us in 2010 and do more than just see the country’s landmarks! You’ll learn about Armenia’s place in the world, her
religious, political and economic heritage, and engage government and religious leaders in official state visits. You’ll visit
FARs projects in the country and engage in conversations with beneficiaries. You’ll meet with the new established Minister
of Diaspora and His Holiness Catholicos Karekin II in Etchmiadzin. You will also visit FAR’s programs, such as the
Homeless Children’s Center in Yerevan and the Gyumri Information and Technology Center.
The 15th annual FAR Young Professionals Trip will take place July 7th to July 21st, 2010. The two-week trip to Armenia
will include tours of the entire country, with overnights in Yerevan, Stepanakert, Gyumri, Sanahin, Lake Sevan, and Goris.
For more information please visit our Hayastani Kidak
FAR Recognized for its Development Efforts in Gyumri
The city of Gyumri recently recognized FAR as one of the first organizations to support development in the local area. In
addition to providing immediate assistance after the 1988 earthquake, FAR has initiated a number of long-term projects to
bolster education, technology and other sectors in Gyumri. One of its well-known programs is the Gyumri Information
Technology Center, which provides web development and other information technology training to the city’s post-graduate
students. During a special ceremony this month, the mayor of Gyumri presented FAR representatives with a copy of a newly
published book about the city. Titled Gyumri, the book was released in 2009.
FAR Representatives Meet with Mathevosian Scholarship Program Participants in Armenia;
Anoush Mathevosian Honored by FAR for Her Visionary Philanthropy in Armenia
Within the framework of the Mathevosian Scholarship Program, FAR sponsors six medical residents in Armenia who pursue
their post-graduate education at Yerevan State Medical University. As part of the scholarship program, students improve their
professional skills while also maintaining close relationships with the regional hospitals where they will work upon their
graduation. In February, the six scholarship recipients participated in a meeting with representatives of the Yerevan State
Medical University and FAR, where they had the opportunity to discuss their academic progress and share thoughts about the
program. One of the six students recently graduated and began service at the Dilijan Health Center in Dilijan, Armenia.
The Mathevosian Scholarship Program was established in 1997 by Anoush Mathevosian of Great Neck, NY, a visionary
benefactor who was recently honored by Holy Etchmiadzin, the Republic of Armenia, and the Eastern Diocese of the
Armenian Church of America. Ms. Mathevosian was visited in her New York home by Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, the
Diocesan Primate; Ambassador Garen Nazarian, Armenia’s UN ambassador; and Garnik Nanagoulian, executive director of
the Fund for Armenian Relief and honored for her unmatched generosity to the Fund for Armenian Relief—and through
FAR, to the Republic of Armenia. Through FAR, Ms. Mathevosian has built new schools and summer camps, renovated
university labs and auditoriums, and funded educational scholarships for deserving students. ―You are a powerful example of
how to invest in Armenia’s future, in the most effective and wisest way,‖ said Ambassador Nazarian, as he presented Ms.
Mathevosian with the ―Gold Medal‖ of Armenia’s Ministry of Science and Education. Archbishop Barsamian presented Ms.
Mathevosian with the ―St. Gregory the Illuminator Medal‖—the highest award of Holy Etchmiadzin, bestowed by His
Holiness Karekin II, the Catholicos of All Armenians. ―The leadership of the Armenian Church and nation greatly appreciate
all of your efforts on behalf of our homeland,‖ the Primate said.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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Fund for Armenian Relief Shows Significant Growth
of Assets According to Recent Financial Audit Report
FAR’s Board of Directors met on March 24, under the leadership of chair Randy Sapah-Gulian. Diocesan Primate and FAR
Board President Archbishop Khajag Barsamian presided over the meeting, which included a presentation of the
organization’s 2009 financial audit report. Despite the generally unaccommodating economic environment, FAR registered a
significant growth of assets, increased its donor base, and demonstrated continued progress in strengthening its operational
and administrative capabilities. Year after year, FAR has been proving to its loyal donor community that it spends donated
funds with care, by cost-effectively reaching out to help more and more underprivileged people in Armenia and Karabagh.
The auditors stressed that FAR’s accountability, transparency, and strong internal control mechanisms are tools that allowed
FAR to achieve higher standards in providing its services and managing the assets of the organization. The final audit report
will be made available for donors and benefactors soon.
Dear Lord, Thank You For Being There
Dear Lord turn not away, From your people on this day, We need the touch of your mighty hand,
To guide us through this, thy land.
Protect and keep us from doing wrong, Make us see we do belong,
To live our life for the plans you will, Not to complain, your will to fulfill.
Give thy strength and love to guide,
For in you Lord we must abide, Send your Angels to make a band, So we can do the work at hand.
Forsake us not for we are weak,
We knock at the door and always seek, For answers to questions we cannot find,
Only through you Lord will we have peace of mind.
Thank you Lord for being there, Showing that you love and care,
Stay by our side throughout the years, When we reach Heaven you'll wipe our tears.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 11
IN MEMORIAM:
Ygn. Marie Der Asadourian
Ygn. Marie Der Asadourian, beloved wife of the late Fr. Vartan Der Asadourian, of blessed memory, passed away in late
February. In a letter to yeretzgin’s family, the Primate, wrote: ―Throughout her life, yeretzgin held the church very close
to her heart. The foundation of that spirit was established in her earliest days when her family lived adjacent to the
seminary of the Great House of Cilicia, in Lebanon....Her knowledge of the church, and especially of Scripture, was
profound. Through her marriage to Fr. Vartan, Ygn. Marie emerged as a loving wife, a caring mother and grandmother,
and a deeply compassionate Christian woman.‖ She is survived by her children Vatche, Harry, and Ralph, and their
families. Her funeral took place on March 2, at Holy Resurrection Armenian Church in New Britain, CT.
Ohannes Barsamian
Dirahayr Ohannes Barsamian, the father of our Primate, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, passed away on January 22,
following a brief period of illness, at the age of 91. Dirahayr Barsamian was a man of deep Christian devotion, who had
the quiet, gracious manners of an Old World gentleman, coupled with an unconquerable patriotism and love for his
heritage. Simply to be in an Armenian Church, especially during one of its festive liturgical celebrations, filled him with
joy and delight—and he radiated that feeling of joy in our Lord to all around him. He was a familiar figure at St. Vartan
Cathedral, where his saintly demeanor made him beloved and respected by all. He always wore the title of Dirahayr with
great dignity, and a great sense of responsibility. Funeral services took place at St. Leon Armenian Church, in Fair Lawn,
NJ, on January 26. His Holiness Karekin II, presided and delivered a message of consolation. Archbishop Vatche
Hovsepian, formerly the Primate of the Western Diocese, officiated and Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, the present
Primate of the Western Diocese, delivered a heartfelt eulogy. Bishops from the Armenian Church and sister churches,
and clergymen from throughout the Diocese, took part in the funeral service. Dirahayr Ohannes is survived by his wife,
Diramayr Bulbul, their three children: Mardiros, and Nivart, and their families, and Archbishop Khajag.
Thomas Brinker
Thomas Michael Brinker, passed away on February 11, 2010 at the age of 76. He was born in Philadelphia and lived in
Springfield, PA for many years before moving to Naples, Florida, ten years ago. He served in the U.S. Army and was a
member of the Ice Capades, in the 1950s, performing throughout the United Stated and around the world, prior to starting
his 40-year career as a financial consultant, founding The Brinker Organization in Havertown, PA. He graduated from
Eastern University. He received designations of MSFS, CFP, CHFC, CLU AEP, and DBA. He was a former radio host of
Financial Foresight on WWDB, 96.5 FM from 1981 to 1990. He also founded the Tom Brinker Operation Christmas
Baskets. He is survived by his former wife of 47 years, Doris M. Brinker; and four children, Thomas (Donna) Brinker,
James (Sherilyn) Brinker, Joseph (Pam) Brinker, and Diane Brinker. He is also survived by 13 loving grandchildren,
Ryan, Thomas, Talene, Meghan, Andrew, Joey, Jack, Danny, Brooke, Brianna, Sharlene, Kyle, Alec; and his sister, Ann
(Jack) Riehl. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fetal Hope Foundation, Rena Rowan Breast Cancer
Center, Tom Brinker Operation Christmas Baskets, or the GV Autism Support Group, c/o Joe Brinker, 1 North Armand
Avenue, Havertown, PA 19083.
Rev. Fr. Vahram Hazarian
Rev. Fr. Vahram Hazarian, passed away on January 13, 2010, at the age of 73. Der Vahram was a kind and gentle soul,
whose faithful, spiritual nature made him well-beloved by the people of our Diocese, and especially by those in our
Midwestern communities, where he served our Lord for so long. He is survived by his wife, Ygn. Shoushan, and their
children Raffi and Tamar. Funeral services were held on January 18, in St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church in
Chicago, beginning with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. On Sunday, February 28, on the 40th day of his passing,
parishes throughout the Eastern Diocese performed a special hokehankisd service for the repose of Fr. Vahram’s soul.
The family has asked that in-lieu-of-flowers donations be made to the Eastern Diocese’s Clergy Assistance Fund. Checks
should be made out to the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Memo: Fr. Hazarian/Clergy Assistance Fund),
630 Second Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10016.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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A MESSAGE FROM OUR PARISH COUNCIL CHAIRPERSON
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
In the recent months we have witnessed an especially active time in our Parish. During this time, I have had the opportunity
to discover our community’s dedication to the Armenian Church at an entirely new level. And while many of the activities
we engaged in were not new to our normal schedule, it is the spirit that has been brought to them that has me most excited
about the prospects of this year and what it can be in terms of the Armenian Church’s fulfillment of her mission in the
Philadelphia Community.
The best way to describe this spirit is that it has been one of collective attention and collaboration. If you were to scan the
different events and programs that have occurred since the beginning of the year, what stands out is the degree to which
everyone has been involved. From the Men’s Club with their recent Dinner/Dance, the ACYOA’s Variety Show and
involvement with the April 24th
Commemoration; and finally, the inspiring show of support from everyone on Easter through
the bone marrow drive to support a young girl, Charlotte Conybear, from our community; this spirit has been clearly visible
evident in our community.
Another example of this spirit was our Lenten Season which culminated with Holy Week. Each Friday evening following the
Lenten service, we had the opportunity to hear from individuals from our immediate and extended Armenian community.
Thanks to the work of Lisa Manookian in partnership with Hayr Sourp, this year’s series was a huge success. The series not
only inspired and educated those who attended, but it also solidified this program as a must-see event from week to week for
Armenians throughout the Philadelphia area.
