ST. MARY ARMENIAN CHURCH 

MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER

January 2026

Feast of Nativity and Theophany Celebrated at St. Mary

St. Mary Armenian Church observed the Feast of the Nativity and Theophany of our Lord on January 5 and 6, marking one of the principal feasts of the Armenian Church’s liturgical year. The celebration began on the evening of January 5 with scriptural readings offered by the students of St. Mary Shnorhali School, followed by the Nativity Eve Badarak, celebrated by Der Hovsep. The service invited the faithful into prayerful reflection on the mystery of Christ’s birth and manifestation. It concluded with the traditional Home Blessing, affirming Christ’s presence in the life of the family and household. A fellowship gathering hosted by the Parish Council followed the service, providing an opportunity for parishioners to gather and greet one another.

On January 6, the community assembled again to celebrate the Feast of the Nativity and Baptism of our Lord. The Blessing of the Water Service formed the central rite of the day, commemorating Christ’s baptism and His revelation as the Son of God. The role of Godfather was fulfilled this year by Aram Seropian, the son of Andrew and Armine Seropian, one of the youngest members of the parish.

Following the service, the St. Mary Avak Society hosted a Nativity Luncheon for the parish community. Special thanks are due to the Avak Society organizing committee—Mary Shafakian, Takuhi Haladjian, and Eva Shafakian—as well as to the volunteers and supporters whose efforts made the gathering possible. The luncheon featured a variety of traditional Armenian dishes, including rice pilaf, turkey, lula kebab, eggplant tava, cheese boreg, sweet potatoes, cabbage pickles, turshy, and anoush abour.



Throughout these two days, the faithful gathered in worship and fellowship, marking the Feast of the Nativity and Theophany with the traditional proclamation:

“To you and us good news! Tzez yev mez Medz Avedis!

Christ is born and revealed. Kristos tsnav yev haytnetsav.”

We thank all of our parishioners and friends

for making their



Yughakin, Poinsettias, and In Lieu of Christmas Card Donations

On the Occasion of the Feast of Nativity and Theophany of our Lord

Shnorhali Students Proclaim Scripture on the Eve of the Nativity and Theophany



On the evening of the Eve of the Theophany and Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, as our church was filled with prayerful anticipation, Shnorhali School students were entrusted with a deeply meaningful role during the Patarag, proclaiming passages from the Holy Scriptures.

Prepared with care and reverence, our students approached the altar and proclaimed God’s Word, becoming active participants in the sacred life of the Armenian Church. Their voices carried the timeless message of Christ’s birth and revelation, reminding all present that faith is not merely taught - it is lived, witnessed, and faithfully passed from one generation to the next.

This experience was far more than a public reading; it was a moment of spiritual growth and responsibility. Through their participation in the Patarag, our students bridged classroom learning with worship, deepening their connection to the Church, strengthening their faith, and affirming their Armenian Christian identity.

We are deeply proud of our students for their dedication, composure, and reverent presence, and we extend our sincere gratitude to our families and clergy for their guidance and support throughout this preparation. Moments such as these reflect the heart of Shnorhali School’s mission: to nurture faith, tradition, and service in the lives of our children.

Kristos tsnav yev haytnetsav.

Orhnyal e haytnutyunn Kristosi.

Shnorhali School’s Christmas Handes

This year, Shnorhali School’s Christmas Handes was a heartfelt celebration of the true meaning of Christmas, shared through the voices and joyful spirit of our students as they proclaimed the good news of Christ’s birth. Our Kindergarten class opened the program with sweet performances of Nor Darva Handes and Tonatsar, setting a tone of joy and celebration.

From there, the rest of our Shnorhali students led the audience on a meaningful journey back to Bethlehem through song and storytelling, gently inviting us to reflect on the humility, hope, and love revealed in the Nativity. We are so proud of the time, effort, and dedication our students poured into this performance and deeply grateful to our teachers and volunteers whose care and service made this beautiful celebration possible.

Watch the performance! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvFwM4nSbog

Discovering the Divine Liturgy – Week 1

On Tuesday evening, parishioners and friends gathered for the first session of our 5-week series, Discovering the Divine Liturgy. We explored the meaning, purpose, and theological depth of the Badarak, the central act of worship in the Armenian Church.

