February 7

TOP STORY   

The Family Saga of Armenia’s Patron Saint

The story of Armenia’s conversion to Christianity is often told as a tale of individual heroism and holiness: of great, exemplary figures who embraced their faith in Jesus Christ, suffered in his name, and laid the spiritual foundations for the world’s first Christian nation. Certainly the names associated with the events of A.D. 301—Drtad and Ashkhen, Hripsime and Gayane, and above all St. Gregory the Illuminator—testify to the way a few, remarkable individuals changed the course of our nation’s history at a single, critical moment in time.

But from another perspective, Armenia’s Christian conversion can also be seen as the work of generations, involving successive waves of people facing their own trials, and inscribing their own achievements into the historical record. The mission that St. Gregory began 17 centuries ago was not completed by him, but was carried forward by his descendants—and by all those who succeeded that great founding generation.

The calendar of the Armenian Church reminds us of the “generational” character of that mission through the day dedicated to “The Sons and Grandsons of St. Gregory.” It singles out four members of the Illuminator’s family—his two sons Sts. Arisdagés and Vrtanés, and his grandsons Sts. Krikoris and Husig—and assigns them a special feast day, which falls this year on Saturday, February 8.

It serves as the capstone to a series of sacred observances dedicated to Armenia’s patron saint. We learn how the Illuminator’s family continued his missionary work among the Armenian people, helping to cement the nation’s Christian identity. It reminds us that Armenia’s embrace of Christ is an ongoing story, which connects every generation. In the deepest sense, the faithful of today are part of the same “family saga”: the remote descendants of those heroes of old, carrying the Light of Christ forward into the world.

Click on the following link to learn about the Sons and Grandsons of St. Gregory.

Above: Peering through the mists of time, St. Gregory the Illuminator blesses onlookers in this exquisite fresco inside Saghmosavank (the 13th-century “Monastery of the Psalms”), in Armenia’s Aragatsotn province. (Photo: F. Sellies.)

February 9, 2025

SUNDAY

SCHEDULE

Morning Service 

10:00 AM

Holy Badarak 

10:30 AM

Celebrant

Rev. Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan

Usher

Mrs. Rouzanna Oganissian

Parish Council Members on Duty

Mr. Shanhur Bostan

Choir

Mrs. Edita Kalayjian

Organist

Mrs. Karine Muradyan

Bible Readings: 

Is.61:10-62:9

2 Timothy 2:15-26

John 6:15-21

HOKEHANKIST

REQUIEM SERVICE

For the Soul of:

Dro Derminassian

Requested by:

Andrew Derminassian, Stephanie Derminassian, Rouben Derminassian, and Violette Derminassian

Altar flowers are donated by:

Nairi Pakoyan in Loving Memory of Anne Andonian

Prayer of the week

In faith I confess and bow down to you, Father and Son and Holy Spirit, uncreated and immortal nature, creator of angels, of men, and of all things. Have mercy upon your creatures, and upon me, great sinner that I am.

   Lord, please keep watch over your faithful people, strengthen those fleeing persecution, and protect the holy soil of Armenia.

  Preserve the spirit of Artsakh in our hearts; console those who grieve; deliver your faithful children from conflict, and bestow your peace on all mankind. Amen.

Please tune in to St. Mary YouTube channel for the upcoming services and Badaraks

Annual Parish Assembly – 2025

St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church will hold its Annual Parish Assembly on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at 12:00 PM in the church cultural hall, with an alternate date set for February 23, 2025, at 12:00 PM. A light luncheon will be served prior to the meeting.

This important gathering provides an opportunity for dues-paying members to review the Annual Report, discuss budget matters, and participate in elections that shape the future of our church. Your voice and vote are essential in guiding the ministry and mission of our parish.

We encourage all eligible members to attend and take part in this significant annual meeting.