The long list of events, activities and programs also includes our Annual Parish Assembly. There we discussed the
accomplishments of 2009 and the commitments we have for 2010. We also shared about areas within the Parish that need
our collective attention. One of the most significant areas mentioned in this discussion was our Sunday School. For years,
we have had extremely dedicated people doing everything they can to ensure that our Sunday School continues. While that is
still true today, an added element of everyone’s participation is now required in order for us to be able to maximize the
benefit it can have to our community.
An additional area that needs the collective attention of the entire community is Membership. When considering
Membership, everyone baptized in the Armenian Apostolic Church is considered a Member. With that said, an additional
fundamental aspect of membership is the idea of dues. Dues are the initial foundational vehicle for contributing to the
Church. When dues paid membership increases, there is more possible in the Parish because of the confidence of knowing
that the financial support from the community is there.
In recent years, dues paid membership has gradually declined. At the Assembly, we shared about the Parish Council’s
commitment to reverse that trend. Specifically, we are now actively working on different strategies to return to 300 dues-
paid members. With your partnership, we intend to achieve this with the understanding that it will permeate all other areas of
the Parish including the Sunday School and youth in general. When there are more dues paid members, the Parish becomes
stronger in our local community and more people have a voice in the Parish. Additionally, when participation increases, the
number of people who are connected to the Church increases, thus more children and grandchildren to attend the Sunday
School and be a part of the ACYOA.
As someone who was baptized in this Parish, attended Sunday School and has grown up through participation in our
ACYOA, I have been a beneficiary of the kind of work that is possible when the people of our community come together.
Today, we have a new responsibility to come together to ensure that our children and grandchildren continue to have the kind
of Church that we have had and has made us who we are. I appreciate your commitment and dedication to this future and
look forward to our partnership as we work to achieve this together.
Alex Topakbashian
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 13
PARISH PAGES
Annual Christmas Bazaar
Thank you one and all for helping to make the 2009 Annual Christmas Bazaar the great success it was. From
the committee members to all who came and supported the Bazaar – you were instrumental in its success –
especially in light of the inclement weather on Saturday night. Through everyone’s efforts, we netted
$28,001.76.
A project of this magnitude could only succeed with a multitude of individuals working together, whether cooking, baking,
serving at the buffet, or assisting with numerous other responsibilities. I realize there are many who gave their time and
efforts to make this a wonderful and successful Bazaar – so whoever I have not mentioned specifically by name, thank you
one and all. However, I do wish to acknowledge some individuals.
The main focus of our Bazaar is, of course, the great food – prepared by our fantastic cooks, Maro
Arutunian and Julyet Degirmenci. We are also fortunate to have a great group of men who always come
out to help in preparing the meat and in cooking. They never let us down – thank you guys.
The Attic Treasures, headed by Alma Alabilikian and very ably assisted by Rose Bazarbashian and a
number of helpers, did a marvelous job. To all our parishioners and friends who contributed by ―recycling their treasures,‖
you all helped to make this a financial success. Also, it was great fun to see people so excited about giving their own
treasures and then finding new treasures to take home! Pam Brinker and Karen Cannuscio, who coordinated the Chinese
Auction, did an outstanding job in obtaining the large assortment of wonderful prizes.
The Advance Orders is always a huge source of income for the Bazaar and Lynn Baboujian did a great job. No one knows
how very time consuming this is. Our beautifully decorated hall, Church and Narthex lifted our spirits thanks to Jovia
Keytanjian and her beautiful and creative decorating. The well-staffed buffet table was due to the efforts of Carol
Leszczynski, who also ran the book store. To Haig Geovjian, who runs the beverage table every year and his helpers –
thank you for being there. Thank you to Arpy Jones for her efforts in raising donations through the dinner donations, which
helped to offset some of our expenses. She did a great job, especially considering the economic situation that we have been
faced with. Also, Lisa Manookian, who again did a terrific job with the publicity and various articles in the local
newspapers. And, of course, where would we be without the sweet table. Thank you to all who contributed the great goodies
and to Alice Arakelian, Millie Barsamian and Stephanie Barsamian, who manned the table. A special thank you to
Laraine Ballard, our Treasurer, who took care of the finances throughout the entire Bazaar – not an easy task.
Once again, this year, we had our Mini Oral Auction and acknowledge Sarkis Etoian for being the auctioneer. Our luncheon
after church on Sunday proved to be another success. After the luncheon, through the efforts of Alma Alabilikian, 38
individuals went to the Philadelphia Museum of Art to see the Gorky exhibition. It was indeed the perfect climax to a
wonderful weekend.
Which brings us to this coming year’s Bazaar. The Parish Council needs someone to chair this year’s Bazaar – or perhaps a
team of two or three people. Please consider volunteering and if interested, give Parish Council Chair, Alex Topakbashian a
call at 610-529-0321.
Elizabeth Barsamian
Family Breakfast Sunday
On Sunday, January 31, 2010, the Parish Council and Men’s Club hosted the first Family
Breakfast Sunday for the parish with 75 parishioners feasting on a variety of pancakes, eggs,
bacon, sausage, etc. The event is one of two to be held this year to help raise some funds to
refurbish Hayatian Hall. We extend our thanks to the Men’s Club for graciously cooking
everything and to Khosrof Pakhtigian for donating the sausage.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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Lenten Lecture Series
Monday, February 15 was the first day of Lent—a special time in the year when we guard
against worldly distractions and make room for the Holy Spirit to fill us. The biblical basis
for this period is found in Matthew 4:12: Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the
wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And he fasted forty days and forty nights, and
afterward he was hungry. During Lent we go into our own inner wilderness—caused by
sins, spiritual laziness, and empty vanity. There we confront the devil. Through prayer,
fasting, Bible reading, and self-examination, we have an opportunity to renew our
commitment to God and gain the strength to work at being more loving, humble, and
gentle. This year, we were lucky to put together another great Lenten Lecture Series to nourish our souls featuring a dynamic
group of professionals. Kicking off the six-week series on February 19th was author Michael Bobelian whose recently published book, Children of
Armenia, focuses on post-genocide history, and examines how and why the events of 1915 disappeared from public
consciousness in the mid-1900s. Children of Armenia is Bobelian’s first book and is the first book to chronicle the aftermath
of the Genocide, recounting the Armenian struggle for justice in the face of a century of silence and denial. After an
immediate groundswell of support for the ―starving Armenians‖ led by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson, the atrocities were
wiped from the public’s consciousness and the perpetrators were never held accountable. Bobelian’s book explains how and
why the Genocide disappeared from memory and reveals, for the first time, the Armenian response to Turkey’s recalcitrant
denial of its crimes, taking readers from massive demonstrations to the halls of Congress to courtroom battles. The
presentation was very well received by the 60+ parishioners and community members who came to hear him with several
individuals requesting that we bring him back again. Mr. Bobelian brought copies of his books, which he graciously signed
for everyone who purchased them. For information about Children of Armenia, please visit www.childrenarmenia.com or
www.simonandschuster.com. Dinner this evening was sponsored by Mr. Hagop Kitabjian, in loving memory of his wife,
Pamela Kitabjian.
On Tuesday, February 26, historian, Dr. Aram Arkun, was scheduled to give a presentation but the evening was cancelled
due to inclement weather.
We welcomed Dr. Ani Kalayjian on March 5 who spoke of Forgiveness and how forgiving enables one to let go of their
anger. Dr. Kalayjian is a Professor of Psychology at Fordham University and the Founder and Co-Director of the
Association for Trauma Outreach and Prevention (―ATOP‖). Recognized as an international expert on the psychological
effect of trauma in disaster victims, she is a pioneering therapist, educator, director and author, who has devoted her life to
bringing healing to those who have survived the devastation of disaster, whether man-made or natural. She brought with her
copies of several books she has authored and co-authored including her most recent publication, Forgiveness and
Reconciliation: Psychological Pathways to Conflict Transformation and Peace Building, which she co-edited. Within days
of her presentation, Dr. Kalayjian left for Haiti along with 15 other mental health professionals in a special ATOP mission to
assist in the rehabilitation efforts of the Haitian people due to the recent earthquake. The Pastor and Parish Council
acknowledge the individuals who responded to Dr. Kalayjian’s appeal for Haiti with donations of bandaids, toothpaste,
toothbrushes, and other items which she transported with her. For more information on Dr. Kalayjian and ATOP, visit
http://www.meaningfulworld.com. Dinner this evening was sponsored by Mr. Hagop Kitabjian, in loving memory of his
wife, Pamela Kitabjian.
Tom Mooradian was our special guest on March 12. An award-winning journalist from Detroit, Michigan, Tom Mooradian
was part of a group of 151 American-Armenians who repatriated to Soviet Armenia back in 1947. There, he graduated from
the Institute of Physical Culture and Sports with a bachelor’s degree, coached junior basketball teams, and became a
legendary basketball player. After spending 13 years trying to return to his homeland, he was granted an exit visa by the
Soviet government, attended and graduated from Wayne State University with a major in journalism, and worked for Detroit
suburban newspapers until his retirement in 2003. Mooradian’s book, The Repatriate: Love, Basketball and the KGB,
recounts the events of his time behind the iron curtain, during the final years of Stalin, providing a first-hand account of what
the Soviet world was really like from 1947-1960. Mr. Mooradian had our audience riveted by the stories he shared with us
and the terrifying situations he encountered, in a most humble and eloquent manner, which endeared him to everyone in the
room. This evening’s dinner was sponsored by the Men’s Club of our parish, and also by John, Laura, Alex and Adam
Torcomian, in loving memory of their father and grandfather, Albert Torcomian.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 15
Rev. Fr. Hakob Gevorgyan, the new Pastor of our sister parish, Holy Trinity Armenian Church in Cheltenham, made his
first official appearance in our parish on March 19, and we were very happy to receive him. Fr. Hakob spoke of God’s Will
and Happiness. Present this evening were members of his parish and others from throughout the Armenian community
welcoming him in our home. This evening’s dinner was sponsored by Simon & Margaret Ashekian, in loving memory of
John Ashekian on the third anniversary of his passing.
