ST. MARY ARMENIAN CHURCH 

MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER

May 2025

St. Mary Bell Choir Outreach Ministry Visit to Brighton Gardens of Friendship Heights

On a heartwarming afternoon, seven dedicated members of the St. Mary Bell Choir brought joy and inspiration to the residents of Brighton Gardens of Friendship Heights, a senior living community. Under the leadership of Maria Stepanyan, the ensemble performed a moving selection of bell music, filling the space with beauty, peace, and a sense of community. They were accompanied by Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, Nicolette Blackwell and Anahit Stepanayan.

Fr. Hovsep shared a few heartfelt words with the audience, introducing the St. Mary Bell Choir and offering prayers and words of encouragement to the residents. His message highlighted the importance of compassion, connection, and the healing power of music.

Following the performance, choir members spent time in fellowship, enjoying each other’s company over a pizza lunch. This outreach ministry visit was a beautiful expression of love and service, leaving lasting smiles and cherished memories in its wake.

St. Mary Fully Represented at the 123rd Diocesan Assembly

St. Mary Armenian Church of Washington, D.C. was proudly and fully represented at the 123rd Diocesan Assembly of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, held from May 1–3, 2025, in Haverhill, MA. Our pastor, Parish Council Chair, Diocesan Delegates, Women’s Guild representatives, and a Youth Observer all took part in the proceedings, joining clergy and lay leaders from across the Diocese.

Presided over by Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, the Assembly reflected the inspiring theme, “Love One Another,” and provided an opportunity for prayerful dialogue, planning, and vision-setting for the future of the Church. We are grateful that St. Mary’s voice, including its youth, was part of this important Diocesan gathering. Click here to read more.

Bible Study Series on Philippians Begins at St. Mary

On Tuesday evening, May 13, St. Mary Armenian Church held the first session of its new Bible Study series, A Pilgrimage with St. Paul through Philippians. The focus for Week 1 was Philippians 1:1–11, a passage filled with gratitude, joy, and deep spiritual connection. Participants reflected on St. Paul’s heartfelt message to the Christian community in Philippi — a community that supported him in prayer and love, even while he was imprisoned.

Led by Der Hayr, the session offered historical and theological insights into Paul’s words, including his use of terms like “servants,” “saints,” and “fellowship.” The discussion explored how the joy Paul experienced was not based on freedom or comfort, but on union with Christ and shared ministry with the faithful.

This opening session reminded us that fellowship in the Armenian Church — through liturgy, prayer, and service — is part of a larger work that God is bringing to completion in each of us.

The study continues every Tuesday through June 24 at 7:00 PM in the church hall.

All are warmly invited to join us for this journey through Scripture and community.

Thank You to All Volunteers

St. Mary extends heartfelt thanks to all the dedicated volunteers who have generously given their time, talent, and love in preparation for the Spring Armenian Food Festival. From rolling sarma and folding boreg to preparing each traditional dish with care, their tireless efforts during the workshop sessions have been a beautiful expression of service and pride in our heritage. Their commitment ensures that the rich flavors and cherished traditions of Armenian cuisine continue to nourish both body and spirit in our community.

St Mary ACYOA Juniors Spring Activities



The ACYOA Juniors held monthly membership meetings in April and May. During the April meeting the students participated in a short Bible Study about encouraging others. Then they wrote out Easter cards which were sent to the Senior Citizens of the parish (Avaks), as a gesture of service and encouragement. At the May meeting the teens participated in a Bible Study, discussing the daily reading, about the need to be born again from water and the Spirit. They discussed how various Christian denominations had different traditions concerning baptism and other sacraments.

