ST. MARY ARMENIAN CHURCH 

MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER

May 2026

The Spring Food Festival workshop

Our dedicated Women's Guild kicked things off on Friday, May 1 with their beloved Simit Workshop. What a success it was, producing an astonishing 725+ of these golden, savory delights! They were back at it again on Saturday, May 2 for the Baklava and Bourma Workshop, filling our church halls with the irresistible aromas of these cherished Armenian pastries.

All of this hard work and love is building toward one of our most anticipated events of the year — the Spring Food Festival, May 15–17!

And we need you to make it a success!

St. Mary Represented at the 124th Diocesan Assembly



The 124th Diocesan Assembly of the Eastern Diocese took place from April 30 to May 2 in Milwaukee, hosted by St. John Armenian Church of Greater Milwaukee. Clergy, parish delegates, youth observers, and diocesan representatives gathered for several days of prayer, discussion, and collaboration for the life and future of our Diocese.

A special highlight of this year’s Assembly was the re-election of His Grace Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan as Primate of the Eastern Diocese. His continued leadership is a blessing for our Diocesan family.

St. Mary Armenian Church was well represented by our pastor, Rev. Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, and our delegates Sarine Zenian, Zaven Kalaydjian, and Alex Madajian. We are grateful for their faithful participation and service on behalf of our parish.

Shnorhali Students' Taste of Tradition - Serving Hope Through Heritage

On May 3rd, St. Mary’s Shnorhali School came alive with the sights, sounds, and aromas of Armenian heritage as our students took part in a truly special cultural experience, “Taste of Tradition.” This unique program brought learning beyond the classroom, allowing students to engage directly with one of the most cherished aspects of Armenian culture - traditional baking.

Our younger students were introduced to the preparation of matnaqash, observing the process of mixing and shaping the dough, then trying it themselves under guidance. They learned how the dough is gently stretched and formed, gaining an appreciation for both the technique and care involved. Our older students worked with gata, preparing the dough and filling, carefully rolling, layering, and shaping it before cutting it into traditional forms ready for baking. Each step required attention, patience, and a sense of craftsmanship, which the students embraced with enthusiasm.

Given the large number of students and the limited time available for each class, it was not possible for students to complete the full baking process. Instead, they were introduced to specific steps and actively participated in a portion of the preparation. Even within this limited time, the experience was highly engaging and provided students with a clear and hands-on introduction to traditional Armenian baking techniques.

This initiative also carried a strong spirit of service. The baked goods prepared by our students were offered for sale to support displaced children from Artsakh. Through the generosity of our families and community, the students raised $252, which will go toward assisting children in need. This added purpose gave the experience an even deeper dimension, allowing students to connect their learning with compassion and action.

This experience highlighted the power of hands-on cultural education. Building on this success, we look forward to developing it into a lasting tradition, with plans to dedicate a full period of focused Armenian cultural learning. This will ensure that each student has the opportunity to experience the entire process more fully and strengthen their connection to Armenian heritage.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our master baker, Mrs. Azniv Ayvazyan, whose expertise, patience, and leadership guided students through each stage of the process with care and precision. Our sincere thanks also go to our parents, whose support behind the scenes - helping prepare, clean, and reset the space - made it possible for each group of students to participate smoothly throughout the day.

We are deeply grateful to our teachers for their dedication, flexibility, and commitment to creating this enriching experience for our students. And most especially, we thank our students’ grandmothers, whose presence added a special warmth to the day. Sharing their knowledge, their time, and their care, they helped bring this tradition to life in a way that connected generations and strengthened our sense of community.

“Taste of Tradition” was more than an activity. It was a celebration of heritage in action, where students learned through doing, gave through serving, and carried forward traditions that unite us across generations.

Shnorhali Chess Club Championship:

Celebration of Strategy, Community, and Tradition



This year, on May 3, the Shnorhali Chess Club elevated its annual Chess Championship into a truly schoolwide celebration, bringing together not only students but also parents and the broader community in an engaging and spirited event.

The championship showcased the dedication, focus, and strategic thinking of our students, who have been consistently developing their skills through the Chess Club. With each match, students demonstrated discipline, patience, and sportsmanship - qualities that extend far beyond the chessboard.

In the wonderful expansion of the event, this year also introduced a Backgammon Tournament for parents, creating an opportunity for families to actively participate and share in the experience. This addition transformed the championship into a vibrant intergenerational gathering, where tradition, friendly competition, and community spirit came together in a meaningful way.