Our guest for our final lecture on March 26 was Shant Mardirossian, Chair of the Near East Foundation. The Near East
Foundation was previously known as Near East Relief, the response to Ambassador Henry Morgenthau’s urgent plea for
assistance to save victims of the Armenian Genocide. A U.S. international NGO, the Foundation builds and supports civil
society organizations in African and Middle Eastern communities experiencing deep poverty, conflict, migration and climate
change. Its 100-plus field staff (primarily comprised of locals who know the culture and language) mobilize ―communities
in peril‖ to find homegrown solutions to agriculture, education, health care and job creation, working hand-in-hand with
them, at a grass-roots level, as equal partners in making our shared world better. The Foundation’s successes have become
the model for the U.S. government’s international aid program and for nearly all current development organizations. On an
annual budget of approximately $7 million, the NEF maintains offices and programs in Palestine, Morocco, Egypt, Jordan,
Mali and the Sudan. Its New York staff of six professionals supports these activities with administration, development and
program management. Mr. Mardirossian spoke of the Near East Foundation’s work in Armenia and throughout the world
and shared a short clip from a DVD presentation being prepared by filmmaker Zareh Tjeknavorian, featuring some of the
orphans who were assisted by Near East Relief years ago. Mr. Tjeknavorian was scheduled to participate but decided to stay
in Armenia when he learned that several orphans sponsored by Near East Relief were still alive. Dinner this evening was
sponsored by John & Rose Hagopian and also Alex, Alexis, Jacob & Jemma Topakbashian.
The series was a well-collaborated effort from many within our parish, particularly Maro Arutunian and Julyet
Degirmenci, who coordinated the meals, with assistance by Chuck & Charlotte Ajamian who did all of the shopping and
prep work. Every Thursday night, Maro and Julyet were assisted by a group of volunteers to help prepare each Friday’s
meal: Marie & Migirdich Azadian, Michelle Baltaian, Maritza Berberian, Lucy Boornazian, Nancy Derderian,
Rosine Gouveia, Arpy Jones, Diane Kapikian, Sarah Kapikian, Carol Leszczynski, and Janet Soghomonian. We also
acknowledge the following individuals for assisting with meal preparation and service on Fridays – Alice Sarajian Denty,
Diana Etoian, Marietta Kukuyan, and Elizabeth Sharoyan. Special thanks go to Elizabeth Barsamian for assisting with
ticket sales and to Karin & Cedric Luhman, who came early each Friday to set the tables and buffet tables, and coordinated
the clean-up at the end.
Annual Parish Assembly
This year’s Parish Assembly was held on Sunday, February 21, 2010 with 72 dues-paid members in attendance. John
Torcomian was elected Assembly Chair and Alexis Topakbashian was elected Assembly Secretary. Our Pastor, The Very
Rev. Fr. Oshagan Gulgulian, presided over his first Parish Assembly as our pastor. Reports were received from the Pastor,
Parish Council Chairman and Treasurer, Nominating and Auditing Committees, and all church auxiliary organizations.
Below is a short summary of some of the highlights:
Pastor’s Report: While only with us for approximately eight months, the Pastor has been eagerly ministering to our parish in
many ways. While his focus has been on the Sunday School, ACYOA and the youth of our parish, in his short time with us,
a good bit of time has been spent on working with all of our parish organizations to enhance many of our activities and for
the spiritual betterment of our community.
Finances/Treasurer’s Report: Parish Council Treasurer, Joseph Brinker, presented the financial report and proposed budget
for 2010, which was adopted by the Assembly.
Facilities Planning Committee: Chair, John Torcomian, reported that Finley Catering recently signed a three-year lease
agreement with the Church, something which the Parish Council has pursued for some time.
Permanent Endowment Fund: Mr. Kodokian informed the membership that the PEF had a total net gain of about $250,000:
$150,000 from asset appreciation and a $100,000 donation from Araxie Soghomonian-Mektarian trust; bringing the total to
$1,085,000. He also reiterated the importance of the PEF for the future health of our Church finances, highlighting that the
PEF has disbursed more than $850,000 over the past 12 years. Mr. Kodokian mentioned that the PEF experienced a 17.6%
gain which is lower than the average US indexes by about 8.5%. However, given the conservative nature of the investments,
the return is in fact very impressive. He also acknowledged a donation from Elizabeth Boyajian and especially
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 16
acknowledged the generous donation from the Araxie Soghomonian-Mektarian trust. Mr. Kodokian gave an overview of
how individuals can donate assets to the PEF.
With respect to distributions, there will be no payout from the Campground Fund because the fund has to be over $600,000.
However, payouts were made to the Parish Council operating budget of $16,050, Sunday School operating budget of $500;
and PEF Coffee hours, including the Araxie Soghomonian-Mektarian Hokehankisd for $766. Mr. Kodokian identified the
different funds and their returns and reviewed the PEF strategy in place for several years, which is to move away from
annuities into low cost mutual funds with Vanguard Investments.
Finally, Mr. Kodokian presented the following recommendations which the PEF had unanimously supported: (1) to lower
the distribution from 6% to 4% to the Parish Council’s general operating budget; and (2) to lower the distribution from 6% to
4% to the Youth Committee and lower the threshold from $600,000 to $550,000. The membership unanimously endorsed
both recommendations.
In concluding, Mr. Kodokian welcomed Nancy Der Simonian to the PEF and thanked Arpy Jones for her tenure on the PEF
and Joseph Brinker for his invaluable financial advice.
Report of 2009 Diocesan Assembly Committee: The Committee included a written report in the annual Parish Assembly
printed report and reported that over $35,000 was received - $25,000 of which was turned over in 2009 and reflected in the
budget as 2009 Diocesan Assembly income. The other $10,600 was included in the 2010 budgeted figure for ―Miscellaneous
Church Income.‖
Vocations – The Call to Serve: A DVD of the continuation of the Diocesan theme from last year was shown.
Election Results: Elections were held for the Parish Council and Nominating and Auditing Committees:
Elected to the Parish Council were: Marie Azadian, Sarkis Etoian, Janet Soghomonian, Alex Topakbashian, and Robin
Williams. Edwig Teberian is the first alternate and Chuck Ajamian is the second alternate.
Elected to the Nominating Committee were: Arpy Jones, Sarah Kapikian, and Carol Leszczynski. George Devletian is
the first alternate. Edward Sarkisian was elected to the Auditing Committee whose other members are Laraine Ballard
and Margaret Ashekian.
Palm Sunday and Holy Week
Palm Sunday and Holy Week began another series of traditional events, beginning with the ACYOA’s Annual Palm Sunday
Luncheon and Variety show. You can read more on that event in the ACYOA section. On Holy Thursday, the Women’s
Guild hosted the traditional Holy Thursday Dinner, which preceded the Washing of the Feet service and the Vigil of the
Passion of Our Lord (Khavaroom). Christ’s Burial Service took place on Saturday at 7:00 p.m. Holy Saturday began early
for the children as they took part in a special Communion early Saturday morning, after which they were treated to a
delicious breakfast hosted by the Men’s Club. Later that evening, the Easter Eve Divine Liturgy (Candlelight Mass-
Jurakhalooytz) took place followed by a special reception hosted by the Tekeyan Cultural Association. Our Pastor began a
new tradition.
Easter Sunday was a special day this year. In addition to the usual throng of worshippers each year, our community took part
in a special bone marrow drive to help a little four-year-old girl in our community who is afflicted with Aplastic Anemia and
may be in need of a bone marrow transplant. Little Charlotte Conybear is the great grand-daughter of Aram Jerrehian, one of
the founding benefactors of our parish. Participants answered a few questions, filled out a form and swabbed their cheeks
with something resembling a long-stemmed Q-tip. Volunteers had bar-coded the forms and Q-tips early in the morning, well
prepared for the onslaught of support that followed immediately after services. Little Charlotte came in the morning with her
parents, Ellen & Jeff Conybear, to greet some of the potential donors and be interviewed by Channel 6 and Channel 10 who
were there to cover the drive.
All five Armenian churches in the Philadelphia area and another seven throughout the country held bone marrow drives on
this day in hopes of finding a match for Charlotte. Unfortunately, no one in Charlotte’s family and no one in the National
Bone Marrow Donor Registry or the Armenan Bone Marrow Donor Registry is a match and Charlotte is one of 900
Armenians worldwide waiting for one. This Easter Sunday, our parish registered 87 donors. Combined with the other drives
across the country, a total of 800+ new donors were registered.
Seventy percent of patients do not have a matching donor in their family. Their only hope is to find a volunteer donor who is
willing to help them. Being a bone marrow donor is an incredible opportunity for an ordinary individual to be a hero – and
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 17
save the life of someone they have never met. It could be Charlotte or it could be someone else. Donors are never required
to pay for the process and most procedures are covered by insurance.
The drive in our parish was coordinated by Arpy Jones and Lisa Manookian. Special thanks to the following individuals
who came in early and volunteered throughout the afternoon to help register donors: Vicken Bazarbashian, Lauren Jones,
Stephen Jones, Diane Khachikian, Marietta Kukuyan, Lorie Odabashian, Aram Oski, Brigitte Poulatian, Suzy
Rechelian, Mihran Toumajan and Talin Toumajan.
For more information on the Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry, please visit http://www.abmdr.am. For more
information on the National Bone Marrow Program, please visit http://bethematch.org. For more information on bone
marrow drives to assist Charlotte, please visit http://www.charlottesmatch.org. To organize a drive for Charlotte, please
email Charlotte’s uncle, Dean Jerrehian at [email protected]. To register online to help Charlotte, go to:
http://join.bethematch.org/charlottesmatch, click on ―JOIN NOW‖ and use the promo code ―CharlottesMatch.‖
Dear Friends:
On behalf of our families, please accept our most sincere gratitude for your involvement in
Sunday’s bone marrow drive. We are pleased to report that the twelve participating churches
generated over six hundred new samples for the Armenian and National banks. In addition to the
clergy and parish councils that made this endeavor possible, we wish to convey special thanks to
the volunteers who dedicated themselves to organize and conduct the events. And, of course, our
very heartfelt appreciation goes to the potential donors whose generosity may give a lease on life
not only to our dear Charlotte but to others in need. Paraphrasing our late countryman, William
Saroyan, sometimes there are not words to accurately satisfactorily express one’s emotions. This
inspirational experience has been such an occasion.
With warmest wishes, I am
Yours sincerely,
Aram Jerrehian
Men’s Club Hosts Steak Dinner Dance
On Saturday, April 17, the Men’s Club hosted a fabulous steak dinner dance, drawing parishioners and members from
throughout the community. The evening began with a cocktail hour including discounted drinks and delectable appetizers.
