Jan, Feb, Mar 2014 - Saints Sahag and St Mesrob Church

Transcription

In This Issue
In Memoriam:
The Very Reverend Father Shnork Kasparian
(1929-2014)
The Very Reverend Father Shnork Kasparian was born in
Alexandria, Egypt, in May 1929, and given the baptismal name of
Aram. He graduated with a London Chamber of Commerce
diploma from the British School. In 1959 he graduated from the
Seminary of Jerusalem and was ordained a deacon.
In 1961 he was ordained a celibate priest in Cairo by
Archbishop Mampre Siroonian, Primate of Egypt. In 1962 he was
assigned to serve in Sao Paolo, Brazil, and was elevated to the
rank of Vartabed by Archbishop Papken Abadian. The following
year he was appointed vicar general of Brazil and Uruguay. His
Holiness Vasken I, Catholicos of All Armenians, in 1969
extended an invitation to Fr. Shnork to be dean of the Seminary of
Holy Etchmiadzin (where the future 132nd Catholicos of All
Armenians, His Holiness Karekin II, was one of his students).
In 1974 Father Kasparian was elevated to the rank of
Dzayrakooyn Vartabed by Archbishop Torkom Manoogian, the
Primate of the Eastern Diocese. In 1979 the Patriarch of Istanbul,
Archbishop Shnork Kaloustian, invited the multi-lingual vartabed
(fluent in nine languages) to be his personal assistant as well as
his representative in foreign and ecumenical activities. In 1996 he
was asked by the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Archbishop Torkom
Manoogian, to be in charge of the seminary and teach several
subjects; while there he was also mentor and spiritual director of
the deacons. (Continued on page 8)
“Paros”
Issued March 31st , 2014
Published 4 times a year
Saints Sahag and Mesrob Armenian Church
70 Jefferson St, Providence, RI 02908-4923
Issue 14-01 – FREE – Print Edition
In Memoriam …………………………….…..……………………….…..
Publication Information.…...……………………………………….......
Index………………………………………………………………………..
Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin………………………………………
Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America…………....
Our Pastor's Perspectives…………….……..…………………….…..
Parish Council Corner…………………………..................................
RI Orthodox Clergy Fellowship…….……..…………………………..
Lenten Kufta Preparation..………….………………………………….
Food Drive……………………………………….. ….…….………….….
100thAnniversary Concert………………………. …..……….……….
Armenian School…………………………………………………………
Become A Centurion in 2014…………………………………………..
In Memoriam (Continued)………………………….……………………
Armenian Experience Survey …………………………………….……
Serabian Plumbing Ad…………………………………. ………….…..
Fate, Faith, Fun…………………………………………………………..
Cranston Proclamation…………………………………………………
Annual Armenian Youth Day………….. ……………………………..
Picnic and Bazaar Dates……………………………………………….
Fr. Shnork's Mission Statement……………………………………….
Food Drive………………………………………………………………...
Hokehankist/Memorial/Requiem………………………………………
99th Commemoration of The Armenian Genocide……..…………..
Blessing, Concert, Madagh and Art Exhibit ….…………………….
Jerusalem Pilgrimage…………………………………………………..
Annual Sports Banquet………..…………………………………………
Armenian Chamber Music………………………………………………
Parish Directory…………….……………………………………….……
Christmas Dinner 2014………………….………………………………
100th Anniversry Weekend Celebration Dates………………………
Did You Know?..................................................................................
99th Anniversary of Armanian Genocide Events……………………
Parish Golf Tournament…………………………………………………
Weekly Sunday Fellowship……………………………………………..
Advertise in The Paros…………………………………………………..
Armenian Martyrs' Committee Meeting……………………………….
ACYOA's Jr's Bowling…………………………………………………..
Outreach……………………………………………………………………
Parish Golf Tournament…………………………………………………
Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals, Thank You…………..………....….
Membership / Stewardship………………………………………….….
Newsletter Committee.……………....................................................
Advertise in the Paros……………………………………………….…..
Administrative Information………………………………………….….
Calendar of Events……………………………………………………....
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Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin
Celebration in the Mother See on the Feast of Saint Vartan the Warrior and His Companions
On February 27, under the presidency of His Holiness
Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All
Armenians, a celebration on the occasion of the Feast day of
Saint Vartan the Warrior and his 1036 companions was held in
the Events Auditorium of the Gevorkian Theological
Seminary.
The event was organized through the efforts of the students
from the Gevorkian Theological Seminary and Yerevan State
University. Attending the celebration were the Members of the
Brotherhood of the Mother See; professors from the
Gevorkian Theological Seminary and YSU; and students from
various educational institutions in Armenia.
The event was opened with the Lord’s Prayer and the
hymns of the Republic of Armenia and the Gevorkian
Theological Seminary. His Grace Bishop Gevork Saroyan,
Dean of the Gevorkian Theological Seminary, and Rector of
the Religious Educational Institutions of the Mother See,
offered opening remarks, expressing his joy that for the last 5
years the Seminary and the State University together
commemorate the immortal memory of Saint Vartan and his
companions. ”This tribute to Saint Vartan and his companions
is more than a feast: the people have immortalized the
memory of those martyrs, turning it into the foundation of
their historic struggles”, noted Bishop Gevork.
Prof. Aram Simonyan, Rector of the Yerevan State
University, Doctor of Historical Sciences; welcomed the
guests. Prof. Simonyan was hopeful that the annual meetings
on the occasion of the feast of Saint Vartan would become a
beautiful tradition not only for the Mother See and YSU but
also for all the youth, as this tradition is based on the
patriotism of immortal and brave heroes, and their loyalty to
the Church, Homeland and people. The Rector highlighted the
important role of such events, considering them to be the small
part of greater deeds, bringing the younger generation to the
faith and the National Church by the example of those who
saved the Homeland.
