Weekly Oshagan
June 23rd, 2024, Newsletter of
St. James Armenian Church of Los Angeles
Rev. Fr. Haroutioun Tachejian, Parish Priest
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A Life of Grace and Devotion: Remembering
Mrs. Helen Kasparian
In the peaceful slumber of her final sleep, Mrs. Helen Kasparian passed away on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at the remarkable age of 103, surrounded by her loving family. As her parish priest, it is both an honor and a sorrowful duty to pay tribute to a woman whose life was a testament to unwavering faith, exceptional dedication, and artistic talent. Helen's journey was intertwined with that of her husband, Oshyn Kasparian, another pillar of our church, whose lineage includes revered clergy like Reverend Father Adom Melikian, the first priest of Holy Cross in Los Angeles, and Bishop Vartan Surpazan Kasparian. Together, Helen and Oshyn drew inspiration from these forebears, living pious lives dedicated to the service of our St. James Church.
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Helen Kasparian's dedication to St. James spanned over eight decades, beginning in 1941 when she and Oshyn were married. Her contributions to our church are immeasurable, and her legacy is deeply ingrained in our community's history. | |
Oshyn and Helen are celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary. | | |
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Helen served St. Church for more than eight decades, contributing to almost all of its organizations in various capacities and responsibilities.
ST. JAMES PARISH COUNCIL
In 1981, Helen became one of the first two women elected to the Parish Council, where she served a total of nine years. As Assistant Treasurer, she was instrumental in various projects, including the complete remodeling and redecorating of the John Gogian Hall in 1982 and overseeing the painting and drapery replacement in the church. Helen's organizational skills and her eye for detail were evident in every project she undertook. Her dedication to the church was unwavering, and her efforts helped to enhance the beauty and functionality of our facilities. Helen's work on the Parish Council was marked by her commitment to excellence, her ability to inspire others, and her unwavering dedication to the church. Helen also served as Parish Assembly Chairman in 1998 and 1999 and was a delegate to the Diocesan Assembly for several years.
ST. JAMES LADIES SOCIETY
Helen was a very active member of the St. James Ladies Society for 48 years. She served on the board at various times beginning in 1994, participating in annual events like the "Country Store" luncheons. Helen's roles included setting tables, preparing for events, selling bakery goods, and chairing committees for the "Hokejash" Memorial luncheon dinners. Her meticulous attention to detail and her unwavering commitment ensured that every event was executed flawlessly. For decades, she also chaired the "Coffee Hour" refreshments after church services, fostering a sense of community and fellowship. Helen's warm hospitality and tireless efforts created a welcoming environment for all who attended. Her contributions to the Ladies Society were marked by her exceptional organizational skills, her dedication, and her ability to inspire others to join in her efforts.
ST. JAMES MR. AND MRS. CLUB
As the chairperson and a dedicated member of the Mr. and Mrs. Club, Helen played a crucial role in organizing events and assisting in various capacities. Her leadership and participation helped strengthen the bonds among our parishioners. Helen's ability to bring people together, her enthusiasm, and her commitment to service made her an invaluable member of the club. She worked tirelessly to ensure that every event was a success, from planning to execution, and her efforts were deeply appreciated by all who attended. Helen's work with the Mr. and Mrs. Club was a testament to her ability to build community and create lasting memories for all involved.
ST. JAMES FELLOWSHIP CLUB
Helen was a beloved member of the Fellowship Club at St. James, which met biweekly on Mondays. Even after the club's discontinuation post-COVID, the memories of socializing, playing games, and celebrating birthdays, including Helen's, remain cherished by all who participated. Her presence brought joy and warmth to the gatherings, and her enthusiasm was contagious. Helen's involvement in the Fellowship Club was marked by her ability to create a sense of belonging and her commitment to fostering fellowship among the members.
