ST. MARY ARMENIAN CHURCH 

MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER

September 2025

Empowering Futures: Mentoring & Career Day at St. Mary Church

On Sunday, September 7, St. Mary Church joyfully hosted a Mentoring & Career Day, an initiative designed to inspire and guide our parishioners—especially young adults—on their educational and professional journeys.

The event brought together a dynamic group of guest speakers and professionals from diverse fields who generously shared their personal stories, career experiences, and words of encouragement. From seasoned government employees—both current and retired—to experts in education, law, allied health, and counseling, each speaker offered a unique perspective on navigating life’s paths with faith, resilience, and integrity. Their reflections reminded us that true success is not measured merely by titles or salaries, but by the impact we make in the world and the values we uphold.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our guest speakers, Rene Yengibaryan and Vartan Vartanian, for their inspiring contributions and for giving their time to support our community.

Looking ahead, we are excited to grow this initiative into an ongoing mentorship network. If you are a professional who would like to serve as a mentor, please email your name, contact information, and field of expertise to sargis.simonyan2@gmail.com. Likewise, if you are a young adult seeking a mentor, you are encouraged to email your name, contact details, and intended career path. As we receive interest, we will expand the network and organize future events tailored to the needs of our parish family.

With gratitude to all who participated, we look forward to the continued success of this program as we work together to empower the futures of our next generation.

A Celebration of Culture, Community, and Commitment

On Friday, September 12, St. Mary’s parish hall came alive with the vibrant spirit of Armenia as the second group of talented young dancers from Armenia delivered a breathtaking performance. Their artistry and passion captivated the audience, transporting everyone to the heart of our homeland. The evening echoed with applause and joyful whistles, reflecting the deep pride and connection we all felt.

This unforgettable celebration was made possible through the generosity and dedication of many. We extend heartfelt thanks to our sponsors: Avatar Learning Center – Leading Online STEM Education for K-12, Mr. Shahen Tahmassian, Mr. & Mrs. Varoujan and Liza Varoujanian, Mr. Vatche Sarkisian, and an anonymous donor. We are also grateful to the Ghazarian family of Bark Barbecue Café for their generosity and for treating the dancers to a delicious dinner following their performance, and to Ms. Milena Oganessian for her thoughtful presentation that framed the evening with grace and meaning. A special word of thanks goes to all the host families who welcomed the dancers into their homes with warmth and care. Your hospitality not only enriched their experience but also strengthened the bonds of our community.

We are deeply grateful to Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, whose vision and support made this opportunity possible. His encouragement allowed these young dancers to share their gifts with a new audience and experience the joy of cultural exchange. We also recognize the tireless efforts of our Parish Council Chairlady, Shoghig Sahakyan, whose leadership was instrumental in bringing this event to life. From coordinating host families and transportation to securing sponsors and collaborating with local churches and venues, her dedication ensured that the dancers were able to reach diverse audiences and shine as true ambassadors of Armenian culture.

As a parish family, let us continue to support and celebrate these young ambassadors. Their journey is only beginning, and we are honored to walk alongside them in preserving and sharing the beauty of our heritage.

St. Mary Armenian Church Celebrates the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, one of the five Dominical Feasts in the liturgical calendar of the Armenian Church, was observed with great reverence and joy at St. Mary Armenian Church on Sunday, September 14. The day was filled with prayer, fellowship, and the rich traditions of the Armenian Church.

The celebration began with the Morning Service, followed by the Badarak. The highlight of the day was the Andastan—the blessing of the four corners of the world. This unique ritual, centered on the Cross and sweet, fragrant basil, symbolizes the spread of Christ's blessings to every corner of the earth. A special part of this year’s service was the participation of the Shnorhali School students. They joined in the Andastan and listened to a sermon by Fr. Hovsep, who spoke about the message and meaning of the Cross in the life of every Christian.

