ST. MARY ARMENIAN CHURCH 

MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER

March 2026

Special Blessing of the Armenian Letter Է at St. Mary



Following the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, March 1st, a special blessing ceremony took place at St. Mary Armenian Church for the Armenian letter Է. Before the blessing, Fr. Hovsep announced that since the renovation of the sanctuary, one meaningful element had been missing; something that would now be blessed and placed in its appropriate place within the sanctuary: the Armenian letter Է. In the Armenian language, է (“is”) expresses absolute being and has long been understood as a profound theological symbol. As such, the letter Է points to God as the One who truly and eternally exists.

The letter was generously donated to St. Mary by Alin Guiragossian. Present for the occasion was Archbishop Voskan Kalpakian, who officiated the blessing ceremony. In his remarks, Srpazan explained that the letter had been created at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and shared how he brought it with him to Washington, D.C., all the way from Armenia. He also reflected on the deep spiritual meaning of the letter է as a symbol of God’s eternal being.

We are grateful to Alin Guiragossian for this meaningful gift, which will now take its place in our sanctuary as a reminder of the presence of the Eternal God in our worship and life.

ACYOA Juniors Lenten Service Sunday



On Sunday, March 1st, the ACYOA Juniors youth group gathered to participate in a Lenten Service Sunday. First, they prepared sack lunches for those in need through the Small Things Matter non-profit organization. With the generous donations of supplies from our parish families, the youth successfully assembled 100 sack lunches. These meals were distributed to a low-income housing community for the elderly in Montgomery County. Subsequently, the teens took the Easter cards they had crafted in February and utilized them to compose letters to senior citizen members of the St. Mary community.  We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the parents, teens, and particularly to Greg and Katie Kumkumian for their efforts in organizing this event.

Third Lenten Worship Service and Presentation

On Wednesday evening, March 4, St. Mary Armenian Church gathered for the third Lenten Worship Service, spiritual discussion, and dinner.

The evening began with the Peace Service (Khaghaghakan Jam). Following the service, Deacon Mark Krikorian delivered an engaging presentation as part of this year’s Lenten series, “With Christ in the Wilderness.” His talk, titled “Man Shall Not Live by Bread Alone” (Matthew 4:4), explored themes of hunger, desire, and our dependence on God. Reflecting on Christ’s temptation in the wilderness, Dn. Mark invited participants to consider what truly sustains us and how the Lenten season helps reorder our hearts toward God.

The evening concluded with a fellowship dinner generously sponsored by the ACYOA, whom we thank for their hospitality and support of our Lenten gatherings.

Jingalov Hats Sale – A Celebration of Artsakh’s Living Heritage

Our Jingalov Hats sale at St. Mary Armenian Church on Sunday, March 8, was a wonderful success. Parishioners eagerly gathered to enjoy this beloved Artsakhtsi herb-filled bread, and the entire batch sold out quickly. We sincerely apologize to those who did not get a chance to taste one this time.

While Jingalov Hats is known for its unique and delicious flavors, it represents much more than a cherished traditional food. For our community, it is also a meaningful way of honoring and keeping alive the memory of our beloved Artsakh, preserving its rich culinary heritage, and passing these traditions on to the next generation. Through gatherings like this, the culture, flavors, and spirit of Artsakh continue to live within our community.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Elvina Azaryan for organizing this special event, and to all the dedicated volunteers who helped prepare, serve, and make the day possible. Their time and effort made this celebration of heritage and community truly memorable.

SCOOYA Youth Gathering Hosted at St. Mary Armenian Church

On Sunday, March 8, 2026, St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church in Washington, DC had the joy of hosting a special gathering of youth from the Oriental Orthodox Sister Churches in the DMV area. Young people from the Armenian, Coptic, Ethiopian, Eritrean, Syriac, and Malankara-Syriac Churches came together at St. Mary’s for the inaugural meeting of a regional chapter of the Standing Conference of Oriental Orthodox Youth Associations (SCOOYA).

The day began with the youth joining our parish community for Matins and the Divine Liturgy, celebrated by the pastor of St. Mary, Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, followed by a Lenten fellowship meal. After the service, the youth gathered for a meeting led by Rev. Archdeacon Gebre Kristos Nicholas Siniari, Secretary of the Standing Conference of Oriental Orthodox Churches (SCOOCh). During the meeting, participants discussed the vision and structure of the new chapter and elected a preliminary slate of officers. Special appreciation is extended to Alex Madajian for organizing the event.