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Celebrating her birthday with the Fellowship Club family | | |
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ST. JAMES SUNDAY SCHOOL
Helen's commitment to nurturing the next generation of faithful was evident in her many years of teaching Sunday School. With boundless energy and a heart full of love, she imparted the teachings of our faith to countless children. Helen's involvement extended beyond the classroom; she organized luncheons, programs, and various activities, ensuring that every event was a memorable experience for the children and their families. Her patience, kindness, and unwavering dedication made her a beloved figure among students and parents alike. Helen's work in the Sunday School laid a strong foundation of faith for many, and her influence continues to resonate in the lives of those she touched.
NEWSLETTER "OSHAGAN"
A talented writer, Helen contributed beautifully crafted articles to our church's official newsletter, "Oshagan." She chronicled church activities and historical memoirs, enhancing our community's connection to its past. Notably, she authored 24 articles leading up to the 75th Celebration, providing historical insights and engaging content for our congregation. Helen's writing was marked by her ability to capture the essence of our church's history, her attention to detail, and her commitment to preserving our heritage. Her contributions to the newsletter were deeply appreciated, and her legacy continues to inspire those who read her work.
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Helen receiving the Exceptional Dedication Award at the Western Diocese | | |
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AWARDS AND HONORS
Helen's lifelong service to our church was recognized with several prestigious awards. In 1989, she received the St. James Merit Award. In 2008, she was honored with the Western Diocese "Hye Spirit" Award, and in 2017, she was acknowledged by the Western Diocese for her exceptional dedication. On December 18, 2022, Helen received Special Recognition alongside Lily Balian and Lucille Bogosian, celebrating their 80 years of devotion to St. James. Helen's awards and honors were a testament to her unwavering dedication, her exceptional service, and her ability to inspire others. Her contributions to the church were deeply appreciated, and her legacy continues to inspire those who serve today.
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Helen receiving the 80 Years of Devotion to St. James Plaque Award during the St. James Name Day celebration in 2022 | | |
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A LEGACY OF SERVICE AND INSPIRATION
Helen and Oshyn's unwavering commitment to St. James inspired their daughter, grandsons, and great-grandchildren to continue their legacy of service. Their daughter, Diane, was actively involved in church activities, while grandsons Mihran and Diron served as acolytes and participated in ACYO. Diron and his wife, Andrea, are deeply involved in the "Children of Armenia" organization, a testament to the values instilled by Helen and Oshyn. The legacy extends to their great-granddaughter, Lily, who is involved with the FAST Foundation of Armenia Science and Technology in New York City. Lily and brother William are also members of the National Armenian Soccer Team. Helen's family continues to honor her legacy through their active involvement in the church and their commitment to service. Her influence extends far beyond her lifetime, and her legacy continues to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.
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Helen Kasparian’s life was a beacon of faith, service, and love. Her legacy will continue to inspire and guide our community for generations to come. Her dedication, her unwavering commitment, and her ability to inspire others made her a beloved figure in our church. Helen's contributions to St. James were immeasurable, and her legacy continues to inspire those who serve today. | |
Helen's last visit to her beloved St. James Church in 2023 | | |
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May her beautiful soul rest in eternal peace.
Fr. Haroutioun Tachejian
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FUNERAL SERVICES FOR
MRS. HELEN KASPARIAN
FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2024 - 11:30 AM
11:30 am - Daughter's of Vartan Service
11:45 am - Funeral Services
ST. JAMES ARMENIAN CHURCH
4950 W. Slauson Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90056
The family requests
"In Lieu of Flowers" donations be made to:
St. James Armenian Church
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Title: "Emulating Our Heavenly Father: A Father's Day Reflection".
English Summary of Father Haroutioun Tachejian's sermon delivered on Sunday, June 16, 2024 at St. James.
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Brothers and sisters in Christ, today we gather to celebrate Father’s Day, a day dedicated to honoring the fathers among us. As we reflect on the role of fathers in our lives, let us draw parallels between the attributes of our Heavenly Father and the beloved fathers in our community. Just as our Heavenly Father exemplifies care, love, dedication, hard work, and patience, so too should our earthly fathers strive to embody these virtues.
