ST. MARY ARMENIAN CHURCH
MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER
June 2024
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Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan Receives Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fellowship
The Eastern Diocese is pleased to announce that Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan— pastor of St. Mary Church in Washington, DC, and a doctoral candidate at Catholic University of America’s School of Theology and Religious Studies—has been awarded the Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fund Fellowship for the academic year 2024-25.
His research at Catholic University explores the 4th-century St. Evagrius of Pontus, and his significance within the Armenian monastic tradition. Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan is the co-author with Dr. Robin Darling Young of a critical edition of Evagrius' writings, published in 2022.
“Receiving the Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fellowship is both an honor and a privilege, greatly supporting my studies and ministry,” said Fr. Karapteyan. “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Diocesan Zohrab Center for their support and invaluable assistance in the application process. This fellowship will significantly aid in advancing my research and the successful completion of my program.”
Fr. Karapetyan was nominated for the fellowship by the Eastern Diocese, which since 2022 has been among the select institutions eligible to nominate one candidate per year. The first beneficiary of this process in the 2023-24 season was Arthur Ipek.
The Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fellowships are awarded only to candidates who have outstanding undergraduate records, have demonstrated a need for financial assistance, are citizens of the United States of America, are enrolled in accredited colleges and universities in the United States, and have received baccalaureate degrees. The trustees welcome applications from students of all national origins who are United States citizens.
Applications for the next cycle of funding will be announced in the fall. To learn more, click here.
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Screening of the Documentary "The Cost of Water" at St. Mary Armenian Church
On June 6, St. Mary Armenian Church hosted a special screening of the documentary "The Cost of Water," drawing about 40 parishioners and friends to the event. The documentary, produced by Vahe Ohanyan and Tehmine Yenokyan, provides a compelling investigation into Armenia's deepening water crisis.
The event began with the 42-minute film, presented in Armenian with English subtitles, exploring the alarming loss of an estimated 80% of Armenia's water resources annually. It delved into the complex causes behind this crisis, including poor water management, non-transparent governmental practices, and the far-reaching impacts of climate change. Additionally, the film addressed the exacerbating effects of the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war and Azerbaijan's territorial incursions, highlighting how these issues have transformed Armenia's water security and affected local communities.
Following the screening, attendees engaged in a Q&A session with the filmmakers, providing an opportunity for deeper understanding and discussion about the pressing issues presented in the documentary. The Knights of Vartan hosted a light reception before and after the film, fostering community fellowship and further conversations on the documentary's impactful themes.
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ACYOA Juniors End of Year Party
The teen youth group (ACYOA Juniors) gathered on May 31st to celebrate the end of the school year and recognize the high school graduates. The Seferian family generously hosted the event, providing a delicious BBQ feast with various side dishes.
In anticipation of the upcoming October Juniors Sports Weekend in Philadelphia, Der Hovsep led the teens in a lively volleyball practice session, allowing new connections to form.
The group played a special game honoring the graduates, who shared their thoughts on the meaning of St. Mary's Church and the youth group in their lives. The festivities continued with foosball, table tennis, video games, and indoor basketball, ensuring a fun-filled celebration.
Many thanks to the Seferians for hosting the event and to all the parents for coming and bringing their teens.
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Feast of Holy Etchmiadzin at St. Mary
On June 2, St. Mary Church celebrated the Feast of the Catholic Church of Holy Etchmiadzin, a celebration which commemorates the founding of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. The essence of this feast profoundly expresses the story of the Armenian Christian faith, highlighting the historical and spiritual heritage of Armenian Christianity.
The celebration began with the Divine Liturgy, followed by a special service that included a prayer for the Catholicos, the supreme head of the Armenian Apostolic Church, invoking blessings and guidance for his leadership. The prayer also emphasized the importance and sanctity of Holy Etchmiadzin, reflecting on its foundational role in Armenian Christianity and its enduring significance as a symbol of faith and unity.
Feasts like this are great opportunities for our congregation to celebrate and remember events of crucial importance for our nation and faith, reinforcing the connection of the faithful to their ancient traditions and significant spiritual leaders. They serve as a reminder of the rich heritage of the Armenian Church and her enduring legacy and of our responsibility to be good stewards of our church and faithful servants of the Lord.
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Dinner and Dance with Bartev at St. Mary: A Night of Music, Fellowship, and Support
On Saturday, June 8, St. Mary Church Hall was filled with the joy of community as 125 parishioners gathered for an unforgettable evening. The night was marked by delectable food, vibrant music, and the warmth of friends and family, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.
The highlight of the evening was the captivating performance by Bolsahay singer Bartev, who traveled from Bolis to grace us with his extraordinary talent. His lively music had everyone tapping their feet and swaying to the favorite and nostalgic rhythms of Armenian music, adding a special touch to an already magical night.
This special event was not just about enjoyment; it was also a tribute to the past and present volunteers of St. Mary's Gift Shop and a heartfelt initiative to support its renovation. Everyone had a wonderful opportunity to express their appreciation to all the Visionaries and Contributors: Mr. Gary Avedikian, of blessed memory, who established the Bookstore at St. Mary Church; Mr. Armik Khachatourians, who furthered the growth of St. Mary Bookstore; Ms. Shoghig Sahakyan & Ms. Takuhi Hallajian, who transformed the Bookstore to St. Mary Gift Shop in 2011; Ms. Aline Guiragossian & Ms. Rebecca Petrosian who operated it from 2012 to 2020; and Mr. Raffi Sahakyan, who currently operates the St. Mary Gift Shop since 2020.