Following the Divine Liturgy, parishioners gathered for a fellowship luncheon hosted by the Ararat Avak Society. The luncheon was accompanied by a joyful program presented by the Shnorhali School children, adding a special touch to the celebration. Parishioners also watched a video presentation highlighting the ongoing renovation of St. Vartan Cathedral and the fundraising efforts dedicated to supporting this vital project.

The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is a reminder of the central role of the Cross in our Christian faith and salvation. It is a day to reflect on Christ’s love, His ultimate sacrifice, and the hope that it brings to all believers.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the St. Mary Church Ararat Avak Society for their devoted time and effort in making the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross a truly memorable celebration. Their gracious hosting of the luncheon, along with their generosity and unwavering dedication, brought our parish community together in fellowship and joy.

Dancing with Our Roots: Shnorhali Students Meet Armenian Dance Ensemble

On September 14th, Shnorhali School students at St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church experienced an unprecedented and unforgettable opportunity to reconnect with their heritage in the most vibrant way—through dance. Outside the church, under the open sky, our community was honored to welcome a group of extraordinarily talented young artists from Armenia, currently touring several U.S. states under the auspices of an International Arts Fund. Their mission is profound: to bring the spirit of Armenian traditions, culture, and history to life through the power of traditional folk dance.

The dancers, despite their demanding schedule, graciously devoted precious time to meeting with our students and families. What followed was nothing short of extraordinary. With breathtaking artistry and boundless energy, they filled the courtyard with the pulse of Armenia’s soul. Their performance was not only a display of beauty, it was a reminder that dance is a living vessel of memory, identity, and resilience.

Even more inspiring, children and parents were invited to join, step by step, learning the traditional movements, and ultimately dancing side by side. Laughter, curiosity, and pride lit up the church courtyard as generations connected through movement.

This is a day our students and families will carry in their hearts. Beyond the joy of the moment, such opportunities instill in our children a deeper appreciation of who they are and where they come from. They remind us that Armenian culture is not only preserved. It is alive, evolving, and inspiring. Through experiences like these, our students gain more than knowledge; they inherit a legacy of strength, creativity, and belonging.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Tigran Mnoyan, the ensemble’s brilliant choreographer and dance master, whose dedication and generosity made this encounter possible; to Aleksan Zakyan and the International Arts Fund for championing global cultural exchange; and above all to the fabulous young dancers who shared their extraordinary talent, energy, and love for Armenia with our students and families.

Shnorhali School Students Celebrate Khatchverats

In honor of the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross (Khatchverats), our students had the special opportunity to join the parish community in Patarag on September 14, to celebrate this important feast day. During the ceremony, Der Hovsep, along with our deacons and acolytes, led a procession around the church holding high the gleaming gold cross, then the traditional blessing of the Four Corners of the World (Andastan) was performed, reminding everyone to give thanks for God’s loving care and protection.

Khatchverats reminds us that what was once a symbol of suffering—the Cross—has become a symbol of love, hope, and victory over sin through Jesus Christ. By taking part in the celebration, the students witnessed the hymns, prayers, and sacred traditions of our church come to life.

This meaningful experience allowed our students to connect with the rich traditions of the Armenian Church beyond the classroom walls, helping them see that the Cross is not just a symbol on the altar, but a sign of God’s endless love for us.

Successful ACYOA Juniors Bake Sale 

The St. Mary teens held a successful bake sale on Sunday, September 14th, to raise funds for their upcoming ACYOA Juniors Sports Weekend trip to New Jersey.

The teenagers prepared a variety of delectable treats and successfully sold over $1000 worth of baked goods! We were fortunate to have a generous donor who matched the funds raised at the bake sale with an additional $1000.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes to the teens and their parents who contributed baked goods, to our donors who purchased and donated towards this cause, and to Anna Seferian for her efforts in organizing the event. 

Celebration of Armenia’s Independence Day at St. Mary

On Sunday, September 21, following the Divine Liturgy, our parish gathered to celebrate the 34th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Armenia. With hearts full of thanksgiving, we remembered that on this day in 1991, after centuries of foreign domination, the Armenian people stood united and declared their freedom.

