Looys Spring 2016 - St. James Armenian Church

1
ԼՈՅՍ ԼՐԱԳԻՐ | ԳԱՐՈՒՆ 2016
SPRING 2016 ԳԱՐՈՒՆ
NAME DAY CELEBRATION
O
Raffi & Carol Yeghiayan Honored for Years of Service
n Sunday, December 13, St. James observed its
84th anniversary of the church’s consecration
and held their annual Name Day celebration.
Following the Divine Liturgy, a banquet was held
to celebrate the Feast of St. James, the Bishop of Nisibis, for
whom the parish is named. Taking part in the day were the
Rev. Fr. Arakel Aljalian; the Very Rev. Fr. Krikor Maksoudian,
Rev. Fr. Arsen Barsamian, and Rev. Fr. Dajad Davidian.
During the banquet, longtime parishioners Mr. and
Mrs. Raffi and Carol Yeghiayan were presented with the
“Parishioners of the Year” award. Dr. Nishan and Mary
Goudsouzian, close friends of the Yeghiayans, organized
the day’s banquet, and Dr. Goudsouzian served as Master of
Ceremonies. Remarks were given by Mr. and Mrs. Yeghiayan’s
son Arra, and grandson Lincoln Zaleski, before the honorees
both offered reflections on their service to St. James and the
Armenian community. Outgoing parish council members Bob
Bejoian and Aracse Kurkjian received recognition for their
service to St. James Church. continued on page 2
Mr. and Mrs. Raffi and Carol Yeghiayan with (from left)
Rev. Fr. Arsen Barsamian, Rev. Fr. Arakel Aljalian,
Very Rev. Fr. Krikor Maksoudian, and Rev. Fr. Dajad Davidian
at the Name Day celebration.
Christmas HIGHLIGHTS
more photos on page 2
NAME DAY CELEBRATION
R
continued from page 1
affi came to the United States from
Lebanon in 1958 as a college transfer
student to study at MIT. He met Carol
at St. James in 1959, when both were
members of the Choir. They were
married at St. James in 1962, and
celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary last year.
Raffi & Carol have a long history of dedicated service
to St. James, most notedly in the St. James Choir.
Both are long-standing members of the Mr. and
Mrs. Group where Raffi has served as Chairman in the
past, currently elected to serve again as Chairman for
the last three years, and Carol has served as Recording
Secretary and Corresponding Secretary. Raffi was also
Chairman of the Cultural Committee and appeared
on stage at St. James in several musical and theatrical
productions. They have both served on Bazaar
committees and took part in organizing the elegant and
successful Hye Tea functions. Carol has served on the
Parish Council and Raffi has been a Diocesan Delegate.
Currently Carol serves on the Bingo Committee, and
Raffi is a member of the Men’s Club.
In the Armenian community at large, Raffi is a
Past Commander of the Knights of Vartan and Carol
is a Past Dirouhi of the Daughters of Vartan. Raffi is
a past Chairman of the AGBU New England District
Committee, and a current member of the Council
of Armenian Executives where he has served as
Chairman. He currently is Treasurer of the Board and
active member of the Friends of Armenian Culture
Society where he also has served as Chairman, and
Carol is currently a Board member. Raffi is also a longterm member of the National Association for Armenian
Studies and Research, where he was Recording
Secretary of the Board and Executive Committee, and
currently is Chairman of the Board and Executive
Committee.
St. James congratulates Raffi & Carol on this
important accomplishment and honor.
CHRISTMAS
AT ST. JAMES
Christmas Eve Service and
Feast of the Nativity and Theophany of
Our Lord Jesus Christ
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LOOYS NEWSLETTER | SPRING 2016
Twelve years and still going strong!
Our 2016 Christmas Hye Café was
the busiest yet! Keljik Hall was filled
with 400 guests to celebrate Armenian
Christmas, dine on kebab and pilaf,
dance to Armenian music and catch
up with friends and family after a busy
holiday season.
A special thanks to our ACYOA
juniors who served all our guests
in record time and to David and
Brian Ansbigian, Bob Raphalian, Joe
Sarkissian and Leon Janikian for once
again playing for our annual Christmas
Hye Café.
Please join us at our upcoming Hye
Cafés – April 1st and May 6th – both
will feature live musical entertainment!
New
volunteers
are
always
welcome! If you would like to join our
Hye Café team please contact Linda
Sahagian at hyelinda65@aol.com.
CHRISTMAS MOVIE NIGHT
Early in December, St. James families got into the Christmas
spirit with a special movie night. The children arrived
with blankets and pajamas and settled in for a fun evening.
Popcorn and snacks were enjoyed by all as families watched
“A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Many thanks to Yn. Natasha
Aljalian, Tina Kurkjian, and Nicole Simmons for organizing
the event. Stay tuned for more family events in the future!
BLESSING OF CHILDREN SERVICE
The sounds of children filled our
sanctuary on Sunday, February 14th
– the Feast of the Presentation of the
Lord to the Temple - as families arrived
to participate in a special “Blessing
of Children” Service. According to
Biblical tradition, it was a custom in
the Armenian Church for parents to
bring their newly-born babies to the
Temple of the Lord to present the child
to God. Children who were recently
baptized at St. James Church were
invited attend. Each child received
an Armenian wooden cross, a t-shirt
reading “I’m a St. James Kid,” and
Diocesan
publications
Armenian
Prayers for Children and When I Was
Baptized. A special fellowship hour
reception followed the service. We
thank all families who attended this
day, which we plan to make an annual
tradition, on the Sunday closest to
February 14th.