Our Heavenly Father is the ultimate example of what it means to be a father. In the Scriptures, we see His boundless love and care for His children. Psalm 103:13 tells us, “As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him.” This verse encapsulates the essence of God’s fatherly love—compassionate, forgiving, and always present.
God’s dedication to His children is unwavering. In Deuteronomy 31:8, it is written, “The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” This assurance of God’s constant presence and support is a cornerstone of our faith. Just as our Heavenly Father never abandons us, fathers are called to be steadfast pillars in their families, providing support and security.
Fathers in our families are called to mirror these divine characteristics. A godly father is caring and loving. He nurtures his children, providing them with a safe and loving environment.
Dedication is another vital attribute. Just as our Heavenly Father is dedicated to us, earthly fathers must show unwavering commitment to their families. This dedication often manifests through hard work. Fathers labor tirelessly to provide for their families, ensuring that their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are met.
Patience is a virtue that cannot be overlooked. Just as God is patient with us, forgiving our shortcomings and guiding us back to the right path, fathers must exercise patience with their children. St. Augustine wisely noted, “Patience is the companion of wisdom.” In practicing patience, fathers demonstrate wisdom and create a nurturing environment for their children to grow and learn.
Dear faithful, today, we also take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank the fathers of St. James. Your love and dedication to your families and to our church community are truly commendable. Your commitment to bringing your children to our church activities, youth programs, Sunday school, and various cultural, social, and religious programs is a testament to your faith and devotion.
You are not just fathers to your own children but also to our entire parish community. Your involvement and leadership light the way for future generations, ensuring that our church remains a vibrant and nurturing place for all. Your dedication helps to instill the values of faith, love, and community in the hearts of our youth.
At the end of today’s service, we will offer you , dear fathers lit candles. These candles symbolize the light you bring into your families and our parish. May these candles remind you of the important role you play in illuminating the lives of your children and our community with the teachings of God. Just as these candles shine brightly, may your lives continue to be beacons of faith, hope, and love.
In conclusion, let us celebrate and honor the fathers among us today. Let us strive to emulate the characteristics of our Heavenly Father—caring, loving, dedicated, hardworking, and patient. To the fathers of St. James, we express our deepest gratitude for your love and dedication. You are the foundation of your families and our parish, and your light shines brightly, guiding us all in faith.
May God bless you and keep you, and may He continue to guide you in your journey as fathers. Amen.
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PASTORAL/RITUAL SERVICES
Ձեր Խորհրդակատարութիւններուն, Տնօրհնէքի, հիւանդի այցելութեան եւ այլ խնդրանքներուն համար
դիմեցէք Եկեղեցի (323) 295 4588
կամ հեռացայնեցէք Տէր Յարութիւննին (818) 649-4796
For the arrangement of sacramental services, home visitation, home blessing or healing prayers, and Holy Communion,
please call the church office at (323) 295-4588
or Fr. Haroutioun directly at (818) 649-4796
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ATTENTION FAMILIES OF GRADUTES:
If you have a graduate in your family, we welcome you to send us information about them. Please send us a brief biography 3 to 4 lines maximum of your graduate and graduation photo to the church office at: secretary@stjamesla.net to be included in the Weekly Oshagan during June and July 2024.
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Կիրակի, Յունիս 23, 2024
Ս. Պատարագ - Ժամը 10:30ին
Ս. Հաղորդութիւն - Ժամը 11:45ին
Քարոզ - Ժամը 12:00ին
Հոգեհանգստեան Պաշտօն - Ժամը 12:15ին
Sunday, June 23, 2024
Divine Liturgy - 10:30 am
Holy Communion - 11:45am
Sermon - 12:00 pm
Requiem Service - 12:15 pm
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ՍՈՒՐԲ ԳՐԱՅԻՆ ԸՆԹԵՐՑՈՒՄՆԵՐ
ԿԻՐԱԿԻ , Յունիս 23, 2024
Ե. ԿԻՐԱԿԻ ՀՈԳԵԳԱԼՈՒՍՏԷՆ ԵՏՔ
ՏՕՆ ԱՍՏՈՒԱԾԱՄՕՐ ՏՈՒՓԻ ԳԻՒՏԻՆ
ԱՒԵՏԱՐԱՆ ԸՍՏ ՄԱՏԹԷՈՍԻ13։24-30
Յիսուս ուրիշ առակ մըն ալ խօսեցաւ անոնց ու ըսաւ.
