ST. MARY ARMENIAN CHURCH
MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER
February 2024
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Shnorhali Students Embrace Faith Through Participation in Badarak
This Sunday, the students of Shnorhali attended the Badarak. This was their last communion before the solemn and reflective period of Lent began. The service offered them a precious opportunity to engage in worship and partake in the Holy Communion, a core sacrament of our faith.
For these young minds, being part of the Badarak is more than a ritual; it's a vital connection to their spiritual heritage and a profound expression of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. In the Armenian Apostolic Church, the Badarak is a deeply spiritual experience, rich in symbolism and meaning, and attending it allows the students to immerse themselves in the traditions and beliefs that form the bedrock of their faith.
The active engagement in this sacrament enables the students to gain a deeper understanding of the significance of Christ's sacrifice. This understanding is crucial in fostering a strong, personal, and meaningful relationship with God. By participating in the Badarak, the students are not just observers but become an integral part of the living tradition, experiencing firsthand the teachings central to their faith. Participation in Badarak nurtures our youth to become worthy members of the Armenian Apostolic Church.
The school anticipates that the resumption of these visits after Lent will continue to enrich and deepen the students' understanding and experience of their faith.
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Prayer for Healing Service & Bible Study at St. Mary
Tuesday, February 6th, marked an evening rich in spiritual nourishment and fellowship. The weekly Prayer for Healing Service and Bible Study session offered those present a chance to deepen their faith and find solace in communal prayer. This particular gathering held a special significance as it was the final service before the commencement of the Lenten period, marking an important transition in the church's liturgical calendar.
The focus of the Bible Study was on the powerful narrative found in John Chapter 11 — the miraculous story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. This miracle showcases Jesus' divine power over life and death, as well as offers deep insights into the nature of faith, hope, and the eternal love of God.
As we delved into this scripture, the importance of this miracle and its application in our lives today was thoroughly explored. It serves as an important reminder of the power of belief and the endless possibilities that faith in God can unlock. In the face of life's challenges and moments of despair, the story of Lazarus reassures believers of the transformative power of faith and the hope that lies in Jesus Christ.
Looking ahead to our spiritual journey through Lent towards Easter, the first Lenten service and spiritual discussion is scheduled for Friday, February 16th, and thereafter, these enriching gatherings will occur every Wednesday throughout the Lenten period. These sessions offer a space for reflection, learning, and spiritual growth, guiding the community through a meaningful Lenten journey.
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Annual Xash Meal a Resounding Success with Record Attendance and Generous Donations
February 3rd, friends and community members gathered together for the much-anticipated annual Xash meal. With over 40 attendees gracing the event, the air was filled with a spirit of camaraderie and joyous celebration, marking the largest gathering since the inception of this event some 16 years ago.
A special note of gratitude is owed to Bagrat Bayburtian and Davit Tomyan, whose tireless efforts as organizers made this event not only possible but also incredibly successful. Their dedication to fostering community spirit and togetherness is truly commendable.
The culinary highlight of the day was, undoubtedly, the Xash prepared by Chef David. His skill and preparation shone through as there was a generous amount of the delicious dish remaining even after many had returned for seconds. But the event was not just about savoring the delectable Xash. In a heartwarming display of generosity and community spirit, the attendees raised $3,450 for the Church. This was after covering all the expenses, a significant portion of which was kindly donated by the participants themselves.
This year's annual Xash was not only a testament to our rich traditions and culinary heritage but also a shining example of the strength and generosity of our community. We look forward to future gatherings where we can once again come together to celebrate, enjoy great food, and support meaningful causes.
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Heartfelt Thanks to Our New Mahs Preparation Team Members
We extend our deepest gratitude to Takuhi, Mari, and Suzan for joining our Mahs preparation team, expertly led by Lola. Their dedication to serving our community is immensely appreciated.
For those unfamiliar, "Mahs" is an Armenian term meaning "a portion." It refers to blessed unconsecrated bread, distinct from Holy Communion, intended for the faithful to share with those unable to attend the Badarak. Receiving Mahs symbolizes receiving a "portion" of the Badarak itself.
When offered Mahs, please extend your right hand, allowing the bread to be placed on the back of your hand. As you receive it, say "Pazheen eem Asdvadz haveedyan," affirming "God is my portion forever."
Thank you, Lola, Takuhi, Mari, and Suzan, for your service and for helping us keep this beautiful tradition alive.
