ST. MARY ARMENIAN CHURCH
MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER
May 2024
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122nd Diocesan Assembly Convenes in Springfield, MA
The Annual Clergy Conference and Diocesan Assembly this year took place at the Marriott Hotel in Springfield, MA. St. Mark Armenian Church of Springfield hosted the Clergy Conference from April 30 to May 2 and the Diocesan Assembly from May 2 to 4, bringing together Armenian Church leaders from the Eastern Diocese.
St. Mary Church participated in the Diocesan Assembly, with representatives including Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan (pastor), Mrs. Shoghig Sahakyan (Parish Council chair), Mr. Onnik Sivaslian, and Dr. Zaven Kalayjian (delegates). For the first time, the assembly invited youth representatives, and St. Mary was represented Mr. Armen Sivaslian as its youth observer. This year's gathering presided over by Diocesan Primate Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, emphasized the theme “Be My Witnesses.”
The General Sessions took place from May 2 to 4 and included insightful roundtable discussions on Christian witnessing at the parish level. Dr. Ann Bezzerides guided a workshop to explore the year's theme in depth. On May 3, the awards banquet at the Springfield Marriott Hotel celebrated Rev. Fr. Mampre Kouzouian as “Armenian Church Member of the Year” and Rev. Dr. Mae Elise Cannon as the “Friend of the Armenians.”
In addition to reports and updates, the assembly highlighted efforts to restore St. Vartan Cathedral and showcased presentations from the Fund for Armenian Relief, the Armenian Church Endowment Fund, and various diocesan departments, ministries, and auxiliary organizations. Elections were also held for the Diocesan Board of Trustees and other official committees.
Running concurrently with the Diocesan Assembly was the 35th Women’s Guild Assembly, organized by the Women’s Guild Central Council. St. Mary was represented by Mrs. Lucy Murad and Mrs. Louisa Bashdasarian.
The assembly concluded on May 5 with the Divine Liturgy, presided over by Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan.
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Backgammon Tournament in St. Mary
Over the past two weeks, May 1- May 8, St. Mary's was abuzz with excitement as it hosted a lively backgammon tournament featuring 14 participants. The atmosphere was charged with camaraderie and competitive spirit, while attendees savored the delicious Armenian cuisine and wine.
In a thrilling final round, Daniel Herbekian Zinn claimed the championship title, with Agop Ohanian, Vasken Vartanian, and Raffi Karahisar securing strong positions as runners-up. The event not only showcased strategic gameplay but also celebrated community and tradition.
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St. Mary Shnorhali School Students Celebrate Mother's Day with Holy Communion and Reflection
On Mother's Day, May 12th the students of St. Mary Shnorhali School attend the Holy Badarak and receive Holy Communion, marking a special celebration for both the children and their families. Fr. Hovsep, in his message to students, reflected on the profound significance of motherhood in the lives of Armenian Christians.
He emphasized the importance of cherishing three mothers: our biological mother, who gives us life and nurtures us; our Motherland, which embodies our cultural and national identity; and our church, the spiritual mother that guides and supports us in our faith journey. He highlighted how each of these mothers plays a pivotal role in shaping our lives and our community.
In addition to honoring their mothers, the students also celebrated Teachers' Appreciation Week. They showered their teachers with flowers, heartfelt gifts, and greeting cards, expressing their gratitude for the dedication and love their teachers poured into their education.
St. Mary Shnorhali School continues to be an important part of our community, dedicated to educating our children in both the Armenian and Christian traditions. The school’s mission remains steadfast in fostering a strong sense of cultural and spiritual identity among the young generation, ensuring that they grow up with a deep appreciation for their heritage and faith. This Mother's Day celebration at Holy Badarak serves as a reminder of the vital role the school plays in the spiritual and cultural upbringing of our children.
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St. Mary Annual Spring Food Festival!
St. Mary's 14th Annual Armenian Spring Food Festival, held from May 17th to 19th, was a resounding success, bringing the vibrant flavors and cultural richness of Armenian heritage to the Greater Washington, DC area.