The formation of this regional SCOOYA chapter grew out of the growing connections and friendships among youth from the Oriental Orthodox Sister Churches in the DMV area. Building on these relationships, the youth hope to continue gathering for liturgies, service projects, and spiritual activities that will strengthen fellowship and unity among the young people of our Oriental Orthodox communities.

St. Mary Armenian Church was honored to host this meaningful gathering and looks forward to supporting the continued growth of this new regional initiative, which seeks to deepen the bonds of faith and fellowship among the youth of our Sister Churches.

Lenten Reflection: Solitude, Silence, and Prayer

On Wednesday evening, March 11, our parish community gathered once again for the continuation of our Lenten series, With Christ in the Wilderness. The evening began with the Lenten Worship Service, drawing us into a spirit of prayer and reflection.

Following the service, Nairy Ohanian offered a thoughtful presentation titled “Solitude, Silence, and Prayer” (Luke 5:16). Reflecting on the Gospel passage where Christ withdraws to pray in solitude, the presentation invited us to consider the important place that silence holds in the spiritual life. In a world often filled with constant noise and activity, we were reminded that moments of quiet prayer create space for a deeper encounter with God. The reflection encouraged us to see prayer during Lent not simply as an obligation, but as an opportunity to step away from distractions and draw closer to the presence of God.

The evening concluded with a Lenten dinner and fellowship, generously sponsored by the St. Mary Choir members, for which we are deeply grateful.

We look forward to continuing our Lenten journey together in the coming weeks as we walk with Christ through the wilderness toward Jerusalem, the Cross, and ultimately the joy of the Resurrection.

Mid-Lenten (Meechink) Luncheon at St. Mary

The St. Mary Women’s Guild delighted our parish community with our annual Mid-Lenten Luncheon! Parishioners gathered to enjoy a truly fabulous feast—featuring a variety of delicious, homemade dishes generously prepared by our Guild members—while sharing in warm fellowship and joyful conversation.

Acolyte Training Continues at St. Mary Armenian Church

On March 18, St. Mary Armenian Church continued its Acolyte Training Program under the leadership of Der Hovsep, focusing on the theme: “What we touch is holy.”

During this session, participants were introduced to the sacred items used on the altar during the Divine Liturgy. They learned about the Chalice (Սկիհ), Paten (Մաղզմա), Gospel Book(Աւետարան), Cross (Խաչ), and candles (Մոմ), gaining a deeper understanding of both their practical use and spiritual significance. Special emphasis was placed on the reverence required when approaching and handling these holy vessels.

Der Hovsep guided the students in recognizing each item and understanding its role in the celebration of the Badarak. The session also highlighted the importance of knowing what acolytes may and may not handle, reinforcing discipline, attentiveness, and respect within the sanctuary.

We pray that God will bless them as they prepare to serve with greater reverence, humility, and dedication.

Lenten Reflection: Compassion Born of the Wilderness

On Wednesday evening, March 18, our St. Mary parish family gathered for another meaningful step in our Lenten journey, With Christ in the Wilderness. The evening began with our Lenten Worship Service. Following the service, Yn. Jennifer Karapetyan offered a thoughtful presentation on “Compassion Born of the Wilderness” (Matthew 9:36).

Building on the themes of the previous weeks, Christ’s time in the wilderness, His victory over temptation, and His life of prayer, Yn. Jennifer helped us see how all of these lead to something essential: a transformed heart capable of true compassion. Reflecting on Christ’s response to the crowds, “harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd,” we were invited to consider how our own Lenten practices, fasting, prayer, and reflection, are meant to shape us into people who see and respond to others with mercy and love.

The evening concluded with fellowship over a delicious Lenten dinner, generously sponsored by the Shnorhali School parents, for which we express our sincere gratitude.

Maria Stepanian Featured in ACYOA’s Inspiring Armenians

We are proud and joyful to share that one of our dedicated young parishioners, Maria Stepanian, has been nominated to be featured in the ACYOA blog, Inspiring Armenians.

This initiative of the Armenian Church Youth Organization of America highlights individuals whose lives reflect faith, service, leadership, and commitment to Armenian identity. Read the Inspiring Armenians blog

Maria’s recognition is a beautiful testament to her dedication to the life of the Church, her active involvement in youth ministry, and her commitment to living out her faith in a meaningful way. As noted in the feature, her example brings together faith, Armenian identity, and youth leadership in a way that inspires others to serve and grow within our community. 

We give thanks to God for Maria and for all our young people who continue to strengthen and enrich the life of our parish. May her example inspire others to deepen their faith, serve with love, and remain rooted in our beautiful Armenian heritage.

