ST. MARY ARMENIAN CHURCH 

MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER

December 2024

SHNORHALI STUDENTS CELEBRATE THE SEASON THE CHRISTMAS TREE DECORATING

On December 1st, Shnorhali students embraced the spirit of the festive season by gathering in the Cultural Hall of St. Mary Armenian Church to decorate the Church’s Christmas tree. This cherished tradition brought together students, parents, and volunteers, creating a heartwarming sense of community as they welcomed the beginning of the Holy Christmas season. The Christmas tree, a profound symbol in Christianity, represents the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Students lovingly adorned the tree with crosses, angels, and a nativity scene, each ornament telling part of the beautiful story of faith, hope, and joy that defines this sacred time of year. The event was a true testament to the creativity and enthusiasm of our students, who poured their hearts into making the tree a stunning centerpiece for the season. Their efforts were complemented by the unwavering support of parents and volunteers, whose teamwork brought festive cheer and warmth to the Church. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to this meaningful celebration. Your dedication has helped make this event a memorable highlight of the holiday season, reflecting the unity and faith of our Shnorhali community.

May the light and joy of this season fill your hearts as we continue to celebrate together.

Joy and Trust: Reflections on Mary and Elizabeth’s Encounter

The First week of December Advent Bible Study focused on Joy and the Magnificat (Luke 1:39-56), delving into the joyful meeting of Mary and Elizabeth and Mary’s beautiful hymn of praise. The study offered profound reflections on God’s faithfulness, the transformative power of trust, and the importance of community in our faith journeys during Advent.

The discussion began with Mary’s journey to visit Elizabeth, highlighting her determination and faith as she traveled to share her miraculous news. Elizabeth’s Spirit-filled greeting, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb,” affirmed Mary’s faith and celebrated the divine nature of her calling.

The participants then explored the Magnificat, Mary’s song of praise, which magnifies God’s greatness and celebrates His justice, mercy, and faithfulness. Her declaration, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,” encouraged everyone to reflect on the blessings in their own lives and to find joy in God’s promises, even amid uncertainty.

The session concluded with personal reflection and prayer, as attendees considered how they could embody Mary’s trust in God and share Elizabeth’s spirit of encouragement in their daily lives.

Celebrating Faith and Service: A Milestone Weekend

On the weekend of December 7 and 8, friends and parishioners of St. Mary came together to celebrate a truly momentous occasion—an event filled with faith, fellowship, and joy. The community honored Rev. Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan’s 20th Anniversary of Ordination into the Holy Priesthood and commemorated 92 years of St. Mary’s service and faith. 

The festivities began on Saturday, December 7th, with a grand Anniversary Banquet held at O’Connell/Heritage Hall of the Catholic University of America. The evening opened with a heartfelt invocation by His Eminence Archbishop Vicken Aykazian and set the tone for reflection and gratitude. The banquet was graced by the presence of His Grace Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, Primate of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church, marking his first official visit to our parish. Many distinguished guests offered their congratulations and well-wishes to Fr. Hovsep, acknowledging his unwavering dedication and spiritual guidance over the past two decades. Among them were Fr. Mardiros Chevian, Dean of St. Nersess Armenian Seminary and Der Hovsep’s sponsoring priest at his ordination, Her Excellency Lilit Makunts, Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to the United States, and Dr. Robin Darling-Young, Associate Professor of Church History at the CUA and advisor to Fr. Hovsep, renowned for her expertise in early Christianity and Armenian Christian traditions. On behalf of the parish council, Artur Sivaslian presented Der Hayr with a warm greeting and a special gift, and Hovsep Seferian delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude. Their words underscored the deep respect and affection held for Fr. Hovsep by the broader Armenian and academic communities.

A special acknowledgment goes to Boris Ghazarian and his family, who generously sponsored the banquet’s food through their business, Bark Barbeque Café. Their contribution provided not only a delicious meal but also exemplified the spirit of generosity and community that sustains St. Mary Church. The warmth and hospitality they extended enriched the evening and ensured that this celebration would be remembered for years to come.