հն
տ
ւ
րց փ
կ ճմ
ծ յձ ղ
ք աբ
էըթժի
նլխ
գդեզ
շո պջ սվ
չ ո
Սբ. Յակոբ Էրէբունի Հայ Դպրոց
ST. JAMES EREBUNI ARMENIAN SCHOOL
T
he St. James Erebuni Armenian School has had
a busy few months! On January 9th, we held
our annual Armenian Christmas and New
Year Celebration. This event is dedicated to our
school parents, to show our appreciation for all
that they do. It is always fun. Every family brings a dish, we
invite a DJ, and it turns into a big Armenian Feast.
We also enjoyed our Christmas Hantes in December. What
a joy it was – witnessing the children singing together on the
stage in celebration of another great year for this wonderful
Armenian community. Congratulations to all the families
of St. James Erebuni Armenian School on the outstanding
performances of their children!
The mini-recitations of the Preschool and Pre-K classes
were equally impressive and breathtaking. Our heartfelt
“Thank You!” to our principal, the teachers, and especially
to music teacher Hasmik Konjoyan for bringing this
wonderful Hantes together! And thank you to the teachers
and everyone in the community for continuing to instill the
feelings of Armenian belonging in our children through our
shared language and culture.
On Feb 6th, we organized Noune Karapetian’s “Tsapik,
Tsapik” Children’s Fundraising Concert in collaboration
with Zangakner Children’s Ensemble led by Artistic Director
Hasmik Konjoyan.
Noune Karapetian, a former school parent, is one of
the leading professional sopranos working with opera
companies and orchestras in New England. She created the
“Tsapik, Tsapik” album in 2006, and was nominated for an
Armenian Music Award in 2007. Many St. James Erebuni
School parents volunteered that day to take part in the
show, dressed as various characters. They did a fantastic job
supporting our school.
In April, every class will exhibit Easter projects – all are
welcome to visit the school to see our students’ work. In
May, we are planning a ‘Jeopardy’ style game with other
local Armenian schools. Details will follow Keep up with
our latest news and events by visiting our Facebook page,
https://www.facebook.com/erebuni.
SCHOLARSHIPS
St. James has a number of scholarships available for
the 2016-17 academic year for those enrolled in, or
high school graduates who have been accepted to, a
college or post-high technical and vocational program.
At least one parent of the student must be a dues-paid
member of St. James for a period of more than one
year, and if an applicant is 18 years of age or older,
the student applying for a scholarship must also be a
dues-paid member of St. James. The applicant must
be attending school or a training/vocational program
full-time during the regular academic year. Award
recipients must be present to receive their award on
Sunday, June 19. To obtain an application, send a letter
to info@sthagop.com or the Scholarship Committee,
St. James, 465 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA
02472. Completed applications must be received no
later than May 15, 2016.
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LOOYS NEWSLETTER | SPRING 2016
T
MY BROTHER’S KEEPER GIFT DRIVE
hank you to all who participated in our
Giving Tree Project once again this year.
This was our largest effort to date, and
your generosity helped My Brother’s
Keeper provide over 3,000 needy families
with Christmas gifts. In December, a group
of ACYOA Juniors and volunteers delivered our gifts to
“Santa’s Workshop” at their facility in Easton, and spent
a few hours preparing gift packages. The volunteers
received details of a family, along with first names and
ages of each child. They then shopped the aisles and
selected gifts, wrapped them and prepared them for
delivery. The night ended with a touching group prayer.
It was a wonderful experience, and we thank you all for
your support in helping the less fortunate during the
Christmas season.
ACYOA Juniors pose for a photo at their Christmas Party.
ACYOA news
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ԼՈՅՍ ԼՐԱԳԻՐ | ԳԱՐՈՒՆ 2016
F
2016 NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION
or a second year, the St. James community
welcomed in the new year together with
an evening of dancing and celebration.
Organized by the ACYOA Seniors and a
dedicated committee, the event featured
delicious food and music provided by Arthur
Apakrian and Band from Montreal, Canada. The Charles
Mosesian Cultural and Youth Center, Keljik Hall, was filled
to capacity with a crowd of over 400 guests who enjoyed
the party favors, photo booth, and festive decorations –
it was an evening to remember. Much appreciation goes
to all who volunteered to make the event a success, and
we thank all who attended! We look forward to another
celebration next year!
T
ACYOA SENIORS PARTICIPATE IN CHAPTER WORKSHOP
his past January, I had
the pleasure of taking
part in the annual
ACYOA
Chapter
Workshop. The event
was hosted by the
ACYOA Central Council at the
St. Hagop parish in Pinellas Park,
Florida. During the day, the workshop
consisted of multiple sessions which
aimed to build up skills that we
could all bring back to our respective
chapters. We participated in seminars
on goal setting and bridging the gap
between our ACYOA Juniors and
Seniors; as well as learning how to
strengthen our chapters through a
bible study and by incorporating the
five circles of the cross into our local
event planning.
There was also an overarching
theme to the weekend, which was
to understand our legacies, both
personal and that of the Armenian
Church. Each participant was called
up to introduce themselves and talk
about where in the diaspora their
family comes from. We had the
opportunity to hear about the church’s
history through presentations by Fr.
Garabed Kochakian of the St. John’s
parish in Detroit. We also participated
in a service project where we cleaned
up the highway near the parish, and
also helped fix up the church property
as well. The workshop concluded
Saturday night with a fellowship
dinner in downtown Tampa, which
was a great way to get to know all the
new people we met on a closer level
and explore the city.
Overall the workshop was a
valuable experience where I was able
to develop my organizational and
spiritual skills to successfully bring
together the ACYOA of St. James. I
now feel more confident that I have
the tools to put together memorable
programming and leave a strong
legacy for our chapter.