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Celebrating St. Sarkis Day with Joy and Fellowship
We are thrilled to share the joy and fellowship experienced at the Annual St. Sarkis Luncheon hosted by St. Mary's Ararat Avak Society, which took place last Saturday, February 10th. This special day brought more than 100 members of our community together in celebration, surrounded by delicious food, lively entertainment, and the spirit of togetherness.
St. Sarkis the Warrior is one of the most venerated saints in the Armenian Church, known for his unwavering faith and his role as a defender of the downtrodden and the protector of love and youth. His feast day is a time of joy, love, and youthful energy, reflecting his message of faith, courage, and the power of divine love that resonates with us even today.
The luncheon, prepared by our extraordinary Avak Committee members—Takuhi Hallajian, Mari Shafakian, Eva Shafakian, and Raffi Sahakyan—was nothing short of sumptuous, leaving attendees in awe of their culinary skills. In addition, we extend our gratitude to our volunteers. In particular, Alex Madajian, Roxanne and Alexis Kumkumian-Schweitzer.
The highlight of the event was the performance by our young talented parishioners, Levon and Elona, who, under the watchful eye of their mother, Erna Stepanyan, graced us with a dance of Artsakh, heartfelt recitations of poetry, and mesmerizing piano performances. Their contributions added a special charm to the day, showcasing the vibrant spirit and talents within our community. Furthermore, it was heartwarming to receive these young soul's monetary contributions as well.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who attended, supported, and contributed to the success of the St. Sarkis Day Celebration. Your presence and financial support not only made the event memorable but also strengthened the bonds within our church family.
Let us carry forward the message of St. Sarkis—courage, faith, and love—in our hearts and actions throughout the year. We look forward to more gatherings that celebrate our faith and community spirit.
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Shnorhali School Students CBAREKENDAN
On Sunday, February 11, 2024, students of Shnorhali School at St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church brought to life one of the most beloved Armenian holiday traditions – “Barekendan."
The event was a tapestry of cultural immersion that weaved together our history, religion, and traditions. The students presented a captivating exploration of the cherished customs of Barekendan, filled with educational insights and lighthearted fun. Their cheerful performance transported the audience through time and space, from the pages of Tumanyan's famous Barekendan tale to the vibrant demonstrations of traditional Armenian games, songs, and dances. Humorous wedding re-enactment filled with amusing jokes brought the audience to an interesting fusion of past and present.
Traditional ritual dolls, lovingly crafted by teachers and parents, embodied the spirit of Barekendan. These symbolic figures added depth and meaning to the celebration - Grandmother Utis and her ladle of abundance or Grandfather Aklatis and his passion for moderation and tradition. The “Camel Game” provided a great tool to showcase victory over evil and oppression. Through this timeless game, the students showcased the enduring spirit of resilience and faith that defines our cultural identity.
Students’ performance also reflected the significance of having an abundance and variety of foods during the 2-week long celebration culminating on the day before the start of the Great Lent, known as the Boon Barekendan. That evening, people celebrate by eating milk-based soup, yogurt, and eggs, and preparing for Great Lent. The traditional saying during that day was: "We eat white eggs now, may God make us worthy to eat the red ones!"
At the end of the event, the children explained the meaning behind spiritual and physical abstinence during Great Lent. They talked about the importance of nurturing our souls with prayers and introduced the ceremonies and the names of the Sundays of Great Lent. The event was concluded with students wishing everyone "Bari Kendanutyun," ushering in a season of reflection and renewal as we move forward toward celebrating Easter.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all teachers and parents whose unwavering support made this celebration possible. Your dedication and commitment have enriched our community and inspired us all.
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Annual Parish Assembly Sunday - February 18, 2024
The Annual Parish Assembly of St. Mary took place on February 18th in the Cultural Hall, following Badarak, with the participation of 64 dues-paying members. The assembly featured the presentation and approval of annual statements and reports from various organizations, along with the endorsement of the budget for the forthcoming year.
We are delighted to announce the election and re-election of the following individuals to serve on the Parish Council and various committees:
Parish Council: Artur Sivaslian, Onik Sivaslian, Sean McClure, Vazrick Nishanian, Harout Tchekrekdjian, (Alternate: Shoghig Sahakyan). Nominating Committee: Lucy Murad, Zaven Kalayjian, Mark Krikorian (Alternate: Ani Derderian). Auditing Committee: Anna Seferian, Vladimir Shekoyan. Investment Committee: David Sayan (Alternate: John Asadoorian). WED Scholarship Committee: Bagrat Bayburtian (Alternate: Dale Turza).