Dinner followed featuring a baked potato and filet mignon dinner cooked to perfection and delivered to the tables by our
wonderful ACYOA Juniors. To cap off the meal, an assortment of desserts were arranged in Fellowship Hall including a
delicious cakes, pies and cookies. Throughout the night the Philly Kef Band and DJs Nick and Jake Terkanian had the crowd
dancing to an assortment of Armenian and American favorites through the early morning hours.
The Men's Club would like to express its appreciation to Wedgewood Gardens for donating the beautiful flower
centerpieces; Sunni Cheese for the string cheese, pita and hummus; and our Dinner Sponsors for their financial support:
Migirdich & Marie Azadian, Bruce & Laraine Ballard, Jimmy & Helen Barikian, Rob & Karen Cannuscio, Haig &
Sheena Dadourian, Mark & Jeanne Ellen Gulasarian, Jack & Carol Hoplamazian, Arik Kazanjian, Papken & Anahid
Megerian, Ohannes & Shoushig Meguerian, Alex & Alexis Topakbashian, and Dr. Gerald & Robin Williams. The
Men’s Club also wishes to thank everyone who helped out throughout the night. Of course, the night would not have been
the success that it was were it not for the ACYOA Juniors would worked so hard to cater to all the guests: Aram Cannuscio,
Stepan Cannuscio, Meline Derderian, Dean DerSimonian, Alexander Etoian, Alec Gulasarian, Alex Kodokian, David
Kodokian, Julianna Murphy, and Jason Sadek.
Our Men’s Club: Chuck Ajamian, Souren Baboujian, Jimmy Barikian, Chuck Bulkey, Rob Cannuscio, Boghos Derderian,
Sako Etoian, Haig Geovjian, Mark Gulasarian, Geroge Kodokian, Hrair Megerian, Papken Megerian, Steve Sarian.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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Sunday School Update
During the Lenten season, our Sunday School participated in the Diocesan-wide Sunday School Lenten drive which will
benefit the Children of Haiti and the Gavar School in Armenia. With a death toll that could rise in the hundreds of thousands
and people dying daily from injuries sustained in the January 12 earthquake, recovery in Haiti will take far longer than the
decades during which aid for the 1988 earthquake poured into Armenia. Children have been particularly affected, with
thousands left orphaned. Gavar School in Armenia is the only school in all of Armenia completely devoted to the education
of children ages 6-18 with mental and physical disabilities. Established in 1976, Gavar School has a current enrollment of 90
children with challenges ranging from autism to Down’s syndrome. Among other pressing needs, the physical training
facility requires extensive renovation.
On February 28, the Diocese’s Department of Youth and Education conducted a Teacher Development Project meeting for
the teachers of our parish. The meeting was the first of a series of gatherings at a small number of Sunday Schools and
Armenian Schools designed to more effectively support their work through self-assessment, resource development, and
focused workshops. Conducted by ACYOA Executive Secretary Nancy Basmajian, the meeting brought together our
teaching staff, and our pastor, the Very Rev Fr. Oshagan Gulgulian, for an afternoon of assessing our strengths and
challenges, and brainstorming concrete strategies for improvement. Our teachers greatly appreciated the encouragement, and
thanked Diocesan staff for preparing the workshop. During her visit, Nancy Basmajian, one-time co-director of Christian
Education at the Diocese, also observed classes in the morning. As in the case of other parish schools involved in the Teacher
Development Project, additional visits and tailored workshops will follow.
On Sunday, March 13, a Sunday School teacher’s meeting took place. The teachers continued with the momentum started by
Nancy Basmajian and discussed various initiatives that will be continued for the year 2010. The teachers started planning
concrete goals to be met at various times of the year.
On Saturday, April 3, a special communion service was held in church for our Sunday School children, followed by a
breakfast hosted by the Men’s Club, and an Easter Egg Hunt.
Women’s Guild Update
Spring is here and we are excited about the nice weather we are having after the snows of this past winter. I would like to
begin by ―thanking‖ everyone who has been so generous with their time and talents to come to help prepare for the Friday
night Lenten Dinners. They have been very successful and the speakers were very interesting.
In February we went with Hayr Sourp to visit guests at Sunrise Assisted Living and also Broomall Rehab. Some pictures are
attached here. They were all very happy to have visitors, especially when Hayr Oshagan prayed for them and gave everyone
mas. We have a group of members of the Guild who would be happy to do visitations along with Hayr Oshagan. Please let
us know if you know of someone who would enjoy a visit.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 19
Our Saintly Women’s Day on Saturday March 13 was attended by over 80 guests – and had the weather co-operated, there
would have been more. Our guest speaker was Rachel Goshgarian PhD, Director of the Clara Zohrab Information Center of
the Armenian Diocese and she was enjoyed by all.
On Thursday, April 1, 2010, we hosted the traditional Holy Thursday dinner prior to the Washing of the Feet and Khavaroum
services.
We invite all parishioners to a special Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch on Sunday, May 9, immediately following Badarak,
with the Men’s Club graciously serving as our hosts.
On Thursday, May 20th, we ask that you join us for the Divine Liturgy at 11:00 a.m., followed by an Ascension Day
Celebration. It promises to be a fun time.
We are also happy to announce that we will be having our next Family Night on Friday, May 21, 2010. Our Bolsa Hye
Yerego will have all the trimmings with music included. A flyer appears in this issue of the Mer Doon.
May God Bless each and everyone and look over those members of our church family who have recently taken ill. I hope to
see you all soon!
Charlotte Ajamian
Graduation Announcements If you have graduated or have a son, daughter or grandchild who is graduating, please forward the following to the office’s
attention and we will highlight the achievements in the next issue of the Mer Doon: name, school graduated from, major,
future plans, names of parents and grandparents, and any other information which you wish to include such as honors,
awards, and hobbies.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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FOCUS ON
THE ACYOA
AND OUR YOUTH
Rev. Fr. Tateos Abdalian to lead 2010 Armenia Service Program
Rev. Fr. Tateos Abdalian, Director of the Diocese’s Mission Parish Program, will lead this year’s ACYOA Armenia Service Program (ASP). The trip is scheduled for June 29 to July 20. Fr. Abdalian is no stranger to the program having served as ASP leader twice before, most recently in 2008. Assisting him will be Lydia Kurkjian, secretary of the ACYOA Central Council, who was an ASP participant in 2005. The ASP is among the most successful and longest-running programs of the ACYOA. Under this year’s theme of Serving the Generations, participants will tour Armenia and spend time in Gyumri, where they will serve the city’s children and seniors through programs run by the Fund for Armenian Relief.
11th Annual ACYOA Young Adult Leadership Conference Held in Tarrytown, NY
About 100 participants—including 67 young adults representing 32 parishes in the Eastern Diocese, along with clergy, Diocesan Council members, and St. Nersess seminarians—gathered in early March for the 11th Annual ACYOA Young Adult Leadership Conference, in Tarrytown, NY. Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, presided over the weekend of workshops, lectures, and faith-building activities, which aimed at strengthening leadership skills among the young adults of the Armenian Church of America. On Saturday, March 6, participants listened to Dr. Marvin Zonis, Professor Emeritus of the Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago, who delivered a talk titled Who Needs Leadership? How to Be a Better Leader. On Sunday, the program concluded with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy at St. Gregory the Enlightener Armenian Church of White Plains, NY. The conference was planned by members of the ACYOA Central Council, with guidance from Archbishop Barsamian, Rev. Fr. Yeprem Kelegian, Rev. Fr. Vasken Kouzouian, Diocesan Council Chair Oscar Tatosian, and ACYOA Executive Secretary, Nancy Basmajian. The Very Rev. Fr. Daniel Findikyan, Dean of St. Nersess Seminary, serve as the conference chaplain and St. Nersess seminarians and ACYOA Central Council members served as group facilitators.
Annual Palm Sunday Luncheon and Variety Show Great Success
On March 28, the ACYOA had their annual Palm Sunday Luncheon and Variety Show following church services featuring musical selections, poetry, dance routines, and original skits.
We would like to thank everyone who volunteered their time to help make this year’s Palm Sunday ACYOA Variety Show a real success. Through the help of the ACYOA Juniors and Seniors, the Women’s Guild, the Men’s Club, our Parish Council, and our parishioners who supported us by attending our affair, this was indeed a memorable occasion.
Special thanks to Julyet Degirmenci, Maro Arutunian. Lynn Baboujian, Maritza Berberian and Diana Etoian, who helped prepare the wonderful meal that we were all able to enjoy before the program
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 23
We truly appreciate the help of John Eskandarian, Arpy Jones, and Lisa Manookian who, as always, were there to make sure all bases were covered. We also thank Nanor Arabatlian, Lisa Baboujian, Lori Baboujian and Mari Degirmenci for their help serving the food – they did a great job and are always there for us!
Kristine Balabanyan, Dee Degirmenci and Andre Topakbashian were a huge help at the ticket table and we appreciate their assistance
We also acknowledge the hard work of Nareg Soghomonian and Vicken Kazanjian, who coordinated all the technical services and video editing for the show
Last but not least, we commend all the members of the Variety Show’s cast who did a wonderful job with their performances.
Celine Arabatlian, Meredith “Miz” Avakian, John Baboujian, Antoine Bazarbashian, Raffi Berberian, Khatchik Bestilyan, Aram Derderian. Arpi Derderian, Talene Brinker, Sarah Derderian, Meline Derderian, Isabella Etoian, Alexander Etoian, Lauren Jones, Stephen Jones, Kristine Kzelian, Angela Kodokian, Lorie Odabashian, Suzy Rechelian, Armand Rechelian, Adrian Stepanian, Alex Torcomian
As the ACYOA Juniors take over the Variety Show beginning next year, the older ACYOA members and the parents of the ACYOA both pledge their support as mentors to ensure the longevity of this show and the health of its future. We ask that everyone in our parish support our youth the same way they supported us over the past six years. Once again, we thank all who were involved in the 6th Annual Palm Sunday Variety Show in helping make this event an outstanding affair
On behalf of the ACYOA and with sincere regards,
Vicken Bazarbashian
Dance As though no one is watching you.
Love As though you have never been hurt before.
Sing As though no one can hear you.
Live As though heaven is here on earth.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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PPEERRMMAANNEENNTT EENNDDOOWWMMEENNTT FFUUNNDD -- PPRROOTTEECCTTIINNGG OOUURR CCHHUURRCCHH’’SS LLEEGGAACCYY
The Permanent Endowment Fund (PEF) is a long term trust fund overseen by a Board of Trustees who invest funds
accumulated through bequests left to the Church, and the Campgrounds Funds. According to the wishes of the donors, fund
distributions are made to specific projects or to the parish’s general operational fund.