In his sermon, Fr. Hovsep reminded the faithful that independence is not only a political reality but also a spiritual experience. Just as God preserved the Armenian people through genocide, exile, and dispersion, so too He continues to guide us today. Independence, he noted, is sanctified when it is bound to faith and the life of the Church, becoming a true sign of resurrection and hope.

At the same time, the congregation was called to remember the wounds and struggles that still weigh upon our homeland, particularly the ongoing grief and suffering connected to Artsakh. Yet, as Fr. Hovsep emphasized, the Cross of Christ remains our true symbol of victory—what appears as weakness to the world is in fact God’s strength and our guiding light.

During the Requiem Service, prayers were also offered in memory of all those who sacrificed their lives for the freedom and independence of Artsakh and Armenia. Their courage and devotion remain a lasting testament to the strength of our nation and faith.



At the conclusion of the service, the congregation joined in the Thanksgiving Service for the Republic of Armenia, lifting prayers for the land, its people, and its future.

A Grateful Kickoff to St. Mary’s Fall Food Festival 🍁

The spirit of community is alive and well at St. Mary Armenian Church as preparations ramp up for our Fall Food Festival, taking place from October 3 to 5.

Over the past two Saturdays, our incredible Women’s Guild has come together with energy, joy, and dedication—launching workshops and preparing trays of the beloved Armenian dishes, triangle cheese boreg, eggplant delight...

Their teamwork and love poured into every detail are the true ingredients behind this celebration’s success. We extend heartfelt thanks to these amazing volunteers and invite everyone to join in the fun. Whether you lend a hand in the kitchen, help with setup, or greet guests with a smile, your contribution will make a meaningful difference.

Mark your calendars and come celebrate faith, fellowship, and fantastic food with us!

ACYOA Juniors Preparing for Sports Weekend

Our ACYOA Juniors are actively preparing for the upcoming Sports Weekend, which will take place over Columbus Day Weekend in Fair Lawn, New Jersey, hosted by St. Leon Armenian Church.

Over the past several Sundays, our youth have been meeting for practices filled with teamwork, energy, and fellowship. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our practice coaches: Dr. Greg Kumkumian, Sara Arabian, Ari Arzumanian, and Sevan Topjian. We are also grateful to the others who have helped with practices: Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, Haig Topjian, Menua Keshishian, and Ara Arabian. Their dedication and encouragement have been instrumental in preparing our Juniors for this exciting event.

Last Sunday, following the Badarak, our youth trained together with great energy and enthusiasm. It was a wonderful afternoon filled with teamwork, fellowship, and the joyful spirit of our youth community as they got ready to join other ACYOA Juniors from across the Diocese for this annual event.

Shnorhali School Hosts Back-to-School Social with Joy and Learning

On September 28 Shnorhali School celebrated the new academic year with Back-to-School Social, a special event designed to welcome students back to the classroom and create a space where friendships and community could flourish. This gathering was more than just a celebration. It was a great opportunity for students to reconnect with old friends, form new bonds, and strengthen their ties to Armenian culture, history, and faith, all while having fun.

The event began with a moment of pride and unity as students and families stood together for the Armenian National Anthem. This was followed by a lively trivia contest, “We, Our Homeland, and Our Church,” where students showcased their knowledge through multiple-choice questions that blended history, culture, and faith.

Adding to the excitement, students had the chance to learn the traditional Shoror dance by Komitas, a cherished piece of Armenian heritage, bringing everyone together in rhythm and movement.

The celebration continued with a variety of engaging art and craft stations that combined creativity with cultural pride. Students enjoyed face painting and cupcake decorating, making mini cross cakes, creating an Ararat collage symbolizing Armenia’s national icon, crafting their own Armenian flags, making flag-colored flowers, designing keychains and bookmarks with national and religious themes, and producing stained-glass style art hosted by the school’s Religious program and inspired by Armenian faith and tradition.

The Back-to-School Social reminded our students that learning extends far beyond classroom walls - through art, music, faith, tradition, and community. Most importantly, the day revealed that school is not just a place for lessons, but also a place of joy and discovery, where learning becomes an adventure worth celebrating.