Appreciation was also expressed to the Gift Shop Volunteers: Ms. Malvina Brown, Ms. Nayiree Sarkisian, Ms. Roxanne Kumkumian Schweitzer and Ms. Anna Seferian.
This event was made possible by the relentless work of many volunteers. Thank you to the Organizing Committee; Aline Guiragossian, Anna Seferian, Janet Arabian, Nayiree Sarkisian, Raffi Sahakyan and Takuhi Hallajian. We extend our gratitude to the culinary specialists Mari Shafakian and Takuhi Hallajian along with their army of volunteers, and a sepcial thank you to Talin Habibian for taking care of lighting of the halls. Last but certainly not least this event would not have been successful without the support of the attendees. Your presence and generosity are greatly appreciated, and together, we continue to build and strengthen our community.
Proceeds from the evening will benefit the renovation of the St. Mary Gift Shop, ensuring it continues to serve our parish with excellence and love.
Stay tuned for more events and updates, and thank you for being a part of the St. Mary Church family!
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SHNORHALI SCHOOL CELEBRATES A YEAR OF ACHIEVEMENT WITH A SPECTACULAR RECITAL AND GRADUATION CEREMONY
As we close another remarkable school year, Shnorhali School stands proud, reflecting on an incredible journey marked by academic excellence, vibrant extracurricular activities, and unforgettable moments. Our students' dedication, talent, and enthusiasm have shone brightly, making this year a testament to their hard work and resilience.
On June 2nd and 9th, the students, teachers, parents, and relatives of Shnorhali School, alongside the esteemed Ter Hovsep, pastor of St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church, gathered in the church hall to honor the outstanding accomplishments of our students with end-of-year celebrations.
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Father's Day at St. Mary
On Sunday, June 16 during the Badarak at St. Mary Armenian Church, fathers were remembered in a special way. Parishioners gathered to participate in the liturgy, where Der Hovsep extended well wishes, blessings, and prayers to all fathers, acknowledging the significant roles they play in their families and communities.
Fatherhood was highlighted as a privilege, duty, and blessing. As Father’s Day was observed across the United States, we were invited to reflect with gratitude on the deeper meaning of fatherhood. While contemporary culture often overlooks the importance of fatherhood, the Armenian Church holds fathers in high regard.
A poignant part of our Badarak is the prayer that emphasizes the reverence of calling God “Father,” a privilege that signifies a profound relationship. The prayer recited by the priest states:
“God of truth and Father of mercy, we are grateful that you have exalted us above even the Old Testament patriarchs. For you were called ‘God’ to them, but you are pleased to be named ‘Father’ to us.”
This prayer, said before the congregation sings the Hayr Mer (Our Father), reminds us that it was Jesus Christ who taught us to call God “Our Father.” This understanding of God as our Father underscores the godliness to which all fathers are called.
We were called to thank the fathers who exemplify such divine fatherhood in our lives and to remember in prayer those fathers who have departed from this world.
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Baptism and Confirmation
June 1, 2024
Maya Anoush Adamyan
Daughter of Gevorg Adamyan and Marina Nersesyan
Godparents: Hayk Adamyan and Hasmik Simonyan
June 15, 2024
Edwin James Mitchell Jr.
Son of Edwin James Mitchell and Rebecca Hanessian
Godparents: Chris and Veronica Hanessian
June 15, 2024
Valentine Strickland
Daughter of Jonathan Strickland and Rebecca Hanessian
Godparents: Chris and Veronica Hanessian
June 29, 2024
Julia Schuyler Sigmund
Daughter of Donald Wright Sigmund and Natalie Grigorian
Godfather: Adrik Shant Grigorian
June 29, 2024
Anoush Simon
Daughter of Sevan and Fangzhou Simon
Godparents: Alexan Simon and Cecilia Chapiro
May God bless our newly baptized with His love and may His protection and guidance always be with them.
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Weddings
June 14, 2024
Anthony Ryan Oswald and Nicole Lena Satian
Parents: Arthur Sarkis Satian and Sylva Hermine Satian
Best Men: Varouj Varoujanian
Maids of Honor: Taleen Marie Satian /Jessica Lee
Congratulations and may God make the newly married couples worthy of the desirable crown of Holy Matrimony.
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Hokehankists - Requiem Services
June 2, 2024
For the Soul of:
Sossie N. Zenian
Requested by:
Vartan and Eva Zenian, Arda Z. Belt, Steve, Zarmine, Melvina & Tanya Evereklian
For the Souls of:
Ojen Sivaslian & Hamparsum Barsamyan
Requested by:
Sivaslian and Koseian Families
June 9, 2024
For the Soul of:
Diana Minassian
Requested by:
Ara, Andre (Ani), Danny, Alex Minassian, Nellie Sarkissian, Peggy and Danny Mesrop
June 16, 2024
For the Soul of:
Nelli Gevorgyan
Requested by:
Nonna Gevorgyan, Zara Harutyunyan
June 23, 2024
For the Souls of:
George, Rosaline Sarkissian, Orbel Khanbabaian
Requested by:
Yolande Khanbabaian and family
June 29, 2024
For the Soul of:
Misho Mooshegh Sakian, Ohan and Yeghisa Sakian
Requested by:
Lucy Sakian and Family
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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