OOVVEERRSSEEEEIINNGG OOUURR CCHHUURRCCHH’’SS MMOONNEETTAARRYY AASSSSEETTSS
The Board of Trustees is made up of seven professionals and our mission is to:
Solicit, generate, receive and administer gifts and bequests
Purchase, invest, retain and manage the principal of the funds
Distribute the income according to the wishes of the donors to the Youth Committee, the Parish general account and to
the Sunday School
GGEENNEERROOUUSS DDOONNAATTIIOONNSS HHAAVVEE BBEEEENN TTHHEE FFOOUUNNDDAATTIIOONN OOFF TTHHEE PPEEFF
Current assets under management are about $1.2 million. A significant portion of the principal has come from generous
donors who desired to create a legacy and support a specific function or project. The Board of Trustees invests the
principal in US and foreign securities which has enabled us to distribute $756,500 over the past 10 years while retaining
the principal. There are many different ways to donate to the PEF:
1. Charitable Giving Techniques During Your Life – donations of money or assets while you are alive.
2. Charitable Remainder Trusts
Charitable Remainder Unitrust – Donor usually retains a right to a fixed percentage of the fair market value of the
trust assets, re-valued annually.
Charitable Remainder Annuity Trust – Donor usually retains a right to a fixed dollar amount year after year. The
increases or decreases in the value do not affect the payments.
Charitable Gift Annuity – Donor transfers the asset directly to the charity in exchange for the charity’s agreement
to pay a fixed lifetime annuity
3. Charitable Income Trusts – Reverse of Charitable Remainder Trust: The income interest is assigned to the charity,
usually for the period of years, and then the remainder generally passes to the donor’s heirs.
4. Beneficiary of a Life Insurance Policy
5. Charitable Giving Techniques (Deceased)
6. You can name our Church as a Beneficiary in your Will
The Trustees of the Permanent Endowment Fund are selected for six year terms by the Parish Council. The Trustees report
directly to the Parish Assembly and operate in accordance with formal written bylaws. The Trustees are tasked to oversee
and grow the PEF and to receive and invest contributions and donations that are made to enhance our Church’s future.
For further assistance, please call:
Sako Etoian – Chairman (610-547-1476)
Rob Cannuscio – Secretary (610-918-9372)
George Kodokian – Treasurer (610-925-0308)
or write to:
The Permanent Endowment Fund
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church
630 Clothier Road
Wynnewood, PA 19096
Remember St Sahag & St Mesrob Armenian Apostolic Church
Of Wynnewood, PA, In Your Will
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 25
ՄՈՐ ՁԵՌՔԵՐԸ ä²ðàôÚð êºì²Î
Այս ձեռքերը` մո՜ր ձեռքերը,
Հինավուրց ու նո՜ր ձեռքերը...
Ինչե՜ր ասես, որ չեն արել այս ձեռքերը...
Պսակվելիս ո՜նց են պարել այս ձեռքերը`
Ի՜նչ նազանքով ,
Երազանքո՜վ՜:
Ինչե՜ր ասես, որ չեն արել այս ձեռքերը...
Լույսը մինչև լույս չեն մարել այս ձեռքերը,
Առաջնեկն է երբ որ ծնվել,
Նրա արդար կաթով սնվել:
Ինչե՜ր ասես, որ չեն արել այս ձեռքերը...
Զրկանք կրել, հոգս են տարել այս ձեռքերը
Ծով լռությա՜մբ,
Համբերությա՜մբ,
Ինչե՜ր ասես, որ չեն արել այս ձեռքերը...
Երկինք պարզված սյուն են դառել այս
ձեռքերը,
Որ չփլվի իր տան սյունը`
Որդին կռվից դառնա տունը:
Ինչե՜ր ասես, որ չեն արել այս ձեռքերը...
Մինչև տատի ձեռք են դառել այս ձեռքերը,
Այս ձեռքերը` ուժը հատած,
Բայց թոռան հետ նոր ուժ գտած...
Քար են շրջել, սար են շարժել այս ձեռքերը...
Ինչե՜ր, ինչե՜ր, ինչե՜ր չարժեն այս ձեռքերը`
Նուրբ ձեռքերը,
Սո՜ւրբ ձեռքերը:
...Եկեք այսօր մենք համբուրենք որդիաբար
Մեզ աշխարհում ծնած, սնած,
Մեզ աշխարհում շահած, պահած,
Մեզնից երբեք չկշտացած,
Փոշի սրբող, լվացք անող,
Անվերջ դատող, անվերջ բանող
Ա'յս ձեռքերը`
Թող որ ճաքած ու կոշտացած,
Բայց մեզ համար մետաքսի պես
Խա՜ս ձեռքերը...
A Mother's Hands By: Paruyr Sevak
These very hands, a mother’s hands,
These old and new hands.
Whatever do you want to say
That haven’t been done by these hands?
When I got married
How gracefully these hands had danced,
And with whatever dreams these hands had danced.
Whatever do you want to say
That haven’t been done by these very hands?
The light was not put off till dawn
By these very hands,
When the first baby was born,
It was fed the righteous milk by these very hands.
Whatever do you want to say
That haven’t been done by these very hands?
They are like pillars
Directed to the heavens,
These very hands
Avoiding the pillar of her house
Till her son returns from the battle front.
Whatever do you want to say
That haven’t been done by these very hands?
These very hands
Even though a granny’s hands,
These very hands, having lost their power,
They have regained power
When being with her grandson.
Rocks have been turned down by these very hands
And mountains moved.
Whatever, whatever,
Whatever they don’t cost
These very hands,
These tender hands,
These holy hands.
Let us today, as children do,
Kiss these very hands
Which gave birth into this world
And also fed us,
Which in this world they have won us
And also kept us,
That have never felt full of us
These very hands,
That have wiped the dust
And also did the washing up
Always judging, always working
These very hands.
These very hands
That have been worn out
And also become rough
But for all of us
They are as tender as silk
These perfect hands,
A mother’s hands.
Translated from Armenian by Daniel Janoyan
Glendale, June 1996
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 26
COMMUNITY CLIPS
Arshile Gorky Exhibit at Philadelphia Museum of Art
This past fall, our community was excited about the Philadelphia Art Museum’s special exhibition titled, Arshile
Gorky: A Retrospective. The exhibit opened on October 21, 2009 and was viewed by thousands of guests from
throughout the country prior to ending on January 10, 2010. Featured in the exhibit were 178 pieces of Arshile
Gorky’s work, including paintings, sculpture, prints, and drawings spanning Gorky’s career from the early 1920s
until his death in 1948.
In conjunction with the exhibit, the Museum organized lectures by Peter Balakian, Atom Egoyan and others and
showcased Armenian musicians from throughout the country in its Art After 5 series. Many organizations within
our Diocese and in our community sponsored events which included dinner at the Museum and guided tours of
the exhibit. The Museum also sponsored a Family Day to Discover Armenian Art on December 6, which was
attended by many. Five years of incredible effort went into planning this exhibition and its curator, Michael
Taylor, deserves accolades for his dedication and insight. We also applaud the Museum for its acknowledgment
of the Armenian Genocide, both in written references to Gorky’s work and in the lecture presentations. An
Armenian flavor was felt in the museum store where people shopped and the in-house restaurant where they
dined. The Friends of Arshile Gorky Committee, co-chaired by Alma Alabilikian, Nancy Hovnanian, and Joan
Momjian, helped to raised over $70,000 in support of the exhibition. Our community is very grateful to the
Museum for its outstanding outreach to the Philadelphia Armenian community and Armenian community-at-
large.
Philadelphia Chamber Music Society Sponsors All Armenian Concert on December 6, 2009
On December 6, the Philadelphia Chamber Music Society presented an Armenian concert featuring violist, Kim
Kashkashian, and pianist, vocalist and composer Tigran Mansurian. The program highlighted the music of
composers Tigran Mansurian and S. Komitas and included compositions based on Armenian folk songs. The
audience met the artists and composers at a free post-concert reception following the concert, which took place at
the Settlement School of Music.
VivaCell-MTS General Manager, Ralph Yirikian,
Visits The Philadelphia Armenian Community
On Sunday, April 11, 2010, members of the Philadelphia Armenian community gathered at St. Sahag & St.
Mesrob Armenian Church to meet a pioneer and visionary whose company has become a symbol of corporate
excellence in Armenia. Ralph Yirikian is the General Manager of VivaCell-MTS, a 2005 startup which, in the
past five years has become Armenia’s leading mobile operator and number one taxpayer. Through innovation,
VivaCell-MTS has enhanced options and products while spearheading initiatives that have made it a leading
company for Corporate Social Responsibility in Armenia. As a result of these initiatives, the company has
channeled several million dollars into healthcare, cultural, educational, and infrastructure projects throughout
Armenia.
The program was sponsored by Birthright Armenia and hosted by our parish. In introducing Mr. Yirikian, Linda
Yepoyan, the Executive Director of Birthright Armenia, stated that he has ―raised the bar of corporate social
responsibility in Armenia and has taken the lead in volunteerism efforts.‖ Mr. Yirikian addressed the crowd by
first stating that he did not come to promote any product or do any fundraising, but simply to tell a story of how
one company has made a difference in our Hayrenik (―our homeland‖).
VivaCell was founded on three ideals: (1) to bring communication to the people of Armenia; (2) to provide full
network coverage throughout the country via the latest technology; and (3) to promote corporate responsibility.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 27
The Viva Cell Family is 1,200 strong, with an average age of 32, and fairly evenly split in terms of the
male/female ratio.
Granted a license to operate in Armenia in November 2004, VivaCell-MTS was the second company in its field.
In February 2005, it was awarded supply agreements for a 400,000 subscriber capacity. Commercially launched
in July of 2005, it expanded its subscriber capacity to 800,000 by December 2005 – crossing the level of 50%
market share within six months from the nearest competitor which was ahead in subscribers. By November 2006,
it had reached a capacity for 1,500,000 subscribers, and in July 2007, VivaCell had 1,000,000 active subscribers.
With a network far superior to its nearest competitor, VivaCell presently has more than $2.1 million subscribers
and a market share of 81%.
Customer care is a major priority. VivaCell-MTS has 92 active service centers and 200 call center agents,
providing service 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It also has 13 ―mobile service centers‖ – vehicles equipped
with the necessary technology, visiting all of the villages in Armenia on a regular basis.
