AW: Providence community supports Syrian earthquake relief efforts

Hrag Arakelian, chairman of the Providence ARF Kristapor Gomideh, discussed the devastating aftermath

PROVIDENCE, RI—On Sunday, March 12, the Providence Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF), Armenian Relief Society (ARS) “Arax” Chapter, ARS “Ani” Chapter, Homenetmen, Hamazkayin and Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) “Varantian” Chapter hosted a fundraising luncheon for the Syrian earthquake.

Over 75 members of the community attended the luncheon at Sts. Vartanantz Church. Hrag Arakelian, chairman of the Providence ARF Kristapor Gomideh, discussed the devastating aftermath of the earthquake that struck western Syria on February 6. “It’s unfortunate that we gather here yet again to discuss a crisis Armenians in Syria have experienced, but it is fortunate that we continue to gather to raise our own awareness and to provide a helping hand,” said Arakelian.

Taline Mkrtschjan, ARS Central Executive Board member, delivered an in-depth presentation on the relief efforts and the work of the ARS on the ground in Syria. “During the month following the earthquake, the ARS provided food to all who were sheltered in our Armenian centers, as well as opened their health center to all, Armenian and non-Armenian, to treat non-life threatening injuries.”

Taline Mkrtschjan, ARS Central Executive Board member, delivering her presentation

The program concluded with remarks and a prayer from Sts. Vartanantz Church pastor Rev. Fr. Kapriel Nazarian.

Rev. Fr. Kapriel Nazarian offering closing remarks

The community raised $10,000 to support the Armenian community of Syria.




Emil Lazarian

“I should like to see any power of the world destroy this race, this small tribe of unimportant people, whose wars have all been fought and lost, whose structures have crumbled, literature is unread, music is unheard, and prayers are no more answered. Go ahead, destroy Armenia . See if you can do it. Send them into the desert without bread or water. Burn their homes and churches. Then see if they will not laugh, sing and pray again. For when two of them meet anywhere in the world, see if they will not create a New Armenia.” - WS