ST. MARY ARMENIAN CHURCH 

MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER

October 2025

Celebrating 77 Years of Flavor and Fellowship

The 77th Annual Fall Food Festival of St. Mary Armenian Church, held on October 3–5, once again filled our parish hall with the aroma of beloved Armenian dishes, the warmth of friendship, and the joyful energy of community. What began as a food festival quickly blossomed into a true celebration of faith, heritage, and togetherness, drawing neighbors, parishioners, and guests from near and far.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our extraordinary volunteers, whose dedication shone in every moment — from the kitchen to the serving line, from setup to cleanup, from greeting guests to sharing stories. Their hard work and hospitality are the heart of this long-standing tradition. A big "thank you" to our sponsors. Their generosity and continued support are deeply appreciated and mean the world to us. Our thanks also go to the Gift Shop team, who once again filled their space with the spirit of Little Armenia through their beautiful displays of Armenian products and handicrafts.

The festival’s atmosphere was further enriched by a vibrant cultural program that filled the hall with music, dance, and creativity. Renowned violinist and educator Christine Kharazian graced us with a breathtaking performance, while marc2ray lifted spirits with his unique musical style and spoken word. Talar Berberian generously shared both her embroidery talents and a moving cello performance. The Hayi Hoki Dance Ensemble brought traditional Armenian dances to life and invited the audience to join in. Shnorhali School students, under the guidance of Ms. Armine Khachatryan, offered a joyful rendition of Yerevan Erepouni in honor of the 2806th anniversary of the Erebouni Fortress. Our own young parishioners, Michael Derdzakyan and Andre Alexandrian, contributed beautifully with piano performances. The Armenia Booth, organized by Hermine Mnatsakanyan-Barbalace and her family, provided information and education for guests wishing to learn more about our heritage, while tours of the sanctuary were graciously led by Ara Stepanyan. The entire program was seamlessly presented with grace and humor by Ms. Milena Oganesian, to whom we are especially grateful.

As we bring this year’s festival to a close, we do so with full hearts and renewed gratitude. For 77 years, this event has stood as a testament to the strength of our community — not just in food and tradition, but in service, generosity, and love. May God grant us many more years to gather, to serve, and to celebrate together.

Visiting Celebrant at St. Mary – Sunday, October 5

On Sunday, October 5, St. Mary Armenian Church was blessed to welcome Very Rev. Fr. Aghan Gogchyan from the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem as our guest celebrant. Fr. Aghan presided over the Divine Liturgy and was warmly introduced by our pastor, Fr. Hovsep.

Hayr Soorp, born in Armenia, pursued his theological formation at the Armenian Seminary in Jerusalem, where he was ordained a deacon in 2012 and a celibate priest in 2014. He has served the Patriarchate in various leadership roles, and currently holds the distinguished position of Chancellor of the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem, also serving as its representative to the Heads of Churches and the Status Quo Committee of the Holy Places. In 2023, he was elevated to the rank of Archimandrite (Vardapet) and elected to the Holy Synod.

It was a joy and an honor to host Fr. Aghan, and we pray for his continued ministry in the service of our Holy Church.

2025 ACYOA Juniors Sports Weekend Wrap-Up

Over the Columbus Day weekend, 28 teens from St. Mary ACYOA Junior youth group joined participants from across the Eastern Diocese at the ACYOA Juniors Fall Sports Weekend. Hosted by the ACYOA Juniors chapter of St. Leon Armenian Apostolic Church in Fair Lawn, New Jersey, this year’s event, themed “Hye Rooted,” brought together over 250 teenagers from 16 Diocesan parishes for a memorable weekend of faith, fellowship, and friendly competition. 

The journey began Friday afternoon, as our enthusiastic group departed from the St. Mary Church in Washington, D.C., excited for the weekend ahead. Upon arrival, they gathered with participants from throughout the Diocese for an evening prayer service, prior to meeting their host families.

The sports competitions were held at St Leon Church. St. Mary fielded both a boys and a girls basketball team. Although we did not secure any basketball trophies, the teens performed admirably, with the boys winning their initial game. Due to the large number of teens present, we were able to form two volleyball teams, which competed against each other in the quarter-finals! The St. Mary Juniors emerged victorious in the volleyball championship, bringing home the volleyball trophy! Additionally, we had students participating in individual sports such as ping pong, chess, and backgammon. Elizabeth "Lizzy" Aslanyan achieved second place in advanced backgammon, while Allen Arjona received a special award for good sportsmanship!

