ST. MARY ARMENIAN CHURCH
MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER
November 2023
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Historic Visit of Baroness Cox to St. Mary Armenian Church
On Sunday, November 5th, St. Mary Armenian Church was blessed with the distinguished presence of Baroness Caroline Cox during the Badarak service. In a spirit of reverence and community, the service was officiated by Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, who warmly welcomed Baroness Cox into our fold.
Baroness Cox, a renowned advocate for peace and justice, honored us with her presence, partaking in the liturgy and providing an inspiring example of service and commitment to humanitarian causes. Her work, especially in Armenia and Artsakh, resonates deeply with our values and mission as a church community.
Following the divine liturgy, the congregation gathered in the church’s hall to hear from Baroness Cox about her experiences and ongoing projects that continue to impact lives around the world. Baroness Cox addressed the parishioners emphasizing the deep faith the Armenian nation has adopted since its inception. She encouraged everyone to continue praying for Artsakh and its population stressing that our Heavenly Father is capable of and continues to deliver miracles. At the conclusion of the discussion and Q&A session, the congregation was invited to a special reception in the church’s cultural hall, kindly sponsored by the Armenian Assembly of America. This reception offered a rare opportunity for parishioners to continue their conversation with Baroness Cox and getting to know her personally.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Baroness Cox for visiting our parish and to Archbishop Aykazian for facilitating this momentous event. Our thanks also go to the Armenian Assembly of America for their hospitality and support in making this visit a memorable one.
We were encouraged to witness such a strong turnout from the community, reflecting our shared commitment to the causes that Baroness Cox champions. Your presence helped to make this a day of significant fellowship and learning.
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Prayer for Healing Service & Bible Study at St. Mary
In the gentle embrace of St. Mary's sanctuary, our Prayer for Healing Service on October 31 was a profound experience for all who attended. The community came together in faith, seeking comfort and solace in the Lord's presence.
Following our heartfelt prayers, we delved into the scripture, meditating on the passages of Matthew 9:18-19, 23-26, where the power of faith is so vividly illustrated. These verses recount the stirring episodes of a woman healed by her faith upon touching Jesus' garment, and a synagogue leader’s daughter raised from the dead. Here, we see Jesus responding to faith with miracles, teaching us that our faith in Him has the power to transcend the seeming finality of our earthly struggles.
This scripture holds a profound significance for us today, reminding us that the Lord is ever-present, listening to the whispers of our hearts. It encourages us to reach out with faith, no matter how faint it may seem, to touch the hem of His garment. For in our modern age, where instant solutions often elude the deeper cries of our souls, the patience and perseverance embodied in these verses offer a blueprint for spiritual resilience.
The healing service, therefore, was not just a ritual of prayer, but an embodiment of the very essence of these passages—our collective reaching out to feel the fabric of the divine, yearning for restoration not just in body, but in spirit.
As we move forward, let us carry the message of these scriptures with us. May our lives be testimonies to the power of faith, and may we support each other in our journeys, being ever mindful of the healing grace that flows from our Savior’s touch.
Prayer of Healing and Bible Discussions will continue to be offered every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.
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Reflecting on a Joyful Family Sunday at St. Mary's
On October 29th, the warm and welcoming hall of St. Mary Armenian Church buzzed with the vibrant spirit of our children. As the autumn leaves adorned the streets outside, our church hall was aglow with the laughter and fellowship of young families gathering for our monthly Family Sunday.
Beginning at 10:30 AM in the comfort of our church hall, families had an opportunity to leave their children under the safe care of dedicated providers, to worship during the Badarak. The children enjoyed their own space to play and learn during the church service.
Family Sunday at St. Mary is not just an event; it's a celebration of unity, learning, and spiritual enrichment that we are proud to host on the last Sunday of every month. As we look forward to the next gatherings on November 26th and December 31st, we hold in our hearts the joy and fellowship shared on this delightful October day.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the families, volunteers, and staff who made this Family Sunday a resounding success. Your participation and support are what make our community truly special.