The VivaCell Family leads by example in their work ethic of respecting each other regardless of the position held
in the company, and in teaching other companies to do the same. VivaCell-MTS believes in fairness and equality.
Of its 1,200 family members, 33 of them have special needs. Through their employment with VivaCell, the
company is sending a message to the rest of the country stating that there is no shame – only pride – in working
with the handicapped, hoping to remove a prevalent taboo of not associating with those who are disabled.
The company’s commitment to corporate responsibility also extends externally to the environment and society in
general through various investments in social and philanthropic projects. The shareholders believe that it is
important to return to society part of the money generated for helping the business to flourish – by investing sweat
equity into programs and projects to benefit society at large AND NOT simply by having banquets and making
toasts to congratulate the efforts of a few. As well as we maintain our homes, we must also maintain the greater
community in which we live. The company strongly feels that its philosophy of ―corporate responsibility‖
translates into business prosperity for the company through satisfied customers which, in turn, helps the economy
to grow.
After the presentation, a short question and answer forum as held and a reception followed.
Mr. Yirikian is a frequent speaker at numerous academic, business and technology institutions and forums. He
acts as the Head of the Steering Committee of the Armenia Network of the UN’s Global Compact initiative, and
is a Member of the Board of the National Competitiveness Foundation of Armenia. He has received numerous
honors, medals, awards and distinctions from various organizations throughout the world, including the ―Movses
Khorenatsi‖ Medal from the President of the Republic of Armenia and the ―Grigor Lousavorich‖ decoration of
honor from His Holiness, Catholicos Karekin II.
Birthright Armenia partners with dozens of existing internship organizations and study abroad programs to give
young Armenian diasporans a unique and personal immersion experience in Armenia. These organizations and
programs plan each volunteer’s jobsite or community service placement, Birthright Armenia does the rest.
Through its complementary services and financial incentives, Birthright Armenia offers each and every
participant the means and opportunity to experience Armenia like never before.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 28
SACRAMENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Baptisms & Chrismations
January 9, 2010
Cash Samuel Pogharian
Son of Jeffrey & Heather Pogharian
Godfather – Christopher Branin
Godmother – Lori Smith
February 14, 2010
Gevorg Steven Jamgochian
Son of Steve & Christina (Garman) Jamgochian
Godfather – Steven C. Jamgochian
Godmother – Jodi Beth Jamgochian
April 18, 2010
Alex John Kazanjian
Daughter of Sarkis & Hilda Kazanjian
Godfather – Azad Kazanjian
Godmother – Sonya Kazazian McAnnany
Engagements
April 5, 2009
Ariana Seropian & Mike Gortian
Daughter of Parsegh & Adrienne Seropian
Son of Mike & Denise Gortian
Funerals Iris A. Arthin, beloved wife of the late William Thomas Arthin, passed away on November 24, 2010. Iris is survived by her sons, Bill (Armine) and Sam, and her granddaughter, Julie. Funeral services were held on November 27, 2009 at St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Iris Arthin’s memory may be made to either St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church or St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church. John Derderian passed away on November 9, 2010. John is survived by his wife, Nancy; and his children Aram, Tamar and Arpi. Funeral services were held at St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church on November 14, 2010. In lieu of flowers, contributions in John Derderian’s memory may be made to either St.
Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church or the Armenian Sisters Academy (440 Upper Gulph Road, Radnor, PA 19087). Joseph Hoplamazian, Sr., beloved husband of the late Mary, passed away on January 1, 2010. He is survived by his son, Joseph (Sona); daughters, Pat Pogharian (Sam) and Lucille Mikaelian (Jerry); grandchildren, Lori Pogharian Smith (Kenny); Jeff Pogharian (Heather), Julie Hoplamazian, Chris, and Greg (Debbie); his great-grandson, Cash Pogharian; his brothers, Edward and Jack; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church on January 7, 2010. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joseph Hoplamazian’s memory may be made to either St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church, St. Mark’s Armenian Catholic Church, or the Armenian Sisters Academy. Alice Jamgochian passed away on November 26, 2009. Funeral services were held on December 2, 2009. Alice is survived by her son, Harry. Funeral services were held at St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Alice Jamgochian’s memory may be made to the church. Mesrop Kesdekian passed away on January 9, 2010. Funeral services were private. He is survived by his brother James (Margaret) Kesdekian; and his sister Arax, Suny. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mesrob Kesdekian’s memory may be made to St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church. Elizabeth Weller passed away on December 3, 2009. Elizabeth was a professor of child psychiatry and pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania and was well-known as an advocate in the field of child and adolescent psychiatry. She is survived by her husband of 31 years, Dr. Ronald Weller; their two children, Andrew and Christine; her brother, Varoujan Boghossian (Knarig), her niece Marie Markarian; her nephew Hagop Boghossian; her father-in-law, Dr. Lowell Weller (Eloise) and numerous cousins. Funeral services were held in Los Angeles. In lieu of flowers, donations in Elizabeth’s memory can be made to the AGBU Armenia Orphan Fund (55 E. 59th Street, New York, NY 10022-1112).
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 29
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS FROM
PARISHIONERS
Thank you for the many cards, phone calls and
donations I have received in honor of my mother
Sarah Muradyan. She was born in 1913, two
years before the genocide which took her family
and left her orphaned. In spite of her difficult
beginnings, she managed to rise above this tragedy
with grace and live a full life. She was a generous
mother, a loving grandmother, a wonderful great-
grandmother, and a very proud great, great grand-
mother. She died 97 years young. She was loved
dearly and will be missed dearly. Thank you for
all of your support during this difficult time.
Sincerely, Alice Dertadian and Children
I would like to thank everyone who sent get well
cards and telephone calls during my confinement
– including the ladies at ―our‖ table during coffee
hour and the Men’s Club.
Diran Shakarjian
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS FROM
THE PARISH COUNCIL
The Pastor and Parish Council wish to
acknowledge the following:
The Retired Men’s Club, who donated a
total of $2,400.00 in 2009. The men come
together once a month on Wednesdays to
enjoy each other’s camaraderie and
fellowship and have consistently supported
the parish in numerous ways over the years.
Dot & Rick Melikian, for donating a new
computer system for the church office.
The PAND Organization for their donation
of $2,000.00 representing a portion of the
contributions received from their annual
New Year’s Dinner Dance. Since PAND’s
inception, our parish has received $46,295 in
total contributions.
CONGRATULATIONS!
To Widener University sophomore, Rick
Kazigian, the starting pitcher of Widener’s
baseball team. As a freshman in 2009, Rick:
Finished tied for third in the
conference with 16 appearances;
Ended second the team with a 3.26
earned run average.
Struck out five over two innings v.
Ohio Northern (3/2);
Allowed just one earned run over six
innings vs. Misericordia (3/15);
Recorded the save at the College of
New Jersey (4/7);
Notched the save, striking out three
over two scoreless innings with one
walk and no hits at Elizabethtown
(4/17); and
Recorded the win, pitching six
scoreless innings with six strikeouts
and allowing just five to reach base
vs. Albright (5/1).
Rick is majoring in Business.
Do you have a son, daughter, grandchild,
nephew or niece that you are proud of? If
so, please send it to the church office so we
can include it in the next issue of the Mer
Doon.
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 30
GIFTS TO THE CHURCH
General Donations
$200.00
Ms. Seta Bardakjian
In Honor of the Opening of the Doors
on Palm Sunday
$200.00
Ms. Siranoush Keshishian
For a spiritual promise (oukhd)
$150.00
Mr. & Mrs. Paul Mihranian
In memory of grandparents, Jirayr & Mikael Dede
and Terezig & Mannhig Yaya
$90.00
Ms. Betty Boyajian
For her 90th Birthday
Mer Doon Donations
$50.00
Mr. & Mrs. Edward Hoplamazian
$30.00
Rev. Fr. Arten & Ygn. Mary Ashjian
$25.00 Diran & Zevart Shakarjian
Memorial Donations
In Memory of Helen Bagdad
$50.00
Ms. Dorothy Mooradian
$25.00 Mr. & Mrs. Richard Kazigian
In Memory of Mkrtich Bedrossian
$100.00 Mr. & Mrs. Vrej Bedrossian
In Memory of Thomas Brinker
$25.00
Mr. & Mrs. Nishan Der Simonian
In Memory of John Derderian
$100.00 Mr. & Mrs. Ohannes Meguerian
In Memory of Zaven Khachadourian
$50.00
Mrs. Victoria Hoplamazian
$15.00 Mr. & Mrs. Robert Riser
In Memory of Mary Samuelian
$50.00
Mr. & Mrs. Jack Hoplamazian
In Memory of Elizabeth Weller
$100.00
Mr. Ronald Weller
Christmas Youghakin Donations
$250.00 Mr. Samuel Arthin, In memory of Iris Arthin
$200.00 Mr. Richard Oski
$100.00 Mr. & Mrs. Haig Dadourian
Mrs. Victoria S. Daniels
Mr. & Mrs. Hovhanes Kazanjian
Mr. & Mrs. Ohannes Meguerian
Mrs. Dorothy Melikian
Dr. & Mrs. Diran Mikaelian
Mr. & Mrs. Tigran Petrosian
Mrs. Sallee Rush
Dr. & Mrs. Gabriel Tatarian
Dr. & Mrs. Garabet Teberian
Mr. & Mrs. Harry Vartanian
$50.00 Mr. Jeffrey Alyanakian
Mrs. Alice Aznavourian
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 31
Mr. & Mrs. Vrej Bedrossian
Mr. & Mrs. John Clayton
Mr. Charles Kazanjian
Mr. & Mrs. Edward Kazanjian
Ms. Tanya Kevorkian
Mr. Hagop Kitabjian
Mr. & Mrs. Papken Megerian
Mrs. Rozaline Meguerian
Ms. Dorothy Mooradian
Mr. & Mrs. Mesrob Odabashian
Mr. & Mrs. John Semerjian
Mr. Albert Seraydarian
Mr. & Mrs. Hirant Torunyan
Dr. & Mrs. Gerald Williams
Mrs. Laura Zakian
Mrs. Zabelle Zartarian
$40.00 Tanya & Lucy Markarian
$35.00
Mr. & Mrs. Harry Havnoonian
$30.00 Mr. & Mrs. Nubar Igidbashian
Dr. Minas & Kohar Mihranyan
Mr. & Mrs. David Nalbantian
Mr. & Mrs. Aris Topakbashian
$25.00 Mr. & Mrs. David Ahakinian
Mr. & Mrs. Peter Alexanian
Mr. & Mrs. Simon Ashekian
Mr. & Mrs. Albert Baltaeff
Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Barasatian
Ms. Elizabeth Barsamian
Miss Mary Boyajian
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Cannuscio
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Chamoun
Mr. & Mrs. Antranig Derderian
Mrs. Alice Dertadian
Mr. & Mrs. George Devletian
Ms. Sonia Djanikian
Mr. & Mrs. John Eskandarian
Ms. Terrie M. Gaspar
Mrs. Eleanor Gurdikian
Mr. & Mrs. Harold Guveyian
Mrs. Shirley HajinianDiane & Vicky Hoplamazian In Memory of her father, Harry Hoplamazian, Sr.:
her grandparents, Hagop & Varsenig Hoplamazian,
Hagop & Parantzen Hoplamazian, and Melki &
Mariam Sarkisian; her godmother, Satenig
Hoplamazian, her godfather Joseph Hoplamazian,
Sr., her aunt Rose, her aunt Kathy, and her uncles,
Sam, John & Aram Arpy, Jeffrey, Stephen & Lauren Jones
Mr. Noubar Karagulian
Mr. & Mrs. Diran Keytanjian
Mrs. Berjouhi Kitabjian
Mr. & Mrs. Antranig Kordzian
Mr. & Mrs. Patrick McNelis
Rev. Dr. Paree & Ygn. Angel Metjian
Ms. Mary Odabashian
Mr. & Mrs. John Parseghian
Mrs. Elizabeth Seraydarian
Mr. & Mrs. Missak Simonian
Mr. & Mrs. Alexander Sohodski
Mr. Haig Torigian
Mr. & Mrs. Mihran Toumajan
Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Yulduzian
Zerounian Family
$20.00 Mrs. Angela Adjemian
Mr. & Mrs. Chuck Ajamian
Mr. & Mrs. Harry Amirian
Mrs. Rose E. Arpajian
Mrs. Millie Barsamian
Mr. & Mrs. Edward Boyajian
Mr. & Mrs. Edward Burg
Mrs. Mary Dulgerian
Mrs. Vartouhi Etoian
Mrs. Rose Jingozian
Mrs. Siran Karagulian
Mr. David Marshall
Mr. & Mrs. Raffi Khatchikian
Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Leszczynski
Daniel & Norma Takoushian
Mr. & Mrs. Jack Tefankjian
Mrs. Veronica Torcomian
$15.00 Leslie Alyanakian & Francesca D’Amico
Ms. Melena Ayjian
$10.00 Mrs. Alice Arakelian
Ms. Victoria Mirzayan
Mrs. Vickey Sagherian
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 32
IINN MMEEMMOORRIIAAMM IINN LLIIEEUU OOFF FFLLOOWWEERRSS
Sincere sympathy is extended by the Pastor and Parish Council to the families of those parishioners who have departed from this life. May God receive the souls of all the departed into His everlasting kingdom and send the heavenly consolation of His Holy spirit to those who mourn.