The festival kicked off on Friday with a captivating performance by junior pianist Edward Vardanyan, setting a delightful tone for the weekend. In the afternoon, live coverage by Fox 5 News featured the festival. Saturday was filled with an inspiring piano recital from young adult pianist Michael Derdzakyan. The evening was highlighted by a beautiful performance from St. Mary's Handbell Ensemble and the energetic dances of the Hayi Hoki Dance Ensemble. Sunday featured a heartwarming performance by students from the Shnorhali School, showcasing their talent and dedication.
Throughout the festival, attendees enjoyed guided tours of the sanctuary, shopped for unique items at the St. Mary Gift Shop and White Elephant Table, and explored various vendor offerings as well as Live Auction.
We extend our utmost appreciation to our Business and Individual Supporters. Special thanks to Yerevan Cafe and Classic Bakery, and all individuals who took the initiative to provide sweets for the infamous Bake Table.
Special thanks to the Parish Council, the Women's Guild, and our dedicated volunteers for their unwavering support and hard work. Your efforts were instrumental in making this event a success.
Thank you to everyone who participated and supported St. Mary in one of our biggest events of the year. We look forward to seeing you again next fall!
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Our congratulations to all 2024 Senior High and College Graduates.
May God continue to bless and guide you!
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Society of Oriental Liturgy Ninth International Congress Visits St. Mayr Armenian Church
On May 27th, the St. Mayr Armenian Church warmly welcomed over 45 participants from the Ninth International Congress of the Society of Oriental Liturgy. These distinguished scholars, coming from the United States and abroad, gathered at the church's social hall for their Wednesday session.
The Society of Oriental Liturgy is a scholarly organization dedicated to the study and preservation of Eastern Christian liturgical traditions. Their international congresses bring together experts, scholars, and practitioners who share a deep interest in the liturgical practices of Eastern Christianity, fostering an environment of academic exchange and mutual learning.
Fr. Hovsep, greeted the participants and gave them a comprehensive tour of the church. He presented the history of the St. Mayr Armenian Church, emphasizing its unique architectural beauty and the significant role it has played in the history of Eastern Christianity. Fr. Hovsep also engaged with the guests by answering their questions and providing deeper insights into the church's traditions and history.
The visit also highlighted the Armenian hospitality. The participants enjoyed a delightful lunch meticulously prepared by Raffi Sahakyan and Takuhi Hallajian.
The visit of the Society of Oriental Liturgy's Ninth International Congress participants to St. Mayr Armenian Church was a meaningful event that strengthened ties within the global community of liturgical scholars. It also provided an invaluable opportunity for St. Mary Armenian Church to showcase its rich history and traditions. The visitors were able to witness firsthand the church's warmth and hospitality, leaving them with a deeper appreciation and lasting impressions of the unique Armenian faith, heritage, and culture.
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Baptism and Confirmation
May 18, 2024
Ani June Visscher
Daughter of Gregory Armen Visscher & Isis Nzingha Hill- Visscher
Godparents: Arlen & Melanie Boyajian
May God bless our newly baptized with His love and may His protection and guidance always be with them.
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Weddings
May 9, 2024
Tony Prisco & Lousineh Galooshian
Parents: Thomas & Mary Clare Prisco, Voskan & Anik Galooshian
Best Man: Tim Prisco
Maid of Honor: Liya Galooshian Hoffman
May 24, 2024
Justin Reyes & Adriana Khachi
Parents: Efrain Reyes & Geralynn Cortes, Albert Khachi & Anjid Shahverdi
Best Man: George Yousefinazari
Maid of Honor:Jenik Shahverdi
Congratulations and may God make the newly married couples worthy of the desirable crown of Holy Matrimony.
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Funerals
May 5, 2024
Janet Masih
Janet is survived by her children: Anita (her partner Dainius Vitartas), Karen (husband Steven Bacica), Joseph (wife Tamar Terzian), Jack (wife Kelly Spindel)
as well as grandchildren Anais, Erik, Ethan, Zaven, Nairi, Sophia, Taleen, and great-grandson Kai.
May the Lord rest their Souls in peace and grant His comforting Holy Spirit to their family members and friends.
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Hokehankists - Requiem Services
May 12, 2024
For the Souls of:
Aida Kechichian-Najarian, Dave and Anne Subramanian
Requested by:
Khajag, Nevart, Nyrie and Garine Tahmazian
For the Souls of :
Rosa & Karlen Hovsepyan
Requested by:
Karen Hovsepyan
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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