Advocating for Armenian Heritage at IRF Summit 2025

From February 3-6, 2025, Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan participated in the International Religious Freedom (IRF) Summit, joining global leaders, advocates, and policymakers committed to defending religious freedom and protecting sacred heritage worldwide. The IRF Summit serves as a vital platform for addressing violations of religious rights and advocating for communities facing persecution and cultural destruction.

During the summit, Fr. Hovsep assisted Archbishop Vicken Aykazian in several important meetings and workshops, highlighting the urgent need to protect Armenian religious and heritage sites in Artsakh, which remain under the threat of Azeri desecration and destruction. The Armenian delegation worked to raise awareness about the systematic erasure of centuries-old monasteries, churches, and cultural landmarks, urging international action to safeguard these irreplaceable treasures.

This year also marked the first-time participation of two young representatives from St. Mary Armenian Church, Hovsep Seferian and Ruben Karapetyan, who, along with other young Armenian attendees, actively engaged in discussions, bringing fresh voices to the cause of preserving Armenian Christian heritage in Artsakh.

The delegation's mission was clear—to shed light on the ongoing threats to Armenian religious and cultural identity and to advocate for international intervention to prevent further loss. Their presence at the IRF Summit reinforced the collective responsibility to protect sacred sites and uphold religious freedom in the face of oppression.

Very Rev. Fr. Garegin Hambardzumyan Visits St. Mary Armenian Church

On February 2, 2025, Very Rev. Fr. Garegin Hambardzumyan celebrated the Divine Liturgy (Badarak) at St. Mary Armenian Church during his visit to Washington, DC. Fr. Garegin, the Director of the Ecumenical Department at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, was in Washington to participate in ecumenical gatherings and events for the protection of the spiritual heritage of Artsakh.

Fr. Garegin is a distinguished theologian and scholar, holding advanced degrees from Armenia and the United Kingdom, where he earned his PhD specializing in the Wisdom Literature of the Old Testament. With a career devoted to theological education, interfaith dialogue, and the preservation of cultural and spiritual heritage, he has served as Rector of Gevorgian Theological University and held leadership roles in the Mission Department and the Department for the Protection of Cultural and Spiritual Heritage of Artsakh.

A special Hokehankist service followed, honoring the victims of the tragic events that occurred in Washington, DC, on January 29 and in Philadelphia on January 31 - a devastating plane and helicopter crash. The parish also prayed for the soul of Very Rev. Anania Koujanian, a young Armenian clergyman who was tragically murdered in Lebanon on February 1. Fr. Koujanian, 40, was found deceased in his home in the Bsalim area of Metn. He served as the head of the Armenian Orthodox community in Zahle and Anjar, in the Bekaa region.

Exploring the Work of the Holy Spirit: Week 5 of the Nicene Creed Study

On February 4, St. Mary Armenian Church concluded its 5-Week Study on the Nicene Creed with an in-depth exploration of the third part of the Creed, focusing on the Holy Spirit. This session brought parishioners together to reflect on the Holy Spirit's divine nature, eternal presence, and transformative work in the lives of believers and the Church.

Participants delved into the Creed's declaration of the Holy Spirit as "uncreated and perfect," affirming His role as fully God and an eternal presence in creation, redemption, and sanctification. Scripture passages such as John 14:16-17 and Hebrews 9:14 highlighted the Spirit's eternal nature and His role as the Comforter and guide for all Christians.

The discussion also touched on the Holy Spirit's work throughout history, as the divine voice inspiring the Law, the Prophets, and the Gospels, emphasizing the unity of Scripture and the Spirit's consistent guidance of God's people. The Spirit’s descent upon Jesus at His baptism was examined as a pivotal moment that revealed the Trinity and inaugurated Christ's public ministry.

Finally, the session concluded with reflections on the Spirit's ongoing work in the lives of believers and the Church. The group discussed how the Holy Spirit indwells all Christians, empowering them to live holy lives and uniting them as one body in Christ.

Join us next Tuesday for the final concluding session of this study.

Annual Khash at St. Mary Church

On February 1, 2025, St. Mary Armenian Church hosted its much-anticipated Annual Khash Meal, bringing together parishioners and friends for a cherished Armenian culinary tradition. The event was a tremendous success, raising $3,425 for the church, with additional pledges still arriving.

