ST. MARY ARMENIAN CHURCH
MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER
December 2023
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The Lay of the Land: Armenian Monasteries in Their Local Landscapes- Presentation at St. Mary Church's
On December 3rd, following the Divine Liturgy at St. Mary, the community was privileged to host Whitney Adana Kite, a Junior Fellow in Byzantine Studies, for a captivating presentation titled “The Lay of the Land: Armenian Monasteries in their Local Landscapes.” Whitney, a distinguished Ph.D. candidate at Columbia University, brought an insightful perspective to the harmonious relationship between iconic Armenian monasteries and their mesmerizing natural surroundings.
Her presentation delved into three significant sites: Geghard, Hoṙomos, and Tat’ev. Each monastery, with its unique setting and architectural marvels, showcased the profound connection between medieval Armenian architecture and the natural world. Whitney eloquently explored Geghard, a rock-cut monastery cradled by a sacred spring, sharing its tales of divinity. She then transported the audience to Hoṙomos, a grandiose, multi-level complex sprawled across a flood plain, exemplifying architectural genius. Finally, the lecture took a turn to Tat’ev, majestically perched on a cliff overseeing a fertile valley, symbolizing the serene alliance of humanity and nature.
Whitney's approach, blending medieval texts with her on-site observations, revealed how these locales resonate with the essence of the land, its material wealth, and the stories they narrate. Her presentation was not just an architectural exploration but also a journey into the ways medieval Armenians forged spiritual and physical connections with their environment.
The lecture was more than an academic discourse; it was an invitation to appreciate the deep ties that ancient communities had with their landscapes. Whitney’s current research, exploring the intersection of monastic architecture and topography in the South Caucasus, provided the audience with a fresh and intriguing perspective on these revered Armenian landmarks. Her passion and expertise made “The Lay of the Land” a truly enlightening experience for all attendees at St. Mary.
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Prayer for Healing service & Bible Studies St. Mary
On Tuesday, December 5, St. Mary Armenian Church hosted its consequent Healing Prayer Service with a Bible Study session. The Bible Study focused on Mark 10:46-52, a passage that narrates the story of Jesus healing a blind man named Bartimaeus. This passage, rich in symbolism and teachings, offers profound insights relevant to contemporary life.
The central theme of the study revolved around the transformative power of faith and persistence in seeking divine intervention. Bartimaeus, despite his blindness and the discouragements from the crowd, persistently called out to Jesus for mercy. His unwavering faith and recognition of Jesus as a miraculous healer were pivotal in his healing.
This narrative emphasizes the importance of faith in times of adversity and the need to seek God's presence earnestly, regardless of external discouragements. The significance of this passage for today's audience lies in its message of hope and empowerment. It encourages individuals to remain steadfast in their faith, even when facing obstacles or skepticism from others. The story of Bartimaeus serves as a reminder that faith in God's power can lead to miraculous changes in one's life, both spiritually and physically.
This Bible Study at St. Mary Armenian Church, coupled with the Healing Prayer Service, provided a holistic approach to spiritual growth, blending scriptural understanding with a communal seeking of God’s healing grace. It is a wonderful opportunity for parishioners to delve deeper into the scriptures and apply their timeless lessons to contemporary challenges, fostering a community of faith that supports and uplifts each other.
Prayer of Healing and Bible Discussions will continue to be offered every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.
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Advent by Candlelight: An Evening of Music and Generosity at St. Mary's
December 2nd marked a special evening at St. Mary's church hall, where the St. Mary Women's Guild Executive Committee hosted their Advent by Candlelight event. This gathering, steeped in reflection and community spirit, was a celebration of the Advent themes: Love, Peace, Hope, and Joy.
Yn. Jennifer Karapetyan warmly welcomed the attendees, setting a tone of unity and anticipation. The event featured profound talks on key Advent themes. Andrea Mourad eloquently spoke on Love, Anahit Tevosyan on Peace, Lilit Bayburtyan and Liana Matevosyan on Hope, and Dr. Nairy Ohanian on Joy. Each speaker brought unique insights and reflections, deeply resonating with the audience.
