E-Sunday Bulletin of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church

38-65 234th. St. Douglaston, NY, 11363

Sunday, 10/18/2026

ԽԱՉՎԵՐԱՑԷՆ ԵՏՔ Զ. ԿԻՐԱԿԻ - SIXTH SUNDAY OF THE EXALTATION 

Sunday Readings:

Isaiah 20:2-21:6; Galatians 4:3-18; Luke 4:14-23

Join us in worship this Sunday.

Morning Service 10:00 AM

Divine Liturgy 10:45 AM - Sermon 11:45 AM

Մասնակցեցէք Ս. Պատարագին՝

Առաւօտեան Ժամերգութիւն 10։00

Ս. Պատարագ 10։45- Քարոզ 11։45

Fr. Nareg Terterian, Pastor

We are grateful to witness continued growth in our worshipping community. Average Sunday Badarak attendance has increased by 41% year-to-date in 2026, compared to the 2025 median attendance of 83. This is a clear sign of renewed participation in the spiritual life of our parish.

On Sunday, October 11, 2026, 123 faithful gathered for worship. Join the growing number of members of our parish family who each week bring a friend, bring a family member.

We warmly invite everyone to join us each Sunday at St. Sarkis Church to experience the beauty of the Badarak and the strength of our faith community.🙏

Remembering Our Benefactors: The Legacy of Mother Suzanne Hagopian

This Sunday, St. Sarkis Church will honor our benefactors and devoted members who have left a lasting legacy of faith, love, and generosity. We will especially remember the life and extraordinary legacy of Mrs. Suzanne Hagopian, who rightfully earned the affectionate title “Mother Suzanne Hagopian.”

Although she had no children of her own, Mother Suzanne embraced every child of our community as her own. Through her remarkable generosity and unwavering devotion to St. Sarkis Church, she ensured that generations of children and families would have a spiritual home in which to grow, learn, and flourish. By entrusting her wealth to the Church, she provided much-needed financial security and helped secure our parish's future.

In grateful recognition of her extraordinary generosity, our Saturday School proudly bears the name Suzanne & Hovsep Hagopian Saturday School, ensuring that her legacy continues to inspire future generations.

Mother Suzanne reminds us that motherhood is not defined solely by giving birth, but also by the love we give, the lives we nurture, and the legacy we leave behind. Through her generosity, she became a mother to generations of St. Sarkis children.

May her memory remain eternal, and may her example inspire us all to become faithful stewards of the blessings entrusted to us.

On Sunday October 11, 2026, the Pastor, Board of Trustees and Parishioners of St. Sarkis Church honored the memory and legacy of Dr. Aram Cazazian, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for 12 years, whose many years of faithful service, left a lasting mark of leadership and generosity.

The requiem service offered in his memory was followed by a special tribute and luncheon celebrating his life, dedication and contributions to St. Sarkis Church. The program included violin musical renditions by Ms. Diana Vasilian whose choice of compositions added at touch of nostalgia and remembrance. Parishioners, guests and Dr. Cazazian’s family were welcomed by Dr. Annita Nerses, Board of Trustees chairlady, she introduced Drs. Arthur and Louiza Kubikian, longtime friends, colleagues and board members, who served St. Sarkis Church alongside Dr. Cazazian, who paid tribute to their friend, emphasizing Dr. Aram’s special qualities, leadership and dedication in the service of St. Sarkis Church and Armenian organizations. Other speakers included Dr. Alina Stanciu, Mr. Karl Alajajian and Mr. Karnig Minassian. The last speaker was Archpriest Nareg Terterian, Pastor of St. Sarkis, who recalled with fondness Dr. Cazazian’s contributions and leadership to the church and also how he nurtured and supported his early years as pastor. A commemorative booklet reflecting Dr. Cazazian’s service to St. Sarkis Church was also printed and distributed on this occasion.

The memorial meal included some of Dr. Cazazian’s favorite dishes and deserts lovingly served by the ladies of the board and the Ladies Guild.



May god bless his soul and grant him eternal peace. 

St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church held its Third Annual Golf Outing on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Harbor Links Golf Course in Port Washington, New York. The event brought together parishioners, friends and supporters for a day of golf, fellowship and fun. Approximately 50 golfers of all skill levels competed in a scramble format on a beautiful fall day, with picture-perfect weather providing an ideal setting for friendly competition and camaraderie. 

Throughout the day, golfers competed for team and individual awards in a variety of contests, including Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin. A 50/50 Ball Toss added another element of friendly competition while raising additional funds for St. Sarkis.

Following golf, participants were joined by family members and friends for a cocktail hour and dinner reception. Rev. Fr. Nareg Terterian, Pastor of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, welcomed the guests and opened the evening with a prayer. Dr. Annita Nerses, Chairwoman of the Board of Trustees, and Simon Bardizbanian, Esq., Chairman of the Golf Committee, thanked the golfers, sponsors, volunteers and organizing committee members for their support and spoke about the importance of events like the Golf Outing in bringing the St. Sarkis community together.