On Saturday evening, our teenagers gathered with the other ACYOA Juniors for a dance at St. Leon Church. Sunday commenced with a lovely badarak, uniting everyone in worship. The weekend concluded with an Awards Banquet on Sunday night, which included Armenian music that inspired everyone to dance and celebrate. Additionally, the teens took part in the weekend service project, gathering five boxes of new and gently used clothing for individuals in Armenia.

We would like to express our gratitude to the entire parish and Der Hovsep Karapetyan for their support of the teens, which made this trip possible. We extend a special thank you to our committed chaperones, Kareen Guiragossian, Sintia Petrosian, Avedis Seferian, and Suzy Simonyan. Their involvement guaranteed a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Additionally, we wish to acknowledge our organizers and coaches, Sara Arabian, Ari Arzumanian, Becky Bagdasarian, Greg Kumkumian, Sintia Petrosian, Sevan Topjian, and all the parents who contributed their assistance.

Our Junior ACYOA members represented St. Mary with spirit, and enthusiasm. We eagerly anticipate future opportunities to come together with our brothers and sisters from throughout the Diocese, partaking in the joy of fellowship, faith, and friendship.

Armenian Church Presence at the 2025 CCT Annual Forum

From October 7–9, 2025, 75 leaders from 36 Christian communions gathered in Philadelphia for the Annual Forum of Christian Churches Together (CCT) under the theme “The Light of Life: The Gospel and the Witness of the Church.” Representing the Armenian Church were Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, past president of the Orthodox Family, Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan — a member of the CCT Steering Committee — and Alex Madajian, who participated as a youth observer.

Throughout the Forum, prayers and reflections were offered by each of CCT’s five church families. The Orthodox Family was particularly visible, with Archbishop Aykazian honored for his longstanding past leadership as President of the Orthodox Family, a role in which he has faithfully served for many years. His steady presence continues to represent the Oriental and Eastern Orthodox Churches within the national ecumenical landscape.

The gathering opened on October 7 with shared prayer, ecumenical training sessions, and dialogue on cooperation between traditions. That evening, participants assembled at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul for the first worship service, entering into the Catholic spiritual heritage before joining in fellowship.

On the following day, the Forum traveled to the Mennonite Heritage Center, where attendees reflected on Anabaptist history, repentance, and reconciliation. Afternoon sessions returned to Philadelphia, where the Orthodox Family delivered its formal address.

That evening became a defining moment of the Forum as all participants journeyed to Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Cheltenham, PA, where the sacred rhythm of Evening Vespers filled the sanctuary with the beauty of Armenian worship service. For many, it was their first experience of Armenian worship, and the spirit of reverence and unity was deeply moving. Following the service, Holy Trinity extended its hospitality by graciously sponsoring dinner for the entire assembly. Clergy and lay leaders from every Christian tradition shared traditional Armenian food, conversation, and laughter — transforming what began as a formal gathering into an experience of genuine fellowship. Many remarked that the evening at Holy Trinity was among the most memorable and Spirit-filled moments of the entire Forum.

The final day brought participants to Mother Bethel AME Church, where a historic prayer walk through Philadelphia led into a service centered on the powerful witness of the Black Church in America. Worship, testimony, and shared reflection concluded the Forum, closing with a highlight on the rising generation of young ecumenists.

In celebration of the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and the 500th anniversary of the Anabaptist movement, participants reflected on themes of light, repentance, healing, and common witness. For the Armenian Church, this gathering reaffirmed our vocation to serve as both memory and mission — rooted in ancient faith, yet fully present in today’s world with fellowship, leadership, and hope.

St. Mary ACYOA Receives Grant for Sports Weekend Trip

The Armenian Youth Center of Greater Washington, DC (https://www.facebook.com/ayc.dmv) awarded a $2000 grant to the St Mary ACYOA Juniors. These funds were used to help offset the costs of the Sports Weekend trip to New Jersey. St Mary expresses its gratitude to the AYC for its vital contributions to the local Armenian youth.  

Bible Study Continues with Powerful Encounters from the Gospel of John

On Thursday, October 14, our parish gathered once again for the second session of our nine-week Bible Study on the Gospel of John. Over fifteen parishioners came together for an evening of Scripture, fellowship, and heartfelt discussion. Our focus for the evening was on three early encounters with Christ: the Wedding at Cana (John 2), Nicodemus by Night (John 3), and the Samaritan Woman at the Well (John 4). Each of these stories reveals a different way in which Jesus meets people where they are — in joy, in quiet searching, and in brokenness.

