ST. MARY ARMENIAN CHURCH 

MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER

April 2026

Palm Cross Workshop a Great Success

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sara Arabian for organizing a wonderful Palm Cross Workshop on March 28. Youth and adults gathered to learn how to make beautiful crosses from palm leaves in preparation for Palm Sunday. Through their combined efforts, over 200 palm crosses were lovingly crafted, blessed, and distributed to the faithful during the celebration of the feast the following day.

Thank you to everyone who came out and supported this meaningful tradition!

Palm Sunday Celebration at St. Mary

On Palm Sunday, March 29, the St. Mary community came together to joyfully mark the beginning of Holy Week with a beautiful celebration sponsored by our ACYOA. The day began with a Divine Liturgy, which included the participation of Shnorhali School children, a palm procession, and a special blessing of the children at the conclusion of Badarak, reminding us of Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem.

Following the Badarak, parishioners came together in the Church Hall for a beautiful time of fellowship and hospitality, graciously sponsored by St. Mary ACYOA. The afternoon was enriched by a special presentation from Yn. Jennifer Karapetyan, who shared valuable information about Diocesan Summer Programs, including St. Vartan Camp and the St. Nersess Seminary Summer Conferences. Her presentation offered a wonderful invitation for our youth and families to deepen their faith, build lasting friendships, and remain connected to the life of the Church.



The gathering was a fitting way to mark the triumphal entry of our Lord into Jerusalem, as we began our journey into Holy Week with renewed faith and anticipation. We are grateful to all who organized, participated, and made this celebration a memorable and uplifting experience for our parish community.

Palm Sunday Bake Sale



The St. Mary Women’s Guild was delighted to host its annual Palm Sunday Bake Sale on Sunday, March 29! Thanks to your incredible support, we enjoyed a fantastic day filled with the delicious aromas and flavors of freshly baked choreg, tahini choreg, gata, simit, and kurabia.

We are so grateful to all our parishioners who came out to support this special tradition—it truly made the day a wonderful success!

Armenian Presence at the Covenant Life School Multicultural Fair

Our Armenian students from Covenant Life School, together with the support of their parents, recently participated in the school’s Multicultural Fair.

The fair offered a meaningful opportunity for students and families alike to “get a taste” of the beauty found in different cultures; while also recognizing the deeper unity we share in Christ.



Our Armenian families represented our heritage with great pride and enthusiasm. Through traditional foods, cultural displays, and warm hospitality, they shared the richness of Armenian history, faith, and identity with the wider school community.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Guiragossian, Seropian, Garamyan, and Mermer families for their dedication and for so beautifully representing our Armenian heritage and Christian faith in this setting. Their efforts were a true witness to the living tradition of our people and a source of pride for our entire parish.

Egg Dyeing and Palm Sunday Patarag Visit

On Sunday, March 29th, our Shnorhali students spent the morning dyeing eggs that will be shared with our parish community on Easter for the traditional egg-cracking games. With great excitement and care, the students worked together to contribute meaningfully to our parish’s Easter celebration. We are so proud of their enthusiasm and teamwork, and we look forward to seeing these eggs enjoyed by all on Easter Sunday!

Later that day, our Shnorhali students participated in Patarag to celebrate Palm Sunday, joining our parish community for this joyful day. Together, they reflected on the significance of Christ's entry into Jerusalem and experienced the beauty of the service surrounded by their teachers, families, and fellow parishioners as we begin Holy Week.



During the service, the students also received a special blessing from Der Hovsep Karapety.

Preparing the Church for Easter

On Great and Holy Friday, on April 3rd, following the Order of the Entombment, a group of dedicated volunteers remained at church late into the evening to prepare the sanctuary for the celebration of Easter.

With quiet care and devotion, they cleaned the altar and sanctuary, changed the altar curtain, and even replaced light bulbs, making sure everything was ready to welcome the joy of Christ’s Resurrection.

It was a beautiful and often unseen act of service, offered not for recognition, but out of love for the Church and reverence for these sacred days.

We thank all of our volunteers for their time, care, and devotion.

A special thank you to Marina Gagikan for sponsoring and decorating the tomb for the Holy Friday Entombment Service.

God bless you all.