In Lieu of Flowers
In Memory of
Iris Arthin
$100.00
Edwin Miu & Ellen Ku
Mr. & Mrs. William Shea
$50.00
Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Brisbine
Mr. & Mrs. Christopher
Kemmerer
Mr. & Mrs. Juliu Navarro
Mr. & Mrs. Steven Obee
In Lieu of Flowers
In Memory of
John Derderian
$300.00
Mr. Raffi Balian
Nancy, Aram, Tamar & Arpi
Derderian
$250.00
Mr. & Mrs. Boghos Derderian
Mr. & Mrs. Aram Megerian
Dr. & Mrs. Garo Megerian
Mr. & Mrs. Papken Megerian
$200.00
Mr. & Mrs. Antranig Derderian
Mr. & Mrs. Armen Derderian
Mr. Berj Massmanian
$150.00
Lena, Sona & Seta Bardakjian
Mr. & Mrs. Hrair Megerian
$100.00
Chuck & Charlotte Ajamian
Kevork, Loutfi, Ohan Arabatlian
& Families
Mr. & Mrs. Hratch Arajian
Mr. & Mrs. Armen Arutunian
Lynn, Lisa, John & Lori
Baboujian
Antoine, Rose, Armen & Vicken
Bazarbashian
Mr. & Mrs. Vahe Bedian
The Berberian Family
Dr. & Mrs. Hagop DerKrikorian
Mr. & Mrs. Dikran Derderian
Mrs. Victoria Hoplamazian
Mr. & Mrs. Henry
Kachadourian
Mrs. Silva and Ara Kailian
Mr. & Mrs. Noubar Megerian
Mrs. Rozaline Meguerian
Mrs. Evelyn Meranshian
Mr. & Mrs. Asadur Minasian
Ms. Helen Misk
Mr. & Mrs. Zareh Orchanian
Paoli Cleaners
Mrs. Berjouhi Porsigian
Mr. & Mrs. Parsegh Seropian
SAS Shoemakers
Mr. & Mrs. Onik Solakian
Dr. & Mrs. Garabed Teberian
Tekeyan Cultural Association
Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Tenbekjian
Mr. & Mrs. Aris Topakbashian
Mr. & Mrs. John Torcomian
Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Torcomian
$75.00
Mr. & Mrs. George Kodokian
Ovsanna & Therese Sajonian
$50.00
Adjemian Family
AGBU Young Professionals
Chapter of Philadelphia
Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Ajamian
Rev. & Ygn. Fr. Arakel Aljalian
Mr. & Mrs. Nurhan Antilian
Mr. & Mrs. Melkon Arabatli
Mr. & Mrs. Tigran Aramyan
Mr. & Mrs. Migirdich Azadian
Mrs. Hripsime Babikian
Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Baldadian
Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Baltaian
Mr. Steve Barsamian
Mr. & Mrs. Krikor Bejian
Ms. Rhoda Belemjian
Ms. Ardo Besnilian
Mr. & Mrs. Hagop Bezdikian
Mr. & Mrs. Scott Bermingham
Mr. & Mrs. Haig Dadourian
Mr. & Mrs. Yeprem Degirmenci
Mr. Raffaella Demartino
Dr. Najibe Dow & Family
Etoian Family
Mr. & Mrs. Keith Feerrar
Dr. & Mrs. Andre Garabedian
Mr. & Mrs. Edward
Hoplamazian & Children
Mr. & Mrs. Jack Hoplamazian
Mr. & Mrs. Hagop Ishkhanian
& Family
Jones Family
Mr. & Mrs. Edward Kaiserian
& Family
Mr. & Mrs. Vartan Kalanyan
Sarah & Diane Kapikian
Mrs. Georgette Kazanjian
Mrs. Grace Keshgegian
Mr. & Mrs. Berge Khatchadrian
Dr. & Mrs. Jacques Khoury
Mr. & Mrs. George Kitabjian
Ms. Marie Koulaksezian
Mr. & Mrs. Herayer
Manawelian
Mr. & Mrs. Gevorg Marashlian
Dr. & Mrs. Raffi Megerian
Mr. & Mrs. John Melian
Rev. Dr. Paree & Yn. Metjian Dr.
& Mrs. Diran Mikaelian
Mr. & Mrs. Zohrab Odabashian
Mr. Rafael Petrosian
Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Placido
Mr. & Mrs. Norair Saghian
Mr. & Mrs. Michael Santerian
Mrs. Merle Santerian
Mr. & Mrs. Mayis Seapan
Mr. & Mrs. Adam Schreiner
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 33
Mr. & Mrs. Adam Selverian
Mr. & Mrs. Ara Setrakian
Mr. Varoujan Shirinian
Mr. & Mrs. Alex Topakbashian
Mr. & Mrs. Hirant Torunyan
Ms. Andrea Windsor
Mr. & Mrs. Russ Windsor
& Family
Mr. & Mrs. Garo Yepremian
Mr. & Mrs. Noubar Yeremian
& Family
Zerounian Family
$40.00
Mr. & Mrs. Mardy Sarkahian
Mr. & Mrs. Hrant Shammassian
$35.00
Alma Alabilikian & Peter Paone
Mr. & Mrs. John Eskandarian
Ms. Laura Herr
Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Hovnanian
Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Knudson
$30.00
Mr. Kegham Avedissian
Ms. Taline Baltaian
Mr. & Mrs. Mikail Degirmenci
Mr. & Mrs. Zohrab
DerKrikorian
Mr. & Mrs. Nishan
DerSimonian
Ms. Jill DiMedio
& Zach Channing
Mr. & Mrs. Clive Gouveia
Mr. & Mrs. Nubar Igidbashian
Mrs. Araxie Ishkhanian
Mr. & Mrs. Hagop Kazanjian
Mr. & Mrs. Hovhanes Kazanjian
Mrs. Berjouhi Kitabjian
Mr. & Mrs. Harout Kitabjian
Mr. & Mrs. Krikor Mardikian
Mr. & Mrs. Grant Mazmanian
Mr. & Mrs. David Nalbantian
Mrs. Jeannette Oundjian
Mr. & Mrs. Kosrof Pakhtigian
Mrs. Linda Preske
Mr. & Mrs. Garabed Semerdjian
Ms. Linda Sharigian
Mr. & Mrs. Andre Zeibari
$25.00
Mr. & Mrs. Harout Aghajanian
Mr. & Mrs. David Ahakinian
Mr. & Mrs. Vahik Andonian
Andonian Family
Ms. Angele Arutunian
Mr. & Mrs. Simon Ashekian
Mr. Souren Baboujian
Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Ballard
Ms. Nancy Basmajian
Mr. & Mrs. Vrej Bedrossian
Mr. Edward Belemjian
Matthew Belluardo
& Lisa Melian
Mr. & Mrs. Sarkis Berberian
Mr. Chuck Bulkey
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Cannuscio
Mr. & Mrs. Frank Cecco
Mr. & Mrs. Alain Chamoun
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Chamoun
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Damerjian
Dr. & Mrs. Thomas Dardarian
Mr. & Mrs. Samuel Degirmenci
Mrs. Alice Dertadian
Mr. & Mrs. Zaven Devejian
Mr. & Mrs. George Devletian
Mr. & Mrs. Harry Dorian
Ms. Rose Garabedian
Dr. Garo Garibian
Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Gooshian
Mr. & Mrs. Mark Gulasarian
Ms. Lena Guleserian
Ms. Elizabeth Gutchigian
Mr. & Mrs. Haig Hagopian
& Family
Ms. Diane Hoplamazian
Mr. & Mrs. Vaughn
Hoplamazian
Mr. & Mrs. Hrant Jilozian
Ms. Lisa Kailian
Mr. & Mrs. Serop Kaloustian
Mr. Noubar Karagulian
Mr. & Mrs. Aram Kazanjian
Mr. & Mrs. Shant Kehyayan
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Keytanjian
Mr. & Mrs. Aram Kumkumian
Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Kzirian
Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Leszczynski
Ms. Lisa Manookian
Mrs. Knarig Mardirosian
Mr. & Mrs. Berdj Mazmanian
Mrs. Dorothy Melikian
Dn. Minas & Kohar Mihranyan
Mr. & Mrs. Set Momjian
Mr. & Mrs. Sahag Odabashian
Mr. & Mrs. Ara Panosian
Mrs. Mary Parnagian
Ms. Gloria Sabater
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Sarkisian
Mr. & Mrs. George Semerjian
Mrs. Margo Silk
Mr. & Mrs. Missak Simonian
Mr. & Mrs. Benjamin Tashjian
Mrs. Veronica Torcomian
Mr. & Mrs. Mihran Toumajan
Dr. & Mrs. Jerry Williams
$20.00
Mr. & Mrs. Harry Amirian
Mr. & Mrs. Melcom Avrigian
Mr. & Mrs. Jean Aydinian
Ms. Elizabeth Barsamian
Mr. & Mrs. John Bosnian
Mr. & Mrs. Edward Boyajian
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Brinker
Mr. & Mrs. Aram Ghazarian
Mrs. Shirley Hajinian
Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Hermes
Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Jehanian
Mr. & Mrs. Nerses
Karamanoukian
Mrs. Asdghig Kazanjian
Ms. Lisa Kazanjian
Mr. & Mrs. Haig Khararjian
Mr. & Mrs. Raffi Khatchikian
Mr. & Mrs. Mesrob Odabashian
Mr. & Mrs. Diran Shakarjian
Mrs. Janet Soghomonian
Mr. & Mrs. Michael
Tookmanian
Mr. & Mrs. Karnig Torossian
Mr. & Mrs. Roger Vosgorian
$15.00
Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Barasatian
Mrs. Millie Barsamian
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Riser
$10.00
Mrs. Vart Etoian
In Lieu of Flowers
In Memory of
Joseph Hoplamazian, Sr.