Written by Tania Melkonian,
ACYOA Seniors Corresponding Secretary
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LOOYS NEWSLETTER | SPRING 2016
ԱՒԱԳ ՇԱԲԱԹՈՒԱՆ ԵՒ ԶԱՏԿՈՒԱՆ
ԺԱՄԱՆԱԿԱՑՈՅՑ
HOLY WEEK AND EASTER WORSHIP
SCHEDULE
ՄԱՐՏ 20, ԾԱՂԿԱԶԱՐԴ – ԵՐԻՏԱՍԱՐԴԱՑ ՕՐ
MARCH 20 PALM SUNDAY – YOUTH DAY
Morning Service — 8:00 A.M.
Opening of Sanctuary Curtain (Turnpatzek) — 9:30 A.M.
Divine Liturgy — 10:00 A.M.
Youth Day Palm Sunday Banquet — 12:30 P.M.
ՄԱՐՏ 22, ԱՒԱԳ ԵՐԵՔՇԱԲԹԻ
MARCH 22 GREAT AND HOLY TUESDAY
Remembrance of the Ten Maidens
Vespers Service (Sunday School Students) — 7:00 P.M.
Ժամերգութիւն — Առաւօտեան ժամը 8։00
Դռնբացէքի Արարողութիւն — Առաւօտեան ժամը 9։30
Սուրբ Պատարագ — Առաւօտեան ժամը 10։00
Երիտասարդաց Օրուայ Ճաշ եւ Յայտագիր — Կէսօրուայ ժամը 12։30
Յիշատակ Տասն Կուսանաց
Ժամերգութիւն (Կիրակնօրեայ Վարժարան) — Երեկոյեան ժամը 7։00
ՄԱՐՏ 24, ԱՒԱԳ ՀԻՆԳՇԱԲԹԻ
Յիշատակ Ընթրեաց Տեառն Մերոյ Յիսուսի Քրիստոսի
Ժամերգութիւն — Առաւօտեան ժամը 8։30
Սուրբ Պատարագ, Հաղորդութիւն եւ Նախաճաշ Տիկնանց
Կազմակերպութեանց — Առաւօտեան ժամը 9։30
Կարգ Ոտնլուայի
(Կիրակնօրեայ Վարժարան) — Երեկոյեան ժամը 6։30
Կարգ Խաւարման— Երեկոյեան ժամը 9։00
ՄԱՐՏ 25, ԱՒԱԳ ՈՒՐԲԱԹ
Կարգ Խաչելութեան Տեառն Մերոյ Յիսուսի Քրիստոսի
Կէսօրուայ ժամը 1։00
Կարգ Թաղման Տեառն Մերոյ Յիսուսի Քրիստոսի
Երեկոյեան ժամը 7։00
ՄԱՐՏ 26, ԱՒԱԳ ՇԱԲԱԹ – ՃՐԱԳԱԼՈՅՑ ԶԱՏԿԻ
Հաղորդութիւն եւ Նախաճաշ Մանկանց — Առաւօտեան ժամը 9։00
Սբ. Գրոց Ընթերցում
(Շաբաթօրեայ Վարժարան) — Երեկոյեան ժամը 6։00
Ճրագալոյցի՝ Խթման Սուրբ Պատարագ — Երեկոյեան ժամը 7։00
Երգեցողութիւնները՝ կրտսեր եւ երէց երգչախումբի
անդամներու կողմէ։ Տնօրհնէք եւ ապա հիւրասիրութիւն
ՄԱՐՏ 27, ՍՈՒՐԲ ԶԱՏԻԿ
Ժամերգութիւն եւ Անդաստան— Առաւօտեան ժամը 8։00
Սուրբ Պատարագ — Առաւօտեան ժամը 10։00
MARCH 24 GREAT AND HOLY THURSDAY
Remembrance of the Last Supper
Morning Service — 8:30 A.M.
Divine Liturgy, Women’s Guild Holy Communion and
Breakfast — 9:30 A.M.
Washing of Feet Service (Vodunluva)
(Sunday School Students) — 6:30 P.M.
Remembrance of the Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ
(Khavaroom) — 9:00 P.M.
MARCH 25 GREAT AND HOLY FRIDAY
Remembrance of the Crucifixion of
Our Lord Jesus Christ — 1:00 P.M.
Remembrance of the Burial of
Our Lord Jesus Christ — 7:00 P.M.
MARCH 26 GREAT AND HOLY SATURDAY
Children’s Holy Communion and Breakfast — 9:00 A.M.
Reading of Holy Scriptures
(Armenian School Students) — 6:00 P.M.
Easter Eve Divine Liturgy (Jurakalooytz) — 7:00 P.M.
The Junior Choir will be joining the Senior Choir in singing
the Divine Liturgy. Home Blessing and Reception to follow.
MARCH 27 HOLY EASTER SUNDAY
Morning Service — 8:00 A.M.
Blessing of the Four Corners of the World (Antasdan)
Divine Liturgy — 10:00 A.M.
I
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ԼՈՅՍ ԼՐԱԳԻՐ | ԳԱՐՈՒՆ 2016
t is customary in the Armenian Church
to provide “Yughakin” especially
around the feasts of Christmas and
Easter. This practice dates as far back as
the time of Moses in the Old Testament.
Yughakin in Armenian means “price of oil”
— “Yugh” meaning oil and “kin” meaning
price. Each local church community would
donate money specially earmarked towards
the purchase of oil, which in return would
keep the lanterns burning and ultimately
the doors open of the church. With gratitude
to those who made donations to St. James
during the Christmas season.