At the heart of this success are our dedicated coaches, Aren and Arman Grigoryan, whose commitment, passion, and tireless effort have been instrumental in shaping the club and preparing our students. Through their guidance, encouragement, and deep knowledge of the game, they have cultivated not only strong players but confident and thoughtful thinkers. Their ability to inspire and mentor students with both discipline and care is deeply appreciated by our entire community.

The event was marked by enthusiasm, thoughtful gameplay, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It was especially inspiring to see students and parents alike fully engaged -playing, observing, encouraging, and connecting with one another.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all participants for their energy and sportsmanship, and to our parents for their generous support of the hospitality table, which contributed to the overall success and welcoming spirit of the day.

The winners of both the Chess Championship and the Backgammon Tournament will be formally recognized during our school’s Annual Appreciation Event (Մեծարման Ցերեկույթ) on May 31st.

This year’s championship was more than a competition. It was a celebration of learning, connection, and community. We look forward to continuing and growing this tradition in the years to come.

Snorhali School's Spiritual Voices' Choir Opens "Armenians in America 250" Reception



St. Mary’s Shnorhali School “Spiritual Voices” Choir had the honor of participating in the special reception “Armenians in America 250,” held on May 1, at the headquarters of the Organization of American States in Washington, D.C. The event, organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in the United States in cooperation with the Armenian General Benevolent Union, celebrated the contributions of Armenians in the United States and brought together distinguished guests from government, diplomatic, and Armenian American communities.

The evening opened with the national anthems of the United States and the Republic of Armenia, beautifully performed by Shnorhali students. With confidence, pride, and heartfelt sincerity, our students represented the Armenian community with dignity and grace, earning warm appreciation from those in attendance.



For our students, this was more than a performance; it was a meaningful and memorable experience. Through their voices, they proudly shared Armenian culture and became young ambassadors, strengthening the connection between Armenia and the United States.

Bishop Mesrop Brings a Joyful Surprise to the Yalanchi Workshop

A week ahead of the Armenian Festival, on May 9, St. Mary’s dedicated parishioners and volunteers gathered to prepare yalanchi dolma. Their faithful work behind the scenes is one of the many ways our community comes together to support the life and mission of the Church.

During the workshop, the volunteers received a joyful surprise when His Grace Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, accompanied by Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, stopped by to visit them. Bishop Mesrop warmly greeted the volunteers, expressed his appreciation for their service, and offered his blessing and encouragement as they continued their work. He also tasted the freshly prepared yalanchi, gladly approved its exceptional flavor, and blessed it for the upcoming Festival.

We are deeply grateful to all who gave their time and energy to this important preparation. Their dedication, offered with love, helps make our Festival not only a successful event, but a true expression of fellowship, faith, and community.

A Joyful and Blessed Sunday at St. Mary: Episcopal Visit, Ordinations, and Mother’s Day Celebration

On Sunday, May 10, St. Mary Armenian Church was blessed to welcome His Grace Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, Primate of the Eastern Diocese, for a pastoral visit and the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. Coming just days after his reelection as Primate, Bishop Mesrop’s visit was a source of great joy and spiritual encouragement for our parish community. We were also honored by the presence of His Eminence Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, whose participation added further blessing and dignity to this memorable occasion.

The day was made especially meaningful by the ordination of fourteen young men to the rank of acolyte. Those ordained were: Davit Azizyan, Tigran Azizyan, Aram Aramyan, Spartak Aramyan, Ruben Babasyan, Vahagn Barseghyan, Bedros Guiragossian, Aris Gavur, Levon Gomstyan, Areg Parvanyan, Hayk Avetisyan, Rafael Garamyan, Alex Madajian, and Puzant Balozian. Their ordination was the culmination of months of preparation, study, and formation, and it was a profound blessing to witness them receive this sacred calling in the presence of their families and the faithful.

During the service, Bishop Mesrop also offered the blessing of veils for Maria Mamikonyan, Monika Mamikonyan, Amili Davidyan, and their music teacher, Arminae Ghazaryan Seropian, in recognition of their participation and service in the liturgical and musical life of the Church.

Following Badarak, the celebration continued in the church hall with a festive community luncheon and Mother’s Day gathering. The afternoon offered a beautiful opportunity for fellowship, gratitude, and joy as parishioners gathered to honor the newly ordained acolytes, celebrate the mothers of our community, and share in the blessing of Bishop Mesrop’s presence.