The highlight of the evening was the incredible Xash, expertly prepared by Chef David Tomyan, with valuable contributions from Bagrat Bayburtian, whose teamwork elevated the culinary experience. The success of the event was also made possible by the tireless efforts of the volunteers who handled logistics, shopping, setup, and cleanup, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone.

This cherished tradition, now kept for 18 years, not only supports the church but also strengthens the bonds of community through shared fellowship. St. Mary’s is grateful to everyone who participated and looks forward to welcoming all Khash enthusiasts again next year for another memorable gathering!

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

It is that time of the year again to remind our dear parishioners and friends of their dues and pledges to St. Mary Armenian Church.

As a reminder, the dues are $250 per person and $500 per family.

We depend on our faithful donors and their monetary contributions. Your membership dues not only ensure your voting privileges during our annual assembly but also shows your commitment to your church. Your support enables us to continue our mission of preaching the Word of God, reaching out to our community, and bringing the rich and wonderful blessings of our heritage and identity to all for the glory of God.

We thank you for your generous past support and hope you will continue your commitment to your church.



St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church relies on the generosity of individual donors so that it may continue ensuring service to God and fellowship to the Armenian Community. Your support is deeply appreciated.

DIOCESAN & OTHER NEWS

Children’s Day at St. Vartan Cathedral: Lessons of Kindness

The morning of January 25 started off with a chill, as freezing winds cascaded down the streets of New York. Yet even the harsh winter elements couldn’t dampen the youthful warmth and energy radiating through the Eastern Diocese’s mother cathedral, during the second annual “Children’s Day at St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral.”

Beginning with a short service led by Diocesan Primate Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, the cathedral was packed with more than 210 children from Diocesan parishes and Armenian schools across the tri-state area, and from neighboring areas as far away as Philadelphia.

The young faithful, ranging from 3rd to 8th graders, arrived ready to make new friendships, and to lend their eager hands to a special community service project.

“These Armenian youth are the hands of Christ in action. They spread God’s love through acts of kindness to those in need,” said Bishop Mesrop. “This is what community is about: coming together to make a difference, and sharing faith, hope, and love with the world.”

Assisting Bishop Mesrop during the service and throughout the day were Cathedral Vicar Fr. Davit Karamyan, Fr. Mesrob Hovsepyan, and Fr. Armash Bagdasarian.

After the service, the children went to Haik and Alice Kavookjian Auditorium, where they had lunch and undertook a charitable service project. Working in association with the Sant’Egidio charitable community—which runs a weekly soup kitchen out of the cathedral complex—the children worked together to fill more than 200 bags with meals for the poor and homeless in the area. To cap off their effort, the children decorated the bags with personal messages of support and hope for the city’s vulnerable residents.

While they were working on the project, the children listened to a motivational talk by the day’s master of ceremonies, Chris Sarafian of New Jersey’s Hovnanian School. Also, guest speaker Aram Sethian engaged the children in a friendly, informal style, encouraging their spirit of kindness and compassion.

The Children’s Day event was co-chaired by Maria Stepanian and Talia Jebejian Bouldoukian, who dedicated their efforts to the memory of a beloved family member: Joyce Sulahian, who passed away a year ago. Other members of the organizing committee included Armenuhi Bagdasarian, Maral Beylerian, Melanie Bourghol, Souzi Kasaryan, Nazig Kirokian, Noushig Ohanian, Lori Saganda, and Yn. Alla Terzyan.

Click the following links to read more in an extensive article on Children’s Day, and to view a gallery of photos.

Constantinople, Nicaea, Armenia: Walk in the Footsteps of Faith

The Eastern Diocese and the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America have announced a joint pilgrimage to Constantinople, Nicaea, and Armenia in the summer of 2025. This momentous journey will commemorate the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea—a pivotal moment in Christian history that established the Creed of Nicaea as a foundational confession of the Christian faith, shared by the Oriental and Eastern Orthodox churches.