CHRISTMAS YUGHAKIN OFFERING
Diana Adamian
Sarah Agabian
Cynthia Aghamianz
John & Margaret Ahigian
Josephine & Manuk Akmezikyan
Roseann Akopov
Alabachian Family
Dr. Myron Allukian
Harry & Azniv Amiralian
Irina P. Amirbekyan
Helen E. Andreassian
Anonymous
Adrenna Antreasian
Rose D. Armelin
Stephen & Nektar Ashchian
Janice Haroutunian Avery
Warren & Lucy Aylaian
Su & Ann Ayrassian
Mr. & Mrs. Peter G. Babigian
David & Andrea Barber
Sylvia Barmakian
Rose D. Barsamian
Rev. Arsen Barsamian & Family, in
memory of Yn. Varteni Barsamian
Robert W. Bashian
Marilyn Bazarian
Mary Bergoudian
Don & Sunny Boghosian
Gail Boroyan
Debra A. Boyajian
Robert & Stephanie Brackett
Edward Brewster
Rose Chacran
Tanya & Douglas Chakmakian
Maria & Raffi Chapian
Azad Chitchian
Andrew & Talene Choly
Gladys Clinton
Karen Dederyan
Aaron Derderian
Vartan Derounian
Phylis “Filyani” Dilan
Mari Essayan
Lillian K. Etmekjian
Roxanne Joubanian & Nerses
Etmekjian
Elizabeth Falzone
Sonia Garabedian
Anne Garabedian
Mr. & Mrs. Edward Garabedian
Tom Gengozian & Sally Vanerian
Mr. & Mrs. Sarkis Gennetian
John & Deborah Giragosian
Valeriy Grigoryan
Donald Gulbankian
Nancy J. Guleserian
Nazeli Guzelian
Mary-Ann Hagopian
Martiros & Anahait Hakobyan
Gail Haroutunian
Kurt & Diane Herosian
Arpie Maksoudian Highgas
George & Sandra Hoffman
Miriam Ivok & David C. Horton
Alice & Phyllis Hovenanian
Bertha & Carol Hoyen
Sirarpi & Varteni Jamakorzian
Sonia A. Janikian
Charles & Laura Janikian
Mary Janjanian
Leon W. Kachadorian
Nevart Kaderian
George Kalashian
Lenore Karaian
Nadia Ann Karnik
Andrew & Janice Kavjian
Edward K. & Nirva Kazanjian &
Family
Cheryl Keane
Lucila & Hrac Kelesoglu
Anahid Kenbelian
Marlin R. Keshishian
Harry Keshishian
Mr. & Mrs. Charles G. Keumurian
Istephan Knarian
Jbid Kostikian
Jennie Koumjian
Marie Kouyoumjian
Anahid Krikorian
William & Silva MacMillan
Ronald & JoAna Manoogian
Mr. & Mrs. Ronald E. Maranian &
Family
Lucy Mardirosian
Vivian Masrof
James McDermott & Sharon
Bazarian
Pamela Talanian McGrath
Gladys & Anna Medzorian
Edward G. & Diana Minasian
Robert Mirak
Marilyn Mozian
Anne Nahabedian
James H. Najarian
Charles & Margaret Nigohsian
Vartuhi Ohan
Helen B. Ohanian
Shirley Onanian
Brian & Joan Osganian
Harry & Hripsime Parsekian
Edward & Marlene Paul
Jacob & Audrey Pilibosian
Valentine Hevesian & Hilda
Pogharian
Apkar & Arpie Potookian
Diane & Tom J. Prendergast
Shirlee & Bill Purcell
Sandra & William Robichaud
Linda M. Sahagian
Lucy, Nayri, Meghri Sahagian
Richard Samourian
Kenneth & Diane Samuelian
Robert Sanasarian
Kathryn & Charles Saraf, Jr.
Charles & Carol Sarian
Irene C. Sarkisian
Helen Serijan
Krikor Shaboian
Marianne & Richard Shahlamian
Kent & Sina Skates
Caroline E. Soultanian
Mr. & Mrs. Charles G. Surabian
Lucy Talanian
Richard & Ann Tarvezian
Amy & Kirk Tekeian
Varna Terlemezian
The Byrons
Diana Topjian
John & Gloria Voce
Michael G. Yapchaian
Gayle M. Yapchaian
Garo & Aida Yavshayan
Arlene Young
Mariam Zakarian
Natalie A. Zakarian
TOTAL: $13,720
17TH ANNUAL ST. JAMES
SAVE THE DATE
MONDAY, MAY 16, 2016
ARMENIAN FESTIVAL
ANNUAL PICNIC
OPEN GOLF TOURNAMENT
Oakley Country Club – Watertown, MA
Shot Gun Start – Scramble Format First 140 Golfers
SUNDAY, JUNE 12, 2016
10
LOOYS NEWSLETTER | SPRING 2016
SUNDAY SCHOOL
SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PROGRAM LIFTS UP THE ST. JAMES FAMILY
O
n December 20th, the St. James Sunday School
presented the “Spirit of Christmas” Program
for the entire parish. The Sunday School
students divided into six groups, each one a
combination of older and younger students
working together to offer song, poetry, recitation and reenactment. Thanks to the leadership and coordination of
teachers, students presented the important themes of the
Christmas Season and helped set everyone’s frame of mind
on God’s love for us through the gift of Jesus Christ.
The performances were presented as a Christmas
Greeting card to the church family, an idea conceived by
one of our dedicated veteran teachers Adrenna Antreasian.
The themes that the students presented were both a blessing
and a reminder to help us focus on the true meaning of
Christmas.
Following the student’s performances, Nicole Simmons
directed the Sunday School students and St. James Family
in a round of Christmas Carols, with piano accompaniment
by Lucine MacMasters. Genuine thanks to our Youth
Minister Maria Derderian for her support behind the scenes,
including the design and printing of the beautiful program.
Following the program, families and friends enjoyed a light
lunch, including homemade Christmas cookies prepared
by our own Sunday School families. We are grateful to our
marvelous team of Sunday School families who took over in
the kitchen.
11
ԼՈՅՍ ԼՐԱԳԻՐ | ԳԱՐՈՒՆ 2016
POON PAREGENTAN “SUPER” CELEBRATION
S
unday, February 7th, the St. James Sunday School
hosted the Annual Poon Paregentan Celebration.
