ST. MARY ARMENIAN CHURCH 
SHNORHALI MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER
October 2023
Prayer for Artsakh

On Sunday, October 1st, the St. Mary community came together for a poignant and moving "Prayer for Artsakh" service. This took place immediately after the Divine Liturgy, echoing a global sentiment of support and solidarity.
The need to lend our voices in prayer was profoundly felt in light of the recent tragedies that have befallen the people of Artsakh due to Azeri aggression and subsequent ethnic cleansing. Almost the entire Armenian population of Artsakh has been displaced, becoming refugees in their own land. In these trying times, the power of prayer becomes a beacon of hope and solace.
In a remarkable display of unity and shared empathy, Armenian Churches worldwide also hosted their own "Prayer for Artsakh" ceremonies. As part of their local Sunday services, each of these churches became a part of a larger, synchronized effort. This collective prayer effort was a testament to the strength of the Armenian global community, standing together in spirit for the people of Artsakh.
Our hope is that our combined prayers, echoing from every corner of the globe, will provide comfort, strength, and resilience to those affected by the harrowing events in Artsakh. We continue to keep them in our hearts and prayers, hoping for a brighter, peaceful future.

St. Mary Chruch has established a special fund to help our brothers and sisters of Artsakh. To bring your financial support to the Artsakhi Refugees in Armenia, click on the link below.
Healing and Faith Explored at St. Mary Armenian Church

On October 3rd, the peaceful atmosphere of St. Mary Armenian Church was the backdrop to a profound "Prayer for Healing" service. Parishioners gathered, seeking solace and spiritual rejuvenation. Their collective faith and hope permeated the sacred walls, invoking divine intervention and comfort.

Following this touching service, those present embarked on an enlightening Bible Study, on Matthew 9:1-8, recounting the miraculous act where Jesus heals a paralytic, showcasing His unparalleled power to not only heal physical suffering but to also grant forgiveness.

The study was structured, beginning with a reading, moving on to contextual understanding and culminating in insightful observations and analysis. Participants examined the socio-religious backdrop of the biblical times, the characters in the story, and their unique roles and actions.

We explored the unwavering faith of the paralytic and his friends, Jesus' response to such faith, and the broader spiritual ramifications of this healing. Discussions revolved around how we, in modern times, can emulate such faith and the importance of forgiveness in our spiritual journeys.

The session concluded with the affirmation that, like the paralytic, our encounters with Jesus have the power to transform. Whether we seek physical healing or the mending of our spirits, unwavering faith and the act of forgiving can pave the way.

Prayer of Healing and Bible Discussions will continue to be offered every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. 
75th Food and Culture Event- Together We Can Do Wonders

The 75th Fall Food Festival on October 6-7 and 8 was held with mixed emotions. In the wake of the ongoing tragedies in Artsakh directly impacting our brothers and sisters, the St. Mary Armenian Church community carried on its annual Food and Cultural event.
 
This year was extra special as we witnessed an overwhelming number of volunteers of all ages who came to participate in the many workshops organized by the Women’s Guild Executive Committee and prepared several dishes from wrapping grape leaves, making triangle and tepsi boreg, several sweets and more. 
 
In addition, the Bake Table once again was filled with a variety of homemade sweets made by our generous parishioners and served by cheerful volunteers. We are deeply grateful for their tireless efforts and dedication.
 
This year’s event included a fundraising corner special for our Artsakhtsis to lend a helping hand during these extremely challenging times.  Nayiree Sarkisian, Nicolette Blackwell and Maxine Turner joined forces with Ayo! Ayo (weareayo.org) a fundraising platform of Fund for Armenian Relief (FAR) that emphasizes the power of the Armenian people and their ability to make positive changes in their society. The 3 volunteers sold greeting cards and postcards painted by 14-year-old Tatev Mkrtchyan, a student from Stepanakert. They also sold hand-painted pumpkins with Armenian designs. By the end of the festival, they collected close to $3k . We are indebted to all those who took the initiative, made themselves available and contributed to this drive.
 
For the first time we offered church sanctuary tours for those who were interested in learning about our faith and place of worship. We are blessed to have Anahit Tevosyan with her heartwarming approach and devotion in answering the call to this service.
 
Our staple White Elephant Table was decorated with treasures kindly donated by our parishioners. We are indebted to Malvina Brown and all the volunteers who manned and oversaw the operation during the festival.
 
To the Gift Shop committee of St. Mary Church, and their volunteers, we extend our heartfelt thankfulness for their hospitality and offerings of a variety of beverages and goodies imported from Armenia.
 
The Food and Culture Festival is one of the main activities the Parish Council of St. Mary Church takes upon themselves to plan and execute. Every member’s effort (tzerk tzerki dalov) along with the army of volunteers, whether behind the scenes prior to the event, during and after the festival, resulted in the success of the 3-day extravaganza. To mention each name of the workforce behind this event, we would need a few pages to fill. The names are engraved in our Book of St. Mary Church Servants of God!
 
Of course, it goes without saying, we are deeply moved by the number of our business and community supporters. Their generosity and participation directly contributed to our achievement.
 
