Untitled DocumentPress Release
Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America
138 East 39th Street
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 689-7810
Fax: (212) 689-7168
Email: [email protected]
Website:
Contact: Iris Papazian
July 24, 2008
THREE PRELATES AND CHAIRMEN MEET IN MONTREAL
The three Prelates of the Eastern, Western, and Canadian Prelacies,
together with the chairmen of the respective Executive Councils, are in
Montreal where they met last evening and all day today to discuss areas of
mutual concern and cooperation. Archbishop Oshagan and Jack Mardoian, Esq.,
are attending on behalf of the Eastern Prelacy.
DER STEPHAN WILL BEGIN MINISTRY IN GRANITE CITY
Rev. Fr. Stephan Baljian, who was ordained by
Archbishop Oshagan in February, will begin serving as pastor of St. Gregory
Church in Granite City, Illinois, this Sunday, July 27. Der Hayr and Yn.
Alice traveled to Granite City this week to begin their service to that
vibrant community.
Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian, Vicar of the Prelacy, who served as Der
Stephan’s spiritual sponsor, will be in Granite City to introduce Der
Stephan and Yeretzgin to the parish.
We extend our best wishes to Der Hayr and Yn. Alice and pray for the
success of their service.
PRELATE HOSTS RECEPTION FOR UNITED NATIONS DELEGATION
On Tuesday evening, July 22, Archbishop Oshagan hosted a reception
welcoming the UN-Armenia delegation. Heading the three-person delegation is
Ms. Consuelo Vidal, United Nations Resident Coordinator, UN Development
Program Resident Representative in Armenia. Joining her were two other
members of the delegation, Mr. Armen Baibourtian, Senior Advisor to the UN
Resident Coordinator, and Ms. Nadine Sahakyan, Assistant Resident
Representative. His Excellency Ambassador Armen Mardirosian, Armenia’s
representative to the United Nations was also an honored guest.
The evening began with introductory words by Archbishop Oshagan, who
welcomed the guests to the Prelacy, and offered his perspectives on the
important work being done in Armenia by the United Nations and the need for
Diaspora cooperation. Mr. Mardirosian offered Armenia’s perspective and
desire for increased endeavors in Armenia by the UN and the Diaspora.
Mr. Baibourtian spoke about the work of the UN with developing countries
and introduced the resident coordinator, Ms. Vidal, who spoke passionately
about her work in Armenia and presented a powerpoint presentation outlining
the projects in Armenia.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the United Nation’s
global development network, advocating for change and connecting countries
to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life.
The UNDP is currently working in 166 countries helping them with their own
solutions to global and national development challenges. To implement its
development goals in Armenia, the UNDP works with the Armenian government,
non-governmental organizations, and the private sector, as well as a broad
spectrum of development partners including international organizations and
the Armenian Diaspora.
Some of the areas that the UNDP pursues include agriculture, irrigation,
health care, education, youth programs, food storage, and food preservation.
A major goal of all of the projects is to provide jobs for the people.
Prior to the reception, to which a select number of community leaders
were invited, the UNDP guests met privately with Archbishop Oshagan. Ms.
Vidal presented the Prelate with a gift-a work of art by an Armenian artist
that expresses the UN’s global reach.
LINKED IN: A WEEKEND WORKSHOP FOR STUDENTS & PROFESSIONALS
Are you looking for a way to connect with friends and with your church?
Would you like to learn more about your Armenian spiritual heritage?
In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Prelacy under the
Catholicosate of Cilicia, a workshop for students and professionals (ages 18
to 35) will take place September 26 to 28, at St. Mary Coptic Orthodox
Retreat Center in Charlton, Massachusetts.
For more details click here.
Direct your questions via email to [email protected]
CONFERENCE ON ARMENIAN EDUCATION CONCLUDES
The second pan-diaspora education conference organized under the
auspices of the Catholicosate of Cilicia, concluded on Saturday, July 19. In
his concluding remarks to the conference, His Holiness stressed the
important role of the Armenian teacher in Armenian schools, particularly in
contemporary times when the number of teachers specializing in Armenological
topics is declining. "The Armenian school is in a crisis, which should not,
however, be presented in a negative way. The highpoints of our nation’s
history, our most important achievements have been the results of crises. We
should have
the courage to see the crises, make the correct diagnosis and look for
solutions to the problems," the Catholicos said.