Renewed In Faith And Light: Shnorhali School Celebrates The Resurrection Of Christ

In reverent observance of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, one of the most sacred and defining pillars of the Christian faith, the Shnorhali School community gathered on April 4 at St. Mary Armenian Church for a spiritually uplifting and unifying celebration. Students, families, and staff came together in prayer, reflection, and shared tradition, honoring the profound message of Easter.

Guided by Shnorhali School’s Religion Coordinator, Nicolette Blackwell, and Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, students were led to understand Easter not simply as a celebration, but as a powerful expression of hope, renewal, and the triumph of life over despair, an enduring truth at the heart of Christian belief.

Prior to the Holy Patarag, Shnorhali students prepared the hearts of the faithful by reading passages from the Holy Scriptures. Their voices, carrying the sacred words, set a tone of reverence and reflection, gently guiding the congregation into the solemn beauty of the Divine Liturgy.

Following the service, the celebration continued with a cherished tradition, the Easter egg “fight” shared with the Pastor. This joyful moment brought warmth and smiles, complementing the spiritual depth of the day and strengthening the sense of community.

More than a gathering, this celebration deepened the students’ connection to their faith, the Armenian Church, and their cultural heritage. It reflected the core values that define the Shnorhali community: faith, love, compassion, and unity.

Through such experiences, Shnorhali School continues its mission to nurture both mind and spirit, ensuring that the light of faith remains a guiding presence in the lives of its students.

Holy Week and Easter Celebration at St. Mary

Our parish began the journey of Holy Week on Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026. The day began with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, followed by the palm procession and the blessing of the children. It was a joyful beginning to the week, as we welcomed Christ into Jerusalem and into our lives.

After the service, everyone gathered in the Church Hall for light hospitality sponsored by St. Mary ACYOA and fellowship. We also had a presentation by Yn. Jennifer Karapetyan, who spoke about the Diocesan Summer Programs, including St. Vartan Camp and the St. Nersess Seminary Summer Conferences. It was a helpful and encouraging presentation for our families and youth.

On Great and Holy Thursday, April 2, we gathered for the Holy Badarak and the Washing of the Feet service, remembering Christ’s humility and love at the Last Supper. In the evening, the Khavaroom (Service of Darkness) service was conducted, ushering us into the solemn and reflective spirit of the Passion. On Great and Holy Friday, April 3, we commemorated the Crucifixion and Burial of our Lord. Through the readings, hymns, and procession, we were reminded of the depth of Christ’s sacrifice and love for us.

On Easter Eve, Saturday, April 4, the evening began with Vespers and Scripture readings, beautifully offered by the students of our Shnorhali School. We then celebrated the Jragalouits (Easter Eve) Badarak and welcomed the light of the Resurrection. A Home Blessing gathering followed in the Church Hall, hosted by the Parish Council.

Easter Sunday, April 5, was a joyful celebration of the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. We were blessed to have Abp. Vicken Aykazian celebrate the Divine Liturgy. The service concluded with the Antasdan, as we proclaimed the good news of Christ’s Resurrection to the four corners of the world.

St. Mary Parish Council and Der Hayr would like to thank all those who contributed towards the Easter Lilies and Yughakin Donations, supporting our church during this difficult time.

Celebrating Our First “Grape Expectations” Wine Social



On Saturday, April 11, the Women’s Guild hosted its first wine social, “Grape Expectations – Armenian Edition.” Following a delicious luncheon prepared by the Women’s Guild Executive Committee, members and their guests enjoyed a lively blind tasting of eight different wines. Participants were challenged to match each wine to a description highlighting its unique flavors and characteristics, adding an element of fun and friendly competition to the afternoon.

Congratulations to our top taster, Arda Hebert, who successfully matched the greatest number of wines to their correct descriptions! 

With such an enthusiastic response and a wonderful sense of camaraderie throughout the event, we look forward to making this a new annual tradition for the entire church community to enjoy.

The ACYOA Juniors Bake Sale Benefiting Children in Armenia

On Sunday, April 12th, the St. Mary Teens (ACYOA Juniors) organized a bake sale that successfully raised more than $700 for children in Armenia requiring special medication. The collected funds will be distributed through the Fund for Armenian Relief AYO initiative known as Infusion of Hope.

https://www.weareayo.org/active-projects/infusion-of-hope/7276feb7-ed8b-45e3-9342-a1acfe305d59 

The teens extend their gratitude to the numerous parishioners who contributed funds, relished the baked goods, and supported this important cause.