Once more we extend a heartfelt thank you to Rev. Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan for his spiritual guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support. We all came together in the spirit of togetherness working for the same cause without seeking applause.
 
We look forward to seeing you all in Spring 2024! 
Prayer for Healing Service & Bible Study at St. Mary

On October 10, the St. Mary's Church echoed with prayers and harmonious psalms as the congregation came together for the Prayer for Healing service and Bible study. The essence of the evening was the profound exploration of the passage from Matthew 12:9-14, recounting the healing of the man with a withered hand.

The Bible study delved deep into the narrative, which juxtaposes the values of compassion and legalism. The story begins with Jesus entering the synagogue, where He is challenged by the Pharisees about the act of healing on the Sabbath. Jesus, employing wisdom and tenderness, responds by questioning the moral fabric of their query. “Which one of you who has a sheep, if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not take hold of it and lift it out? Of how much more value is a man than a sheep! Therefore, it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath."

The narrative’s climax is the miraculous moment when Jesus asks the man with the withered hand to stretch it out, and as he does, it's restored, as healthy as the other. This act is a direct challenge to the rigid legalism displayed by the Pharisees.

The evening included reflections and prayers, invoking the same compassion and wisdom that Jesus displayed. Those in attendance were reminded of the significance of placing love, empathy, and understanding above stringent traditions and always seeking the true spirit of God's word.

Prayer of Healing and Bible Discussions will continue to be offered every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. 
St. Nerses Shnorhali's Life and Legacy Celebrated at St. Mary Armenian Church

On Sunday, October 15, the parishioners and friends of St. Mary Armenian Church came together for a profound and enlightening lecture on the life and works of one of the Armenian church's most distinguished figures, St. Nerses Shnorhali. As we commemorate the 850th year of his passing, the lecture couldn't have been timelier.

The church was honored to host Dr. Jesse Arlen, the Director of the Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information Center at the Eastern Diocese and a postdoctoral research fellow at Fordham University. With his profound understanding and research, Dr. Arlen took the audience on a journey through the life, literary works, and enduring legacy of St. Nerses Shnorhali.

Born in the 12th century, around 1100, St. Nerses Shnorhali was not just a revered catholicos but also a poet, musician, theologian, and ecumenist. His contributions to the Armenian and universal church have solidified his place as one of the preeminent figures in church history. Dr. Arlen emphasized how Shnorhali’s multifaceted role in the church had a profound impact on the development of Armenian religious thought, literature, and music.

The lecture helped attendees gain a deeper appreciation for the legacy of this great figure of the 12th century, reminding them of his lasting influence and how his impact is still palpable today.

As the lecture came to a close, it was evident that the audience left with a renewed sense of admiration and awe for St. Nerses Shnorhali, understanding better his role not only in the Armenian church but in the broader tapestry of religious history. The gathering at St. Mary Armenian Church was not just a tribute to the past but also a testament to how the teachings and works of great figures like St. Nerses Shnorhali continue to resonate and inspire generations today.
Prayer for Healing Service & Bible Study at St. Mary

On Tuesday, October 17, St. Mary Armenian Church witnessed a spiritually enriching gathering with its Healing Prayer Service followed by a Bible study session. The sanctuary echoed with the calming and uplifting Healing Prayers, rendered in accordance with the time-honored traditions of the Armenian Church. Those in attendance immersed themselves in these prayers, seeking solace, healing, and a closer connection with the divine.

Following the prayer service, attendees settled into a thought-provoking Bible study. The focus was on "The Healing of the Blind Men" from the book of Matthew (9:27-31). This powerful passage recounts the poignant story of two blind men whose unwavering faith in Jesus leads to their miraculous healing.

In the story, the blind men fervently call out to Jesus, addressing him as the "Son of David." Recognizing their faith, Jesus touches their eyes and says, "According to your faith, let it be done to you." Immediately, they regain their sight. This passage not only underscores Jesus' divine power and boundless compassion but also places a strong emphasis on the role of faith in the process of healing.

The relevance of this passage in today's world is profound. In a time when many grapple with various forms of "blindness" – be it physical, emotional, or spiritual – the story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of faith. It encourages believers to maintain their trust in the divine, especially during times of adversity, ensuring that with unwavering faith, healing and restoration are possible.

The evening at St. Mary Armenian Church was not just about revisiting a biblical passage but also about understanding its profound significance in contemporary times.

Prayer of Healing and Bible Discussions will continue to be offered every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. 
Prayer for Healing Service & Bible Study at St. Mary

On October 24, St. Mary's was graced with a profound Healing Prayer and Bible Study session led by Dn. Mark Krikorian. The evening illuminated the message from Luke 8:43-48, where Jesus heals a woman who had an issue of blood for twelve years. The story is not just an account of physical healing but is layered with spiritual lessons that remain deeply relevant today.