The theme of the evening, “Stewards of Grace,” served as an important reminder of our collective calling to use our God-given talents in service to the community. The event was made possible through the support of dedicated parishioners and families, including the Aslanyan, Movsessian, Sivaslian, Sarkissian, and Trayan families, as well as Haykaram Nahapetyan and the St. Mary Parish Council. The banquet committee, led by Artur Sivaslian, Garegin Vardanyan, Jack Guiragossian, Yn. Jennifer Karapetyan, Maxine Turner, Onik Sivaslian, Raffi Sahakian, Shoghig Sahakian, and Sara Arabian, worked tirelessly to create a memorable evening for all. The evening was enriched by captivating performances, including Varuzhan Margaryan, a talented vocalist who traveled from Canada, and Karine Muradyan on piano, whose beautiful music filled the hall with joy and reverence.

On Sunday, December 8th, the celebration continued with a Special Divine Liturgy officiated by His Grace Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan. This profound moment of worship honored Fr. Hovsep’s milestone and marked the ordination of the next generation of Stewards of Grace. We were proud to witness the ordination of Deacon Edwin Tilimian and the following Sub-Deacons: Andre Alexandrian, Ruben Karapetyan, Aleksandr Nazaryan, Hovsep Seferian, Andrew “Ando” Seropian, and Sevak Stepanyan. Their commitment to serve our community is a testament to the enduring vitality of our faith and traditions. Additionally, at the conclusion of the service, six young female choir members received a special prayer and blessing for their head coverings from Srpazan: Maria Stepanyan, Debra Berberian, Talar Berberian, Ani Grigoryan, Lina Avetisyan and Nareh Melik-Stepanyan.

Following the ordination and Badarak, a lavish reception was organized by the parents of the newly ordained sub-deacons, providing a warm and festive environment for all attendees. During the luncheon, St. Mary’s Narek Bell Choir, under the direction of Maria Stepanian, and the talented Nishanian Sisters delivered beautiful performances that enriched the day. The heartfelt contributions of ACYOA Juniors and Shnorhali School students added a personal touch as they presented Fr. Hovsep with gifts filled with messages of gratitude and reflections on his profound impact on their lives.

Throughout the weekend, we were reminded of Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan’s humility, wisdom, and dedication. His 20 years of service have been marked by a steadfast commitment to spiritual growth, education, and community building. As we look to the future, let us carry forward the spirit of gratitude, stewardship, and unity, honoring the past while embracing the opportunities of tomorrow. Together, we are Stewards of Grace, building a legacy of faith and service for generations to come.

To support the "Embrace the Future" Endowment Fund, visit:

St. Mary's Embracing the Future Endowment Fund

May God’s grace continue to guide and bless our beloved St. Mary Church family.

Faith and Joy: Reflections on The Birth of John the Baptist at Advent Bible Study

On December 10th Advent Bible Study explored The Birth of John the Baptist (Luke 1:57-80), a powerful testament to God’s faithfulness and His plans for redemption. Through the lens of Zechariah and Elizabeth’s journey, the study highlighted themes of trust, transformation, and preparation for Christ.

The session began with reflections on Israel’s historical and spiritual longing during the Roman occupation, emphasizing the significance of John’s birth as the fulfillment of God’s promise.

Through a verse-by-verse discussion, the group delved into the obedience of Zechariah and Elizabeth in naming their child John, meaning “God is gracious,” signifying their trust in God’s instructions over tradition. The restoration of Zechariah’s speech and his immediate praise to God revealed the transformative power of faith and obedience.

The study also explored Zechariah’s Benedictus, a song of praise celebrating God’s covenant faithfulness and the role of John as a forerunner preparing the way for Jesus. Participants reflected on how they, too, can prepare their hearts and guide others toward Christ, embracing John’s mission of light and reconciliation. We were reminded that God’s timing is perfect, and His plans are always unfolding, even in seasons of waiting.