$500.00
Mr. & Mrs. Sam Pogharian
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph
Hoplamazian, Jr. & Family
Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Mikaelian
& Family
$250.00
Edward & Joan Hoplamazian
& Family
Jack & Carol Hoplamazian
Christine Hoplamazian
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Kletjian
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 34
$100.00
Ralph Arpajian & Nani
Hovsepian
Mr. & Mrs. Dikran Barsamian
Dr. & Mrs. Donald Bedrosian
Mr. Roupen Berberian
Mrs. Marge Bogosian
Mr. & Mrs. Richard
Chebookjian
Mr. & Mrs. David Hoplamazian
Ms. Diane Hoplamazian
Mr. Garabed M. Hoplamazian
Ms. Marin B. Hoplamazian Mr. Garabed M. Hoplamazian, Jr.
Mr. & Mrs. Harry Hoplamazian
Mr. & Mrs. Mihran
Hoplamazian
Mr. & Mrs. Vaughn
Hoplamazian
Mrs. Victoria Hoplamazian
Mrs. Eileen Barsamian Jennings
Mr. Charles Krikorian
Mr. & Mrs. Roy Mikaelian
Ms. Shirley Mikaelian
Mrs. Virginia G. Miller
Mrs. Anna Nalbandian
Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Pogharian
Mrs. Rita Stepanian
Dr. & Mrs. Gabriel Tatarian
Mr. & Mrs. Steve Vosbikian
& Family
Ms. Marianne Zagara
$50.00
Alma Alabilikian & Peter Paone
Mrs. Rosette Alyanakian
Ms. Dyan G. Ayjian
Mrs. Hripsime Babikian
Babikian Sisters
Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Baldadian
Mr. Steven Barsamian
Mr. & Mrs. Albert Chavooshian
Mr. & Mrs. John Clayton
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Dennis
Dr. & Mrs. Andre Garabedian
Garabedian Family
Gibbons Insurance
Mr. Crosby Goshgarian, Sr.
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Hagopian
Ms. Brooke Hoplamazian
Mr. & Mrs. Steve Hovnanian
Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Jingozian
Mr. Charles Kazanjian
Mr. & Mrs. Gary Kazanjian
Dr. & Mrs. Albert Keshgegian
Melanie Krikorian & Family
Mrs. Dorothy Melikian
Ms. Margaret Merdjanian
Mr. & Mrs. George Mesigian
Mr. George Marootian
Mr. & Mrs. Donald Paretchan
Mr. Chris Piligian
Mr. & Mrs. Nick Ridgely
Mrs. Merle Santerian
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Sarkisian
Mr. & Mrs. John Semerjian
Mrs. Elizabeth Seraydarian
Mr. & Mrs. Ara Setrakian
Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Sevag
Mr. & Mrs. Richard Shakarjian
Mr. & Mrs. Theodore
Sookiasian
Mr. & Mrs. Paul Tefankjian
Mr. & Mrs. George Terkanian
Mr. & Mrs. Michael
Tookmanian
Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Torcomian
Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Vosbikian
Sam & Diana D. Vosbikian
$40.00
Mr. John Chalikian
Mr. & Mrs. Arslan Seraydarian
$35.00
Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Jehanian
$30.00
Arlington Cemetery
Mr. & Mrs. Albert Lousinian
Ms. Gohar Merdjanian
Mr. & Mrs. Aris Topakbashian
Mr. & Mrs. Andre Zeibari
$25.00
Ms. Clara Andonian
Mr. John Arslanian
Ms. Elizabeth Barsamian
Mrs. Millie Barsamian
Ms. Stephanie Barsamian
Mr. & Mrs. Eric Blumberg
Mr. & Mrs. Leonard Ciccotello
Mr. & Mrs. Harry Derderian
Mr. Larry D. Der Hagopian
Mrs. Alice Dertadian
Mrs. Mary Dulgerian
Mr. & Mrs. John Eskandarian
Mrs. Margaret Garabedian
Paris & Sonia Garabedian
Mr. Robert Guveyian, Jr.
Mrs. Helen Guveyian
Mr. & Mrs. Benjamin Hamalian
Mr. & Mrs. Haig Hagopian
Mr. & Mrs. Vahe Hagopian
Mrs. Rose Jingozian
Mrs. Asdghig Kazanjian
Mr. & Mrs. Edward Kazanjian
Mr. & Mrs. Richard Kazigian
Mr. Mesrop Kesdekian
Mr. & Mrs. James Kesdekian
Mrs. Grace Keshgegian
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Keytanjian
Mr. & Mrs. Diran Keytanjian
Ms. Dennis Krepelka
Mr. & Mrs. Aram Kumkumian
Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Leszczynski
Mr. & Mrs. Donald Lulejian
Mr. & Mrs. Marcus Mamourian
Mr. Mike Manoogian
Mr. & Mrs. Noubar Megerian
Mr. & Mrs. Ohannes Meguerian
Mr. & Mrs. Albert Momjian
Mrs. Veronica Monokian
Mr. & Mrs. Richard Mukalian
Mrs. Mary Parnagian
Mrs. Vickey Sagherian
Mrs. Claudette Sarian
Mr. & Mrs. Steve Sarrafian
Mr. & Mrs. Arden Selverian
Mr. & Mrs. Harry Selverian
Ms. Maritza Shamlian
Mr. & Mrs. Diran Shakarjian
Mr. & Mrs. Sam Silk
Mr. & Mrs. Nazareth Sookiasian
Ms. Araxie Suny
Daniel & Norma Takoushian
Mr. & Mrs. Jack Tefankjian
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Temoyan
Mr. & Mrs. Nicklas Terkanian
Mrs. Rose Tourigian
Mr. & Mrs. Michael Vosbikian
Mr. & Mrs. Mike Vosbikian
Mr. & Mrs. James Walter
Dr. & Mrs. Gerald Williams
Mr. & Mrs. James Yadavaia
Ms. Adriene Zepka
Zerounian Family
$20.00
Mr. & Mrs. Kurt Ajdaharian
Mr. & Mrs. Bob Antenucci
Ms. Lynne Baboujian
Mr. & Mrs. Alain Chamoun
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 35
Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence
Der Hagopian
Mr. & Mrs. George Devletian
Mrs. Kay Goshgarian
Mr. & Mrs. Raffi Jehanian
Mr. & Mrs. Albert Kapeghian
Ms. Lisa Kazanjian
Mr. & Mrs. Edward Martin
Mr. & Mrs. Mesrob Odabashian
Mr. & Mrs. Kosrof Pakhtigian
Ms. Jenni Philipp
Mr. & Mrs. Ara Shakarjian
Mrs. Veronica Torcomian
$15.00
Leslie Alyanakian &
Francesca D’Amico
Mrs. Rose Arpajian
Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Barasatian
Mazmanian Family
In Lieu of Flowers
In Memory of
Alice Jamgochian
$50.00
Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Baltaian
Mrs. Alice Dertadian
Mr. & Mrs. Victor Orlando
$25.00
Ms. Dennis Krepelka
Mr. & Mrs. Paul Tefankjian
Ms. Mary Teresa Whalen
$20.00
Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Mirenda
$5.00
Anonymous
In Lieu of Flowers
In Memory of
Mesrop Kesdekian
$500.00
Mr. & Mrs. James
Kesdekian and Family
$100.00
Mr. & Mrs. Edward
Hoplamazian
Mrs. Victoria Hoplamazian
$50.00
Mr. & Mrs. Jack Hoplamazian
$25.00
Mrs. Ayshe Chakmaklian
In Lieu of Flowers
In Memory of
Elizabeth Weller
$1,000.00
Ronald, Andrew &
Christine Weller
$50.00
Mrs. Azniv Jebejian
$20.00 Nevart & Taline Aposhian
Mr. & Mrs. Vrej Bedrossian
Remember Me
Dear I’ll see you one fine day
Another place, another way
Hold me close deep in your heart
And in that way we'll never part
Do the things we liked to do
If not for me than just for you
Tell the kids I love them so
And show them all the love we've known
Smile and let your heart be free
Know you'll always be with me
Your love, it let me live again
And now anew you must begin
I’ll be there for the things you do
And always be a part of you
You'll see me with each song you sing
As the twinkle in your wedding ring.
Please notify the Pastor whenever you know of anyone who is sick,
whether at home or in the hospital
St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
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St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Church Mer Doon Winter/Spring 2010
Page 37