We extend heartfelt appreciation to all who helped make the luncheon possible: Bark BBQ and the parents of the acolytes for generously providing the meal, Classic Bakery for the beautiful cake, and Artur Stepanyan for the donation of wine. Special thanks are also offered to Armen Hovhanissyan, who graciously served as Master of Ceremonies for the program, and to Svetlana Hovhanissyan for thoughtfully purchasing and donating the gift bags and veils.

It was a truly uplifting day in the life of St. Mary Armenian Church, which was filled with worship, service, family, and thanksgiving. May God bless our newly ordained acolytes as they begin this sacred ministry, bless those who received the veils, and continue to strengthen our parish in faith, unity, and love.

Spring Food Festival -- A Joyful Weekend of Faith, Food, and Fellowship

On May 15, 16, and 17, our St. Mary community came together for our annual Spring Food Festival, and we are grateful to report that it was a wonderful success.

Our parish welcomed many guests, families, friends, and neighbors who came to enjoy delicious Armenian food, fellowship, and the warm hospitality of our community. The joyful atmosphere, the outdoor seating, the wonderful food, and the spirit of service all helped make the weekend truly memorable.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who worked so hard before, during, and after the festival: our Parish Council, Women’s Guild, kitchen volunteers, grill team, gift store and bake table volunteers, entertainment, dancers, youth, donors, sponsors, and all those who gave their time, talents, and energy in countless visible and behind-the-scenes ways.

A festival of this size is never the work of one person or one group alone. It is the fruit of a whole parish coming together in love and service. We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make the Spring Food Festival such a beautiful expression of our St. Mary family.

Thank you also to all who came out to support us. Your presence, encouragement, and generosity help sustain the life and ministry of our parish.

We look forward to welcoming everyone again at our Fall Food Festival in October!

Shnorhali School Live History Lesson From Sardarapat to Artsakh and Armenian American Service in Remembrance of Memorial Day



St. Mary’s Shnorhali School concluded its history classes for students in grades 4 through 8 with a special presentation dedicated to several significant and memorable events in Armenian history that took place in the month of May.

The presentation highlighted the historic and heroic Battle of Sardarapat, which played a decisive role in preserving the Armenian nationhood during a critical period. The lesson also covered key moments in modern Armenian history, including the establishment of Soviet Armenia and the participation and sacrifices of the Armenian people during World War II.

A significant portion of the presentation was devoted to the Artsakh movement and its historical trajectory, including the liberation of Shushi on May 9, 1992, the period of development and relative stability from 1994 to 2020, and the subsequent military escalations in 2020 and 2023. These events, which profoundly affected the Armenian population of Artsakh, were discussed in the context of regional history and ongoing humanitarian and political concerns. Students engaged actively with questions and reflections regarding Artsakh’s past and present circumstances.

In connection with themes of remembrance and service, and in recognition of the upcoming Memorial Day observance, the presentation also included a reflection on Armenian Americans who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The discussion highlighted their dedication, sacrifice, and contributions to the defense and security of the United States. Special recognition was given to figures such as Paul Ignatius, who served as U.S. Secretary of the Navy and held senior leadership positions in the federal government, exemplifying a legacy of public service, civic responsibility, and commitment to country.

The program concluded with a performance by the “Artsakh Voices” ensemble and the presentation of documentary footage filmed in Artsakh between 2018 and 2022, offering students a visual and cultural perspective on recent historical developments.

With Gratitude to Our Kitchen Cleanup Volunteers

Following the Food Festival, a dedicated group of volunteers came together on May 28, 2026, to clean and restore the church kitchen after days of hard work and heavy use. With great care and dedication, Takuhi Hallajian, Mari Shafakian, Raffi Sahakyan, Shoghig Sahakyan, and Alice Guida scraped and cleaned the stove, ovens, the drawers of the utensils, and the kitchen area until everything was sparkling.

Their quiet and faithful service is a beautiful reminder that parish life is strengthened not only through the visible moments of celebration, but also through the humble work done behind the scenes. We extend our heartfelt thanks to each of them for their time, effort, and love for St. Mary.

St. Mary Women's Guild Celebrates Hampartzoum

On Saturday, May 30, the St. Mary Women's Guild hosted its annual Hampartzoum celebration, bringing together parishioners for a joyful afternoon of faith, food, and fellowship.

The event began with a prayer service marking the Feast of the Ascension of Our Lord Jesus Christ, setting a reverent and celebratory tone for the gathering. Guests were then treated to a delicious luncheon lovingly prepared by the Women's Guild Executive Committee.

The festivities continued with a captivating performance by the Hayi Hoki dance troupe, who delighted the audience with their spirited Armenian dancing. In a wonderful moment of community participation, they invited guests to join in, teaching everyone two traditional Armenian line dances.