Acknowledging the differences that exist between Armenian schools in
communities around the world, His Holiness said, "Our differences are not a
reason for us to not become one whole. Despite being in different
conditions, we can be of use to one another through systematic work and good
organization," he said. Highlighting the true nature of the Armenian school,
the Pontiff said, "The Armenian school is not only a collection of
classrooms and textbooks; it is the teacher that breathes life into the
school. Today there is a lack of Armenian teachers everywhere. It is not
only the number of students that is decreasing; the same is true for the
number of teachers." His Holiness called on all educational bodies to
support Armenian teachers and improve their living standards.
Mrs. Houri Ghougassian attended on behalf of the Prelacy. Mrs.
Ghougassian serves as part-time librarian at the Prelacy’s Hovsep and
Suzanne Hagopian Library, and is a full-time teacher of Armenian at Holy
Martyrs Armenian Day School in Bayside, New York.
CATHOLICATES PARTICIPATE IN LAMBETH CONFERENCE
The Lambeth Conference of the family of Anglican churches-a meeting of
bishops convened once every ten years-began in Canterbury on July 19. The
Armenian Church participated in this conference with representatives from
both catholicosates. Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western
United States, represented the Catholicosate of All Armenian in Holy
Etchmiadzin. Bishop Nareg Alemezian, Ecumenical Officer, participated on
behalf of the Catholicosate of Cilicia in Antelias.
MAJOR RENOVATION UNDERWAY AT ST. ILLUMINATOR CATHEDRAL
Major renovation of St. Illuminator’s Cathedral in New York City has
begun. Until the renovation is completed the Divine Liturgy will be offered
every Sunday at 10:40 a.m. at the Armenian Center, 69-23 47th Street,
Woodside, New York.
YOUNG PARISHIONERS AT ST. ILLUMINATOR CATHEDRAL
MAKE HEARTFELT DONATIONS
Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, pastor of St. Illuminator’s Cathedral relates
this inspiring event:
"Last Sunday, St. Illuminator’s was shown God’s generosity and kindness.
The Cathedral, which has been undergoing a major renovation for several
months, received a memorable and heartfelt gift from two teenagers, Armine
and Tamar, daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Toros and Hermine Tervizian. The family
has been a part of the Cathedral community for many years, and the young
women’s gift is an example of the Tervizians’ dedication to their faith.
This donation to the Cathedral’s Renovation Fund is all the more memorable
because it is the fruit of Armine and Tamar’s earnings from their first
summer jobs. We are grateful and humbled by their love, faith and generosity
of spirit," said Der Mesrob.
YEAR OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia, has
designated the year 2008 as the "Year of Christian Education."
To read His Holiness’ message in Armenian click here.
To read His Holiness’ message in English click here.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Bible readings for today, Thursday, July 24 are: Proverbs 14:1-6;
Zechariah 8:4-5; Isaiah 60:8-9; Hebrews 2:14-18; Luke 9:44-48.
Since, therefore, the children share flesh and blood, he himself
likewise shared the same things, so that through death he might destroy the
one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and free those who all
their lives were held in slavery by the fear of death. For it is clear that
he did not come to help angels, but the descendants of Abraham. Therefore he
had to become like his brothers and sisters in every respect, so that he
might be a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make
a sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself was
tested by what he suffered, he is abhle to help those who are being tested.
(Hebrews 2:14-18)
For listing of the week’s Bible readings click here.
HOLY FATHERS ATHANASIUS AND CYRIL OF ALEXANDRIA;
ST. VAHAN KOGHTNATZI
This Saturday, July 26, the Armenian Church remembers two champions of
orthodoxy, St. Athanasius, Bishop of Alexandria, and St. Cyril, Patriarch of
Alexandria.
On Monday, July 28, the Armenian Church remembers St. Vahan of Koghtn.
As a young child Vahan, son of Armenian nobility, was taken (along with
other children) into captivity to Damascus and given Islamic training. When
they reached adulthood, the captured Armenian children were given permission
to return home. Vahan was to accompany them, but promised to return. While
in Armenia his overlord died, and Vahan decided to remain in Armenia, where
he married and established his life. However, his return was demanded and he
was pursued. He fled from place to place, but finally decided to surrender
and tell his captives he wished to remain in Armenia and practice his own
religion. He was imprisoned, tortured, and beheaded. It is believed that the
sharagan (hymn) dedicated to St. Vahan was written (melody and lyrics) by
his sister.
OUR NEW PEW BOOK
The new Divine Liturgy Pew Book is available for purchase. This Pew Book
was meticulously prepared to enable the faithful to follow the Divine
Liturgy with ease and comprehension. Each two-page spread is in four
columns: the first in Classical Armenian, the second in modern Western
Armenian, the third in transliteration, and the fourth in English
translation.