– Մարդ մը լաւ սերմեր ցանեց իր արտին մէջ: Գիշեր մը, երբ ամէն մարդ քնացած էր, անոր թշնամինեկաւ եւ որոմ ցանեց ցորենին մէջ ու գնաց: Երբ սերմերը աճեցան եւ սկսան հասկ կազմել, այն ատենորոմն ալ երեւցաւ: Տանտիրոջ ծառաները եկան եւ ըսին անոր. «Տէ՛ր, դուն միայն լաւ սերմերչցանեցի՞ր արտիդ մէջ. ուրկէ՞ հապա եկաւ որոմը»: Անիկա պատասխանեց. «Ասիկա թշնամի մարդուգործ է»: Ծառաները ըսին. «Կ’ուզե՞ս որ երթանք եւ որոմը քաղենք»: «Ո՛չ,- պատասխանեց տէրը,-որպէսզի չըլլայ թէ որոմը քաղած ատեն ցորենն ալ միասին արմատախիլ ընէք: Ձգեցէք որ երկուքնալ միասին աճին մինչեւ հունձքի ժամանակը. այն ատեն հնձուորներուն կ’ըսեմ.- Նախ որոմըքաղեցէք, խուրձեր կազմեցէք այրելու համար, եւ ապա քաղեցէք ցորենը եւ ամբարեցէքշտեմարաններուս մէջ»:
ՆԱՄԱԿ ՀՌՈՄԱՅԵՑԻՆԵՐՈՒՆ 9։30-10։4
Ուրեմն ի՞նչ կ’եզրակացնենք: Հեթանոսները, որոնք Աստուծոյ արդարութեան չէին հետեւեր՝արդարացան, որովհետեւ Քրիստոսի հաւատացին. մինչդեռ Իսրայէլի ժողովուրդը չարդարացաւՄովսէսի Օրէնքին միջոցաւ, որ տրուած էր՝ մարդիկը արդարացնելու համար: Ինչո՞ւ: Որովհետեւչհաւատաց Քրիստոսի, եւ կը կարծէր թէ Օրէնքին գործադրութեամբը պիտի արդարանայ: Ատիկաիսկ պատճառ եղաւ որ գլորին «գայթակղութեան առիթ հանդիսացող քար»ին վրայ, այսինքն՝Քրիստոսի, որուն համար մարգարէութեան մէջ գրուած է.-
«Ահա ես Սիոնի մէջ կը դնեմ քար մը՝
որ գլորումի առիթ պիտի ըլլայ, ժայռ մը՝
որ գայթակղութեան առիթ պիտի հանդիսանայ:
Բայց անոր հաւատացողը յուսախաբ պիտի չըլլայ»:
Եղբայրնե՛ր, սրտանց կը մաղթեմ եւ կ’աղօթեմ որ Աստուած փրկէ Իսրայէլացիները, որովհետեւկրնամ իրենց մասին վկայել, թէ Աստուծոյ հանդէպ նախանձախնդիր են. միայն թէ այսնախանձախնդրութիւնը հիմնուած չէ Աստուծոյ ճշմարիտ ծանօթութեան վրայ: Անոնք չհասկցան, թէԱստուած ի՛նչ ձեւով կ’ուզէր արդարացնել մարդիկը: Արդարանալու իրենց հասկցած ձեւինկառչեցան եւ ուստի չընդունեցին Աստուծոյ արդարութեան ուղին: Մինչդեռ Քրիստոսով Օրէնքը իրվախճանին հասած է եւ միայն Քրիստոսի հաւատացողը կ’արդարանայ:
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BIBLICAL READINGS
SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2024
Romans 9:30-10:4
What then are we to say? Gentiles, who did not strive for righteousness, have attained it, that is, righteousness through faith; but Israel, who did strive for the righteousness that is based on the law, did not succeed in fulfilling that law. Why not? Because they did not strive for it on the basis of faith, but as if it were based on works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone, as it is written, “See, I am laying in Zion a stone that will make people stumble, a rock that will make them fall, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”
Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. I can testify that they have a zeal for God, but it is not enlightened. For, being ignorant of the righteousness that comes from God, and seeking to establish their own, they have not submitted to God’s righteousness. For Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.