Led by Archbishop Elpidophoros of America and Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, pilgrims will embark on a profound journey of faith and discovery, from August 29 to September 8. This will be the first joint pilgrimage of the Eastern Diocese and the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese.

In Constantinople, pilgrims will visit the Ecumenical Patriarchate (the center of Eastern Orthodoxy) and see iconic landmarks such as the Theological School of Halki, Hagia Sophia, and the Armenian Patriarchate in Constantinople.

In Nicaea, they will explore the ancient city where the council convened in A.D. 325: a site of immense historical and theological significance to all Christians.

Finally, in Armenia pilgrims will visit the Ancient Manuscript Repository (Matenadaran), Khor Virab Monastery (where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned), and the ancient cave of Areni (considered to be the world’s oldest-known winery). They will also experience the beauty of Lake Sevan and Sevan Monastery, and worship at the newly-restored Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin.

Spaces are limited, so early registration is strongly encouraged. For inquiries and reservations, contact Cloud Tours at (718) 721-3808, or e-mail stephen@cloudtours.com. Detailed information regarding costs, travel arrangements, and accommodations will be provided upon request.

Click here to view a flyer with details.

FAR’s Efforts to Empower Armenia’s Farmers

Thanks to the support of contributors from across the Eastern Diocese, the Fund for Armenian Relief (FAR) has been able to empower farmers living and working in southern Armenia.

For example, the newly-opened “Smart Agricultural Center” in Sisian (seen here), funded in part by the Atesian family through FAR, is transforming the future of farming education in Armenia’s Siunik region. The center combines access to cutting-edge technology with hands-on learning—thereby enhancing the Armenian National Agrarian University’s curriculum by promoting sustainable agriculture, protecting the environment, and ensuring healthy food for rural communities.

The center also features a modern livestock facility and an organic feed production plant. Eight pedigree cows were recently introduced into the livestock barn, and have subsequently given birth to 20 calves!

Contributions large and small can make a lasting impact on life in Armenia’s vulnerable Siunik region. They allow family farms to thrive, help communities to grow, and encourage the next generation to embrace sustainable farming.

Learn how to be a part of this effort—and about FAR's other economic development projects—on the newly re-designed website of the Fund for Armenian Relief.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

RECYCLING PROGRAM NEWS

Thanks to our Recycling Committee for their work in sorting and bringing home the recyclables every Sunday, especially during our recent Food Festival. What has been discouraging, though, is that people continue to throw half-full coffee cups and food into the container, which makes it very messy for us. Please put only the following in the container:

Empty plastic bottles

Empty aluminum cans

Empty glass bottles

Nothing else!!

No paper, no plastic silverware, no coffee cups, no paper plates, no food. We are trying to keep things simple.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please email Roxanne Paul at rangerrox@msn.com. Thank you for being so supportive in helping keep our planet cleaner!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Special Gift for St. Mary Gift Shop

St. Mary gift shop is offering limited numbers of imported bottles of medieval Armenian health elixirs formulated from ancient manuscripts deciphered at the Matendaran Museum of Ancient Armenian Manuscripts. These elixirs are made in Armenia by Armen Sahakyan, a pharmacologist and botanical scholar who has been working at the Matenadaran Museum for the last several decades. A trained medical doctor ordained a deacon in 1997, Sahakyan has dedicated his life to the maintenance of Armenia’s sacred botanical traditions.

The three different batches available at our gift shop (Royal Elixir, Arates Elixir and Arates Tonic) are made from a codified recipe of medieval Armenian medicine, using a special distillation process. They contain medicinal and aromatic plants, known for their healing properties. Through the distillation and aging process alcohol is created, so think of them as perhaps Armenia’s first (healthy) cognac! 

The supplies are limited and each bottle is numbered, including the batch and year of production. All of the bottles were donated to St Mary Church, so 100% of the proceeds will go to the St Mary Endowment Fund, with a portion also going to support Armenian clergy serving in Artsakh.