Mr. Gevork Madoyan, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences
and Vice-Dean in the Gevorkian Theological Seminary,
presented a report about the brave martyrs. To conclude the
observance of Saint Vartan and his companions; religious and
patriotic songs were performed by the choruses of the
Gevorkian Theological Seminary and State University, and
also poems devoted to the martyrs were recited.
At the conclusion of the event His Holiness Karekin II,
Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, offered
his message and blessings to those present, praising God that
the Feast of Saint Vartan was not only celebrated today in
“Paros” Saints Sahag and Mesrob
national institutions of the Diaspora, but also in the Homeland
together with clergymen, Seminary and university students.
His Holiness was hopeful that in the future the Feast of
Saint Vardan and his companions will be celebrated
everywhere, because for centuries the spirit of our heroes
guided and fortified the Armenian people to overcome
hardships and create victories in Armenian history.
“Today, when we proudly reflect upon and celebrate the
victory of the Battles of Sardarapat or Artsakh, all of us
undoubtedly highlight and confirm that the spirit of Saint
Vartan and his companions illuminated and radiated in the
battlefields of Sardarapat and Artsakh. That spirit has lived
and guided our people over all times, during both difficulties
and accomplishments. Today it is of utmost importance that
the spirit and awareness of those martyrs live inside us, so that
it becomes the guide and creator of our lives.
Today our country and people face many challenges: social
economic problems, blockades, the threat of restarting the
battle of Artsakh, weakening of national values and the need
of strengthening the spiritual life. All those obstacles will be
conquered if we are guided by the spirit of Saint Vartan and
his companions; their distinguished awareness, their love for
God and the Homeland. If we love our Church with their
example, we will never have concerns regarding the lack of
religious and moral values. If we love our Homeland, our
country and our land with the love of Saint Vartan and his
companions, we will succeed in eliminating the poverty,
hardship and vice from our Homeland which concern both
common Armenians and state authorities. Hereby, it is our
message and appeal to keep in our souls the sacred memory of
Saint Vardan and his companions: the commandments,
messages and the holy vision for the love of which they went
to the battlefield of Avarayr and received the crown of glory
of martyrdom”, noted the Catholicos of All Armenians in his
remarks.
At the conclusion His Holiness exhorted the youth to
become the modern “Vardananq” with their courage, love and
commitment. Offering his congratulations to all Armenians on
the occasion of the Feast day of Saint Vartan and his 1036
companions, whic is also the naming day of His Holiness
Karekin II, the Catholicos of All Armenians wished that the
blessings of God keep the Armenian nation under His
protection, to traverse towards a victorious, prosperous,
flourishing and vibrant future
.
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January/February/March 2014
Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America
Today, we too face the same "invisible enemy"exemplified by the "disintegration of our communities, our
church parishes in the United States with their declining
numbers of attendees, [and] declining enthusiasm and zeal."
The invisible enemy "fragments our families, lures our
children away from family and church, and fosters anxiety,
loneliness, depression and addictions," he related.
But "the most dangerous enemy of our people and
community is our own ignorance," Fr. Daniel declared with
emphasis. "We must rediscover the unique expression of
Christ's gospel as revealed in the lives and writings of our
Armenian saints, and through the mystical beauty of our
sacred music and art. All of these are unique expressions of
the Christian soul of the Armenian people, monuments that
hold vast significance for our lives today," said Fr. Daniel to
thunderous clapping.
Dr. Edwared Sanossian, speaking in the absence of Knights
of Vartan "Grand Commander" Nigoghos Atinizian, called the
Battle of Avarayr "one of our greatest spiritual and moral
victories, commemorating a great defining moment for the
Armenian nation and spirit. Let us live by [Vartan's] example
of bravery and heroism in standing up for our beliefs, and
never giving up on our vision. Vartan Mamigonian built the
foundation of our existence as Christian Armenians, and we
will forever declare and honor his memory as his devoted and
proud Knights of Vartan."
Emma Artun was present as the representative of the
Daughters of Vartan "Grand Matron," Lisa Kradjian.
In a memorable interlude, the Shnorhali Choir under the
direction of Vagharshak Ohanyan, accompanied on the piano
by Nevart Dadourian, presented several beloved songs
including Norahrash, Plpuln Avarayri, Sardarabad, and
Diramayr-the latter a soulful work sung with great feeling by
soloist Shakeh McMahon.
The final offering, Vartanantz Aspetner, with soloists
Alyne Corrigan and Nicholas Bompart, was offered with great
enthusiasm, bringing on a repeat performance as the audience
stood and joined in rhythmically clapping and singing with the
choir.
Remembering Saint Vartan
Despite the passage of 15 centuries, Vartanantz remains
one of the most significant events in Armenian history. Vartan
Mamigonian and his comrades—vastly outnumbered against a
well-armed Persian empire—lost the battle but were morally
victorious, preserving their religion and convictions.
On Thursday, February 27, the feast day of the decisive
Battle of Avarayr was observed under the auspices of the
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), and
the Primate Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, with the
participation of the Mid-Atlantic Knights and Daughters of
Vartan.