On May 9th, the Murad family graciously hosted an end-of-year party for the teens at their home in Vienna. The gathering featured a variety of activities, including soccer and volleyball, alongside delicious hotdogs and hamburgers prepared with love by Der Hovsep Karapetyan.  The teens also honored the graduating High School seniors by writing messages in graduation cards and participating in the annual know-your-graduate game. The event culminated with a year end slide show.  The evening was a wonderful time for the teens and their parents to gather and share fellowship before the summer travel season.  Congratulations to our ACYOA Junior High School graduates: Taggie Gomtsyan, Ani Grigoryan, Yeva Grigoryan, Anahit Harutyunyan, Gurgen Manukyan, Madeleine Movsessian, and Alek Tekeyan.

St. Mary’s Annual Spring Food Festival was a Wonderful Success!

St. Mary Armenian Church hosted its 15th Annual Spring Armenian Food Festival from May 16–18, welcoming hundreds of guests from across the Greater Washington, DC area to experience the warmth, hospitality, and rich cultural heritage of the Armenian people.

The festival officially opened on Friday with delicious Armenian cuisine and lively fellowship. On Saturday evening, guests were treated to a spirited cultural performance by the Hayi Hoki Dance Ensemble, followed by the beautiful voice of Garegin Vardanyan, whose songs added an emotional and artistic depth to the celebration. Sunday’s highlight featured a moving performance by St. Mary’s Handbell Ensemble, offering a peaceful and joyful conclusion to the weekend.

Throughout the festival, visitors enjoyed shopping at the St. Mary Gift Shop, White Elephant Table, and booths hosted by local vendors. The beloved Bake Table once again offered a wide array of traditional Armenian desserts, baked in-house as well as generously donated by members of our community.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our Parish Council, Women’s Guild, and the many dedicated volunteers who devoted their time and talents to make this event possible. We are also deeply grateful to our Business and Individual Sponsors, whose support ensures the success of our festival each year.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, volunteered, and supported one of the most anticipated events of our parish calendar. We look forward to welcoming you again to our Fall Festival later this year!

“Joy in Suffering” — A Powerful Evening of Scripture and Fellowship

On Tuesday, May 20, the parish hall at St. Mary Armenian Church was filled with warmth and reflection as over 20 participants gathered for the second session of our Philippians Bible Study series. The evening focused on Philippians 1:12–30, a section in which St. Paul writes from prison — not with despair, but with joy, courage, and unwavering faith.

The theme for the night, “Joy in Suffering,” invited participants to reflect on how the Apostle Paul saw his imprisonment not as a setback but as a stage for the Gospel. Through a guided reading and deep discussion, we explored key verses like “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:21), and considered how Paul's words challenge modern ideas of success, safety, and purpose.

Participants engaged with thought-provoking questions about Christian unity in hardship, the witness of suffering, and the way the early Church—and even Armenian saints—found joy amidst trials. The powerful witness of faith, coupled with strong attendance and thoughtful contributions from the group, made this gathering both inspiring and spiritually nourishing.

We thank everyone who joined us and invite all to attend the next session on Thursday, May 27 at 7:00 p.m., as we continue this journey through St. Paul’s joyful letter to the Philippians.

Shnorhali School Honors Acolyte and Choir Graduates with Inspiring Field Trip

On Sunday, May 25, Shnorhali School marked the conclusion of Acolyte and “Shnorhali Voices” Spiritual Choir training programs with a memorable and meaningful field trip to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. - the largest Catholic church in North America.

Led by Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, Acolyte Training Leader, and Mrs. Armine Seropian, Choir Director, students explored the profound spiritual and historical significance of the Basilica. Fr. Hovsep guided the group through a rich discussion on the traditions and symbolism of Christian worship spaces, offering students a deeper appreciation of sacred architecture and liturgical life.

The visit was both a spiritual and educational experience, reflecting the dedication and growth the students demonstrated throughout the year in their service to the Armenian Apostolic Church. As a highlight of the trip, the choir beautifully performed the moving hymn “Ter Voghormia,” filling the grand Basilica with reverence and prayer.

Following the performance, students toured the many chapels within the Shrine, each representing a different Christian nation. They marveled at the sacred art, intricate altar styles, and breathtaking hand-crafted mosaics that adorned the church.