Join us next time, as we continue to build the bonds of family and faith at St. Mary Armenian Church. If you want to be added to the Family Sunday Group Messaging, contact Christine (617) 304-8832 or Nora (301) 807-2755.
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A Memorable Encounter: Garo Paylan’s Visit to St. Mary
On a brisk October Sunday, our St. Mary community had the distinct honor of welcoming Garo Paylan to our midst. The visit, which coincided with our Family Sunday on October 29, added a profound dimension to an already heartwarming day.
Garo Paylan, a name synonymous with courage and advocacy, graced us with his presence, offering our congregation the unique opportunity to engage with a man who has been a tireless champion of Armenian issues, culture, and heritage. His role as a former member of the Turkish Parliament and his vocal activism in a climate that is often less than welcoming is a beacon of hope and resilience for Armenians worldwide.
The community greeted him with a deep sense of gratitude for the work he has undertaken on behalf of Armenians in Turkey and around the globe. His advocacy has not only highlighted the vibrant culture and heritage of our people but has also shed light on the issues that we continue to face.
We are excited to announce that plans are already underway for another, more formal visit, the date of which will be provided soon. This future event will give our community the opportunity to not only listen to Mr. Paylan’s perspectives but also to engage directly with him through questions and in-depth discussions. It will be a chance for a meaningful exchange on topics that are crucial to us all.
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Fall Festival Volunteer Appreciation Dinner
On Thursday evening, November 2nd, 2023, over 60 parishioners gathered for a Fall 2023 Food Festival Volunteer Appreciation Dinner hosted by the Parish Council. The event was dedicated to the army of volunteers who worked tirelessly before and during the 3-day extravaganza, which was a tremendous success given the number of guests who attended the festival.
The evening was filled with affection and gratitude as we acknowledged all the volunteers who answered the call to service. The room was festive, and a sumptuous table of savory was catered by our very own Sevada of Nora’s Kabob and Catering www.noraskabob.com. In addition, an array of homemade sweets was provided by our talented parishioners. We thank once more all our church members for their continued generosity and support.
The gathering ended with a special celebration cheering Der Hovsep's and Yn. Jennifer’s 20th Wedding Anniversary. Der Hovsep noted that St. Mary's community has become part of his family and feels blessed to continue worshiping together as well as faithfully serving our Lord and Savior.
The Parish Council continues to work behind the scenes to ensure the needs of our church and parish are met. We salute each and every one for serving on the council and are grateful for their dedication and labor of love.
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ACYOA Juniors Bake Sale Report
The ACYOA Juniors held a bake sale on Sunday, October 29th, after Badarak. The teens brought in all kinds of goodies, which brought in $650 for the Fund For Armenian Relief (FAR). FAR is helping the Armenians who have fled Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), resulting in widespread displacement, suffering, and a dire need for humanitarian aid. Many thanks to the parents, teens, and all the parishioners who made donations!
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Prayer for Healing Service & Bible Study at St. Mary
On the evening of November 7, the community members of St. Mary Church came together in a Healing Prayer Service and an insightful Bible Study. This gathering was not just a routine assembly; it was a profound journey into the depths of spiritual healing and scriptural understanding.
The Bible Study that followed was centered on one of Christ’s healing miracles – the healing of the Canaanite woman’s daughter, as recounted in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 15:21-28). This passage was not only a narrative but a profound lesson in faith, humility, and the power of persistent prayer.
In this story, the Canaanite woman’s plea to Jesus for her daughter’s healing and her unwavering faith despite initial rebuffs was a testament to the power of persistent faith. This woman, an outsider by cultural and religious standards, demonstrated an understanding of Jesus' mission that even His disciples sometimes failed to grasp. Her story is a compelling reminder that faith knows no boundaries and that God’s mercy extends beyond all human-imposed barriers.
This ancient story resonates profoundly with our modern lives. In a world often fragmented by differences, the faith of the Canaanite woman is a call for inclusivity and persistence in our spiritual journeys. It teaches us that our approach to God should be characterized by humility and relentless faith, even when faced with challenges and seeming rejections.
