PRESS OFFICE
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Contact: Jake Goshert, Coordinator of Information Services
Tel: (212) 686-0710 Ext. 60; Fax: (212) 779-3558
E-mail: jakeg@armeniandiocese.org
Website:

February 9, 2005
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SISTER CHURCHES REMEMBER SLAINED LOVED-ONES

On Saturday February 18, 2005, Sts. George and Shenouda Coptic Orthodox
Church in Jersey City, under the auspices of His grace Bishop David, the
primate of the Coptic Orthodox Church, held a 40th Day Memorial Service
for the Armanious family — Hossam and Amal and their daughters,
16-year-old Sylvia and 9-year-old Monica — who were violently murdered
in their home in Jersey City.

The service was attended by hundreds of mourners, the Jersey City mayor,
and various dignitaries who offered words of consolation to the family.
At least 50 clergymen from the Coptic Church and sister churches were in
attendance also.

Many dignitaries and clergyman spoke inspiring and comforting words.
Fr. Shnork Souin, pastor of the St. Mary Church in Livingston, NJ,
representing Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, delivered a message from the
Primate to the congregation and the members of the Armanious family.

“The Armanious family was a devout Christian family who had Christ and
their church at the center of their family and their lives. They live
on as witnesses to their faith and are being viewed as martyrs by many
of the faithful,” Fr. Souin said. “Their murderers have yet to be
brought to justice. May God, illuminate the souls of the departed,
grant consolation to the community, and family and give guidance to law
enforcement in their pursuit of justice.”

— 3/9/05

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