Following the celebration of the Divine Liturgy in Saint
Vartan Cathedral by Rev. Fr. Abraham Malkhasyan, pastor of
the Holy Martyrs Church of Bayside, N.Y., a delicious dinner
prepared and served by the Knights and Daughters of Vartan
Mid-Atlantic Lodges and Otyags took place in Haik and Alice
Kavookjian Auditorium.
Master of ceremonies Edward Barsamian warmly
welcomed the more than 300 people gathered to mark the
importance of the event. Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian
offered the invocation, and American and Armenian national
anthems were sung by Christina Haroutunian and Nicholas
Bompart respectively.
In a powerful and thoughtful message, keynote speaker the
Very Rev. Fr. Daniel Findikyan, director of the Diocese's
Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information Center, called on all
Armenians to reflect on the significance and relevance of
Vartanank for today's world.
Fr. Daniel, a noted church scholar who teaches at Saint
Nersess Seminary and Notre Dame University, focused on the
true meaning of Vartanantz put forth by the historian
Yeghishe, whose "extremely refined interpretation is
overwhelmingly theological. Through Yeghishe's profound
reflection on Vartanantz, we find the key to understanding and
addressing some of the most central issues in Armenian
community life and consciousness today," he stated.
Trial and Decision
In an inspiring message, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian
called the Vartanantz battle, "a turning point of Armenian
Church history. We celebrate this momentous event before
Lent. It is not a coincidence. The story embodies the Christian
way of life, the life of Christ. It is a supreme example of trial
and decision."
Like Christ, the heroes of the Vartanantz battle and those
who went through the Genocide endured hardship and
sacrifice, the Primate declared.
And finally, the virtue of patience was illustrated by Christ,
Vartan, and those in the Genocide.
"We will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of the
Genocide next year-not as a cause for weeping, but for
celebrating, and also for judging our own lives," noted the
Primate. "How much do we follow the examples of Christ and
Vartan? Let us sing our own haghdanag (victory)," he declared
with strong feeling, to a standing ovation.
The evening concluded with a benediction by the Primate,
and the singing of the Hayr Mer by all present.
Valorous Self-Sacrifice
"Yeghishe calls what Saint Vartan and his companions did
‘holy martyrdom, a valorous self-sacrifice.' They knowingly
sacrificed their lives for the sake of Christ To go to battle
against the Persians was to imitate Christ," he continued.
"Therefore, what we do as Armenians and Christians
represents much more than ancient and colorful traditions, and
is higher than merely preserving the nation."
-By Florence Avakian
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diligently for our salvation. This is the event also about which
Saint Peter speaks when he wrote, “he went and preached unto
the spirits in prison” (1 Peter 3:19), and again “and the gospel
was proclaimed even to the dead” (1 Peter 4:6). The event is
portrayed scripturally with the rending of the curtain in the
Temple and with the splitting of the rock following Christ’s
death, “Then, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two
from top to bottom; and the earth quaked, and the rocks were
split, and the graves were opened; and many bodies of the
saints who had fallen asleep were raised;” (Matthew 27:5152).
The creed of Saint Gregory of Datev, which is printed in
the Jhamakirk or horologion the Ritual Book of Hours,
includes the confession “marminn yetyal i kerezmani,
miavoryal usdvadsootyampn. Karozyal hokvotsun, averyal
uztjhokhus yev azadyal uzhokis.” or “Whose (the Lord’s)
body was placed in the Tomb, yet united to His divinity. He
preached to the spirits, descended into (or destroyed/ravaged)
Hell and freed the (captive) spirits.” As you can see, this
shows Christ’s power against which even the gates of Hell
could not prevail (Matthew 16:18).
This is shown
symbolically by the shattered gates, keys and chains in the
abyss of hell and the bound figure of Satan looking up at
Christ the Victorious One in defeat. The Cross therefore is
truly the “Resurrecting Cross” and the death of Christ is the
“resurrecting Death,” as said by the Orthodox theologian
Georges Florovsky.
While on the Sabbath, the day of Rest on Saturday of Holy
Week, following the Passover and even in death, Christ
continues in His labors for humanity’s redemption and for the
Resurrection and the life of His Old Covenant saints and those
who awaited His promised salvation.
The descent into and the harrowing of Hell is a key and
instrumental reality of the Christian faith and the redemptive
work of Christ. It also teaches us a number of things. We see
in it the unfathomable Love of God for His Creation, the
power of Christ’s Death, the imponderable mystery of the
Incarnation, where even in death and the rending apart of body
and soul, Christ’s humanity is eternally and Personally united
to His divinity without separation nor division, whose divinity
has no beginning and whose humanity after the Incarnation
has no end, One Lord Jesus Christ, True God, the same
yesterday, today and forever. Even at Easter, then, in the
celebration of Christ’ Resurrection, the “Resurrecting Cross”
is paramount and at the center of Armenian Christian dogma,
piety, liturgy, theology and most importantly faith.
I pray that the Risen and Victorious Lord Jesus bless, sustain
and increase your faith this Easter and may we together as One
people and One church proclaim His glory with the greeting
“Christ is Risen from the Dead. Blessed is the Resurrection of
Christ.
“Krisdos haryav ee merelots, Ornyal eh harootiunun
Krisdosi.”
Prayerfully
Fr. Shnork Souin
Our Pastor’s Perspectives
Over the past few weeks I have had the pleasure of
receiving an average of about 12-13 faithful at my Badarak
101 class on Monday evenings.
Many questions and
comments have come up that reach the core of our faith as
expressed in the Armenian Church. As this is the Easter
season, a question that came up at the last class is particularly
pertinent and topical. This is the question of Christ’s death,
burial and His descent into Hades or hell. It may at first not be
something that most Christians think about or have ever
thought about, but, our church does confess the victorious
descent and harrowing of Hell after the Crucifixion.