Lenten Good Deed Opportunity



This year, Shnorhali School is proud to partner with Ayo! in a diocesan-wide fundraising effort supporting Together on Stage, an inclusive theatre program in Yerevan, Armenia that brings children of all abilities together through creativity and performance.

As part of this initiative, our students have created beautiful Easter cards and candles. We are grateful to everyone who supported this effort!

Women’s Guild Baking for Palm Sunday & Easter

The dedicated members of St. Mary Armenian Church Women’s Guild gathered in the church kitchen on Monday and Friday, working with love and care to prepare traditional homemade Armenian baked goods for the upcoming Palm Sunday and Easter Bake Sale.

With hands busy and hearts full, they baked delicious choreg and kata, filling the kitchen with wonderful aromas and a spirit of fellowship. Their efforts are a beautiful expression of devotion, not only preserving our cherished traditions, but also serving the life of our parish community.

Preparing the Altar for Holy Week and Easter

In preparation for Holy Week and the joyous celebration of Easter, Sean McClure led a beautiful effort to clean and polish the sacred altar items at St. Mary Armenian Church. With the help of his dedicated “little helpers”, Aram Seropian, Edmond McClure, Vartan Karapetyan, and Bedros Guiragossian, the task was carried out with great care and enthusiasm.

Working together, they lovingly cleaned and restored the altar vessels, reminding us that even the smallest acts of service contribute to the beauty and reverence of our worship.

Thanks to their efforts, our altar items are now shining brightly, reflecting, in their own way, the glory of God as we prepare to enter the sacred days of Holy Week.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sean and his helpers for their time, care, and devotion.

Setting Our Hearts Toward Jerusalem: Sixth and Final Lenten Gathering

On Wednesday, March 25, our parish came together for the sixth and final Lenten service of our series, “With Christ in the Wilderness - A Lenten Journey.” This concluding evening was centered on the theme “Setting His Face Toward Jerusalem” (Luke 9:51), inviting us to contemplate Christ’s steadfast and deliberate journey toward Jerusalem, His Passion, and ultimately the Cross.

After the worship service the reflection draw us more deeply into the spirit of Great Lent. We were blessed with an engaging presentation by Sevan Topjian, who helped illuminate the meaning of this pivotal moment in the Gospel. His reflection encouraged us to consider our own spiritual readiness as we prepare to enter Palm Sunday and Holy Week with renewed awareness, commitment, and faith.

The evening concluded with a Lenten dinner, graciously sponsored by the St. Mary Gift Store and Avak Society, whom we thank sincerely.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our presenters, our sponsors, and all who participated throughout this Lenten series. Week by week, we have journeyed together in prayer, reflection, and fellowship, growing ever closer to Christ.



As we now stand at the threshold of Holy Week, may the fruits of this Lenten journey remain within us, guiding our hearts toward the Cross and the hope of the Resurrection.

Saintly Women’s Day Celebration at St. Mary Armenian Church

St. Mary Women's Guild joyfully hosted its annual Saintly Women’s Day celebration on March 21, 2026. The day brought together parishioners and friends to honor the enduring legacy of St. Ashkhen and St. Khosrovidukht, two remarkable women who played a vital role in Armenia’s embrace of Christianity.

The celebration began with a devotional service in the church sanctuary, where the lives of the saintly women were prayerfully remembered. Their example of faith, humility, and courage continues to inspire generations of Armenian Christian women.

Following the service, attendees gathered in the church hall for a fellowship luncheon filled with warmth and community spirit. The program featured a special presentation by Dr. Priya Bhandarkar, a breast health imaging specialist, who offered valuable insights on health and wellness.

The event was a beautiful expression of faith, fellowship, and gratitude, highlighting the vital role of women in the life of the Church. St. Mary’s Women’s Guild is to be commended for organizing such a meaningful and uplifting gathering.

Visit from U.S. Diplomats Assigned to Armenia

On Friday, March 20th, St. Mary Armenian Church had the pleasure of welcoming a group of visitors from the National Foreign Affairs Training Center for the Department of State, accompanied by their Armenian language instructor, Svetlana Wilson.

The group consisted of diplomats preparing for their service at the United States Embassy in Armenia. During their visit, Fr. Hovsep warmly received them, offering a tour of the church and sharing insights into Armenian history, faith, and heritage. The visit also included a thoughtful discussion about Armenia and the life of the Armenian community.

We wish them all the very best in their upcoming service in Armenia and pray that their work will be fruitful and enriching.