The Healing Service and Bible Study at St. Mary reinforced the idea that healing is multifaceted. Sometimes, it may not come in the form we expect or desire, but it always aligns with a higher, divine wisdom that surpasses our immediate understanding.
Prayer of Healing and Bible Discussions will continue to be offered every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.
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St. Nersess Seminary Honors 12 Priestly and Lay Vocations
In an evening of joyful remembrance and reunion, St. Nersess Armenian Seminary marked its 62nd anniversary by paying tribute to twelve seminary graduates who have gone forward to serve the Armenian Church as ordained priests and lay ministers.
Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, Diocesan Primate and President of the St. Nersess Board of Directors, presided over the event that went forward under the title, “12 Vocations: Broadening the Call.” Some 200 guests filled the elegant ballroom of New Jersey’s Macaluso’s restaurant on Saturday, November 4.
The event’s theme was a sequel to the seminary’s gala of 2021, where its first dozen ordained graduates were honored. This time the 12 distinguished honorees included both men who went on to priestly ordination, as well as women who have gone on to meaningful and influential lay vocations.
Leading this year’s roster of honored graduates was Archbishop Avak Asadourian, the retired Primate of the Armenian Diocese of Iraq, who was ordained into the priesthood in 1977, and into the episcopate in 1982.
He was joined by Fr. Krikor Sabounjian (ordained 1998); Fr. Sarkis Petoyan (1998); Fr. Abraham Ohanesian (1999); Fr. Mikael Devejian (2000); Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan (2004); Fr. Aren Jebejian (2004); Fr. Bedros Kadehjian (2005); Yn. Valerie Goekjian Zahirsky (graduated 1974); Yn. Sirarpi Feredjian Aivazian (1978); Nancy Basmajian (1979); and Shaké Ajamian Derderian (1989).
Seminary Dean Fr. Mardiros Chevian served as master of ceremonies, with remarks given by Seminary Board chair Karnig Durgarian, Diocesan Council chair Richard Papalian, Anthony Barsamian, Dottie Bengoian, and several of the honorees.
Along with spoken and video tributes to the honorees, a message from Western Diocesan Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian was read aloud by Fr. Chevian, who also gave grateful recognition to benefactors Sarkis and Ruth Bedevian, Vicken and Rosette Arslanian, and Edward and Janet Mardigian; St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Seminary administrators and faculty; and banquet co-chairs Margaret Kachigian Ajamian and Lynn Pinajian Beylerian.
Bishop Mesrop closed the evening by offering thoughts on the profound influence that the seminary and its graduates have had on so many lives. “We have unknown saints among us: ordinary people with extraordinary love," he said. "We are blessed this evening by our honorees.”
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Shnorhali School Recycle Club Christmas Ornaments
On Sunday, November 5th, the school recycle club, led by teen Mariam McClure, made Christmas ornaments out of recycled materials. The ornaments will be available, for a donation, to benefit the Fund for Armenian Relief (FAR) Artsakh Relief efforts. Please stop by the ornament table during an upcoming coffee hour and take a look at what the kids made.
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Ararat Avak Society Annual Thanksgiving Brunch
Ararat Avak Society of St. Mary Church hosted a well-attended and festive Thanksgiving Armenian Style Brunch on November 11. It took place at the Church Hall. Attendees enjoyed tastefully decorated tables with fall and harvest themes as well as delicious food prepared by the Avak Society members Taguhi Halajian, Marie Shafakian, Eva Shafakian, Margie Satian, and Raffi Sahakian.
Special thanks to the committee for organizing and hosting this wonderful event. And thanks to everyone who came and who helped to make this event a success!
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Prayer for Healing Service & Bible Study at St. Mary
This Tuesday, November 14, our community at St. Mary experienced a profound evening of spiritual nourishment during the Prayer for Healing Service & Bible Study. The focus of our Bible study was Mark 7:31-37, a passage rich with meaning and relevance for our lives today.
In this scripture, we witnessed Jesus' miraculous healing of a deaf and mute man, a powerful reminder of God's compassion and ability to transform lives. Our discussion centered on how this act of healing extends beyond physical ailments, touching the spiritual and emotional wounds we all carry. We explored the significance of Jesus' intentional and personal approach to healing, emphasizing the importance of faith and the power of prayer in our daily lives.