What this means is that we believe that our Lord, who
according to His humanity, suffered a true human death yet
indivisibly united, body and soul, to His divine and eternal
Person, descended into Hell and released the captive saints of
the Old Covenant.
This reality is depicted in the ancient iconographic
tradition, showing Christ as if He is standing upon the Cross,
grabbing the hands of Adam and Eve and literally pulling
them out of Hell’s embrace to take them with Him to the light
of God’s Kingdom. Chronologically, this event occurs during
the Sabbath or Holy Saturday after the burial of Christ. While
He “sleeps” corporeally in the Tomb, He is working ever
PS. I am honored to dedicate this brief article and this issue of
the Paros to the memory of The Very Reverend Father Shnork
Kasparian. May the memory of the righteous be eternally
blessed.
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accomplishments, but also to look forward to a long and bright
future for our church as we continue to work together toward
that common goal. Please pay particular attention to the
schedule of upcoming events that we have planned for this
year and, hopefully, you will be able to join us in many of
these celebratory events.
John Kazarian, Parish Council Chairman
Parish Council Corner
On February 23, we had our Annual Parish Assembly. At
this year’s meeting, we elected six members to the Parish
Council. Joyce Avedisian, Paul Surabian, and Gary Taraian
were reelected to the PC and we were also please to welcome
Steve Megrdichian, Jason Martiesian, and Nicholas Durgarian
to the Parish Council. Steve and Jason, of course, are former
members who will once again serve the Council, and we
eagerly look forward to the contributions of our newest
member, Nicholas Durgarian, and look forward to working
with him on this year’s PC.
As we prepare for another year of service to our parish, we
must bid farewell to three individuals you have given many
years of dedicated service to our church and are now stepping
down from the Parish Council. First, we have Zita Butler,
who has served our parish as Vice Chairman of the PC. Zita
has helped us in many areas, most recently, she has helped us
with membership and has also served as liaison to the
Women’s Guild of our church. The second individual to leave
the Parish Council this year is Gary Nahabedian. Gary, too,
has served the church in many capacities and most recently
served as Parish Council Secretary. We will undoubtedly miss
Gary’s work on the PC and wish him well as he prepares to
serve the church in other areas. As is the case with Zita and
Gary, Marjorie Martiesian has also spent many years lovingly
serving her church in so many ways. Most recently, Margie
has served as Assistant Treasurer of the Parish Council. So in
bidding farewell to these three outstanding individuals from
the Parish Council, we are most confident that they will
continue to serve their church with their “time, talent, and
treasure” for many years to come. Thank you Zita, Gary, and
Margie very much for your service to our Parish Council and
our parish.
Finally, we are all very excited to continue with the
activities and projects associated with the celebration of our
one hundredth anniversary as a parish. This Centennial
provides us with the opportunity to not only look back on past
RI Orthodox Clergy Fellowship
On Wednesday February 20th, the RI Orthodox Clergy
Fellowship invited His Grace Bp. Tobin the Primate of the
Roman Catholic Church in Rhode Island for a luncheon hosted
by Saint Mary Antiochian Orthodox Church in Pawtucket. At
the luncheon various issues of mutual concern were discussed
and Bp. Tobin was thanked for his leadership in the battle over
the issue on marriage and unions. The bishop enthusiastically
agreed to formulate a joint statement with the Orthodox
churches about the holiness of the Lord's Day, the primacy
and importance of it as the day of Eucharist and the fellowship
for Christians at the Lord's Supper and the attack of secularism
on our church and on Sunday as the Lord's Day and day of
Resurrection. Issues of Sunday shopping children's sports and
other challenges were cited.
Lenten Kufta Preparation
FOOD DRIVE
Every time you come to church for Badarak, church school, a meeting, an event - make a donation of one nonperishable food and/or
personal hygiene item. We deliver an average of 100 cans every 10-12 weeks. If we could collect just one can from every person each
time we step through the doors of the church it would mean a donation of 400+ items each month. The food pantry supports the
unemployed and working poor by offering them a place to get a bag of groceries one or two times a month. Sts. Sahag & Mesrob
Church is one of several groups who contribute to this effort.
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Armenian School
Never Mind the Snow, Sleet, or Freezing Rain
Armenian School Students are Working Hard and Looking
forward to our year-end Hantes.
testimony to the love and dedication of our forefathers in
preserving the beautiful Armenian faith and culture. God
Bless each of them and their families.
The students will once again perform at the Armenian
School year-end Hantes. This year’s theme is appropriately the
Strength, Beauty and Endurance of our Armenian Church. Our
Hantes will be performed on Sunday, June 8, 2014 following
Badarak. Please note this is a change in the original date.
In addition, in May there will be a fundraiser for the
Armenian School so please be generous and encourage our
dedicated students at that time. The fundraiser will take place
after Lent because it is a Candy Sale. Please be ready to make
a purchase from these sweet students.
If you know of any children or adults who would like to
join our enthusiastic school family, please contact Deacon
Hagop or call the church at 272.7712. Each week students not
only learn Armenian Language and Culture but they also build
confidence in themselves and gain wisdom about what it is to
belong to a loving Armenian Christian community.
Thank you and see you on Sunday, June 8, 2014
Dear Parishioners!
It has been a cold and long winter and yet our Armenian
School students are nonetheless faithfully attending classes on
Tuesday evening and are currently preparing for our beautiful
year-end program – The Hantes.