Poon Paregentan is the “day of good living”
preceding the great fast of Lent. It is a day of
family, friends, food, and lots of fun! This year
was no different! What better way to enjoy family and
friends in New England than with a Super Bowl theme,
tailgating menu and footballs to pass around.
The hall was reminiscent of a football stadium, and team
colors graced the tables. A delicious tailgate style menu
brought smiles to the faces of all the fans. Many thanks to
members of the ACYOA for assisting with games for the
children, the Sunday school parents for preparing the lunch
and the hall, and to our youth minister Maria Derderian, for
her invaluable assistance.
“A day of fun before we get serious”, this is how Ava H.
from the fourth grade described Poon Paregentan. Ava, how
right you are! Now, we are in Lent and we are serious about
preparing ourselves for Holy Easter. We will read the Bible
more, attend church, slow down, serve others, reflect, fast
and pray.
SUNDAY SCHOOL DISCUSSES THE MEANING OF LENT
O
n Sunday, February
14th,
about
thirty
members of the Sunday
School community –
parents, teachers and
students – gathered in Mirak Hall for
a 40 minute discussion on the meaning
of Lent. Working first in small groups,
they discussed four questions: What
words come to mind about Lent?
What do we actually DO during Lent?
What do we say to ourselves when
we break a Lenten commitment? How
has Lent challenged and transformed
us? After the small groups finished
reflecting about Lent, everyone came
together and shared their memories
and lessons. The parents who attended
said they like the opportunity to stop
and think together about faith. Another
participant said that if we take the
time to learn about our grandparents’
church traditions, then we’ll strengthen
the chain between past and future
generations. In response to the positive
feedback, the Sunday School plans to
offer a guided discussion once a month.
UPCOMING SUNDAY SCHOOL EVENTS
Sunday, April 17 – Sunday School 80th Anniversary Celebration
Sunday, May 8 – Annual Mothers’ Day Bake Sale
Sunday, June 5 – Graduation Sunday
Sunday, June 12 – Last day of Sunday School – Promotion Sunday
In Lieu of Flowers
12
LOOYS NEWSLETTER | SPRING 2016
The following donations have been received
with appreciation by St. James Armenian
Apostolic Church. May God bless the souls
of our dearly departed and give comfort to
their families.
KEMAL OZCAN
October 2, 2015
LARRY A. KING JR.
November 7, 2015
Zeki Ozcan
Harutyun & Alice Hachikian
Mr. & Mrs. M. Ourfalian
Arvik Babakhanlou Ozcan
Zadik & Alis Ozcan
Karabey & Hilda Ozcan
Karen, Yeran & Sevan Ozcan
Arthur & Susan Aznavorian
Total: $575
DR. ALAN K. DERKAZARIAN
October 7, 2015
Edward DerKazarian
Harry & Azniv Amiralian
Greg Arabian
Arthur & Susan Aznavorian
Babikian Family
Marion Barsam
Rose Barsamian
Paul T. Boghosian
Edmond & Ann Danielson
Raymond Davidian
Donna & Haig Deranian
Dr. Vartan & Armen Ghugasian
Sonia Gulbankian & Family
Reidar Gresseth
Charles & Joyce Guleserian
Sonia A. Janikian
Gordon Janikian
Charles & Laura Janikian
Leon Janikian June Foster
Lenore Karaian
Nadia Ann Karnik
Dr. Parnag & Nancy Kasarjian
Lucy Mardirosian
Harry & Hripsime Parsekian
Jack & Audrey Pilibosian
Larry Pione
Nancy Madanian Reppucci &
Family
Kenneth & Diane Samuelian
Marien Samuelian
Joseph Sarkisian
Greg,Linda,Mark & Erika
Takvorian
Richard & Ann Tarvezian
Walter G. Vartanian
Total: $1485
Total: $25
DR. GREGORY ADAMIAN
November 30, 2015
Deborah Adamian
Gevorg Abrahamian
Jack Achmakjian
Diana Adamian
AGBU New England District
John & Pat Amboian
Council of Armenian Executives
Mr. & Mrs. Eli Atamian
Virginia Atamian
Robert & Carine Avakian
Mr. & Mrs. R. J. Bagdasarian
John Baronian
Paul Bedrosian
Mary Guleserian Bergoudian
Paul T. Boghosian
Edward Brewster
Yervant Chekijian
Ed & Ann Danielson
Joyce N. & John S. Davagian II,
Esq.