Congratulations to the newly elected members. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the members who are stepping down for their dedicated service.
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St. Mary's Inaugural Service: Embracing the Call to Witness
On February 16th, St. Mary's Church was filled with the spirit of renewal and faith as it hosted its first Lenten Service of the year, marking the beginning of a journey of reflection and spiritual growth. After the prayer service Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, introduced the theme of the year: "Be my witnesses." This theme, deeply rooted in the Christian tradition and particularly resonant with the Armenian Church's heritage, invites the faithful to reflect on their role as bearers of witness to their faith, history, and the enduring spirit of Christianity.
Der Hary unfolded the theme, drawing from the biblical charge in Acts 1:8, which calls Christians to be witnesses "in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." This mandate, he explained, is not just a historical mission but a living, breathing commitment that transcends time, reaching from the early disciples to us today. Through his presentation, he connected this biblical foundation to the rich tapestry of the Armenian Church's history—from the early days of St. Gregory the Illuminator, through the trials of the Armenian Genocide, to the resilience in the face of contemporary challenges. His message was clear: to be a witness is to embody the faith and courage of our ancestors, living out the Christian values in every aspect of life.
The Service also set the stage for a fellowship hour dinner, generously sponsored by the St. Mary Parish Council. The dinner provided not just nourishment for the body but also the soul, as those gathered had the privilege of hearing from Jack Bournazian. Mr. Bournazian shared inspiring insights into his work with the Knights and Daughters of Vartan, focusing on their humanitarian efforts to aid Artsakhi refugees in Armenia.
Please join us every Wednesday at 7:00 PM throughout Lent for Spiritual Journey Toward Easter: Lenten Worship Service, Spiritual Discussion, and Lenten Dinner.
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ACYOA Juniors Bowling
The ACYOA Juniors (ages 12-18) had a wonderful time of fellowship on Saturday, February 10th at the Bowlero in Falls Church. The teens bowled, played arcade games, ate pizza, and made new friends. Some of the adult chaperons donned bowling shoes and took down a few pins as well!
If you have a teen who would like to come join in the fun, please contact RebeccaBagdasarian@yahoo.com to be added to the Juniors email list.
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Reflecting and Witnessing Together: A Lenten Journey at St. Mary Continues
The second Lenten Service and Discussion at St. Mary, held on Wednesday, February 22, centered around the theme "Be my witnesses." This event offered an evening of prayer, reflection, and communal learning. Dr. Nairy Ohanian led a meditation and discussion, focusing on the significance of being witnesses through prayer. She highlighted the dual aspect of prayer as a personal spiritual practice and a way to extend support to others, emphasizing the impact of letting others know they are being prayed for during their times of need. This message deeply resonated with attendees, underscoring the importance of community and solidarity.
The evening also featured insights from Vasken Yakoubian, the AGBU President of the Yerevan Office & Board Member, who provided updates on AGBU-sponsored programs in Armenia and the Middle East. This offered the community a glimpse into the broader impact of their support and the global reach of Armenian cultural and humanitarian efforts.
Special guest Fr. Tadeos Barseghyan, the pastor of the Armenian Church of Our Saviour in Worcester, MA, and his family were warmly welcomed. The attendees also enjoyed a dinner sponsored by the ACYOA seniors and juniors, symbolizing communal togetherness and the shared journey through Lent.
As the Lenten season progresses, the lessons and themes from this service promise to inspire and guide the congregation on their spiritual journey toward Easter. Everyone is invited to join us on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm for continued reflection and fellowship.
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Artistic Aromas: A Fusion of Armenian Coffee and Creativity at the Soorj & Paint Morning
The St. Mary Armenian Church hosted a unique and delightful event, the Soorj & Paint morning, organized by the Women's Guild on Saturday, February 24. This engaging event combined the traditional Armenian practice of enjoying Soorj, Armenian coffee, with the creative pleasure of painting, offering attendees a one-of-a-kind cultural and artistic experience.
The morning began with the aromatic preparation of Soorj, expertly brewed by Rita Istepanian. Participants were treated to the rich flavors of Armenian coffee, known for its strong taste and the ritualistic way it is made and served. The coffee session set a warm and inviting tone for the event, allowing guests to mingle, chat, and enjoy the comfort of shared cultural traditions.