At Cana, Jesus transforms water into wine at a humble village wedding, reminding us that God cares not only for our salvation but also for our joy. In His nighttime conversation with Nicodemus, He receives a hesitant seeker with patience and truth, showing that He does not reject those who come slowly. And at the well in Samaria, He approaches a woman burdened by shame and offers her living water, revealing that Christ meets us not when we are perfect but precisely when we are weary and in need of grace.

During the study our group explored how Christ continues to encounter us in these same ways today. As one key takeaway expressed, “Jesus is not only the Savior of our souls — He is the One who restores what is lacking and turns water into wine when we have run dry.”

We concluded the evening with a closing prayer, asking the Lord, our Light and our Living Water, to remain with us throughout the coming week. Special appreciation to Arlin Diratsuyan for providing delicious BBQ briskets from the Bark Barbecue Cafe.

Nurturing Growth and Compassion in Early Childhood: Shnorhali Kindergarteners Explore Caring for Nature



On Sunday, October 19th, all three of Shnorhali School’s kindergarten classes -Sunshines, Little Explorers, and Young Scholars - had a truly enriching and delightful learning experience.

In addition to their regular lessons, where students continue to build a strong foundation in Armenian literacy tailored to their individual levels, our youngest learners also focus on key developmental milestones that support their growth and confidence.

This week’s special activity was both meaningful and fun - the children created bird feeders from Cheerios cereal and pipe cleaners! Before beginning the project, each class explored the theme of animals and their needs, discussing how all living creatures depend on care, food, and kindness. When they shared their “snacks” with their feathered friends, our students experienced firsthand the joy of giving and empathy for nature.

Beyond its emotional impact, the activity offered rich developmental benefits. As students carefully threaded the Cheerios onto pipe cleaners, they strengthened their fine motor coordination, hand–eye control, concentration, and patience. At the same time, they practiced sequencing, counting, and sensory awareness, all while using the Armenian language creatively and joyfully.

Through laughter, hands-on learning, and kind actions, our kindergarteners spent a Sunday that beautifully combined learning, creativity, and compassion.

ACYOA Juniors' Championship Trophy Comes to St. Mary

On Sunday, October 19, members of St. Mary’s ACYOA Juniors gathered once again, this time in their home parish, to celebrate their recent victory at the 2025 ACYOA Juniors Fall Sports Weekend. During the Divine Liturgy, the youth participated in the Badarak, giving thanks for the weekend of faith and fellowship they had shared with peers across the Diocese.

Following the service, during Coffee Hour, the team formally presented their volleyball championship trophy to Der Hovsep, expressing gratitude for his blessing, encouragement, and support of the parish youth. Der Hayr congratulated the group for representing St. Mary with excellence both on and off the court, commending their sportsmanship, teamwork, and faith-centered spirit.

The joyful moment was shared by parishioners, parents, and ACYOA members, who celebrated the youth’s accomplishment as a reflection of the growing energy and faith among the next generation of our church family.

Bible Study: “Do You Want to Be Made Well?”

On Tuesday, October 21, parishioners gathered for the third session of our ongoing Bible Study on the Gospel of John. The evening focused on Chapters 5 and 6, exploring two of Jesus’ most powerful miracles and His profound teaching on the Bread of Life. The session opened with a reflection on the healing at the pool of Bethesda (John 5:1–15), where Jesus asks the paralyzed man a striking question: “Do you want to be made well?” Participants considered how this question speaks to all of us, challenging us to confront areas of spiritual paralysis, fear, or complacency in our own lives. We reflected on the truth that Christ does not wait for perfect faith; He comes to us first, sees our wounds, and offers healing through grace.

The discussion then moved to the feeding of the five thousand (John 6:1–15), where Jesus turns scarcity into abundance. We noted that, like the disciples, we often focus on what we lack, yet Jesus invites us to bring even our small offerings to Him, our limited faith, time, or hope, and He multiplies them beyond expectation. This miracle, deeply Eucharistic in language and meaning, points to the mystery of the Divine Liturgy, where Christ gives Himself as the true Bread from Heaven.

Finally, the group reflected on Jesus’ declaration, “I am the Bread of Life” (John 6:35, 51). Here, Jesus calls His followers to move beyond seeking miracles and blessings, and instead to seek communion with Him as the very sustenance of life. The evening concluded with a prayer asking Christ, the One who heals our wounds and feeds our souls, to strengthen, fill, and remain with us throughout the week.