Lucille & George Demirjian
Haig Der Manuelian
Haig & Donna Deranian
Barbara Dorian
Helene A. Dorian
Janice T. Dorian
Mr. & Mrs. Edward Garabedian
Nancy J. Guleserian
George W. Haroutunian
Walter & June Hatfield
Doris & Stephen Hazerjian
Alisa Nakashian Holsberg
Elsie Jamgochian
Leon W. Kachadorian
Robert A. Kaloosdian
Gladys Kaloostian
James M. Kalustian
Mr. & Mrs. Vartkes & Elissa
Karaian
Edward & Mary Ann Kazanjian
Edward K. & Nirva Kazanjian &
Family
Gloria Khederian
Robert & Adrina Kletjian
Michele Kolligian
Lisa Kolligian Daniel Dorian
Nancy Kolligian
Marian Koumjian
Greg Krikorian
Aracse Kurkjian
Joseph A. Lupi
Ron & Lois Malconian
Lucy Mardirosian
Barbara & Charles Margossian
Jean E. Martinian
Sara Martinian Peter Bogosian
Jack & Eva Medzorian
Alice K. Mellian Rose Z. Karibian
Katherine Meranian
Ed & Julie Mesrobian
Robert Mirak
Judy Mouradian Theodore
Ruetenik
George & Helen Mouradian
Richard & Gail O’Reilly
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Ozcan
Marilyn Papazian
Gloria Paretchanian
Harold & Gladys Partamian
Patapanian Family
Jack & Audrey Pilibosian
Kenneth & Diane Samuelian
Marien Samuelian
Prof. Martin Saradjian
Irene Sarkisian Adrienne Kenney
Michael & Sonya Shooshan
Mr. & Mrs. Koko Stepanian
Stephen & Esther Stepanian
Mrs. Charles Talanian
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Talanian
Richard & Ann Tarvezian
The Mazmanian Family
Diana K. Topjian
Walter G. Vartanian
Andrea Movsessian Wallack
Mr. & Mrs. Raffi P. Yeghiayan
Vivian Zeytoonjian
Total: $8,050
ROSE BEJOIAN
December 11, 2015
Roseann Akopov
Mr. & Mrs. Arakel Almasian
Arthur Arakelian
Sharon Bazarian & Jim
McDermott
Sara Bejoian & Family
Paul T. Boghosian
Mr. & Mrs. Peter Bogosian
Edward Brewster
Darryl & Vicki David
Kenneth & Karen Demerjian
Roxanne Etmekjian Nerses
Joubanian
Lillian K. Etmekjian
Tom Gengozian Sally Vanerian
Andrew & Marjorie Glincher
Margorie Goode
Lucine Haroian
Eileen M. Harris
Ruth Harutunian
Jean Huchison
Paul Jones
Leon W. Kachadorian
Alex & Annie Kalaydjian
Robert Kaprielian
Andrew & Janice Kavjian
Edward K. & Nirva Kazanjian &
Family
Aracse Kurkjian
Roxanne Makasdjian
Jean E. Martinian
Bill & Sue McMahon
Richard & Patricia Minassian
Gregory Nahigian
Helen Parnagian
Harry & Hripsime Parsekian
Linda Sahagian
Kenneth & Diane Samuelian
George & Aramene Sarkisian
Lydia & Kathy Tahmizian
Richard & Ann Tarvezian
James H. Totovian
Gary & Elaine Westermark
Marilyn Woloohojian
Gayle M. Yapchaian
Michael G. Yapchaian
Mr. & Mrs. Raffi P. Yeghiayan
Rich & Donna Yerganian
Toros Yeterian
Total: $2,460
13
ԼՈՅՍ ԼՐԱԳԻՐ | ԳԱՐՈՒՆ 2016
SIRAN (PARSEKIAN)
KASSABIAN
January 5, 2016
Knarig Aboyan
Diana Adamian
Lucy Aroian
Sossi Aroyan
Kourken & Nora Aroyan &
Family
Sandra Asadourian
Alice & Sona Ashjian
Dianne L. Aspuru
Nishan & Margrit Atinizian
Harry & Alice Avakian
Jan E. Avakian-Kopatich
Barkev & Salpi Bablouzian
Valentine Baghdoyan
Armen & Lusine Baghsarian
Anoush Balian
Maro & Sirop Bedrosian
Mary Guleserian Bergoudian
Susan Hazarvartian
Don & Sunny Boghosian
Tamar Boghosian
Edward Brewster
Raphail Broukian
Berj & Annie Chekijian
Gladys S. Clinton
Karen Dederyan
Margo Demirjian & Family
Maria Derderian
Mr. & Mrs. A. Derian
Vartan Derounian
Adrienne & Sarkis Dodakian
Mari Emirze
Marie Essayan
Arpine Fereshetian
Michael & Joy Guleserian Foley
Shake Gabriel
Tom Gengozian, Sally Vanerian
& Family
Hermine Getzoyan
Dr. Vartan & Armen Ghugasian
Dr. & Mrs. Nishan
Goudsouzian
Nancy Guleserian
Nazeli Guzelian
Nazely Guzelian
Christopher Hajian
Ruth Harutunian
Doris & Stephen Hazerjian
David & Miriam Horton
Sonia & Setrak Iskandarian
Papken V. Janjigian
Elaine & Mark Jefferson
Leon Kachadorian
Alex & Annie Kalaydjian
Nancy & Krikor Kassabian
Edward K. & Nirva Kazanjian
Zara Kazelian
Zarouhe & Veken Kebabjian
Anni Keikian
Charles & Sirvart Keumurian
Queenie Keumurian
Paul & Janet Khalarian
Alex Khalarian
Anahid Khatchadourian
John & Brenda Khederian
Adrina & Robert Kletjian
Lois Kolgian
Marie Kouyoumjian
Aracse Kurkjian & Family
Kathy & Mary Kuzenian
Lucy Mardirosian
Krekor Mardirosian
Mary Lou Markarian Harry
Markarian & Medo Eltelbany
Zareh & Hasmig Maserejian
Alice K. Mellian
Rose Z. Karibian
Nora & Mary Minasian
Mihran & Rosalyn Minassian
Martha Minassian
Serge Momdjian
Valentine Momdjian-Brown
Avedis & Seta Najarian
Mr. & Mrs. Hagop & Sossy
Nercessian
Seta Nercessian
Shirley Onanian
Garo & Sarpie Ostayan
Zadik Ozcan
Jack & Shaghig Palanjian
Jacob & Audrey Pilibosian
Arpie & Apkar Potookian
Alma Sahagian
Marien Samuelian
Robert Sanasarian
REMEMBER
ST. JAMES
ARMENIAN CHURCH
ENDOWMENT
TRUST FUND
Herika Sarafian
Zarouhi Sarkisian
Arshalouys Sarkissian
Zepure Sarkissian
Sayat Nova Dance Co.