This year’s Event Sponsors were Bardizbanian & Associates, P.C., Hye Insurance Services, and Trolydia Engineering. The outing also received generous support from its beverage cart and lunch sponsors, tee-sign sponsors, donors and the many individuals and families who contributed to the event. 



Now an anticipated annual tradition, the St. Sarkis Golf Outing has become much more than a day on the golf course. It is an opportunity for members and friends of the Church to come together in fellowship while supporting St. Sarkis and its mission.

The Golf Outing Committee and St. Sarkis Board of Trustees extend their sincere gratitude to everyone who participated, sponsored, donated or volunteered and helped make the 2026 St. Sarkis Golf Outing another memorable day for the St. Sarkis community.

Discover the profound lesson of genuine transformation in today's homily. Join us as we explore the story of the widow who gave everything she had, teaching us that true value lies not in appearances but in the heart's intention.

Key takeaways:

• The importance of genuine transformation in our spiritual lives.
• How external appearances can deceive, as seen in the religious leaders of Jesus' time.
• The widow's story as a powerful reminder of giving from the heart, regardless of material wealth.

When Father Barouyr finished his doctorate at Fordham, he expected relief. Instead, he felt an unexpected void: no deadlines, no dissertation, no urgent benchmark pulling him forward.

That pause opened up a vital conversation about how study, ministry, and vocation intersect in the modern church.

A Question Rooted in Ministry

Father Barouyr’s background spans art and religion at Berkeley’s Graduate Theological Union to doctoral research at Fordham. His thesis centered on a crucial issue: promoting priestly vocations among American-born Armenians. Armenian communities urgently need clergy who understand local culture, yet American-born priests remain rare.

To understand why, he interviewed prospective candidates, active priests, and parish youth. One realization stood out: young people often hold an abstract view of clergy life. Seeing Spider-Man posters in a priest’s kid's room surprised some youth, reminding them that clergy lives are grounded and relatable. Practical concerns like finances, family needs, and career security also loom large.

Building a Culture of Vocation

Rather than expecting parish priests to manage recruitment alongside their daily pastoral duties, Father Barouyr advocates establishing a dedicated Vocation Ministry Office. A centralized initiative can offer resources, organize retreats, and help young people explore their calling with clarity and support.

He also points to models like the Coptic Church, where communities actively recognize potential leaders and present them to the bishop. Vocation isn't just about recruitment; it’s about how communities notice, nurture, and accompany future leaders.

Tune In to the Full Episode

How can the church build a supportive culture for its future leaders? Listen to our full discussion with Father Barouyr to explore insights on education, community, and calling.

Awakened is a new video podcast created by Archpriest Fr. Nareg Terterian to meet our community at the intersection of real life, deep questions, and spiritual renewal.

 Drawing from pastoral encounters, the wisdom and practices of the Armenian Apostolic Church, and the vision of 2026 as the Year of the Revitalization of Spiritual Life, this series creates a safe and thoughtful space to explore faith as a way of life, not just a Sunday activity.

Awakened is an invitation to dig deeper, re-engage intentionally, and nurture a living spirituality within the sacred rhythm of the Church and everyday life.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Khachkar Studios (Charles & Agnes Kazarian Foundation) for the generous grants totaling $46567.00 in 2026 in support of the mission and ministries of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church. Their partnership and commitment to our community help make our faith-based programming and outreach possible.

Gevorkian and Fiesel families request requiem service for the soul of their beloved son, brother, brother in law and uncle Mr. TONY GEVORKIAN (12th-year memorial service).

THE HOLY EVANGELISTS

This Saturday, October 17, the Armenian Church commemorates the Holy Evangelists, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, the authors of the four Gospels. The word Evangelist comes from the Greek evangelists which means “one who brings good news.” Evangelists are given the special ability by the Holy Spirit to communicate the Gospel of Jesus Christ clearly and effectively. In the early days of the church evangelism was the work of the apostles. By the third century, the authors of the four canonical Gospels became known as the Holy Evangelists, and as the church grew “evangelist” began to denote a specific office that could include “apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers” (see Ephesians 4:11-12).

Matthew is the patron of the Church’s mission. The Gospel attributed to him closes with Jesus’ command to His disciples and followers to, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)

Mark had significant influence on the advancement of Christianity. Although the Gospel according to Mark is a narrative of the life of Jesus, theologians consider it to be a handbook of discipleship. The dominant message is that being a Christian is not only to believe in Jesus Christ, it is also living according to the example set by Jesus. According to tradition, Mark was the first bishop of Alexandria. One of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world is named after him in Venice, where his relics are kept.

Luke is the author of the third Gospel and the Book of Acts. He is considered to be the patron of physicians and artists. The Gospel according to Luke describes Jesus as “the healer of a broken world.” Luke is also noted for his concern for the poor, the marginalized, women, and social outcasts. His Gospel does not end with the Resurrection, but continues to Pentecost and the eternal presence of Christ in the world. Traditionally he is believed to be one of the Seventy and the unnamed disciple in Emmaus.