A Meaningful Sunday at St. Mary: Visiting Clergyman and Book Presentation

On Sunday, April 12, St. Mary Armenian Church was blessed to welcome a special guest from the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, Rev. Fr. Sevak Saribekyan, Director of the Ruben Sevak Museum, who celebrated the Divine Liturgy. The community was grateful for the opportunity to pray together and welcome a Der Hayr who serves the spiritual and cultural life of our people in such a meaningful way.

Following Badarak, parishioners gathered for a moving and uplifting presentation by Dr. Jesse Arlen, who spoke about the life, formation, and poetic journey of his late sister, Tenny Arlen. With warmth and personal reflection, he shared insights into her development as a poet and read selections from her poetry, offering those present a touching glimpse into her creative spirit and inner world.

It was a beautiful afternoon of worship, reflection, and culture—one that reminded us of the enduring power of faith, memory, family, and the arts in Armenian life.

Food Festival Workshops Are Underway—Join the Fun!

The Women’s Guild launched this year’s Food Festival Workshop season on Monday, April 13, with a productive and delicious start. Volunteers prepared 57 traditional choreg and 22 tahini choreg, all of which will be featured at the Bake Table during the upcoming Spring Food Festival. Many thanks to Sona Bakirci, Ani Derderian, Assanet Hacikoglu, Nadya Koseian, and Hrip Sivaslian for helping bring this beloved tradition to life.

We warmly welcome everyone to join one or more of the upcoming workshops to help create the delectable treats that we will offer for sale at the Spring Food Festival on May 15, 16, and 17. Click on the link to sign up!

Gathered in Unity, Remembrance, and Witness

In mid-April, the Armenian Assembly’s 2026 Advocacy Summit brought together youth, community leaders, and advocates from across the United States for conversations centered on Armenia and the Armenian people. During the meetings, participants had the opportunity to meet with their elected representatives in the U.S. Congress and Senate and to speak about concerns affecting our people and homeland.

On April 15, the annual Capitol Hill Armenian Genocide Commemoration gathered members of Congress, clergy, community leaders, and Armenian organizations for a solemn program of prayer, remembrance, and public witness. Co-hosted by the Armenian National Committee of America and the Armenian Assembly of America in cooperation with the Congressional Armenian Caucus, the event honored the memory of the Holy Martyrs of the Armenian Genocide and also drew attention to the ongoing challenges facing the Armenian people.

The evening was marked by a spirit of reverence, unity, and renewed commitment to justice, peace, and the defense of human dignity. It was a meaningful reminder that remembrance is not only about honoring the past, but also about remaining faithful and engaged in the present. Der Hovsep Karapetyan was grateful to take part in both events and to offer the opening prayer at the Capitol Hill commemoration. In his prayer, he gave thanks for the witness, courage, and enduring faith of our sainted ancestors, praying, “May their memory remain forever sacred among us, and may their example strengthen us to live with faithfulness, dignity, and love.”

A Beautiful Visit from the ArmFolk Group from Armenia

St. Mary Armenian Church was blessed to welcome the ArmFolk Group from Armenia during their recent visit to our community. Their performance at the Silver Spring Black Box Theatre on April 18th was a beautiful celebration of Armenian music, dance, culture, and youthful talent.

We extend our special appreciation to ArmEvents, Alexan, and Grisha Zakyan for their support, dedication, and careful organization, which made this visit possible. We are also deeply grateful to all the host families who opened their homes and hearts to the children during their stay. Your hospitality reflected the warmth and love of our community.

It was a joyful and meaningful occasion that strengthened the bonds between Armenia and our parish family, and reminded us of the beauty and richness of our Armenian heritage.

Celebrating a Living Tradition: Shnorhali Students Immerse in the Beauty and Spirit of Armenian Culture

On April 19, students of St. Mary’s Shnorhali School at St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church were given a rare and deeply enriching opportunity to experience Armenian heritage in its most expressive form - through traditional dance.

Our community once again had the privilege of welcoming a distinguished Armenian folk-dance ensemble visiting the United States as part of an international cultural tour supported by the International Arts Fund.

Despite a demanding performance schedule, the visiting artists generously dedicated time to meeting with our students and families. What followed was far more than a performance; it became a living expression of identity, memory, and cultural continuity.

The ensemble’s artistic director and choreographer, Kristine Hakobyan, opened the performance with a solo piece that quietly captivated the audience and left a lasting impression that moved many in the room and set the emotional tone for the evening.