"Embrace the Future" Endowment Fund

Dear Parishioners and Friends, 

This year we celebrate the 90th Anniversary of the St. Mary Community and Church with the launch of the new "Embrace the Future" Endowment Fund to help ensure our church has the resources needed to continue serving our beloved community.  

Just as you plan for your future and that of your family, please join us in planning for the future of St. Mary Church. 

We are asking for your support so that St. Mary will be able to continue to fulfill her mission for future generations.  

The link below lists various opportunities for you to make a meaningful gift of lasting significance that will help support our church's long-term security, visibility, and vitality. Please consider making either a one-time gift or pledge, which would allow you to make payments over a five-year period.

Join St. Mary's Prayer Group

We are initiating a new form of ministry at St. Mary Armenian Church. For parishioners who would like to make an electronic prayer request, they can do so by Clicking Here

A group of volunteers will receive the request and pray at their earliest convenience. Additionally, a new physical prayer request box will be placed at the entrance of St. Mary Armenian Church with blank forms that anyone can fill out and drop in the box. These requests will be retrieved weekly and delivered to the members of the volunteer prayer group. If you would like to become one of the volunteers of the Prayer Group please email us. 

Please click on the link below to present your request. 

Buy a Brick and Leave Your Legacy at

St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church

Bricks can be ordered and purchased by clicking below and

filling out a simple online order form.

You can choose to have a 4" x 8" brick

which includes your preselected

3 lines of 20 characters per line of text.

Or you can choose to have the

Armenian Cross artwork on the 4" x 8" brick

which includes your preselected

3 lines of 15 characters per line of text.

Order Today While Quantities Last!

Payment can be made with PayPal or a Credit Card.

Legacy Brick Donations are Tax Deductible.

February 11 Bible Study at 7 pm

February 15 Saint Sarkis Day Celebration and Armenian Style Brunch

February 16 Annual Parish Assembley

15 Երբ Յիսուս իմացաւ, որ գալու են իրեն բռնել-տանելու, որպէսզի իրեն թագաւոր անեն, դարձեալ միայնակ դէպի լեռը գնաց: 16 Եւ երբ երեկոյ եղաւ, նրա աշակերտները ծովեզերք իջան: 17 Եւ նաւակ նստելով՝ գալիս էին դէպի ծովի միւս կողմը՝ դէպի Կափառնայում: Եւ երբ մութն ընկաւ, Յիսուս դեռ իրենց մօտ չէր եկել. 18 եւ ծովը հողմի ուժգին փչելուց փոթորկւում էր: 19 Երբ շուրջ քսանհինգ կամ երեսուն ասպարէզ թիավարելուց յետոյ տեսան Յիսուսին, որ քայլում էր ծովի վրայով եւ նաւակին էր մօտեցել, սաստիկ վախեցան: 20 Եւ նա ասաց նրանց. «Ես եմ. մի՛ վախեցէք»: 21 Եւ ուզում էին նրան նաւակի մէջ առնել. եւ նաւակը շուտով հասաւ այն տեղը, ուր գնում էին:  Հովհաննես 6:15-21

15 When Jesus realized that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, he withdrew again to the mountain by himself.

Jesus Walks on the Water

16 When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea, 17 got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum. It was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. 18 The sea became rough because a strong wind was blowing. 19 When they had rowed about three or four miles,[a] they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they were terrified. 20 But he said to them, “It is I;[b] do not be afraid.” 21 Then they wanted to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the land toward which they were going.

Read full chapter   John 6:15-21

Our gift shop is furnished with distinctive and unique items from Armenians all over the world. Some of the items are Armenian crosses, jewelry, paintings, religious tiles, tapestry icons, children's and adult books, T-shirts, hats, bags, Armenian CDs, Armenian artwork, and much more. 

The Gift Shop is open every Sunday after Church service and by appointment, call the church office at 202-363-1923 or send an e-mail to stmarychurchdc@gmail.com