The afternoon concluded on a heartfelt note as three dedicated parish members were honored for their outstanding contributions to our community: Jermen Hallajian, Svetlana Hovhannisyan, and Suzy McClure. We are grateful for their tireless service and commitment to our parish family.

Many thanks to the Women's Guild and all who helped make this year's Hampartzoum celebration such a memorable occasion.

ACYOA Juniors End of Year Graduation Party



On May 30th, the ACYOA Juniors teen youth group convened to honor our Senior High graduates during an end-of-year party.  The evening, graciously hosted by the Kalayjian family, commenced with a delightful potluck dinner. The backyard provided a wonderful setting for recreation, where the teenagers, along with a few parents, participated in several lively rounds of volleyball. The students expressed their best wishes to the graduates by composing graduation cards.  The celebration culminated with a special year-end slideshow that showcased the youth group's activities and service projects from the 2025-26 school year. Lastly, the teens gathered to participate in the annual "Seniors Game," which concluded with heartfelt advice shared by the graduates. 

We express our appreciation to the Kalayjian family, who generously opened their home to host this memorable event. We are deeply grateful to the parents and volunteers whose efforts have made this year of youth ministry a success.

Shnorhali School Graduation Ceremony: A Legacy Passed to the Next Generation

The Shnorhali School Graduation Ceremony marked a defining moment of the academic year on Sunday, May 31, bringing together students, families, teachers, and community members to honor the completion of two distinct educational journeys within the school.

This year’s ceremony recognized two graduating classes, each representing a different stage of growth within the Shnorhali educational program.

The Young Scholars Kindergarten graduates completed their first structured learning experience at the school. With confidence and excitement, they concluded a foundational stage that introduced them to classroom learning, language development, and school community life. Their graduation marked the transition from early learning into the next stage of their academic path as they prepare to enter first grade.

The ceremony also recognized the 8th-grade graduates, who completed their years in the Armenian division of Shnorhali School. Over time, these students participated in weekly instruction in Armenian language, history, culture, and faith, gradually developing both academic knowledge and a deeper connection to their heritage.

Beyond classroom learning, they became an active part of the school community, taking part in school life, contributing to activities, and growing alongside their peers over the years. Their graduation marked the completion of this long-standing chapter and their transition into the next stage of their academic and personal journeys.

As diplomas were presented, the ceremony reflected both achievement and continuity: the completion of one stage of learning and the beginning of another. Families, teachers, and guests witnessed students step forward from familiar routines into new educational environments and responsibilities.

The event concluded with congratulations to all graduates and recognition of the families and educators who supported them throughout their years at Shnorhali School. The school community looks forward to seeing each graduate continue their journey with the foundation they have built here.

Vaccinating Against Assimilation Through the Songs of Komitas

Shnorhali School participated in the "Komitas Vaccine" initiative, a nationwide movement launched by renowned composer, ethnomusicologist, and Komitas scholar Arthur Shahnazarian.

The initiative is built upon a powerful and timely message. In an age when assimilation increasingly threatens language, culture, and national identity, Komitas's songs serve as a cultural and spiritual "vaccine", strengthening our connection to our roots and helping preserve the values, traditions, and identity that define us as Armenians.

The goal of the movement is simple yet profound: to learn, sing, and pass on the pure and timeless songs collected and preserved by Komitas so that they continue to live in the hearts of future generations. Participants are encouraged to learn five "anti-assimilation" Komitas songs and share them with others, creating a chain of cultural transmission from one generation to the next.

Throughout the school year, under the guidance of our dedicated music instructor Armine Khachatryan, Shnorhali students explored the rich musical legacy of Komitas and learned a collection of his beloved songs. During the end-of-year recital, they proudly presented five selections and invited parents, teachers, family members, and guests to join them in song.

What followed was far more than a musical performance. It became a moving expression of community, identity, and shared heritage as voices of different generations united in song. Students, parents, grandparents, teachers, and guests sang together, demonstrating that the music of Komitas continues to speak to the Armenian soul more than a century after it was first collected and preserved.

By joining the "Komitas Vaccine" initiative, Shnorhali School proudly affirms its commitment to preserving Armenian language, culture, and identity. Through the enduring power of Komitas's music, our students are not only learning songs, they are becoming stewards of a priceless heritage and carrying it forward to future generations.