The program also featured the remarkable young artist Yelena Torosyan, a qanun (քանոն) performer, whose music filled the hall with the delicate yet powerful resonance of one of Armenia’s most treasured traditional instruments. Through both her performance and brief introduction, she helped students understand the instrument’s cultural significance and its enduring role in Armenian artistic expression, where music and dance together preserve and transmit stories across generations.

The ensemble’s group performances transformed the cultural hall into a space filled with rhythm, emotion, and shared heritage. Each performance reflected themes of resilience, celebration, and identity, reminding all present that Armenian folk art is not only preserved, but it continues to live and evolve through those who carry it forward.

For our students, this experience went beyond performance. It offered a powerful connection to heritage in a way that is both personal and lasting. It reminded them that Armenian culture is not only something to study, but something to live, feel, and carry forward.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Aleksan Zakyan and the International Arts Fund for fostering this cultural exchange, and to the talented young dancers whose energy and devotion brought the spirit of Armenia vividly into our community.

A Meaningful Vigil in Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide

The All-Armenian Student Association Eastern Region and the GW Armenian Students Association hosted a meaningful and moving vigil on April 23 in remembrance of the Armenian Genocide, bringing together students, community members, and guests in a spirit of prayer, reflection, and sacred remembrance.

The program opened with prayer and a blessing offered by Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan. Remarks were also shared by Tamara Nahapetyan, Deputy Director of All-ASA Eastern Region, and Hrachya Sahakyan, Director of All-ASA Eastern Region and an Armenian Assembly Advocacy Summit Scholar. Guest speakers Kate Nahapetian, Founding Executive Director of the Armenian Legal Center for Justice and Human Rights, and Dr. Rouben Adalian offered thoughtful reflections, followed by a candle-lighting ceremony and moment of silence in honor of the 1.5 million Armenian Genocide Saint Martyrs.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Tamara Nahapetyan and Hrachya Sahakyan for their leadership in organizing this beautiful and important evening of remembrance.

Cooking, Community, and Connection: A Look at Our Latest Workshop

On Saturday, April 25, the Women's Guild hosted a wonderful Triangle and Tepsi Boreg workshop — and what a turnout it was! We were thrilled to welcome more than 25 dedicated volunteers who came together to help assemble these beloved and delectable treats.

The fun doesn't stop there! Mark your calendars for our upcoming workshops:

• Friday, May 1 | 4:00–8:00 PM — Simit
• Saturday, May 2 | 10:00 AM–5:00 PM — Baklava & Bourma

Whether you're a seasoned baker or simply love good food and great company, there's a place for you at the table. Come out, roll up your sleeves, and join in the fun!

Commemoration of the Holy Martyrs of the Armenian Genocide at St. Mary



On Sunday, April 26, St. Mary Armenian Church commemorated the Feast of the Holy Martyrs of the Armenian Genocide on Red Sunday, in the light of Christ’s Resurrection. During Badarak, the faithful were reminded that, for the Church, the blood of the martyrs is never a sign of defeat, but of witness, faithfulness, and hope. Remembering the suffering of 1915, the community honored the Holy Martyrs not only as victims of history, but as holy witnesses who now stand among the saints and continue to strengthen the life of the Church.

Following Badarak, parishioners, families, and Shnorhali School children gathered before the khatchkar in the church plaza for a special intercessory prayer service and flower-laying ceremony. In a spirit of reverence and prayer, the community remembered the martyrs and entrusted our people, our homeland, and our Church to the mercy and protection of God. The khatchkar stood as a powerful reminder that for Armenians, the Cross is not only a sign of suffering, but the Tree of Life, bearing witness to the victory of Christ over death.

The participation of the Shnorhali School children made the day especially meaningful. Their presence served as a living testimony that faith, memory, and Armenian Christian identity continue from generation to generation.

Shnorhali School Commemorates the Armenian Genocide Through Faith, Memory, and the Story of Musa Dagh



On April 26, the Shnorhali community gathered in reverence to mark the 111th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Students began the day by attending Divine Liturgy, followed by the traditional Requiem service and procession to the Khachkar, during which clergy, students, and families walked together in prayer to the Armenian Khachkar monument. There, a special commemoration service was held, and flowers were laid in memory of the victims.