Matthew 13:24-30
He put before them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to someone who sowed good seed in his field; but while everybody was asleep, an enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and then went away. So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared as well. And the slaves of the householder came and said to him, ‘Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? Where, then, did these weeds come from? He answered, ‘An enemy has done this.’ The slaves said to him, ‘Then do you want us to go and gather them?’ But he replied, ‘No; for in gathering the weeds you would uproot the wheat along with them. Let both of them grow together until the harvest; and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, Collect the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.’”
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INVITATION
TO JOIN THE CHOIR:
If anyone is interested in joining the choir, please contact the choir director or Fr. Haroutioun.
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SAVE THE DATE
SUNDAY, JULY 7, 2024
After Church Services
Dulgarian Hall
For an afternoon of
complimentary Potluck lunch, fun and games
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FELLOWSHIP COFFEE HOUR
AFTER CHURCH SERVICES
Dear Parishioners:
After church services our parishioners enjoy the fellowship coffee hour, socializing and enjoying each other's company. We encourage all to part take.
For your enjoyment, our Ladies Society monthly committees' members provide the refreshments for their assigned month, except in July and August when the Ladies do not host their meetings and coffee hour refreshments.
We also invite our parishioners to participate to host refreshments either in memory of a loved one, birthday celebration or any other occasion.
We also accept any heartfelt donation or refreshments you would like to provide.
Please contact the Ladies Society chair or call the church office (323) 295-4588, if you would like to sponsor the coffee hour.
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THANK YOU!
Our thanks to Mr. Harout Tatarian and Mr. Robert Balian for providing boxes of the delicious Krispy Cream donuts enjoyed by all on Father's Day. We appreciate your generosity and thoughtfulness.
Blessings to all fathers!
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HOKEHANKIST REQUESTS:
Sunday, June 23, 2024
Requested For:
MONIQUE DER DAVIDIAN - 7th DAY - Sister
Requested By:
Margheret Markarian- Sister
Nadine Azadian - Sister
Mesrob and Margot Vartanian
St. James Ladies' Society
To Request a Hokehankist:
For any Requiem (Hokehankist) service requests,
please contact the church secretary
by Noon time on WEDNESDAY
to be included in Sunday’s bulletin.
The secretary may be reached at
secretary@stjamesla.net or by calling +1(323) 295-4588.
Walk-in requests are welcomed on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 11:15 AM. The information will be listed in the following Sunday’s bulletin.
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OSHAGAN SPONSORSHIP
SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2024
Today's Weekly Oshagan Newsletter is sponsored by:
Margaret Der Sarkisian & Family
"In Loving Memory"
For
LARKLO DER SARKISIAN
For 1st year of passing
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THANK YOUS AND DONATIONS
Sunday, June 16, 2024, to Friday June 21, 2024
We thank our faithful parishioners
for the generous donations and support of our church.
GENERAL DONATIONS
Week of June 16th to June 21st, 2024
Dr. Anita Agzarian & Gus Rendon
Marilynn Bradbury
Gary & Nina Turpanjian
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DONATION "IN MEMORY OF"
is gratefully received
For:
HELEN KASPARIAN
By:
Robert & Frances Bozajian,
Dr. Anita Agzarian and Gus Rendon,
Margaret Der Sarkisian
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SUNDAY BULLETIN SPONSORSHIP
Margaret Der Sarkisian
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ST. JAMES OFFICE HOURS
Monday - Friday
9 AM to 1 PM
2 PM to 5 PM
The office is closed for lunch between 1-2 PM
Monday through Friday
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