Shnorhali School Celebrates the People and Programs Behind Another Memorable Year



On May 31, Shnorhali Armenian School brought together students, parents, teachers, clergy, volunteers, and community members for its annual School Appreciation Ceremony and the first installment of its End-of-Year Recitals, celebrating a year marked by learning, growth, service, and a shared commitment to Armenian heritage.

The afternoon began with a reflection on the many accomplishments, programs, and new initiatives that shaped the 2025–2026 academic year. Among the highlights was the introduction of the school's new three-tier kindergarten structure, designed to better serve the diverse needs of our youngest learners and provide a stronger foundation for future success. The presentation also highlighted the many dimensions of school life that extend beyond the classroom, including academic programs, spiritual education, cultural and traditional celebrations, after-school clubs, community initiatives, and the countless experiences that helped students strengthen their connection to Armenian language, history, faith, and identity throughout the year.

A particularly meaningful part of the program was dedicated to recognizing those whose dedication makes the school's mission possible. Teachers, after-school club coordinators, volunteers, committee members, parents, our accountant, lunch coordinator, and many other supporters were honored for their contributions to preserving and passing on Armenian language, culture, faith, and values to the next generation.

The ceremony was followed by the first part of the school's annual end-of-year recitals, featuring performances by the Little Explorers Kindergarten, Young Scholars Kindergarten, 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, and 8th Grade classes. Through poetry, songs, theatrical presentations, and cultural performances, students proudly shared the knowledge, talents, and confidence they developed throughout the year.

As families and friends watched with pride, the afternoon became a celebration not only of student achievement but also of the enduring mission of Armenian education itself. It was a testament to what can be accomplished when a community comes together to invest in its children and in the preservation of its faith, culture, and identity.

The celebration will continue on June 7 with the second installment of Shnorhali School's End-of-Year Recitals, featuring performances by the remaining classes and concluding another memorable academic year.

Baptism and Confirmation

May 9, 2026

Nune Bobo Liang

Daughter of Paul Liang & Linda Hsu

Godparents: Artin and Anna Safarian

May 16, 2026

Avedis Zatoonian

Son of Chris and Christine Zatoonian

Godparents: Michael and Kaitlin Morgan



May 30, 2026

Alina Berberian

Daughter of Sarkis Berberian and Maria Aghguiguian

Godparents: David Berberian and Annie Armstrong

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

Funerals

May 4, 2026

Yester Gharibi

Beloved wife of the late Jozef Tilimian; Loving mother of Carmen Tilimian and Garnik Boghosian (son-in-law), the late Zorik Tilimian and Helen Markarian (daughter-in-law), Catherine Tilimian and Hendrik Keshishi (son-in-law), and Serjik Tilimian and Inna Grigoryan (daughter-in-law). Devoted grandmother of Armo Boghosian, Aren Boghosian; Seleia Tilimian, Menoa Keshishi, Arno and Alik Keshishi, Orbell Keshishi; Edwin Tilimian and Juliet Tilimian.

May 8, 2026

Verjin Sahakian

She is survived by her loving sons, Ara (Diane), Michael (Catherine), and John, and her cherished grandchildren, Daniel, Lily, Elaina, and David.

May 20, 2026

Hasmick J. Nishanian

She is survived by her Nieces and Nephews and their respective families: Vazrik, Artemis, Veroyr, Nejdeh, Vachik, Editte, Areg, Alineh, and Tagvor, as well as sisters-in-law Mariam, Azad, and Anahid.

She was preceded by her siblings, Vartin, Gharapet, Flora, and Jerair, and three nephews, Sebough, Shunt, and Ara.

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

Hokehankists - Requiem Services

May 3, 2026

For the Soul of: Berceuhi and Sebuh Uslan

Requested by: Zepur Uslan, Aras Uslanian, Armen & Sean Uslanian

For the Soul of: Angela Bardizbanian (12th anniversary)

Requested by: Raffie, Maureen, Arthur & Raffie Jr. Bardizbanian

May 24, 2026

For the Souls of: Garabedian Mihran, Makrouhi, Armen, and Levon

Requested by: Maryse & Jacques Karaoglanian

May 31, 2026

For the Soul of: Hermine Nalbandian  

Requested by: Eugenei Hovsepian, Harout Hovsepian, Abraham Hovsepian, Rosstom Hovsepian, and Raffi Hovsepian  

For the Soul of: Zvart Bolat 

Requested by: Krikor Bolat, Bolat, and Bakirci families 

For the Soul of: Hasmick Nishanian (40 days)

Requested by: Anahid Nishanian

For the Soul of: Elmon Cubuk

Requested by: Cubuk, Chubukian, Sivaslian, and Ciuccio families

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