Participants reflected on the word “Badarak,” which means “Sacrifice,” and how the Divine Liturgy is not merely symbolic, but a mystical participation in the one eternal sacrifice of Christ. We traced its roots from the Passover, through Temple worship and the Last Supper, to its fulfillment in the Eucharist.

We also discussed how the Badarak unites Heaven and Earth, draws us into communion with Christ and one another, and transforms us into the Body of Christ.

It was a meaningful start to a journey of deeper understanding and renewal. We look forward to continuing next week as we explore the opening movements of the liturgy: Preparation and Entrance into the Sacred.

Join us for Session 2 next Tuesday at 7:00 PM in the sanctuary.

Acolyte Training Program Begins at St. Mary Armenian Church

On Sunday, January 18, St. Mary Armenian Church joyfully launched its Acolyte Training Program, led by Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan. This program brings together our church’s young people and Shnorhali school students who are preparing themselves spiritually and practically to serve at God’s holy altar.

Through this training, participants are learning the meaning, discipline, and sacred responsibility of serving during the Holy Badarak. Emphasis is placed not only on liturgical knowledge and proper conduct, but also on prayer, reverence, and understanding the spiritual significance of altar service.

The training sessions will be held every other week, guiding the students step by step in their preparation for ordination as acolytes, which is anticipated to take place in May. This ordination will be a particularly meaningful moment for our parish, as we look forward to the pastoral visit of His Grace, Primate Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, on May 10.

We ask the parish community to keep our young acolyte candidates in their prayers as they grow in faith, service, and devotion, offering their time and hearts in service to Christ and His Church.

Commemoration of the 19th Anniversary of Hrant Dink’s Martyrdom

On Sunday, January 18, the faithful of St. Mary Armenian Church gathered to commemorate the 19th anniversary of the assassination of Hrant Dink, honoring his life, witness, and enduring legacy. Following the celebration of the Holy Badarak, a special Hokehankist was offered for the repose of Hrant Dink’s soul. In prayerful remembrance, the community entrusted him to God’s mercy, honoring a man whose life was marked by courage, conscience, and an unwavering commitment to truth, reconciliation, and human dignity.

After the service, parishioners were invited to a hospitality table graciously prepared and hosted by the St. Mary Ararat Avak Society, offered in loving memory of Hrant Dink.

The commemoration continued with a thoughtful and engaging presentation titled “Hrant Dink: Life and Legacy”, delivered by Haykaram Nahapetyan, journalist and video correspondent for the Armenian Mirror-Spectator. Drawing from his extensive experience covering Armenian community life, diaspora affairs, and human rights issues, Mr. Nahapetyan offered meaningful insight into Dink’s work, voice, and lasting impact.

Commemorations like this served as a solemn yet hopeful reminder of the power of faith, truth, and conscience, and of our shared responsibility to uphold justice, peace, and reconciliation in the world.

Badarak Study – Session 2: Preparing to Enter the Holy Mystery

On Tuesday, January 20, parishioners and friends gathered for Session 2 of our Badarak study series, Holy Mystery: Discovering the Divine Liturgy, led by *Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan. This session focused on the Preparation portion of the Divine Liturgy, specifically the Vesting of the Priest, Purification, Entrance into the Sanctuary, and the Presentation of the Gifts.

Participants explored how the Badarak calls not only the clergy, but all the faithful, to intentional spiritual preparation. Through the vesting prayers, psalms of purification, confession, and intercessions, we reflected on how the Church approaches the altar with humility, repentance, and reverence, recognizing the altar as a symbol of heaven itself.

Special attention was given to the hymn “Khorhoort Khoreen” (“O Mystery Deep”), which announces the beginning of the sacred mystery, and to the Presentation of the Gifts, where bread and wine, representing our very lives, are offered to God in anticipation of transformation by the Holy Spirit.

The session concluded with a shared reflection on a central question:

How do we prepare ourselves—spiritually and inwardly—when we come to Badarak?

We look forward to continuing this journey together as we move next into the Synaxis (Liturgy of the Word) in our upcoming session.