A highlight of the evening was the musical performance by the Chamasyan Sisters. Their renditions of "Song of First Love," "Adagio," "Moonlighting," and the vibrant folk tune "Kochari" captivated the audience. Their music was not just an entertainment piece but a profound expression of the evening's themes.
The event was not only a celebration but also a mission of generosity. Attendees were informed about the charitable initiatives supported by the evening's collections. Contributions were directed to The Children of Armenia Sponsorship Program (CASP) and Seeds of Hope. The capstone of the evening was when the entire audience was led in transitional Christmas caroling by the talented and dedicated Karine Muratyan.
The Advent by Candlelight at St. Mary's was more than a festive gathering; it was a night where the community came together in the spirit of reflection, music, and philanthropy. The St. Mary Women's Guild Executive Committee created an event that not only embraced the essence of Advent but also reflected the community's commitment to helping those in need.
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Shnorhali School Students Decorate the Christmas Tree 2023
On December 3rd, to commence the festive season, Shnorhali students enthusiastically gathered in the Cultural Hall of the St. Mary Armenian Church to adorn the church's Christmas tree. This joyful and exciting project not only allowed students to showcase their creativity but also allowed students to come together and experience the beginning of our Holy Christmas season together.
In Christianity, the Christmas tree holds significance symbolizing our eternal life with Jesus Christ. Among the ornaments placed by the students are crosses, angels, the nativity scene, and representations of wise men. Each ornament contributes to the visual narrative, conveying the profound story of the Christian faith during the joyous celebration of Christmas.
This heartwarming occasion was made possible with the invaluable support of parents and volunteers, who wholeheartedly assisted the children in decorating and fostering the joyous spirit of Christmas. The dedication and involvement of students, parents, and volunteers truly added to the warmth and spirit of the holiday season. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all those who contributed to making this festive kickoff a memorable and joy-filled experience for our Church community.
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St. Mary Armenian Church in Washington D.C. Celebrates 91 Years of Faith and Community
On Sunday, December 10, 2023, St. Mary Armenian Church in Washington DC celebrated a significant milestone, its 91st anniversary. This day was not just a commemoration of its long-standing history but a vibrant testament to the church's enduring legacy and pivotal role in nurturing Armenian heritage and faith within the community.
The celebration commenced with an inspiring Divine Liturgy officiated by His Eminence Archbishop Vicken Aykazian. The commemorative luncheon and program, held in St. Mary’s social hall, filled the day with reflection, appreciation, and community spirit.
Mr. Avedis Seferian, serving as the Master of Ceremonies, skillfully guided the congregation through the day's events, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience. Mr. John Asadoorian, representing the Parish Council, extended a warm welcome to all.
Nadya Sivaslian's presentation on "Pilgrimage to the Holy Land" provided enlightening spiritual insights, while the musical performance by the St. Mary Shnorhali School students showcased the church's dedication to nurturing young talents and preserving Armenian heritage.
The event was further enriched by meaningful remarks from Dr. Greg Kumkumian, Mr. Robert Avetisyan, Mr. Arakel Semirjian, and Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, each adding their unique perspectives and enhancing the celebration's depth.
A particularly poignant moment was the presentation of the Diocesan St. Vartan Award to Dr. Hratch Semerjian by Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, on behalf of our Primate Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, recognizing Dr. Semerjian’s exemplary leadership and devoted service to the church and community.
The anniversary also served as a time to reflect on the church's history. From its early days as a sanctuary for Armenian settlers to its evolution into a fully established parish, St. Mary Armenian Church has stood as a beacon of faith and heritage. Its growth and the development of various cultural and social groups underscore the resilience and adaptability of the Armenian community in Washington D.C.
As the day concluded, it was evident that such a successful celebration could not have been possible without the generous support of many. In this spirit of heartfelt appreciation, we wish to acknowledge those who have contributed significantly to this joyous occasion:
The luncheon was graciously sponsored by the St. Mary Parish Council, whose unwavering support continuously uplifts our community. The exquisite selection of wines was kindly donated by the Armenian Embassy in the United States. The anniversary cake, symbolizing our shared joy and unity, was beautifully crafted and generously provided by the renowned Classic Bakery, adding a touch of sweetness to our celebration. The sumptuous lunch, prepared with exceptional care and love, alongside the donation of wines, was provided by Nora’s Catering, bringing warmth and delight to our tables.