A Day with an Author: When Stories Came to Life with Aline Baghdassarian

St. Mary’s Shnorhali School had the pleasure of welcoming published author Aline Baghdassarian for a special in-person book presentation with our students.

During her visit, Aline Baghdassarian introduced her newly published book and shared selected passages, drawing students into the world of her story from the very first moments. What began as reading quickly grew into a dynamic exchange, with students asking thoughtful questions, sharing reflections, and making meaningful connections to their own experiences.

Our younger students were especially engaged, taking part in interactive games and hands-on activities thoughtfully prepared by the author. These moments allowed them to experience the story in an active and memorable way, beyond simply listening.

The visit concluded with a book signing, where students had the opportunity to meet Aline Baghdassarian personally, speak with her, and have their books signed, an experience many will remember with pride and excitement.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Aline Baghdassarian for her time, her warmth, and her genuine connection with our students. Her visit left a lasting impression and sparked curiosity, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for storytelling.



St. Mary’s Shnorhali School remains committed to creating opportunities that bring students face-to-face with authors and professionals, helping them see how ideas take shape beyond the classroom.

Turning Poetry into Care in Action: Shnorhali School’s Young Scholars Shape Values Through Literature and Creation

On March 22, the students of Shnorhali School’s “Young Scholars” Kindergarten class welcomed the arrival of spring through a day that went far beyond celebration, becoming a meaningful experience of creativity, learning, and human values.

At the heart of the day was Atabek Khnkoyan’s poem “The Swallow.” Through it, the children discovered not only the beauty of language, but also its deeper message. The swallow came to life as a symbol of hope, renewal, and new beginnings, connecting them to the essence of Armenian cultural identity vividly and memorably.

The experience continued through hands-on creation. The children built and decorated small wooden birdhouses, each one reflecting imagination and individuality. More importantly, this process nurtured a sense of care, responsibility, and kindness, teaching them to be attentive to nature and the living world around them.

The presence of parents brought an added sense of warmth and unity, turning the classroom into a shared space of encouragement, connection, and collaboration.

The day concluded with a heartfelt recitation by one of our Young Scholars, Lia Ghalumyan, whose performance of “The Swallow” captured both the spirit of the poem and the emotion of the day.

This was more than a lesson. It was a powerful reminder that true education not only teaches but also shapes character, instills values, and inspires a lifelong sense of purpose.

A Joyful Start to the Easter Season: Shnorhali School’s Spring Egg Hunt



On March 22, our youngest students enjoyed a fun-filled Spring Egg Hunt to kick off the Easter season. With baskets in hand, they explored the grounds with excitement, sharing plenty of smiles and laughter along the way.

More than just a fun activity, the day offered a simple introduction to the meaning of Easter—renewal, hope, and new life—experienced through joy, sharing, and time together.

Engagement

March 29, 2026

Matthew Mirbasoo and Nayri Andonian

Parents: Yeran and Albert Mirbasoo & David and Gilda Andonian

Funerals

March 11, 2026

Hrair (“Harry”) George Kazanjian

Hrair is survived by his devoted wife, Suzanne, and his 2 children, Aline and Ari.

He is also survived by his son-in-law, Chris, and his beloved grandchildren, Araxi and Raffi; his brother Vince and sister-in-law Houry; his sister-in-law Mariette; his brother-in-law Aram and Aram’s wife, Tamar; and his sister-in-law Salpi and her husband, Hovig, and their families. Harry was predeceased by his mother, Astra, and his mother-in-law, Armenhoui.

March 28, 2026

Hagop Tumaian 

Jacob is survived by his beloved wife, Vilma, and his two sons, Salim and Fouad, who will carry forward his legacy. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

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

Hokehankists - Requiem Services

March 1, 2026

For the souls of: Maisa Popova and Valeri Andriyasov (parents), Boris Arutyunov (7^th day, cousin)

Requested by: Anna and Avedis Seferian

For the souls of: Victims of Sumgait Pogrom on February 27, 1988

March 8, 2026

For the Soul of: Diramayr Yeretzgin Anahid Kalayjian  (40 Days)

Requested by: Berj Kalayjian, Family of Zaven and Edita Kalayjian  

March 15, 2026

For the souls of: Julietta and Ruben Martirosyan

Requested by: Nelly Martirosyan

For the soul: Rafayel Gyoletsyan  

Requested by: Levon, Karine, Ruben, Gyoletsyan 

March 22, 2026

For the soul: Nora Maghrablian

Requested by: William Maghrablian and Liza & Ryan Zeinert  

For the soul: Suren Sargsyan and Maria Babayan

Requested by: Diana Sargsyan

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