St. John Armenian Church Torchbearer

St. John Armenian Church

Armenian American Veteran's Building Renovation

Let’s Restore the Luster to Our Jewel

Contributor: Y. Joy Callan

Our Detroit area Armenian American Veterans were and still are one of the strongest backbones of our community. Their insight into the future of the St. John Armenian Church Campus started as they returned from service after World War II. These bright, eager and forward-thinking men anticipated the treasured value of a building that would bring together the varied interests of our parish.

American the Beautiful

Contributor: Anne Marie Egigian

On Sunday, November 9, 2025 members of the St. John Armenian Church Renovation Committee held a fundraiser in the St. Vartan Room turned art gallery. The event took place after church services and was well attended, considering the weather that day was quite questionable. Spearheaded by Ann Marie Egigian, the theme focused on our Armenian American Veterans in a quest to raise funds for the Armenian American Veterans Building. It was a befitting honor on the cusp of Veterans Day. Accompanying the event was a delicious spread from Westborn Market, graciously donated by Annrae and Tony Anusbigian.

The “Old Glory” Days

Contributor: Anne Marie Egigian

In the early 1960s, the Armenian American Veterans of Detroit planned to build a recreation center to honor the memory of their fallen compatriots who served and sacrificed during WWII and the Korean conflict. These were young, brave Detroit Armenians who had given their lives for the love of country. The Apostolic Society supported the vision and offered the Veterans free use of a building site for their project. With much planning and community support, the Armenian American Veterans Building became a reality.

The St. John Music Guild Ignites With
Spectacular Strings and DJ Sounds

Contributor: Violet Cholakian

“Our music utilizes the virtuosity we developed as classically trained musicians, but in terms of repertoire and style, we’re more pop-oriented” -- Director and Lead Violinist Jordan Broder.

NUCLASSICA, a Detroit-based electro-pop violin and DJ band, performed at St. John on November 7, 2025, sponsored by the St. John Music Guild. They are known for their unique fusion of classical music and pop, performed on electric violins and a DJ.

The cultural hall featured a Cabaret setting with elegant table décor, delicious mezza and dessert platters, spectacular lighting, and the dynamic music and performances of the musicians.

Inspiration and Imagery:

The 2025 Sanctuary and Museum Tour and Luncheon

Contributor: Gloria Korkoian

The Sanctuary and Museum Tour and Luncheon on September 25, 2025 brought together members, friends, and guests for an inspiring day celebrating faith, culture, and fellowship. Through thoughtful presentations, guided tours, and shared reflection, the event highlighted the beauty of Armenian heritage and the enduring spirit that continues to unite our community.

Our St. John Armenian Church Bookstore

Contributors: Alice Argnian and Lucy Ardash

For more than thirty years, the St. John Armenian Church bookstore has been a treasured part of our parish life. More than just shelves of books and gifts, it stands as a cultural and spiritual hub within the church complex — a place where faith, heritage, and community come together.

Welcome to the New Torchbearer

We have composed a format that we hope will be easy and enjoyable to use. Issues will be published four times a year. Each of the auxiliary groups will be contacted by the committee to explore what they would like to showcase and to request articles and photos of interest to the community.

Your Feedback is Important

We look forward to hearing from you. Please send your questions, comments and any suggestions you have to the editors. Thank you.

The Committee

Very Reverend Father Aren Jebejian

Alice Argnian, Ardemis Gregory, Linda Jevahirian, Dr. Gary Zamanigian

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St. John Armenian Church | 22001 Northwestern Hwy | Southfield, MI 48075 US

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