Following the coffee, Dee Rogers led the paint workshop, where attendees had the chance to express their creativity by painting wine glasses. This hands-on activity was a testament to the artistic spirit inherent in the Armenian culture and provided a unique opportunity for participants to create personalized keepsakes. Dee guided the participants through the painting process, offering tips and encouragement, making the experience enjoyable for painters of all skill levels.
The Soorj & Paint event was more than just an art class or a coffee tasting; it was a celebration of Armenian culture, creativity, and community. By blending traditional elements with creative expression, the Women's Guild of St. Mary Armenian Church created a memorable and enjoyable morning for all who attended.
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Reflecting and Witnessing Together: A Lenten Journey at St. Mary Continues
The third Lenten Service and Discussion at St. Mary, held on Wednesday, February 28, embraced the profound theme "Witness through Fasting." Following the Repose Hours prayer service, Dn. Mark Krikorian led a thoughtful meditation on the essence and significance of fasting as a form of witness. He outlined what fasting is not and what it truly is, underscoring its importance in spiritual life, thereby transforming fasting into a powerful testimony of faith. The discussion further explored how fasting serves as a personal journey towards self-improvement and spiritual enlightenment, which, when shared, becomes a witness to others about the depth and sincerity of one's faith.
The evening also featured a special presentation by Lucy Mourad, who spoke passionately about the work of the Christian Armenian Sponsorship Program (CASP) from its inception to the present day. Her presentation shed light on the organization's enduring commitment to providing aid and support to orphaned Armenian children. Click here to learn more about CASP.
The dinner that evening was graciously sponsored by the St. Mary Women's Guild, bringing everyone together in communal warmth, unity, and generosity, which underscored the spirit of Lenten observance.
Everyone is encouraged to attend future services, held every Wednesday at 7:00 pm, for opportunities to reflect, learn, and grow together in faith and community spirit.
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Funerals
February16, 2024
Dro Derminassian
Dro is survived by his two children, Andrew and Stephanie, along with his siblings, Violette, Wilhelm, and Rouben
May the Lord rest their Souls in peace and grant His comforting Holy Spirit to their family members and friends.
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Hokehankists - Requiem Services
February 4, 2024
For the Soul of :
Dr. Nuran Akdemir Vahanian (40 days)
Requested by:
Christy Vahanian, Asanet and Berc Hacikoglu, Agacan Tufeckgian, Sona and Zaven Bakirci and Families
For the Soul of:
Dr. Suhail Khouri (2nd anniversary)
Requested by:
Maha Kenderian Kouri, Zaidoon Kouri, and Family
For the Soul of:
Dr. Paul Murad (2nd anniversary)
Requested by:
Lucy, Gregory & Andrea Murad
February 11, 2024
For the Soul of :
Samvel Baloyan (1st anniversary)
Requested by:
Aram Baloyan, Arpi Petrosyan, and children
For the Soul of:
Virginia Madajian
Requested by:
Alex Madajian
For the Soul of :
Gagik Ginosyan
Requested by:
Maria Stepanyan
February 18, 2024
For the Souls of:
Qnarik Keshish Musa (40 days), Mirza, Sevdigul, Sima, Babae Keshish Musa Ashot, Norayr, Tomas, Arshaluis, Margarit Shahnazarian
Requested by:
Shahnazarian Family
For the Soul of :
Harout Shiklanian (40 Days)
Requested by:
Mr. & Mrs. Nanor & Zareh Kasbarian and family
February 25, 2024
For the Souls of :
Those who perished during the tragic events of Sumgait (36th anniversary)
Requested by:
Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan and the Parish Council
For the Souls of:
George & Margaret Krikorian and Harry & Anne Attanossian
Requested by:
Sonya Krikorian-Kalian
For the Souls of :
Sirun Derderian (72nd anniversary), Maryam Derderian (9th anniversary), Harutyun Derderian (2nd anniversary), & Yerchanik Delikahya (2nd anniversary)
Requested by:
Setrak Derian, Simon Erdogan, Melkon Delikahya & Families
May God rest their Souls in peace and may His loving favor be with their Loved Ones.
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St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church
Rev. Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, Pastor
4125 Fessenden Street N.W, Washington, DC 20016
202-363-1923 / www.stmaryaac.org
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