The 91st anniversary was a celebration of the past, present, and a hopeful look into the future, promising continued growth, unity, and spiritual fulfillment. Our deepest appreciation to everyone who contributed to this blessed event.
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Shnorhali Students Showcase Their Talents at St. Mary's 91st Anniversary
St. Mary’s Armenian Church community joyously commemorated its 91st anniversary this past Sunday. As part of the celebration, Shnorhali students seized the opportunity to showcase their talents to parishioners during the celebration and luncheon. The students delivered a lovely performance featuring classic and patriotic Armenian songs. Their performance demonstrated their musical abilities and reflected their deep love and affection for Armenia and its rich heritage and culture. It served as a testament to their bright and young minds and their potential as future leaders of our church community.
Alongside their devoted Music teacher, Armine Khachatryan playing the piano, students from first and second grade delighted the audience with their charming performance of the Armenian folk songs "Jan, jan, jan, ashun e" and “Jan Garnuk”, while those in third to eighth grade showcased their talent with a spirited rendition of "Zartnir, Lao" and “Azad Hayastan.” These dedicated students diligently practiced their songs for months, and their hard work truly shone through their amazing performance.
The singing performances by our talented Shnorhali students set the stage for the finale of student presentations. Seventh-grade student Ani Nishanian then took the stage and gracefully performed a traditional Armenian dance, “The Deer of Karabakh.” Ani's performance captivated the audience and served as a wonderful conclusion to the show. We are immensely proud of our Shnorhali students for their outstanding performances that left a lasting impression on everyone present!
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Final Prayer for Healing Service and Bible Study of the Year at St. Mary
On Tuesday, December 12th, St. Mary Armenian Church hosted its last Prayer for Healing Service and Bible Study for the year. After the Prayer of Healing service, the Bible Study focused on Matthew 17:14-21, which narrates the healing of the demon-possessed boy and highlights the transformative power of faith.
This passage was particularly significant for its emphasis on the strength of even the smallest faith. Jesus' words, "If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain... nothing will be impossible for you," were central to our discussion. This powerful concept is especially relevant in today's world, reminding us that faith, no matter how small, can lead to profound changes and miracles in our lives.
The practical implications of this teaching were explored, encouraging attendees to apply this lesson of faith in their daily lives. The story inspires believers to approach life's challenges with trust and confidence in God's power, reinforcing the idea that unwavering faith can overcome even the most daunting obstacles.
As we concluded this final session for the year, the message from Matthew 17:14-21 resonated deeply, serving as a reminder of the importance of nurturing our faith. The group looks forward to reconvening in mid-January to continue their spiritual journey and delve deeper into the teachings of the Bible.
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ACYOA Juniors Celebrate the Spirit of Christmas
The ACYOA Juniors, our vibrant teen youth group, joyously gathered on Saturday, December 9th, for a special Christmas celebration. This year's festivities were graciously hosted at the welcoming home of Der Hovsep and Yn. Jennifer Karapetyan.
The evening began with a meaningful reflection by Der Hayr on the true essence of Christmas, followed by a blessing over the bountiful potluck dinner. The dinner provided a time for fellowship and the sharing of holiday cheer.
In the spirit of the season, the event featured an array of festive activities. The teens engaged in an entertaining game of Christmas charades, bringing laughter and lighthearted competition to the evening. The warmth of the fire pit was the perfect setting for making delicious s'mores, a delightful treat enjoyed by all. The highlight of the evening was the thrilling game of Santa's Revenge, which was thoroughly enjoyed by the teens.
In addition to the fun and games, the ACYOA Juniors demonstrated their commitment to giving back to the community. They participated in the local Toys for Tots drive, bringing unwrapped toys to spread joy to those less fortunate during the holiday season.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Karapetyan family for their generous hospitality in hosting this wonderful event. It was indeed a memorable and joyous evening, filled with laughter, fellowship, and the true spirit of Christmas.
As we reflect on this delightful gathering, we are reminded of the warmth and unity of our church family. Let us carry this spirit of love and generosity into the new year and beyond.