Following the service, Shnorhali School students presented a moving theatrical performance titled “The Victory of Musa Mount.” Organized and directed by History Teacher Haykaram Nahapetyan, the play was inspired by The Forty Days of Musa Dagh by Franz Werfel.

The performance highlighted Werfel’s journey in uncovering the story of the Armenian resistance. During a visit to Damascus, Werfel encountered Armenian orphans singing in the streets. Deeply moved by their voices and experiences, he began researching the Armenian Genocide, drawing upon survivor testimonies and historical accounts. His research ultimately led to the publication of his novel in 1933, one of the earliest literary works to bring international attention to the Armenian experience.

Structured in four scenes, the student performance portrayed both the heroic resistance of the Armenians of Musa Dagh and Werfel’s process of documenting their story. Through narration, dialogue, song, and movement, students conveyed themes of resilience, courage, and collective survival.

Adding a meaningful cultural dimension, students also shared the story of harissa, the traditional dish that sustained the defenders of Musa Dagh during their resistance. The audience was then invited to participate in tasting the dish, creating a powerful connection between history and lived experience.

Despite limited rehearsal time, due to the History class meeting only twice a month and a particularly busy March and April, the students delivered a thoughtful and impactful performance. Their ability to present complex historical themes with clarity and confidence reflected both their dedication and understanding of the material.

Through this experience, students explored one of the most tragic chapters of Armenian history while also engaging with a powerful story of resistance and survival. By presenting what they learned through performance, they were able to share these lessons with the wider community in a meaningful and memorable way. The impressions and insights gained from this commemorative event will remain with them for years to come.

St. Mary Women's Guild Commemorates Martyrs' Day



On Sunday, April 26, the St. Mary Women's Guild honored Martyrs' Day with a heartfelt gesture of remembrance, distributing commemorative lapel pins to parishioners at the front of the church.

Two meaningful symbols were offered as a gift from the Women's Guild to our parish community:

The Forget-Me-Not — A timeless emblem of remembrance, this delicate flower calls us never to forget the 1.5 million Armenian martyrs who perished, and to ensure that this solemn chapter of history endures in the memory of generations to come.

The Dove — A symbol of peace and abiding hope, the dove reflects the unbreakable spirit and unwavering faith of the Armenian people through centuries of hardship and perseverance.

These lapel pins were offered as a gift from the Women’s Guild to our parish community. 

Though marked by profound loss, the Armenian spirit lives on in each of us who carries this memory forward. We remember. We honor. We stand steadfast in preserving this sacred legacy.

Backgammon Tournament



What a wonderful evening of fellowship and friendly competition at St. Mary's Armenian Apostolic Church! Fifteen members gathered on Thursday, April 30th, for our backgammon tournament, filling the hall with the familiar clatter of dice and the cheerful sounds of good-natured rivalry.

After several rounds of spirited play, congratulations go to Daniel Herbekian Zinn, who took first place and walked away as our tournament champion.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to roll the dice, share some laughs, and keep this beloved tradition alive. Whether you're a seasoned player or just learning the game, we hope to see you at our next gathering.

Baptism and Confirmation

April 8, 2026

Nina Lee Nalbantian

Daughter of Nicholas Nalbantian and Binna Lee

Godparents: Theodore and Emma Nalbantian

April 11, 2026

Lily Williams

Daughter of Alexander Williams and Anna Yayloyan

Godparents: David Avagyan and Lilit Sargsyan

April 18, 2026

Alara Lucy Arabian

Daughter of Ara Manug Arabian and Jessica Sarkis Demirji

Godparents: Jacob Sarkis Demirji and Sara Arabian

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

Hokehankists - Requiem Services

April 12, 2026

For the Souls of: Edward Onanian and Alice Manigian

Requested by: Laurie Onanian

April 19, 2026

For the Soul of: Heghine Derderian (40 days)

Requested by: Yervant Khoranian and Family

For the Soul of: Rita Vartanian (1st anniversary)

Requested by: Nayiree Sarkisian

For the Soul of: Marine Boghosyan (2nd anniversary)

Requested by: Tigran Boghosyan

April 26,2026

For the Soul of: Albert Khaloyan (1st anniversary)

Requested by: Naira Babayan, Mariam Khaloyan, and Mr. and Mrs. Joann & Nareg Khaloyan Koroukian

For the Soul of: Daniel Maghrablian and Virgine Maghrablian 

Requested by:  Levon Maghrablian

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