A Weekend of Faith, Celebration, and Gratitude: Honoring Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan and St. Mary Armenian Church

The weekend of December 7 and 8 was extraordinary for our parish and Shnorhali School as we celebrated two significant milestones: the 20th anniversary of Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan’s ordination into the priesthood and the 92nd anniversary of St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church.

During a special Divine Liturgy presided over by His Grace Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, Shnorhali students had the honor of witnessing the ordination of Deacons and Subdeacons. It was a sacred and transformative experience for our students as they gathered for the Patarag and watched members of our parish community embrace their calling to serve. Seeing familiar faces ordained into these holy roles was deeply inspiring and a beautiful reflection of discipleship in action, leaving a lasting impression on our students.

The Blessing of the Veils was another memorable moment during the weekend’s celebrations. Two of our students, Lina Avetisyan and Nare Melik-Stepanyan, were recognized for their active participation in the Choir and St. Mary’s Handbell Ensemble. Along with other young ladies in our church, Lina and Nare received this special blessing. Their dedication to enhancing our worship through music continues to bring us closer to God. Lina and Nare, thank you for sharing your talents and being wonderful examples of faith and service within our community.

The celebrations culminated with a heartfelt gesture from Shnorhali students and teachers, who presented Der Hovsep with a unique gift a book filled with handwritten letters and drawings. Each page was a personal expression of gratitude and admiration, a small yet meaningful token of appreciation for his two decades of faithful service to our parish.

Shnorhali School extends its deepest gratitude to Der Hovsep Karapetyan for his unwavering dedication, spiritual guidance, and leadership. Through your example, Father Hovsep, you have touched the hearts and lives of both our students and parish members. Your commitment to God and our community continues to inspire us all. May God bless you abundantly as you continue to serve with faith, love, and humility.

Toiletries for Teens Drive a Success!

The recent Toiletries for Teens drive, sponsored by the ACYOA Juniors, was an overwhelming success, with over 350 items generously donated by the community. The Juniors are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to this important initiative.

The collected toiletries will be distributed to underprivileged teenagers in the local metro area through the Food for Neighbors ( https://www.foodforneighbors.org ) organization, which operates snack and toiletry pantries within public schools.

The ACYOA Juniors would like to thank the entire parish for their support!

Book Presentation: "Odes of Saint Nersess the Graceful"

On Sunday, December 15th, St. Mary Armenian Church hosted a special event following Badarak at 1:30 PM. Dr. Jesse S. Arlen presented the newly released book, "Odes of Saint Nersess the Graceful," an annotated translation of the hymns and prayers of Saint Nerses Shnorhali (1102–1173). This book, co-authored with Matthew J. Sarkisian, makes the spiritual treasures of St. Nersess Shnorhali accessible to modern readers by translating them into English while preserving their theological and poetic depth.

The presentation offered attendees an enlightening exploration of Armenian Christian heritage. Dr. Arlen's insightful discussion highlighted the importance of Saint Nerses Shnorhali’s contributions to Armenian liturgical and spiritual traditions. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the historical and cultural context of these hymns and prayers and appreciate their enduring relevance.

This event was a wonderful opportunity for the community to deepen their understanding of Armenian ecclesiastical literature and celebrate the rich legacy of one of its most revered figures. 

St. Mary ACYOA Jr. Christmas Party: A Night of Joy and Giving

On December 14, the St. Mary ACYOA Juniors (teens) and their parents gathered at the Seferian family's home for a Christmas Party. The event started out with a potluck dinner. Following the meal, Der Hovsep delivered an inspiring message emphasizing the importance of drawing near to God through prayer for increased faith, trusting in God even though we can't see him, and seeking support from our Christian community. The teens then divided into teams to engage in some Christmas-themed games.   Rather than exchanging gifts among themselves, the teens contributed toys for donation to underprivileged children through the local Toys for Tots initiative.