Women's Guild Membership Meeting

The Women’s Guild Executive Committee met on Sunday, January 18, at Nadya Koseian's home to select the officers for the upcoming calendar year. We are pleased to announce the following officers:

Co-Chairs: Ani Derderian and Beverly Sivaslian

Recording Secretary: Molly Boyajian

Correspondence Secretary: Talin Saraydaroglu

Treasurer: Hrip Sivaslian

Assistant Treasurer: Nadya Koseian

Advisers: Maha Khouri, Arda Hebert, and Roxanne Schweitzer

Adviser Alternate: Louisa Bagdarsarian

During the meeting, the Executive Committee also discussed the calendar of events for the first six months of the year. We look forward to hosting our annual favorites, including the Mid-Lenten Luncheon (Sunday, March 15), Saintly Women’s Day (Saturday, March 21), the Palm Sunday Bake Sale (Sunday, March 29), and Hampartzoum (date to be determined).

In addition, we are excited to introduce several new social events designed to foster fellowship and strengthen our sense of community. Stay tuned for more details—we look forward to sharing a meaningful and engaging year together!

Annual Khash at St. Mary Church

On Saturday, January 24, 2026, St. Mary Armenian Church hosted its much-anticipated Annual Khash Meal, bringing together parishioners and friends for a cherished Armenian culinary tradition. The event was a tremendous success, raising $3,800 for the church, with additional pledges still arriving.

The highlight of the evening was the incredible Xash, expertly prepared by Chef David Tomyan, with valuable contributions from Bagrat Bayburtian, whose teamwork elevated the culinary experience. The success of the event was also made possible by the tireless efforts of the volunteers who handled logistics, shopping, setup, and cleanup, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone.

This cherished tradition, now kept for 19 years, not only supports the church but also strengthens the bonds of community through shared fellowship. St. Mary’s is grateful to everyone who participated and looks forward to welcoming all Khash enthusiasts again next year for another memorable gathering!

Sunday Badarak Amid Inclement Weather

Despite the inclement weather, St. Mary Armenian Church gathered in faith to celebrate the Divine Liturgy (Badarak) last Sunday. Those who were able to attend joined in person, while others participated by watching the live broadcast on our YouTube channel, remaining spiritually united as one community. Together, we offered thanks and lifted our hearts to God, bearing witness to our shared faith, perseverance, and trust in God’s abiding presence, even in challenging circumstances.

Badarak Study – Session 3: Encountering Christ in the Synaxis

On Tuesday, January 27, parishioners and friends gathered for Session 3 of our Badarak study series to explore the heart of the Badarak’s first major section — the Synaxis, or Jashoo Jam. This part of the Liturgy, often called the “Liturgy of the Word,” prepares us to encounter Christ through Scripture before we receive Him in the Eucharist.

We began by reflecting on the Censing Procession, where the priest walks among the people offering incense. This powerful act reminds us that Christ is present — moving in our midst — as our prayers rise to heaven like fragrant smoke. The faithful, in turn, approach to venerate the cross and humbly ask: “Remember me before the immortal Lamb of God.”

From there, we entered into the formal opening blessing of the Liturgy: “Blessed is the Kingdom of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit…” With these words, heaven breaks into earth. We’re no longer just gathered in a church building; we’re standing in the presence of God’s Kingdom.

The Synaxis unfolded with hymns of praise, psalms, and the chanting of the Gospel, all leading us to the high point of the Word: Christ Himself, speaking to His people. The Gospel isn’t just a reading, but rather it’s an encounter. That’s why we stand, sing “Holy God, Holy and Mighty...” and declare: “God is speaking!”

We concluded by reflecting on the Nicene Creed, our shared profession of faith, and the ancient Anathema, which safeguards the truth we proclaim together. The Synaxis is a holy dialogue: God speaks, and the Church responds. It teaches us, forms us, and invites us into a deeper relationship with the Word-made-flesh.

As we move into the next part of the Divine Liturgy — the Eucharist — we carry with us this sacred preparation: minds awakened by truth, hearts opened by grace, and a community united in faith.

Announcing the launch of ArmenianDC.org, a new digital hub created to connect, inform, and celebrate Armenians throughout the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. It's a portal that promotes and shares locally focused information serving the Armenian community as well as visitors to the area. 

ArmenianDC.org was created with one clear goal: to bring everything Armenian in the DC area into one accessible, living space. Whether you’re searching for upcoming events, community institutions, local businesses, or sights of Armenian significance in Washington DC, this platform is designed to help you discover and engage.