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St. Mary ACYOA Seniors' Fundraising Success for Artsakh Refugees
On Sunday, December 16th, St. Mary's Armenian Church witnessed an extraordinary gathering of hearts and hands united for a noble cause. St. Mary ACYOA Seniors organized a fundraising event, directing its compassionate efforts towards supporting the refugees of Artsakh.
This special event was not just a fundraiser but a beacon of hope and solidarity. Our community members and friends, both young and old, came together in a remarkable display of generosity and empathy, embodying the spirit of giving and compassion at the core of our faith.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation by special guest Sarah Stites. An original D.C. local, Sarah is currently based in Armenia, working as a development officer with the Fund for Armenian Relief (FAR) and their crowdfunding platform, "We are AYO" (AYO means 'yes' in Armenian). Her compelling narrative and deep insight into the plight of the Artsakh refugees moved everyone present. Sarah's dedication to the cause and her ability to engage the audience played a pivotal role in making the event a resounding success.
Thanks to our ACYOA members' tireless efforts and our parishioners' generous contributions, we are delighted to announce that the event raised significant funds. These funds will directly aid the FAR AYO program, ensuring essential support and relief reaches those in dire need.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who participated, donated, and volunteered, making this event not just successful but memorable. Your kindness and generosity have shown that together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who need it the most.
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Shnorhali School Christmas Party
On Sunday, December 17th, 2023, Shnorhali School joyfully hosted a Christmas celebration for its students. The festivities started with informative presentations on the true meaning of Christmas, exploring symbols of Christmas, unraveling Christmas traditions from around the world, and fun Christmas trivia. Following these presentations, students partook in many different Christmas-themed crafts and activities. The event commenced with a heartfelt prayer by Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, who also shared the inspiring story of the birth of Jesus with the students.
In the spirit of illuminating the true meaning of Christmas, Nicolette Blackwell, the Religious Education Coordinator, delivered a presentation on popular Christmas symbols and their profound significance. Students gained insight into the Christian symbolism behind cherished Christmas traditions, such as gift-giving, adorning homes with Christmas lights, and savoring candy canes. These two presentations reminded students that in the excitement of the holiday season to not forget the special and sacred reason why we celebrate this joyous season!
Building upon this enlightening foundation, Armenian teacher Anahit Sargsyan added another layer of cultural richness by presenting both national and international Christmas traditions. She not only highlighted the unique aspects of Armenian Christmas but also delved into the Christmas customs observed worldwide. Through her presentation, students gained a broader perspective, appreciating the diverse ways people around the world celebrate this festive season.
Lastly, religion teacher, Linet Khoranian hosted a fun Christmas trivia game! The game challenged students to showcase their knowledge of popular Christmas movies, songs, stories, and traditions. Through spirited competition, students not only tested their understanding of the holiday season but were also rewarded with prizes for their correct responses, adding an element of fun and excitement to the educational experience.
Following the educational presentations, students then participated in Christmas crafts and activities, with the help of our dedicated High School Volunteers. Students were able to decorate Christmas-themed cupcakes, have their faces or hands painted, make magical reindeer food, make ornaments, write letters to Santa, and enjoy coloring pages! These hands-on activities not only brought forth the spirit of the season but also provided an opportunity for students to express their individuality and creativity. As the festivities drew to a close, students eagerly seized the thrilling opportunity to meet and capture precious moments with none other than Santa Claus himself!
Shnorhali School would like to express heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to making this special event a success! Your commitment and support are deeply appreciated.
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The Blessing of Pomegranates at St. Mary Church
On December 31st, St. Mary Church was graced with the traditional service of the Blessing of Pomegranates. This event, occurring after the Badarak, was a moment of joy and celebration for parishioners who gathered to witness this blessing.
The pomegranate, known for its plentiful seeds, is a symbol of life, fertility, and God's boundless grace. It signifies unity—just as its numerous seeds are encapsulated within a single fruit, it represents our collective journey of faith and life.