Special thanks are extended to the Seferian family for their gracious hospitality and to the parents who attended and brought their teens.

May the joy and love of this season continue to inspire us all throughout the coming year!

A Festive Christmas Market and Bake Sale at St. Mary Church!

On Saturday, December 14, St. Mary Church welcomed family and friends for a heartwarming celebration of the season. The event was filled with the warmth of community, the aroma of delicious food, and the joy of Armenian hospitality.

As attendees arrived, they were greeted by a beautifully decorated market brimming with festive goodies and handcrafted gifts. The bake sale featured an array of mouth-watering treats, from traditional Armenian pastries to holiday favorites. The tantalizing scent of freshly baked goods filled the air, creating an inviting atmosphere that drew everyone in.

Throughout the day, visitors enjoyed the vibrant stalls, chatting with vendors and picking out unique gifts for their loved ones. The sense of togetherness was palpable, with laughter and cheerful conversations echoing throughout the venue.

The Festive Christmas Market and Bake Sale at St. Mary Church was a resounding success, bringing the community closer together and spreading holiday cheer. It was a perfect example of how the spirit of the season can be celebrated with love, joy, and generosity.

Light Has Come: Reflections on the Birth of Christ at Advent Bible Study

On December 17 Advent Bible Study concluded the season with a focus on the birth of Christ and the fulfillment of God’s greatest promise to humanity (Luke 2:1-20). As we are about to celebrate the arrival of Jesus, we reflect on themes of joy, hope, and light breaking through darkness.

The session began with a prayer of gratitude, inviting God’s presence as we meditated on the significance of Christ’s birth. Participants reflected on the humble circumstances of Jesus’ arrival in Bethlehem—a stable, a manger, and the quiet wonder of shepherds receiving the news from the angels. This simple yet profound event revealed God’s heart for the lowly and His desire for all people to receive His love and salvation.

Through discussion, we explored how the shepherds’ immediate response to the angelic announcement serves as a model for our own faith journey. Their willingness to seek the newborn Savior and spread the good news reminds us to actively share the hope and light of Christ with those around us. We also reflected on the peace proclaimed by the angels, a peace that transcends circumstances and brings reconciliation between God and humanity.

As we wrapped up our time together, we looked forward with excitement to resuming our Bible studies on January 7. Until then, may the joy, hope, and peace of Christ’s birth remain with us, inspiring us to be His light in a world that needs His love.

Shnorhali School Hosts a Joyful Christmas Celebration

On Sunday, December 22nd, Shnorhali School came alive with festive cheer as students came together to celebrate the joy and meaning of Christmas. This special event provided a meaningful opportunity for students to learn about the true essence of Christmas while fostering friendships and creating lasting memories in a joyful atmosphere. At the heart of the celebration was the aim to bring students closer to their Armenian roots, blending the spirit of faith, culture, and holiday cheer.

The celebration began with an inspiring message from Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, who shared the story of Jesus’ birth, reminding students of the love, hope, and compassion at the heart of the holiday. Religion Education Coordinator Nicolette Blackwell added an interactive element to the festivities with an engaging trivia game. The activity brought excitement and laughter while teaching students about the Christian symbolism behind popular holiday traditions and decorations. This blend of fun and learning helped deepen students' understanding of the cultural and spiritual significance of Christmas.

Adding a magical touch to the celebration, a special guest arrived - Santa Claus himself! Santa delighted the children as he chatted with them, listened to their Christmas wishes, and posed for memorable photos. His presence added a sense of wonder and excitement, making the day even more unforgettable.

The festivities continued with hands-on activities that encouraged creativity and togetherness. Students created festive Christmas crafts, wrote heartfelt letters to Santa, decorated Christmas cookies, and prepared "magical reindeer food" to ensure Santa’s helpers were well-fed for their journey. These activities allowed students to express their creativity and joy while strengthening their bonds with classmates in a fun, festive environment.