In honor of our parish’s milestone 100th Anniversary, our
Armenian School students along with the students of Saints
Sahag and Mesrob’s Sunday School and Cultural Arts
Program performed several Armenian Church and Patriotic
Songs for our parish. This followed the re-creation of our First
Parish photo that was originally taken in January of 1914 right
in front of the church on Jefferson Street.
All our beautiful students stood in the front rows as the
photo was taken Sunday January 26, 2014 to replicate the
original photo. How wonderful that we still have the desire to
learn our holy language and history. These students are a
Become a Centurion in 2014
All NEW MEMBERS, of any age, shall be considered "Centurions" and a special
program and service will take place for the 100th Anniversary to recognize them
Visit page 18, Call the office 401-272-7712, E-Mail office@stsahmes.org, visit the
website stsahmes.org, or send a check to 70 Jefferson St. Providence, RI 02908
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We are currently looking for a sponsor to publish this book.
The book is written in English (206 pages). 500 copies of the
book will cost approximately $3000. The name of the sponsor
will be shown on the first page of the book.
If you want to become a sponsor or if there is any
assistance you can provide for this publication, please do not
hesitate to contact Fr. Shnork Souin or Dn. Gevork Gevorkian
(Phone: 401-714-9842, Email: ggevorkian@verizon.net).
“Forgiveness is at the root of the Christian life, and the
perfect expression of mercy. Without it, we are devoid of the
intimate knowledge of love revealed in the person and work of
Jesus Christ. True healing comes not with the health of only
the body but the healing of the whole man, whose soul not only
needs forgiveness but has to itself forgive and become
unshackled from the bounds of bitterness and anger. Who is
better to educate us on this profoundly Christian mystery and
to teach us how to forgive and live with the spirit of
forgiveness than one of the eminent fathers of our church,
Vosgeperan, Saint John the Golden Mouth.” Fr. Shnork
Souin
In Memoriam:
The Very Reverend Father Shnork Kasparian
(Continued from page 1)
Armenian Experience Survey
A very important survey is being conducted by doctoral
student Lucas Mazur, M.A. and Assistant Professor Johanna
Ray Vollhardt, Ph.D., of the Psychology Department at Clark
University. The purpose of this study is to better understand
how people think about various cases of genocide. We also
want to gather Armenian opinions on a handful of related
political and social issues.
You will be asked a number of questions about historical
group violence, particularly that committed against
Armenians. Your answers to the questions we ask will not be
connected with your name and cannot be traced back to you.
We will ask you a handful of questions related to history and
regarding your perception of various groups. You are free to
terminate your participation at any time, or refuse to answer
any questions to which you do not want to respond. The
survey takes roughly 15 minutes to complete.
Should you have any questions about the study, feel free to
contact Lucas Mazur at lmazur@clarku.edu or Dr. Johanna
Vollhardt at JVollhardt@clarku.edu. Your survey will not be
linked with this consent form, so your answers cannot be
linked to your name. Your survey will be labeled with a code
number and not with your name. Data will be stored on
password protected computers in locked offices at Clark
University, accessible only to us.
This study has been approved by the Clark Committee for
the Rights of Human Participants in Research and Training
Programs (IRB). Any questions about human rights issues
should be directed to the IRB Chair, Dr. James P. Elliott (508)
793-7152.
Please follow this link to make sure your Armenian voices
are heard!
http://tiny.cc/jia0dx
Fr. Shnork has also served as pastor in Canada and in the
United States-in Worcester, Mass., and two terms each in
Milwaukee, Wis.; Belleville, Ill.; and Providence, R.I. While
in Milwaukee, he found time to take courses in Christology,
Sacramental Theology, Pastoral Counseling, Alcoholism, and
Linguistics.
Since his retirement, Fr. Shnork had been a visiting pastor
to several parishes in the Northeast U.S. and Canada. Fr.
Kasparian accepted the call and devoted himself completely to
the Lord's service whenever he was sent. He passed away on
March 3, 2014, after a period of hospitalization in Belleville,
Ill.
Very Reverend Father Shnork’s mortal remains were
transported to Armenia to be interred in the cemetery on the
grounds of the Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin in a funeral
presided over my His Holiness Karekin II.
May our risen Lord remember his devoted servant on the
day of his second coming.
Dedicating a new book to the memory of
The Very Rev. Fr. Shnork Kasparian
A new book “How to forgive the offense?” written by Dn.
Gevork Gevorkian will be dedicated in the loving memory of
Very Rev. Fr. Shnork Kasparian.
How do we forgive the offense? How can we bear insult
and slander? How can we fight anger within? What can we do
to be free of the sickness of unforgiveness? How can we be
forgiven? Why do we find it hard to forgive others even
though that is the only way to receive God’s forgiveness and
to find salvation? The answers to these questions are revealed
in the marvelous, life-changing and soul-saving homilies of
Saint John Chrysostom, one of the greatest teachers of all
times. Saint John Chrysostom was so loved by people that it
was said, “It is better not to see the sun, than not to hear the
homilies of John.” With that purpose the book “How to
forgive the offense?” offers the compiled selections from
homilies of Saint John Chrysostom where he teaches on
forgiveness.
8
“Faith, Fate, Fun”
And dear Der Shnork, what a pleasure for me to meet you
and get to know you a bit. Although brief, I immediately felt
what a terrific Der Hayr you are. Der Untzag has always
spoken about you with much affection and respect and now I
know why. I agree you are "down to earth", so pleasant and
capable. (You have the right name - 'Der Shnork'.)