At its heart, ArmenianDC.org is a living project — one that grows with community input. We encourage everyone to contribute by sharing information about new organizations, Armenian attractions, businesses, initiatives, and events to be highlighted.

Founded by Anna Seferian, the website was brought to life by Design and Development Minds, as a project that is a shared community resource—a lasting digital home for Armenians across the DC metropolitan area.

The site includes: 

• A Shared calendar of Armenian events in the DC area, where organizations, churches or businesses can submit their upcoming events.
• Sites of Armenian significance in the region – such as the statue in front of the Red Cross Building, or Arshil Gorkii paintings in the National Gallery
• Armenian organizations and Institutions – where information about various organizations is posted – like ANCA, Assembly, Homenetmen, ACYOA and others. 
• A directory of Armenian-owned businesses
• People - conversations over coffee with Armenian community members in Washington DC as well as highlights of the talent that we possess in our community.

Explore * Connect * Get Involved

www.ArmenianDC.org

Facebook  Armenian.DC

Instagram @ArmenianDC

Email: ArmenianCommunityDC@gmail.com

Weddings

January 17, 2026

Brent Cezairliyan and Nane Amiryan

Parents: Ared Cezairliyan and Sylvia Cezairliyan Papazian

Best Man: Brian Sawers

Maid of honor: Tatev Amiryan

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

Baptism and Confirmation

January 10, 2026

Luke Oliver Aroutunov

Son of Martin Aroutunov and Juliana Barros Villegas

Godparents: Arman Aroutunov and Ana Cristina Villegas

January 17, 2026

Nairy Teymouri

Daughter of Arin Teymouri and Anchal Tosla

Godparents: Arameh Teymouri and Lisa Kosla

January 24, 2026

Aurmin Amirmokri

Son of Jalaleddin Amirmokri and Nasrin Chaparian Amirmokri

Godparents: Steve Maradian and Shoghig Sahakian

May God bless our newly baptized with His love, and may His protection and guidance always be with them.

Funerals

January 2, 2026

Serooj Aghajanian

Serooj is survived by his beloved wife, Tania Ebrahimian, his sons David and Dareh Aghajanian.

January 13, 2026

Suren Vardanyan

Suren is survived by his devoted wife, Yelena Kharmandaryan‑Vardanyan; his two daughters, Lilit and Ruzan; four grandchildren—Liana, Alexander, Margarita, and Ruben—and his great‑granddaughter, Mila. 

January 14, 2026

Roubina Movsessian (Melekian)

Roubina is survived by her beloved daughter, Telma and son in law Phelan DeBurgh. Telma’s father, Ohanes Melekian. Her cherished brothers, Rubic and his wife Knar, Simbat and his wife Helen, and sister in law Narineh along with their children (Leana and husband Varouj, Areen and wife Maria, Souren, Madeleine, and Andre). She also leaves behind beloved extended family, cousins, Carmen, Catherine, Serjik, Henrik, and their families. Patrick and his wife Nathalie with their children (Niko and Bella), and Sally DeBurgh. 

January 16, 2026

Nora (Nevart) Maghrablian

Nora is survived by her beloved husband, William Maghrablian, and her loving daughter and son-in-law, Liza and Ryan Zeinert.

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

Hokehankists - Requiem Services

January 4, 2026

For the Soul of: Peruz L. Manoukian 

Requested by: Mariam Nishanian, Lucia Manoukian, Alineh Templin, & Tagvor & Selby Nishanian

January 11, 2026

For the Souls of: Avedis, Paris, Atam Ozkayan, Maryam, and Harutyun Ozbenyan

Requested by: Gulbahar Ozkayan

January 18, 2026

For the Soul of: Hrant Dink (19th anniversary)

Requested by: Avak Society

For the souls of: Charles and Arousiag Kumkumian, Linda Kumkumian, Vosgan and Rita Anbarjian, Alain Anbarjian

Requested by: Kumkumian, Schweitzer, and Anbarjian Families

For the Souls of: Yuri Ghazaryan (40 Days) & Artur Dabaghyan 

Requested by: Hovhannisyan Family

For the Souls of: Sasun Stepanyan (7 day)

Request by: Ara and Anahit Stepanyan and family

May God rest their Souls in peace and may His loving favor be with their Loved Ones.