John, often called the “beloved disciple,” is the author of the fourth Gospel. He was the only one of the twelve disciples who did not forsake Christ and stood at the foot of the Cross. Jesus entrusted his mother to John’s care on the day of the Crucifixion. The best-known verse in his Gospel is John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” According to tradition, John left Jerusalem after attending the first ecumenical council and went to Asia Minor and settled in Ephesus. He was exiled to the island of Patmos where he wrote the book of Revelation, although more recently scholars have concluded that John the Apostle and John of Patmos were two different people.

ԽԱՉՎԵՐԱՑԷՆ ԵՏՔ Զ. ԿԻՐԱԿԻ - SIXTH SUNDAY OF THE EXALTATION 

Sunday Readings:

Isaiah 20:2-21:6; Galatians 4:3-18; Luke 4:14-23

Benefactor's Day, Family Badarak and Mr. Stephan Tchorbajian Luncheon will be hosted in the Main Hall by:
-Saturday School
-Mrs. Shogher Aseyan
-Mrs. Nazik Marino

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

We gratefully acknowledge the receipt of your generous donation to St. Sarkis Church.

Your continuous support of St. Sarkis Church is sincerely appreciated. It is because of dedicated individuals like you, that our church continues its spiritual mission and service.

May God bless you for your kindness and reward you abundantly.

Prayerfully,

Rev. Fr. Nareg Terterian, Pastor &

Board of Trustees

NY Hamazkayin Nor Yeraz Dance Ensemble Celebrates Its Third Anniversary with Exciting Growth – Follow us on Instagram NY_Nor_Yeraz

Since its inception on October 27, 2023, the NY Hamazkayin Nor Yeraz Dance Ensemble has continued to grow, bringing Armenian culture, music, dance, and tradition to a new generation. As Nor Yeraz approaches its third anniversary, we are proud to celebrate the ensemble’s remarkable growth and look forward to another exciting year.

One of our most exciting developments has been the growth of our younger group, which now includes more than 35 dancers ages 8 to 13. Our older group welcomes dancers ages 13 to 26, giving young Armenians the opportunity to remain connected to their culture as they grow.

The younger group practices most Fridays from 7:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m., followed by the older group from 8:15 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Complimentary Tuition for All Nor Yeraz Dancers

Thanks to an exceptionally generous donation from the Armenian Cultural Association of New York, tuition is completely complimentary for every Nor Yeraz dancer this year.

This support allows us to make Armenian dance accessible to all who wish to participate. In return, we ask our dancers for commitment—to attend practices consistently, learn the choreography, and be dedicated members of their group.

Nor Yeraz is fortunate to be led by two talented instructors, Maria Nercessian Bechirian and Avedis Khachatryan.

Maria was an instructor with the original Yeraz Dance Group alongside the late Karnig Nercessian, creating a special connection to the legacy of Armenian dance in our community. Avedis studied ballet at the Dance University of Yerevan and performed with Yerevan’s Opera and Ballet Theater. Together, they bring exceptional experience, passion, and dedication while serving as mentors and role models for our dancers.

Three Years of Performances and Special Appearances

In just three years, Nor Yeraz has had the privilege of performing throughout the Armenian community and beyond. Highlights include:

• AYF Hyortik 100th Anniversary Gala Banquet – 2024
• St. Sarkis Annual Picnic – 2024
• Hovnanian School Picnic with Tonee Marino – 2024
• St. Sarkis Gala honoring Board of Trustee members – 2024
• Community member’s 100th birthday celebration – 2024
• Tonee Marino’s “Hayastan” music video – 2024
• New York Fashion Week – 2024
• Cultural Showcase at St. Sarkis – 2024
• Social media reels promoting Tonee Marino’s music – 2024, 2025 and 2026
• Armenian Heritage Night with the ARS Erebouni Chapter at UBS Arena – 2025
• Armenian Sisters Academy fundraiser in Pennsylvania with Tonee Marino – 2025
• Tonee Marino’s Armenian Affair in Brooklyn – 2025
• Special birthday celebration in Brooklyn - 2026
• Performance with ARAM MP3 before an audience of more than 1,000 at Oceana Theater -2026
• Homenetmen Navasartian Games in New York - 2026
• Performance with Tonee Marino to “Im Hamar Es,” featuring choreography created especially for the song - 2026

With more performances being planned, we encourage new dancers to join early so they can learn the choreography and prepare to perform with Nor Yeraz.

Nor Yeraz meets most Fridays at St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church in Douglaston, New York, and we are deeply grateful for the church’s continued hospitality and support.

We also thank our dedicated parent volunteers, the Armenian Cultural Association of New York, NY ARF Armen Garo Gomideh, and NY Hamazkayin for their generous support and commitment to our youth.

Above all, we thank Maria and Avedis, whose dedication extends far beyond teaching dance. Through Nor Yeraz, they are helping our young people strengthen their connection to Armenian heritage while building friendships and a lasting sense of community.