Thanks also for you great help with the presentation setup.
It was simply fantastic and now we are totally spoiled. And
what a lovely surprise to see the pics and post on Facebook
SO quickly.
Here's wishing you, along with appreciation, the best continued success, happiness and good health.
Sincerely,
Dottie Bengoian
Cranston Proclamation
st
On December 1 2013, Cranston Mayor Allan W Fung issued
a Proclamation for the 100th Anniversary of the Parish.
On March 12th, 2014 the Parish had a special guest &
Preacher: Reverend Father Untzag Nalbandian. Following the
Evening Service, during a fellowship hour, Father Untzag
gave a presentation and book signing for his newly published
book, “Fate, Faith Fun”
Ohrnetsek Der Hayr.
What a wonderful evening we had at Saints Sahag and
Mesrob last night! Both Der Untzag and I were so happy to
have had the privilege and delightful experience of visiting
your parish.
9
See you at our
2014 Picnic and Bazaar
PICNIC September 13th & 14th
BAZAAR November 8th & 9th
10
The Guardian Angels Sunday School Class
The Guardian Angels Sunday School Class has been busy
learning to participate in the Divine Liturgy.
At the beginning of each class we practice making the sign
of the cross while reciting the blessing, in Armenian. Der Hayr
has proudly chosen Petey's poster, displaying the steps to
making the sign of the cross, as the church's profile picture on
Facebook.
We are also learning how to recite the Lord's Prayer in
Armenian. With practice, we should be able to recite the
whole prayer by the end of this Sunday School year. I am
proud to say the first 3 lines have been learnt so far. We also
do an art project or read a book about going to church.
On the first Sunday of Lent, Der Hayr had asked the
congregation to bow in front of the altar, at the end of the
Divine Liturgy, during the Lenten season, since it is our
tradition not to kiss the bible during Lent. Our Guardian
Angels have been learning to recite the Prayer " LORD JESUS
SON OF GOD, HAVE MERCY ON ME" and to bow, 3
times. And a special thanks to Deacon Hagop, for writing out
the prayer in Armenian phonetically, DER HEESOOS
KRISDOS VORTEE ASDOODZO VOGHORMYA INTS, so
this too can be recited.
We have been following the schedule of grades 4 and 5 by
participating in the assembly or going upstairs to witness and
participate in the badarak. When walking into church, we have
also experienced lighting a candle, with hand over hand
guidance, preceded by making a donation into the box.
* The goal for this very special class is simple, clear and easy;
To learn to participate and enjoy the Divine Liturgy.
Debra Megrdichian
Guardian Angels Sunday School Class Teacher
When Very Reverend Simeon Odabashian was told of the
Guardian Angels Sunday School Class, he committed to bring
it up at the Clergy Conference at this year’s Diocesan
Assembly
Fr. Shnork's Mission Statement
My mission is to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ according
to the holy apostolic teaching, practice and doctrine of the Armenian
Church in order to equip the parishioners of Saints Sahag and Mesrob
Armenian Church with faith, hope and love, to live and to serve as
members of His Church in a wholesome Armenian Christian Family..
FOOD DRIVE
Every time you come to church, for Badarak, church school, a
meeting, an event - make a donation of one nonperishable food
and/or personal hygiene item. We deliver an average of 100 cans
every 10 - 12 weeks. If we could collect just one can from every
man, woman, and child each time we step through the doors of
the church it would mean a donation of 400+ items each month.
The food pantry supports the unemployed and working poor by
offering them a place to get a bag of groceries one or two times a
month. Saints Sahag and Mesrob Church is one of several
groups who contribute to this effort. Drop-off bins are located in
the Church foyer and at the elevator entrance.
Hokehankist/Memorial/Requiem
You can make your requiem request by calling the
office @ 401-272-7712 or online @
http://stsahmes.org/requiem.shtml
11
Jerusalem Pilgrimage
On Sunday February 9th, by a ballot, Miss Vanessa Ghazarian was selected to represent our parish on the
Youth Leadership Pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
Below is the essay that Vanessa wrote explaining why she wanted to be considered for the Ballot.
Dear Der Shnork,
Why this opportunity is important to me…
Being a young woman of Armenian descent has always been something very dear to my heart. As a child, I
always took pride in teaching my friends what I learned in Sunday School and enlightening them of Armenian
history. I often spoke of the Armenian Genocide or how Armenia was the first Christian nation. In return, they
would ask me if I spoke the language or if I had ever traveled to my homeland. To this day I still have not had
the opportunity to join a pilgrimage to a land so meaningful to myself. As I get older and spend more time
away from home, I feel myself slipping away from the Armenian community. I often miss the feeling of
attending Sunday School or anticipating Nazeli Dance Group performances. A journey to Jerusalem is an opportunity for me to
become reacquainted with my Christian roots, reconnect with my Armenian peers, and rebuild my relationship with Christ. With this
privilege many personal responsibilities will come. For myself, this will include revisiting my spirituality and embracing my heritage.
For any individual, a pilgrimage to Jerusalem would be the opportunity of a lifetime.
SAVE THE DATE
Saints Sahag and Mesrob Sports Scholarship Committee
45th Annual Sports Banquet
Friday Evening, May 9, 2014
Egavian Cultural Center, 70 Jefferson Street, Providence, RI
Details to follow
Saturday, June 21, 2014 at 7 pm
Cultural Committee
of the
presents
An Evening of Armenian Chamber Music
Egavian Cultural Center
Are you in?