During this solemn ceremony, the pomegranates were blessed, symbolizing the invocation of God’s abundant blessings on the congregation and their loved ones. The ritual is a prayer for a year replete with life, health, and prosperity. It's a time to seek strength to face challenges and wisdom to seize forthcoming opportunities. The bursting forth of the pomegranate's seeds is a metaphor for our lives, hoping that they may be filled with the fruits of our faith, including love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
The service was not only a farewell to the old year but also a welcoming of the new. It served as a reminder to carry forward humility, service, and the blessings exemplified by the pomegranate. This new year is seen as an opportunity to further commit to living a life in harmony with the teachings of Jesus Christ.
The pomegranate holds a special place in Armenian culture, woven into its architecture, cuisine, art, literature, and religious garments, symbolizing life, fertility, and abundance. In 2015, this tradition was further enriched when His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of all Armenians, introduced the service of the Blessing of Pomegranates at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. This service honors the pomegranate as one of the seven biblical species of fruits and grains.
As a culmination of the service, the blessed pomegranates were distributed to the faithful. This act was more than a mere gesture; it was a wish for prosperity and abundance in the coming year, 2024.
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Wedding
December 2, 2023
David Sayian and Susan Dean
Parents: Vaughn Sayian & Jean Ohennesian Sayian and
Robert M Dean III & Katharine Barringer Dean
Best Man: Victor Kazanjian
Matron of Honor: Sarah Patterson
December 22, 2023
Tigran Avetisyan and Anna Tonoyan
Parents:Artavazd Avetisyan & Varduhi Shahbazyan and Ashot and Anahit Tonoyan
Best Man: Davit Avetisyan
Maid of Honor: Dianna Sagoyan
Congratulations and may God make the newly married couples worthy of the desirable crown of Holy Matrimony.
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Baptism and Confirmation
December 22, 2023
Aleksander Jaramillos
Daughter and Son of Victor Jaramillo and Zarema Arutyunova Jaramillo
Godparents: Robert Boggio and Lauren Garry Boggio
Lara Anabel Jaramillo
Daughter of Victor Jaramillo and Zarema Arutyunova Jaramillo
Godparents: Zack Minasian and Karine Arutyunova Minasian
May God bless our newly baptized with His love and may His protection and guidance always be with them.
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Funerals
December 16, 2023
Anne Atanossian
Anne is survived by her granddaughters, Alexandra and Gabriella, her brother Martin Bedrosian, and daughter-in-law Christine.
December 16, 2023
Nicholas Vahanian
Nicholas is survived by his wife Christy Vahanian, kids: Harrison and Sam. Sisters: Sona Bakirchi, Asanet Hacikoghlu.
December 16, 2023
Yeghibet Harutyunian
Yeghibet is predeceased by her husband Ardavazd, survived by her children Henric Harutyunian, Serjik Harutyunian, Gilda Andonian
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
December 3, 2023
For the Souls of:
Radik Mnatsakanyan
Requested by:
Mnatsakanyan & Manukyan Families
December 10, 2023
For the Souls of:
All of St. Mary's Departed Dedicated Parishioners and Loved Ones.
December 17, 2023
For the Souls of:
Sahag Seraydarian and Shakeh Seraydarian, Hovannes Zenian and Endza Zenian, and Alice Zenian
Requested by:
David and Leda Zenian, Chris and Sarine Tyson
For the Soul of :
Gulbenk Sivasli
Requested by:
Sivaslian and Koseian Families
For the Soul of:
Armenak Ozkanian
Requested by:
Vartevar & Takouhi Ozbenian
For the Soul of:
Gyulmara Ayvazyan (40 days)
Requested by:
Lilit Yedigaryan
For the Soul of :
Stepan Stepanian
Requested by:
Gilbert & Armineh Stepanian & Family
December 24, 2023
For the Soul of:
Patricia Rostomian (40 Days)
Requested by:
Maro and Raffi Rostomian; Predita and Areg Gharakhanian, Audrey, Stella, and Emalyn Gharakhanian
For the Soul of:
Anahid (Anne, Alice) Atanossian
Requested of:
Granddaughters, Alexandra and Gabriella, brother Martin Bedrosian, and daughter-in-law Christine
For the Souls of:
Araxi Bostanian Kobrin; Dikran and Armina Bostanian; Sarkis and Esther Bostanian; John, Elizabeth, and Joyce Shanlian; Avedis and Kohar Shanlian; and Kerop and Sarah Arsenian
Requested by:
Melanie Kobrin
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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