The day concluded with joyful group photos and a sweet celebration over ice cream, leaving students with lasting memories of fellowship, faith, and accomplishment. The field trip served as a powerful affirmation of their commitment to Armenian Christian heritage and marked a proud milestone in their spiritual education.

Celebrating the Feast of the Ascension — Hampardzoom 2025

On Saturday, May 31, the St. Mary Armenian Church Women’s Guild joyfully hosted this year’s Hampardzoom (Feast of the Ascension) celebration. The day began with a prayer service led by Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, including Psalm readings and a group prayer reflecting on Christ’s glorious Ascension and the promise of the Holy Spirit.

The celebration continued with a delicious luncheon lovingly prepared by the Women’s Guild Executive Committee, followed by a vibrant cultural program. The musical offerings included performances by Natalie Amalyan, Gurgen Manukyan, Tagouhi Gomtsyan, and Levon and Elna Zanyan, with poetry and folk dance that beautifully highlighted the spirit of the day.

A highlight of the afternoon was a presentation by Dean Shahinian on the estate of Levon Garabedian, who generously left a bequest in support of the Women’s Guild in appreciation of their unwavering dedication and love for the Church. His gift stands as a lasting tribute to the Guild’s vital role in parish life.

The event also featured the presentation of the “Women of the Year” award by Artur Sivaslian, honoring exemplary service among the Guild’s members, and concluded with the traditional vijag (drawing), a joyful reminder of the festive folk traditions tied to this sacred feast.

Rooted in centuries of Armenian Christian tradition, Hampardzoom beautifully weaves together spiritual reflection, cultural celebration, and community gratitude. As we remembered Christ’s Ascension, we were uplifted by His promise and inspired by the love and service that continue to flourish in our parish family.

Baptism and Confirmation

May 10, 2025

Tigran Gomtsyan

Levon Gomtsyan

Sons of Armen and Lena Gomtsyan

Godparents: Aghassi Mkrtchyan

May 31, 2025

Mason Charle Torossian

Son of Charle & Katlyn Darling Torossian

Godparents: Gilbert Torossian & Vanya Kostova

Sofie Simonian

Daughter of Garo & Nune Simonian

Godparents: Hovhaness Sulimanyan & Lina Soghomonyan

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

Weddings

May 10, 2025

Manuel Aywazian & Lilit Avetisian

Parents: Avades Aywazian and Jakline Bronzian & Sergay and Gayane Avetisian

Best Man: Haroutioun Ayvazian

Maid of honor: Lousine Yeremyan Ayvazian

May 24, 2025

Khachador Mouradian & Julia Hintlian

Parents: Jacob and Marie Mouradian & Varney and Martha Hintlian

Best Man: Frederick Hintlian

Maid of Honor: Roberta R. Ervine

Congratulations, and may God make the newly married couples worthy of the desirable crown of Holy Matrimony.

Hokehankists - Requiem Services

May 4, 2025

For The Souls of: Daniel Maghrablian and Virgin Maghrablian, Hasmig Enfiedjian

Requested by: Levon Maghrablian

For the Souls of: Varujan Kaldirim (40days)

Requested by: Cubuk, Chubukian and Sivaslian families

May 11, 2025

For The Soul of: Greta Sarikian (3rd anniversary), Nadezhda Zhivkova

 (4th anniversary), Samvel Meliksetian (7th anniversary)

Requested by: Ivan Zhivkov and Vardine Sarikian

May 18, 2025

For the Soul of: Vanouhie Margossian

Requested by: Mr. Harout Margossian, Mrs. Tsoghig and Mr. Chris Hekimian, and children Van and Soseh, Hovig and Christine Margossian and children, and Mr. Sahak and Emily Margossian and children, Frank and Barbara Hekimian

May 25, 2025

For the Soul of: Spartak Vardanyan (40 Days)

Requested by: Armine Vardanyan

For the Soul of: Rita Vartanian

Requested by: The Vartanian Family

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