New Parish Directory
We are excited to announce that, in celebration of our Centennial, we are going to create a new pictorial
directory of our church family. The directory will help us to connect names with faces. It will be an ideal
outreach tool and will capture the history of our church congregation. There is no cost to you to be included!
Next Photo Dates are: Yn. Julie Souin at 973-865-9925 or Linda Salas at 401-300-6779
Friday, April 25 and Saturday, April 26, 2014
12
Christmas Dinner 2014
13
Did you know?
What you can see and do on the Parish Website?
stsahmes.org
Read the Daily Scripture
View Parish organization pages
Read the weekly Pastor Points of light
Learn about the Holy Badarak
View the Parish Calendar
and Sync it to your smart phone
View the Armenian Genocide
100th anniversary countdown clock
Read the "Lighthouse Bulletin"
Make secure general donations
Read the "Paros"
Link to the Diocese website
Make secure In Lieu of Flowers donations
Link to the Holy Etchmiadzin website
Request a Requiem
Link to the Saint Nersess website
Make a Prayer Card request
Church Facility Rentals
View the Parish 100th
Anniversary countdown clock
View the contents of the Parish library
Discover other great Armenian links
Learn about the Parish educational
opportunities
View our Armenian Veterans page
Link to our Parish YouTube page
View the Parish Gallery with
pre-1900 photos to present
Learn about the Armenian Genocide
View Parish videos
Keep up with Parish events
Learn about Project Graduation
Donate Stewardship Securely online
Donate Dues securely online
Read the history of the
Rhode Island Armenian Community
Read the history of the Parish
Why not go and explore the possibilities!
14
15
16
Armenian Martyrs' Committee
Community Meeting Reminder
The next community wide meeting is
Thursday, May 22 at 7:00 pm
Egavian Cultural Center
70 Jefferson St, Providence, RI
We hope you are able to attend
and we welcome your ideas
Refreshments will be served.
ACYOA Jr’s Bowling
Weekly Sunday Fellowship
The Parish is looking for sponsors for the weekly Sunday
Fellowship, held immediately following Church services.
Parishioners are asked to sponsor a Fellowship to coincide with a
Birthday, Anniversary, Hokehankist or other family event. Share
your special times and requiems with your extended Parish Family
and loved ones. Contact the office at office@stsahmes.org / 401272-7712
If you’re reading this ad...
...your 1 of the 1100 Armenian families that read the “Paros” every 4
months
Find out how you can advertize in the “Paros”
See page 20 of this issue…….
Love Thy Neighbor - Outreach
The next outreach dates at the Mary House Meal
Kitchen in the basement at Saint Patrick's on Smith
Street will be: 6/16/14
BAPTISMS
No Baptisms in January/February/March
Elizabeth J. Shamirian (Died January 3, 2014)
May these children be raised in the love and care of the Lord.
Simon Chapkounian (Died February 18, 2014)
MARRIAGES
No Marriages in January/February/March
Sarah A. Demirjian (Died February 19, 2014)
Expressions of sympathy and prayers are extended to the families that their
loved ones may be at peace in the care of the Lord.
Best Wishes and Prayers are extended to the couples for a long and happy
life together.
Thank you Rose Sherestanian and Mr. Kachadour
Avedisian for your donations to the "Paros"
FUNERALS
Altoon (Aznavoorian) Coughlin (Died December 17, 2013)
17
Have You Paid Your 2014
Membership?
Membership / Stewardship
Let’s Start Building Our Future! Become a member
and/or a steward of Saints Sahag and Mesrob Armenian
Church of Providence, RI.
It only takes a few minutes to complete the
Membership form and $175.00 ($100.00 for students
and $125.00 for senior citizens) to become dues paying
member of Saints Sahag and Mesrob Church of
Providence.
While many churches of other faiths use the method
of tithing, Saints Sahag and Mesrob Church simply asks
a minimum fixed amount to be a dues paying member of
the church, and that amount is $175.00. That’s only
$3.37 a week! Membership for senior citizens is $2.40 a
week and students is less: $100.00 a year or $1.93 per
week.
Please fill out the form, print it out and mail it, along
with a check (unless you choose to use your credit card),
to the church office:
If you have not paid your dues for 2014,
please complete the form below and send your
donation to the church office.
Now you can pay your membership and/or
stewardship with your MasterCard or Visa
2013 Membership Application Saints Sahag
and Mesrob Armenian Church of Providence,
RI
I/WE would like to be year 2014 dues-paying
member(s) of Saints Sahag and Mesrob
Armenian Church of Providence.
($175.00 per person, seniors/students $100.00)
Members #1 Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms:
_______________________________________
Members #2 Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms:
Please mail this completed form and payment
information to the church office:
_______________________________________
70 Jefferson Street
Providence, Rhode Island 02908
Address:
_______________________________________
You can now pay Dues/Stewardship on-line at:
http://www.stsahmes.org/
Just select Dues/Stewardship from the menu
_______________________________________
City: ______________________ State: ______
Zipcode: _______________________________
Stewardship
Phone: (______) _________________________
The logo depicting a stylized
Armenian Cross with the
threefold elements of
stewardship was created by
Fr. Shnork Souin, showing
that all 3 elements are
required of the life in Christ.
(DSS Der Shnork Souin)
Email: _________________________________
Check enclosed
Charge my MasterCard/Visa/Discover/AE
Credit Card Number:
_________ _________ _________ _________
Membership and Stewardship of Time and Talent and
Treasure, are the building blocks of your commitment to the
church. By your membership you are an architect in the life
and building of the church and community
Your dues are not only essential, but facilitate the
realization of the day to day operations of the mission of
Saints Sahag and Mesrob Armenian Church. In conjunction
with your dues, your annual stewardship pledge is a way to
express support of, involvement in and concern for the welfare
and growth of our church with her many ministries offered.