Marlene Seferian
Charles & Nicole Simmons
Cevahir Sirinoglu
Hermine Sislian & Family
Rita Soovajian
Caroline & Berdj Soultanian
St. James Womens Guild
Richard & Ann Tarvezian
Joshua A. Tevekelian
Hagop & Nadia Ucuzian
Ashken & Susan Vanerian
Alice Vosgerichian
Gayle & Michael Yapchaian
Garo & Aida Yavshayan
Mr. & Mrs. Raffi P. Yeghiayan
Mr. & Mars. Sarkis Yepremian
Toros Yeterian
Mayda Yetimian
Setrek & Gulkiz Yuzlek
Total: $5,600
MARION (KALAJIAN)
BADRIGIAN
January 12, 2016
Brian, Judy, Douglas & Stuart
Badrigian
Debra,Paul,Laura & Sarah
Nelson
Mike & Winnie Clifford
Catherine M. Faulkner
Anne B. O’Brien
Helen & Kevin Pelton
Gayle & Michael Yapchaian
ADDITIONAL DONATIONS
JUNE TAVIAN
December 3, 2014
Lucy Mardirosian
New Total: $60
ARSHAG GECHIJIAN
March 26, 2015
Lucy Mardirosian
New Total: $990
ROSALIE “TUTUNJIAN”
TEKEYAN
July 24, 2015
Lucy Mardirosian
New Total: $4,380
HARRY KOUMJIAN
August 11, 2015
David & Gina Kapilian
Lucy Mardirosian
New Total: $1,775
CROSBY GOSHGARIAN
September 21, 2015
Fr. Arten Ashjian
Paul T. Boghosian
Susan M. Conway
Dr. David & Marcia Kalayjian
Lucy Mardirosian
New Total: $14,155
Total: $1,190
RICHARD LYNCH
Mr. & Mrs. Paul Korian
Beth A. Krikorian
Gale & Harry Krikorian
Amy, Arra, Chloe & Nina
Zeytoonian
Total: $300
ST. JAMES CHURCH
IN YOUR WILL
A Venerable
Christian Practice
14
LOOYS NEWSLETTER | SPRING 2016
T
WOMEN’S GUILD
he Women’s Guild is
striving to reach out
to the community and
beyond with several
projects:
On December 18,
almost 90 women gathered for a
celebration of Christmas, but more
importantly,
Christmas
Giving.
Following a Chinese buffet dinner
and the Annual “Most Decorated
Sweater” contest they gathered
together to carry out their Christmas
project. Inspired by “Gabriel’s Day of
Kindness” in November, small toys,
crayons, markers, puzzles, books, and
games were gathered into gift bags
for donation to Boston Children’s
Hospital. Thanks to everyone’s efforts,
over 250 gift bags were delivered
to Children’s before Christmas for
distribution.
Extending our season of kindness
into February, the Women’s Guild
enjoyed a Valentine’s themed party
where they made cards of “love” for
the residents of the Armenian Nursing
Home in Jamaica Plain following a
delicious Italian dinner.
Don’t forget to stop by our Easter
Bake Sale with our delicious choereg,
bourma and simit for sale! We look
forward to hosting a regional retreat
here at St. James later this spring to
celebrate Saintly Women’s Day.
HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
JOIN THE WOMEN’S GUILD
It’s easy! Contact the Chair, Nancy Kassabian at
nkass@comcast.net or 781-322-0029. Come and
visit during one of our meetings or events – they
are always open to everyone interested. Check
the church calendar in the bulletin for meetings.
Hope to see you join the fellowship and help with
the important work we do for our church and
community
At St. James we support our Church through
outreach to the church community with events,
fundraising, sponsorship and the promotion
of the growth of the spiritual, moral and social
development of our members. Come, discover,
make new friends, renew acquaintances! The
fellowship is amazing!
12 Days of Biblical and
Historical Discovery
St. James Armenian Church
4TH PILGRIMAGE TO
THE HOLY LAND
With Rev. Fr. Arakel Aljalian
AUGUST 18-30
2016
ALL INCLUSIVE
$3,300
PER PERSON FROM BOSTON*
Price reflects a 4% discount for
full payment via check
*DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: $600
DISCOVER
THE HEART OF THE WORLD
JERUSALEM
SPACE IS LIMITED
A $300 non-refundable deposit per person
is due at time of registration. Registration
deadline is May 20, 2016. Interested
participants are asked to call the St. James
church office at (617) 923-8860 or to email
info@sthagop.com.For direct reservation,
call EO office at 1-800-247-0017, ext. 1/326
15
ԼՈՅՍ ԼՐԱԳԻՐ | ԳԱՐՈՒՆ 2016
SACRAMENTS
BAPTISMS & CHRISMATIONS
You have been baptized in Christ. Alleluia.
Jeremiah Jayden Laboy
November 7, 2015
Son of Brandon and Lora
Laboy
Godparents: Christopher
Laboy and Linda Cinar
Circe Thomas Weber
November 27, 2015
Son of Harley and Heather
Dadourian Weber
Godparents: Marcello Ferri
and Melissa Dadourian
Tessa Lucine Dadourian
Weber
November 27, 2015
Daughter of Harley and
Heather Dadourian Weber
Godparents: Marcello Ferri
and Melissa Dadourian
Thomas George Atanasov
November 28, 2015
Son of George and Talin
Atanasov
Godparents: Andrew
Kenneally and Magda
Atanasov Kenneally
Desmond Harlan Weber
November 27, 2015
Son of Harley Weber and
Heather Dadourian Weber
Godparents: Marcello Ferri
and Melissa Dadourian
Samuel Haig Deranian
December 6, 2015
Son of Jason and Jen
Deranian
Godparents: Andrew
Bengtson and Jen Granfield
Armen Edward Keljik
January 16, 2016
Son of Edward K. and Sabine
A. Keljik
Godparents: Harout
Chouljian and Mari Hilda
Bijimenian
Andre Edward Keljik
January 16, 2016
Son of Edward K. and Sabine
A. Keljik
Godparents: Puzant
Chouljian and Mari Hilda
Bijimenian
David Artin Honarchian
January 17, 2016
Son of Artin Hrand
Honarchian and Beatrice
Garabed Jegalian
Godparents: Herman
Purutyan and Laura
Bilazarian Purutyan
Dvin Artin Honarchian
January 17, 2016
Son of Artin Harand
Honarchian and Beatrice
Garabed Jegalian
Godparents: Herman
Purutyan and Laura
Bilazarian Purutyan
Dro Artin Honarchian
January 17, 2016
Son of Artin Hrand
Honarchian and Beatrice
Garabed Jegalian
Godparents: Herman
Purutyan and Laura
Bilazarian Purutyan
FUNERALS
May Christ our God shed His Eternal Light upon the souls of our dearly departed.