Entering this new school year, the Shnorhali School community embraces the opportunity to grow in knowledge, deepen friendships, and celebrate the spirit of learning together.

Bible Study Series on the Gospel of John

On Tuesday, September 30, parishioners and friends gathered at St. Mary Armenian Church to begin a nine-week Bible Study on the Gospel of John, led by Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan. Der Hayr began with an introduction to how the study will unfold: each week focusing on a key passage from John’s Gospel, while encouraging participants to also read assigned chapters at home for deeper reflection. He explained that John’s Gospel is unique in its theological depth and symbolic vision, presenting Christ not just as a historical figure but as the Eternal Word, the Light of the World, and the Life-Giver.



The teaching for the evening centered on John the Evangelist — who he was, the purpose and setting of his Gospel, and the distinctive way he presents Jesus. Participants reflected on John’s portrayal of Jesus as the eternal Word of God, the Light shining in the darkness, and the source of new life. The Armenian Church’s deep connection to John’s Gospel, woven into liturgy, hymnography, and spirituality, was highlighted.

The group then read together John 1:1–18, the majestic Prologue, listening for words and images that spoke personally to them. In the discussion that followed, participants shared reflections on what it means that Jesus is the Word made flesh, the Light that darkness cannot overcome, and how being called children of God shapes their daily lives. To carry the message into the week, Fr. Hovsep encouraged everyone to pray daily with John 1:5: “The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

The next Bible Study will take place on Tuesday, October 14, at 7:00 PM, focusing on “Come and See” (John 2–4). All are warmly invited to join.

Weddings

September 20, 2025

James Moreland and Sevan Simonian

Parents: Robert Moreland and Karen Rodden & Avedis Simonian and Jemma Manoukian

Best Man: Shayne Leitch

Khatch yeghpayr: Hagop Simonian

Maid of honor: Narineh Tatarian and Aline Lylozian

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

Engagement

August 31, 2025

Garen Alexander & Soline Achikian

Garen, son of Christian Alexander and Arlene Saryan

Soline, daughter of Khatchig Achikian and Maral Edwards

Congratulations, and may God bless the newly engaged couple and make them worthy of the desirable crown of Holy Matrimony.

Baptism and Confirmation

September 13, 2025

Daniel Poliquin

Son of Boots Poliquin and Yana Gevorgyan

Godparents: Alex Madajian and Nicolette Blackwell

September 14, 2025

Edvin Mozaffar

Son of Firooz Mozaffar and Angine Gharakhan

Godparents: Midia Gharibian and Narineh Zadooryan

September 28, 2025

Sanya Ansbigian

Daughter of Darren and Shelley Ansbigian

Godparents: Brian Ansbigian and Christine Hovsepian

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

Funeral

September 10, 2025

Marilyn Ziver

Marilyn is survived by three sisters, Marianne Ziver, Markrid (Margot) Hekimian, and Magda Ziver, as well as nephews Michael and Paul Dittmann and nieces Tanya and Lily Hekimian. She is also survived by her great-nephew, Ara Hekimian-Brogan, and her great-nieces, Elodie Hekimian-Brogan, Taline, and Taryn Dittmann.

September 15, 2025

Sylvia Cezairliyan

Sylvia is survived by her son, Brent Cezairliyan, and her sister, Nadya Kulhanjian, as well as nieces Erica Lisa and Lynette Kulhanjian. She was predeceased by her father, Peter Papazian; her mother, Satenik Papazian; and her husband, Ared Cezairliyan.

September 17, 2025

George (Krikor) Derderian

George is survived by his wife, Anna Mary Derderian; his daughter Katharine Derderian, her partner William Bourgeois, and their two adult children, Celia and Arno Bourgeois; his sister, Virginia Attarian; and his second cousins Susan (Sahagian) Malz and her husband Geffrey, Alan and Christine Sahagian, and John Sahagian.

May the Lord rest their Soul in peace and grant His comforting Holy Spirit to the family members and friends.