The evening was not just a study but a real application of faith, as we joined together in prayer, seeking comfort, strength, and healing. This gathering was a testament to our community's belief in the power of prayer and the hope we find in Christ's teachings.
We left with renewed spirits, reminded that, just as Jesus healed in Galilee, He continues to work in our lives today, offering hope, healing, and transformation. Let us carry this message forward, embodying Christ's love and compassion in all we do.
Prayer of Healing and Bible Discussions will continue to be offered every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.
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Shnorhali School's Talent Show Remembering the 850th Anniversary of the Passing of Saint Nerses Shnorhali
On November 12, the Shnorhali School at St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church proudly hosted a Talent Show in honor of the 850th Anniversary of the passing of the esteemed Armenian Catolicos, and prolific author, Saint Nerses Shnorhali.
The event commenced with an insightful presentation by Armenian teachers on "Shnorhali, the Gracious," a revered figure in the Armenian Christian tradition. Its purpose was to acquaint the audience and participants with the multifaceted Patriarch, intellectual, poet, and theologian, St. Nerses Shnorhali. His extensive body of work and spiritual teachings not only enriched Armenian religious life but also positioned him as a key figure in shaping our collective identity. Furthermore, the event provided the audience with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the students of our school, recognizing their talents and celebrating their personal accomplishments.
The Rev. Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, inaugurated the proceedings with a prayer dedicated to the safety, security, and peace of the Armenian nation. The students, in unison with the audience, performed the national anthem of the Republic of Armenia. Subsequently, teachers Juletta Movsesyan and Anahit Sargsyan, with the assistance of our high school students and teachers, presented the rich legacy of Nerses Shnorhali's prolific life. They showcased his diverse and brilliant works, which have kept the memory of Shnorhali alive for almost nine centuries after his passing.
The talent showcases featured students displaying their skills in three distinct categories. The table exhibited children's crafts and paintings, many sports tricks were showcased with the help of video presentations, and on the stage, our gifted students recited poems, sang, danced, and played musical instruments. Notably, 7th-grade student Ani Nishanyan received high honors for her outstanding work in designing the school's website, actively contributing to the technical aspects of the school.
A festive table full of traditional dishes created with the help of teachers and parents added a special touch to the event.
The Talent Show served as a platform for students to cultivate pride, love, and interest in their school, fostering a deeper connection to their Armenian roots and identity. The event not only celebrated the legacy of Saint Nerses Shnorhali but also showcased the remarkable talents and achievements of our students.
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Prayer for Healing Service & Bible Study at St. Mary
Our Prayer for Healing Service, followed by Bible Study at St. Mary, took place on Tuesday, November 21. After the Healing Prayer service, the focus of the Bible Study for this week was on the passage from Mark 8:22-26, a narrative that carries profound implications for our lives today.
In Mark 8:22-26, we read the account of Jesus healing a blind man at Bethsaida. This miracle, unique for its two-stage process, speaks volumes about spiritual insight and the gradual process of gaining understanding. Jesus first led the man out of the village, then, after an initial touch, asked if he saw anything. The man’s initial response, seeing people as "trees walking," signifies partial understanding. Only after Jesus' second touch were his eyes fully opened.
Our discussion delved deep into the symbolism of this event. We reflected on how, in our spiritual journeys, we often gain understanding in stages, not all at once. Just like the blind man’s gradual healing, our growth in faith and understanding can be progressive. This teaches us patience and trust in God's timing and methods.
Additionally, the significance of Jesus leading the man out of the village before healing him was a point of focus. It symbolizes the need sometimes to step away from our familiar surroundings or comfort zones to experience growth and healing. In our lives, this might mean stepping away from certain habits, thoughts, or environments that cloud our spiritual vision.
The healing service that preceded the Bible study was a time of reflection and prayer, where we sought God's healing touch in various aspects of our lives, mirroring the physical healing of the blind man with our spiritual and emotional healing needs.