The event was a celebration of the holiday season, a testament to the school’s commitment to preserving Armenian traditions and fostering a sense of belonging among its students and an opportunity for students to learn, connect, and celebrate their faith and heritage together.

Merry Christmas and warm wishes from Shnorhali School!

Blessing of Pomegranates and Farewell to Deacon at St. Mary Church

On December 29th, St. Mary Church celebrated the traditional Blessing of Pomegranates after Badarak, marking the year's close with joy and reflection. The pomegranate, symbolizing life, fertility, and unity, was blessed in a ceremony invoking God’s grace and prayers for a prosperous 2025.

The day also included a heartfelt farewell to Dn. Serop Krajekian, who completed his six-month internship at St. Mary under Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan. Dn. Serop has been appointed Deacon-in-Charge of St. Sahag Armenian Church in Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN, effective January 1, 2025, with his ordination to the holy priesthood scheduled for February 23, 2025.

As part of the farewell, Fr. Hovsep presented Dn. Serop with an icon of St. Mary’s altar, a vivid reminder of his time at the parish. Fr. Hovsep prayed that the Mother of God guide and bless Dn. Serop on his path to priesthood, wishing him and his family wisdom, blessings, and a fruitful ministry.



We were also happy to welcome Fr. Guregh Hapbardzumyan, visiting from Milwaukee's St. John Armenian Church, who joined us for the Badarak celebration.

Concluding the last Sunday of the year, Fr. Hovsep blessed everyone, wishing all present a prosperous, healthy, and peaceful New Year.

A Joyous New Year's Eve Celebration

On December 31st, the Armenian community of Greater Washington gathered at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel to welcome 2025 with joy and tradition. Organized collaboratively by St. Mary and Soorp Khatch Armenian Apostolic Churches, the event brought warmth, unity, and festivity as attendees bid farewell to 2024 and embraced the new year.

DJ Shant from New Jersey energized the evening with a blend of traditional Armenian and contemporary music, creating a lively atmosphere for all. The celebration was more than a party; it showcased the resilience, unity, and cultural vibrancy of our community, fostering connections both old and new.

Special thanks go to the Armenian Community Event Planners and committee members, including Ohannes Sivaslian, Hripsime Sivaslian, Elda Hacobian, Kajaz Safarian, Garbo Afarian, Kevork Marashlian, Vartiter Marashlian, Lena Demirjian, Jemma Simonian, Irma Kassabian, and Jack Guiragossian, for their dedication to making the evening unforgettable.



As we reflect on this joyous gathering, let us carry its spirit of togetherness throughout 2025 and look forward to more shared celebrations. Here's to a prosperous and blessed year ahead for our Armenian community and beyond!

Weddings

December 21, 2024

Ivan G. Zhivkov and Vardine Sarikian

Parents: Georgi I. Zhivkov and Svetlana Zhivkova & Mekhak Sarikian and Azniv Beknazarian

Best Man: Zaven Kalayjian

Maid of honor: Edita Dolunts-Kalayjian

Congratulations and may God make the newly married couples worthy of the desirable crown of Holy Matrimony.

Funerals

December 9, 2024



Maryam Gharibi Mehrabian

Maryam is survived by her family members:

Her children: Antranik Mehrabian, Hrach & Armineh Mehrabian, Norik Mehrabian, Lorick Mehrabian, Sona Mehrabian & Hovik Avazian, Shoghik Mehrabian & Craig Vandre, Vartouhi Mehrabian & Nick Anderson

Moushegh Mehrabian & Nazik Der Khachatryan and her 9 grandchildren 

Sevan, Armen, Romik, Danielle, Megan, Arpi, Raffael, Nanor and Monte

December 23, 2024

Grigori Hovhannisyan

Grigori is survived by his wife Tatevik Hovhannisyan, his children Georgi and Elena, and grandchildren Jaxon Dominic and Leia

May the Lord rest their Souls in peace and grant His comforting Holy Spirit to their family members and friends.