The Pew Book can be purchased from the Prelacy Bookstore. The price is
$15.00, plus shipping and handling. To order contact the Prelacy Bookstore,
212-689-7810.
FROM OUR ARCHIVES
This year we are marking the dual anniversaries of the 110th anniversary
of the establishment of the Armenian Prelacy of America by Catholicos
Mgrditch (Khrimian Hairig), and the 50th anniversary of the Prelacy under
the Holy See of Cilicia. We continue to seek any type of memorabilia and
photographs. Please contact us by email at [email protected] or by
telephone 212-689-7810, Extension 23. We thank many of you who have already
responded.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
July 14 to August 1-St. Illuminator’s Day School Summer Program, July 14
through August 1, for children ages 3 to 10, Monday through Friday, 9 am to
2 pm. Armenian language, history, Bible readings, arts and crafts, sports
and much more. For information and registration contact the school office
718-478-4073 or the Cathedral office 212-689-5880.
August 3-Holy Cross Armenian Church, 50th Anniversary Blessing of the Grapes
picnic, noon to 4 pm, on the church grounds, 101 Spring Ave., Troy, NY.
Blessing of the grapes at 3 pm officiated by Rev. Fr. Bedros Shetilian. Eat
in or takeout; raffle. For information 518-274-1477.
August 5-St. Asdvadzadzin Church, Whitinsville, Massachusetts, 9th annual
golf outing at Blackstone National Golf Club, Summon, Massachusetts.
Information: 508-234-3261.
August 17-St. Asdvadzadzin Church, Whitinsville, Massachusetts, picnic and
blessing of the grapes, officiated by Archbishop Oshagan and New England
area clergy. On church grounds, beginning at 12 noon. For information:
508-234-3677 or
August 17-St. Illuminator’s Cathedral, Feast of the Assumption of the Holy
Mother of God and Blessing of the Grapes, and picnic, at the Armenian
Center, Woodside, NY. For information 212-689-5880.
September 7-Annual picnic Festival of St. Gregory Church, North Andover,
Massachusetts, at American Legion Grounds, Haverhill, Massachusetts,
beginning at 12 noon.
August 3-Sts. Vartanantz Church, Providence, Rhode Island, Blessing of the
Grapes picnic. Camp Haiastan, Franklin, Massachusetts, noon to 6 pm, rain or
shine.
August 10-Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Worcester, Massachusetts. Annual
picnic on church grounds. Free admission; free parking.
August 17-Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey, annual church
picnic and blessing of the grapes at Dunkerhook Park, Pavilion D, Paramus,
NJ. For information 201-943-2950.
September 14-Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey. Celebration of
the Holy Cross and Madagh. For information 201-943-2950.
September 19-Sts. Vartanantz Church Ladies Guild, Providence, Rhode Island,
present "Remembering the Good Old Days. 8 pm, Aramian Auditorium. For
tickets and information 401-434-4467.
September 21-Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Worcester, Massachusetts, annual
church banquet. Details to follow.
September 25-Sixth annual golf outing hosted by Sts. Vartanantz Church,
Ridgefield, New Jersey, at River Vale Country Club, River Vale, New Jersey.
For information contact Richard Krikorian 201-784-2236 or church office
201-943-2950.
September 26-28-National Youth Conference at Holy Virgin Mary Spiritual
Vineyard, Charlton, Massachusetts.
September 29-30-Clergy conference at the Holy Virgin Mary Spiritual
Vineyard, Charlton, Massachusetts.
October 17-18-Annual Fall Fair of St. Gregory Church, North Andover,
Massachusetts, Jaffarian Hall.
October 21, November 1 and 2-Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey,
Annual Bazaar and Food Festival. For information 201-943-2950.
November 9-38th anniversary of St. Gregory Church, North Andover,
Massachusetts, and 50th anniversary of the Prelacy under the Holy See of
Cilicia, presided over by His Grace Bishop Anoushavan at Jaffarian Hall
following Divine Liturgy.
October 25-Gala celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Prelacy of the
Armenian Apostolic Church of America under the jurisdiction of the Great
House of Cilicia and the 110th anniversary of the establishment of the
Armenian Church of America. Marriott at Glenpointe, Teaneck, New Jersey.
Details to follow.
November 21 and 22-Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Worcester, Massachusetts,
Fall Food Festival.
Web pages of the parishes can be accessed through the Prelacy’s web site.
To ensure the timely arrival of Crossroads in your electronic mailbox, add
[email protected] to your address book.
Items in Crossroads can be reproduced without permission. Please credit
Crossroads as the source.
Parishes of the Eastern Prelacy are invited to send information about their
major events to be included in the calendar. Send to:
[email protected]