As we move forward, let us carry the lessons from Mark 8:22-26 in our hearts. Let us be patient with ourselves and others as we grow in understanding and faith. Let us also be willing to step out of our comfort zones, trusting in God's guidance and timing for our healing and spiritual growth.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who participated and contributed to this enriching evening. May we continue to find strength and inspiration in our community's shared faith and learning.
Prayer of Healing and Bible Discussions will continue to be offered every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.
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Storytime with the Author At Shnorhali School
On November 19th, Shnorali School hosted Tamar Kassarjian, the author of the book Secret Language Method, to share it with the students.
"Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting the Shnorhali Armenian School to share my book, "The Secret Language Method," with their outstanding students. The experience was nothing short of a blessing, as I witnessed the enthusiasm and curiosity of the young minds eager to engage with the Armenian language. The book, designed to inspire and empower youth, emphasizes the significance of expressing emotions through Armenian, fostering cultural representation, and promoting inclusivity. At the heart of the narrative is a celebration of cultural diversity and inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of embracing and preserving the Armenian language.
During the reading, it was heartwarming to see the children embrace the book's message, recognizing the beauty and uniqueness of their mother tongue. The event aimed to instill a sense of self-assurance in the young readers and encourage them to speak Armenian more confidently. Meeting the students at Shnorhali Armenian School was a joy, and their receptiveness to the book's message left a lasting impression.
For those who couldn't attend but are interested in purchasing a book for their children, "The Secret Language Method" is still available for purchase. You can find more information and order the book through the provided Google Form link (https://forms.gle/Qg65XM8nakhCvgG38).
Let's continue to celebrate and preserve the richness of the Armenian language together. Thank you, Digin Nunik and Shnorhali Armenian School, for the warm welcome and opportunity to share my book with you all.”
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ACYOA Juniors TEEN Group Update
The teens held elections at their November meeting. Congratulations to all the new ACYOA Juniors board officers.
Chairperson: Mariam McClure
Vice-Chairperson: Taggie Gomstyan
Secretary: Mariam Karapetyan
Treasurer: Yeva Grigoryan
Board Member: Anahit Harutyunyan
Board Member: Monika Mkrtchyan
Upcoming opportunities include a general meeting on Sunday, Dec 3rd after Badarak, in the office, and a Christmas party on Saturday, Dec 9th at the Karapetyan home. See attached flyer.
If you have a teenager, please consider bringing him/her to the Juniors events.
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Baptism and Confirmation
November 18, 2023
Lucine Emily Kulp
Daughter of Timothy Daniel Kulp and Tamar Sivaslian Kulp
Godparents: Aret Koseian and Maral N. Sivaslian
November 19, 2023
Narine Shah Blais
Daughter of Edik Mathew Blais and Millie Shah Blais
Godparents: Kenny Armen Blais and Ryann Davitian
November 25, 2023
Arineh Elizabeth Rose Monokian
Daughter of Armen Harry Manokian and Courtney Elizabeth Rose Manokian
Godparents: Nubar Paul Atam and Ava Carlette Manokian
May God bless our newly baptized with His love and may His protection and guidance always be with them.
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Funerals
November 11, 2023
Norier Vartanian
Norier is survived by his wife, Madlen, and two daughters, Ivet and Evelin.
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
November 5, 2023
For the Souls of:
Mary Simonian Perkins & Mr. John K. Perkins
Requested by:
Mary Luis & Gary Hunt and family
For the Soul of:
Eva Asoryan
Requested by:
Talin & Kirkor Saraydaroglu (Daughter and Son in Law), Bettina and Raffi (Grandkids)
November 12, 2023
For the Soul of:
Vahe Abalian (40 Days)
Requested by:
Robert and Elvina Avetisyan
November 19, 2023
For the Soul of:
Ohannes Sahakian
Requested by:
Catherine and Michael, Elaina and David (Verjin)Ara and Diane, Daniel and Lily Sahakian, John Sahakian
November 26, 2023
For the Soul of :
Margarita Vardanyan (7th day)
Requested by:
Karapetyan Family
For the Soul of :
Mary Banous (2nd Anniversary)
Requested by:
Rita and Harry Isepanian
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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