We kindly ask that you that you fulfill your dues and
stewardship pledges now.
Point your smart phone here to pay
your dues!
Expiration Date: ____/____
(Membership and/or Stewardship donations are tax
deductible.)
_____________________________________________________
For Office Use Only:
Account No(s): ________________________________________
Date Received: ____________ Amount Received: ___________
Check # __________________ Amount: ___________________
All new members of any age shall be considered
"Centurions" and a special program and service
will take place for the 100th anniversary to
recognize them
18
The Newsletter Committee
Editor-in-Chief
Rev. Fr. Shnork Souin, Pastor
Editor
Leonard J Arzoomanian
Proofing
David Griego
Layout and Design
Advertise in "Paros"
Full Page
Quarter Page
$500/4 Issues
Half Page
$300/4 Issues
$150/4 Issues
Business Card
$75/4 Issues
 1100+ newsletters mailed 4 times a year
 Predominantly Rhode Island addresses
 Predominantly Armenian Subscribers
 Ads accepted on a first come, first serve basis
For more information please call the Church Office 401-272-7712 office@stsahmes.org
No promotional material for credit cards, commercially available insurance and travel arrangements accepted per USPS
The Saints Sahag and Mesrob Church Newsletter is a publication of Saints Sahag and Mesrob Church of 70 Jefferson St., Providence, RI
02908. Submission of news articles, photos, essays, poetry, book reviews, and letters are welcomed and should be sent to the church office
(office@stsahmes.org). All text must be submitted in electronic format, preferably in Microsoft Word, as a text file or as e-mail. Please note
that the editorial board reserves the right to modify and/or reject articles, photos, etc. All materials must be received no later than the
published submission deadlines per issue as published in the church bulletins.
Church Office Hours
The Church Office is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
If you would like to meet with the Pastor or submit items for the Sunday Bulletin, please contact the office at 401-272-7712 or
office@stsahmes.org. If you call after hours, please leave your requests on the answering machine, and the administrative assistant
will be happy to process them promptly. For emergencies, please contact John R. Kazarian @ 401-861-2065.
Administrative Information
Pastor
Rev. Fr. Shnork Souin,
401-272-7712
dershnork@gmail.com
Administrative Assistant
Fran Armstrong, 401-272-7712
office@stsahmes.org
Parish Council
Chairperson
John R. Kazarian
Home 401-861-2065
jkazarian@cox.net
Vice Chairperson
John Megrdichian
401-944-3201
jmmeg1@verizon.net
Secretary
Gary Taraian
Home 508-761-4600
gtaraian@comcast.net
Treasurer
Paul Surabian
401 884-1181
psurabian@douglasri.com
Assistant Treasurer
Nicholas Durgarian
508-435-6005
durgarian@gmail.com
Buildings and Grounds
John Avjian
javjian1@cox.net
Advisors
Home 401-349-0813
Arzoo623@cox.net
Joyce Avedisian
401-724-3978
avedisianj@cox.net
Kenneth Ayrassian
401-353-4888
Kma1@cox.net
Jason Martiesian
Home 401-455-3975
jcmartiesian@yahoo.com
Stephen Megrdichian
Home 401-464-9004
spmeg77@cox.net
Arts Education Program
Janna Guegamian
Home 401-861-357
Petroskon@aol.com
Investment Committee
George Chakoian
Home 401-726-1697
george.chakoian@cox.net
Altar Guild
Ann Ayrassian
Home 401-272-4743
istanbul27@verizon.net
Memorial Dinner Committee
Sonya Taraian
Home 508-761-4600
sonya-arh@comcast.net
Bazaar Committee
Call Church Office
Home 401-272-7712
Newsletter/Website
Leonard J Arzoomanian,
Home 401-349-0813
Arzoo623@cox.net
Building Rentals
Ara Boghigian
Home 944-2211
Boghigian@hotmail.com
Diocesan Delegates
Ann Ayrassian
Home 401-272-4743
istanbul27@verizon.net
Choir and Junior Choir
Konstantin Petrossian
Home 401-861-3573
petroskon@aol.com
Deacon Hagop Ghajanian
Home 401-467-2582
h.ghajanian@verizon.net
Church Library
Hosanna Derderian
hosanna.1@netzero.net
Stephanie Masoian
Home 467-6202
hyedeli@aol.com
Sunday School
Stephen Megrdichian
Home 401-464-9004
spmeg77@cox.net
Christian Education
Advisory Board
Gary Taraian
Home 508-761-4600
gtaraian@comcast.net
Armenian Language School
Hagop Ghajanian
Home 401-467-2582
h.ghajanian@verizon.net
Organizations
Cultural Committee
Konstantin Petrossian
Home 401-861-3573
petroskon@aol.com
ACYOA
Stephen Megrdichian
Home 401-464-9004
Spmeg77@cox.net
19
Sports Committee
Terrance Martiesian
401-272-0269
terrance.martiesian@verizon.net
Membership/Stewardship
Zita Y Butler
401-728-8015
ZYB1148@aol.com
Women’s Guild
Stephanie Masoian
Home 467-6202
hyedeli@aol.com
Men's Club
John Megrdichian
401-944-3201
jmmeg1@verizon.net

Jan, Feb, Mar 2014 - Saints Sahag and St Mesrob Church

Transcription

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