The Tale of Unwavering Faith
The woman's condition was more than a physical ailment. For twelve years, societal norms and religious laws branded her as 'unclean', leading to isolation and emotional despair. In her deepest desperation, she believed that touching even the fringe of Jesus' garment would heal her. This wasn't a mere touch; it was a profound expression of faith. And her faith wasn't in vain. Upon touching Him, she was immediately healed. But more than her physical restoration, Jesus offered her emotional and social healing, publicly acknowledging her and calling her "Daughter."

Modern-day Relevance
In today's fast-paced world, many of us feel isolated or 'unclean' due to personal failures, societal judgments, or emotional traumas. This story reminds us that:
  1. Faith is Powerful: Even when it feels like we've been suffering for too long, faith can lead us to healing and transformation.
  2. Jesus is Always Accessible: Amidst life's chaos, He is always present, waiting for us to reach out.
  3. Healing is Holistic: Jesus offers more than just solutions to our immediate problems. He brings restoration in all areas of our lives.

Let this story serve as a beacon of hope in our personal journeys, reminding us of the transformative power of faith in Christ.


Prayer of Healing and Bible Discussions will continue to be offered every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. 
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.
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.
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. 
Baptism and Confirmation

October 7, 2023
Michael Koryun Gugarats
Son of Haik Gugarats and Molly Christian
Godparents: Raffi and Kristine Manoukian

Confirmation

October 11, 2023
Susan Dean

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

October 19, 2023
Kirk Kalian and Gwen Clement
Parents: Peter and Sonya Kalian and Peter and Katrina Clement
Best Man: Vladimir Kalian
Maid of Honor:  Bridget Clement

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

October 3, 2023
Bruce Hanessian
Bruce is survived by his wife Julia, mother Alice, his five daughters, Veronica, Laura, Rebecca, Isabelle, and Ava, and six grandchildren.

October 3, 2023
Grigor Markarian 
Grigor is survived by his cherished daughters, Helga Melikian and Karmen Mangasarian; four beloved grandchildren, Robert Melikian, Selina Khachatourian, Eric Mangasarian, and Lena Ahad; as well as eight treasured great-grandchildren: Armen Melikian, Jearica Rosenbaum, Dro Khachatourian, Alexia Khachatourian, Mia Ahad, Ashley Ahad, Colbie Mangasarian, and Carter Mangasarian

October 5, 2023
Edward Alexander
Edward Alexander is survived by his wife Roseann, son Mark and his wife JoAnn Palazzo, son Scott and his wife Cathy Davis, son Christian and his wife Arlene Saryan, and five grandchildren, Derek, Maya, Miranda, Garen, and Sean Alexander.

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

October 6, 2023
For the Souls of:
Asadur Tufeckgian, Anna Bolek, Anna Loloyan
Requested by:
Janet Tufeckgian

For the Soul of:
Haroutioun Bardizbanian
Requested by:
Raffie, Maureen, Arthur & Raffie Jr. Bardizbanian

October 15, 2023
For the Soul of:
Maria Ghazarian (1st anniversary) 
Requested by: Kevork Ghazarian & Taleen Ghazarian

For the Souls of :
Nubar Sahakyan (4th anniversary), Yervant Missirian (7th anniversary), Missak Missirian (11th anniversary), and deceased loved ones of Sahakyan, Missirian, Shirinian and Joukhian Families
Requested by: Raffi, Shoghig, Andre and Aram Sahakyan

October 22, 2023
For the Soul of :
Sarkis Pakoyan
Requested by:
Nairy Pakoyan and Kohar and Harutyun Apel 

For the Soul of :
Ronald Baldadian
Requested by:
Dolores and George Baldadian

For the Souls of :
Evelyn Vartabedian, Alice Baker, Ella Kartashyan, and Alyce Tamzarian
Requested by:
Daughters of Vartan 

For the Souls of :
Hripsime Zenopian and Arto Satian
Requested by:
Margie Satian and Family    

For the Soul of :
Rita Anbarjian
Requested by:
Kegham Anbarjian, Kumkumian families & Schweitzer family

For the Soul of :
Hakop Shafakian
Requested by:
Eva Shafakian

October 29, 2023
For the Soul of :
Jora Azizyan(40 Days)
Requested by:
Artak Azizyan & Karine Yenokyan

For the Soul of :
Kirkor Cimen (1st anniversary)
Requested by:
Seyran Cimen (wife), Senyurt Chimenian/Rossi Chimenian (son), Ani Cherot/Bevin Cherot(daughter), Gazar Cimen/Surpik Cimen (brother)

For the Souls of :
Haikouhi Koudoussian (2nd anniversary) & Agop Koudoussian (30th anniversary)
Requested by:
Alexandrian, Koudoussian, and Balian families 

For the Soul of :
Mr. William Ervant Docter
Requested by:
The WED committee

For the Souls of :
Hripsime Kochoyan, Levon Rstakyan, Serj Kocharyan
Requested by: 
Anush Rstakyan and Stella Kocharyan 

May God rest their Souls in peace and may His loving favor be with their Loved Ones. 
St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church 
Rev. Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, Pastor
4125 Fessenden Street N.W, Washington, DC 20016 
202-363-1923 / www.stmaryaac.org