PRESS OFFICE
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-0710; Fax: (212) 779-3558
E-mail: [email protected]
Website:
October 16, 2009
ST. VARTAN CATHEDRAL AVAKS ENJOY RETREAT AT ARARAT CENTER
The St. Vartan Cathedral Avaks (senior citizens) enjoyed both a spiritual
and fun-filled three-day retreat at the Ararat Center in upstate New York,
from Tuesday, September 29 to Thursday, October 1.
Departing from both the Holy Martyrs Armenian Church in Bayside, NY, and St.
Vartan Cathedral, a total of 26 revelers journeyed in two vans, led by their
director, the Rev. Fr. Mardiros Chevian, with assistance from Dn. Sebuh
Oscherichian.
The days were filled with back-to-back activities, including daily worship
services, Bible study, and three full delicious Armenian meals. On the first
evening, the group was treated to the Hollywood film "Mama Mia," replete
with popcorn. Participants later enjoyed wine, cheese, and Armenian folk
singing.
Wednesday included an afternoon of apple-picking, as the Avaks, armed with
large plastic bags, sauntered through a burgeoning apple grove, picking only
the best from the fruit-laden trees.
In the evening, they paid a visit to the St. Peter Armenian Church of
Watervliet, NY, where they were greeted by the parishioners. Following a
vesper service, they were warmly hosted for coffee hour.
The Avaks meet every Thursday at St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral for Bible
study at 11:30 a.m., and a delicious lunch at 12:30, which is followed by an
interesting cultural program. For more information, call (212) 686-0710,
ext. 141.
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Photos attached.
Photo 1: Avaks worship together at the Ararat Center.
Photo 2: Participants in the Avaks retreat at the Ararat Center pose for a
group photo.
Photo 3: Avaks take part in Bible study at the Ararat Center.
Photo 4: An exercise class during the Avaks retreat at the Ararat Center.