Our next session will take place on Tuesday, October 28, as we continue with John 7–8. All are warmly invited to join us for prayer, study, and fellowship as we journey together through the Gospel of John.

Bible Study: “I Am the Light of the World”

On Tuesday, October 28, parishioners and friends gathered for the fourth session of our ongoing Bible Study on the Gospel of John. The evening focused on Chapters 7 and 8, exploring how Jesus reveals Himself as the true Light who brings mercy, truth, and guidance to those who believe.

The session opened with Jesus’ words at the Feast of Tabernacles: “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and let the one who believes in me drink” (John 7:37). Participants reflected on how Christ continues to invite all who thirst for truth and peace to find refreshment in Him, even amid confusion and division.

We then turned to the powerful encounter between Jesus and the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1–11). Rather than condemning her, Jesus silences her accusers and offers mercy with the words, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and sin no more.” The discussion centered on how divine justice and compassion meet perfectly in Christ, who exposes sin not to shame but to heal and restore.

Finally, the group reflected on Jesus’ proclamation, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). We explored how this declaration invites us to live as children of light — to let Christ’s truth illuminate our hearts and guide our steps. The evening concluded with prayer, asking that the light of Christ dispel all darkness within and around us, and help us to reflect His radiance in our daily lives.

Our next session will take place on Tuesday, November 4, as we continue with John 9–11, exploring the theme “The Light That Opens Eyes.” All are warmly invited to join us for prayer, study, and fellowship as we journey together through the Gospel of John.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Sean McClure

In the final week of October, Sean McClure dedicated his time and effort to polishing and scrubbing the church silverware—especially the pieces used during services, such as the "Poorvar,"which is used to burn incense during the Divine Liturgy, symbolizing prayer and atonement. 

Thanks to his meticulous care, everything now shines like new. We deeply appreciate Sean’s commitment and the pride he takes in helping maintain the beauty and sanctity of our church.

Weddings

October 11, 2025

Armen Chubukian and Julie M. Der Torossian

Parents: Garbis and Nadya Chubukian & Emmanuel and Marina Der Torossian

Best Man: Joseph A. Der Totossian

Maid of honor: Christina Yapoudjian

October 25, 2025

Hector Delgado Jr. and Talar Simon

Parents: Hector Rene Delgado Guerra and Joceline Marie Umana Iraheta & Armenak Simon and Lusin Bahacali

Best Man: Miran Simon and Ricardo Delgado

Maid of honor: Leakhina Dith

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

Baptism and Confirmation

October 12, 2025

Lucine Nazarian

Daughter of Harry George Nazarian & Marina Boghossian

Godparents: Diran B. Nazarian & Vana Ghazarian

October 18, 2025

Ella Badalyan

Daughter of Vahe Badalyan & Anna Amirkhanyan

Godparents: Ara Stepanyan & Anahit Tevosyan

October 18, 2025

David Badalyan

Son of Vahe Badalyan & Anna Amirkhanyan

Godparents: Ara Stepanyan & Anahit Tevosyan

October 18, 2025

Aren Bedros Nersessian

Son of Raffi Kevork Nersessian & Nora Palandjian

Godparents: Mark Toufayan & Anna-Marie Elisa Nersessian



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

Hokehankists - Requiem Services

October 5, 2025

For the Soul of: Fred Babayan (95^th birthday anniversary)

Requested by: Naira Babayan, Arthur Babayan and family, Mariam Khaloyan, Joann Khaloyan- Koroukian

For the Soul of: Robert Azaryan (7^th day)

Requested by: Leonid Harutyunyan, Miron Mneyan, and families

October 12, 2025

For the Soul of: Merilyn Ziver (40 days)

Requested by: Magda Ziver, Lily Hekimian, and families

For the Soul of: Arsen Sayan (7th anniversary)

Requested by: Catherine Sayan

October 19, 2025

For the Soul of: Barkev Kibarian

Requested by: Mary Ann Kibarian, Maral Kibarian Skelsey, Barkev Garo Kibarian, Christopher Kibarian, Charlotte and Freddie Skelsey, Hayk, Chloe, Katie & Sarah Kibarian

For the Soul of:  Charlie Kirk

Requested by: Alex Madajian

October 26,2025

For the Souls of: His Beatitude Torkom Manoogian, His Eminence Tiran Nersoyan, His Eminence Gisak Muradyan, Khachig Manoogian

Requested by: Dn. Vahan Manoogian

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