May God bless the souls of the deceased and comfort the members of their families.
Larry A. King Jr.
November 7, 2015
Dr. Gregory Adamian
November 30, 2015
Rose Bejoian
December 11, 2015
WEDDINGS
Siran (Parsekian)
Kassabian
January 5, 2016
Albert S.
Hovannesian
February 16, 2016
Marion (Kalajian)
Badrigian
January 12, 2016
Gulbeyaz Kaya
February 17, 2016
And the two shall become one.
Varter Shirinian
February 20, 2016
Mary Sarkisian
February 22, 2016
ENGAGEMENT
Alex Mkrtchian and Hana ElMassih
January 9, 2016
Mike Anteryassian and Lindsay Feetham
November 28, 2015
Best man: John Anteryassian
Maid of Honor: Nicole Lauro
Beatrice
(Bedrossian)
Ohannessian
February 23, 2016
Richard Samourian
February 25, 2016
BLESSING OF THE RINGS
Howard and Maura Kosrofian
November 28, 2015
Christopher Dion and Gina Rita Sullivan
January 16, 2016
Best man: David Paquette
Maid of Honor: Alina Sullivan
PARISH ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTORY
WORSHIP HOURS
Sunday Morning Service 8:30 a.m.
Sunday Divine Liturgy 10:00 a.m.
ՊԱՇՏԱՄՈՒՆՔԻ ԺԱՄԵՐԸ
Կիրակի Առաւօտեան Ժամերգութիւն - 8։30
Կիրակի Սուրբ Պատարագ - 10։00
CHURCH OFFICE
Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday
Office closed Saturday and Sunday
Phone: (617) 923-8860; Fax: (617) 926-5503
E-mail: info@sthagop.com
www.sthagop.com
PASTOR
Rev. Fr. Arakel Aljalian
Rectory: 6 Langdon Ave., Watertown, MA 02472
E-mail: derarakel@sthagop.com
H: (617) 923-8990
ASSOC. PASTOR EMERITUS
Rev. Fr. Arsen Barsamian
183 Mt Auburn St #34, Watertown, MA 02472
H: (617) 924-0318
PARISH COUNCIL
Rev. Fr. Arakel Aljalian, President
Edward Kazanjian, Chair
Sandy Raphalian, Vice Chair
Janice Kavjian, Treasurer
Garo Yavshayan, Asst. Treasurer
Linda Sahagian, Secretary
Peter Babigian
Emily Bedrosian
Gail Boroyan
Aaron Derderian
Scott Kapilian
Karnig Ostayan
DIOCESAN DELEGATES
Edward Brewster
Karen Dederyan
Haig Deranian
Nishan Goudsouzian
Charles Guleserian
Jacob Pilibosian
Michael Yapchaian
OFFICE ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Annie Kalaydjian, Administrative Assistant
Joanna Doherty, Bookkeeper
Elaine Westermark, Executive Assistant
Sharon DeMarco, Assistant Bookkeeper
FACILITIES MANAGER (EXT. 18)
Michael V. Mamishian
Email: mvmamishian@sthagop.com
YOUTH MINISTER (EXT. 19)
Maria Derderian
Email: mderderian@sthagop.com
SUNDAY SCHOOL (EXT. 19)
Marsha Alabachian, Superintendent
CHILD CARE CENTER (EXT. 22)
ST. JAMES EREBUNI
ARMENIAN SCHOOL (EXT. 21)
Armine Manukyan, Principal
E-mail: manuk1272@gmail.com
LOOYS EDITORIAL BOARD
Fr. Arakel Aljalian, St. James Office Staff,
Yn. Natasha Aljalian, and Maria Derderian
PASTORAL CARE: HOME AND HOSPITAL
CLERGY VISITS
The clergy are always available and would like to
visit homebound and hospitalized parishioners.
If you or someone you know is ill or hospitalized
and would like to be visited, please call the church
office at (617) 923-8860. Please note: when asked
about your religion at a hospital, patients should
list themselves as “Armenian Orthodox” or
“Armenian” not “other.”
REQUIEM SERVICE/HOKEHANKISD
Arrangements for Requiem Service, Altar Flowers
and Candles should be made through the church
office by Thursday at noon. In accordance with the
canons of the Armenian Church, Requiem Services
may not be performed on the five major feast days:
Armenian Christmas, Easter, The Feast of the
Transfiguration, The Feast of the Assumption of
the Mother of God, and The Feast of the Exaltation
of the Holy Cross.
ST. JAMES ARMENIAN APOSTOLIC CHURCH
465 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472
Please rush, dated material
BAPTISMS AND CHRISMATIONS
All baptisms must be scheduled at least two months
in advance by calling the church office. According
to the Armenian Church canons, a Baptism may
only be performed once in a person’s lifetime,
provided such Baptism has been performed in
a Christian Church and in the name of the Holy
Trinity.
At least one of the godparents must be a member of
the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church.
WEDDINGS
Parishioners should contact the church office at
least eight months in advance. A couple must
contact St. James to confirm the availability of the
Pastor and sanctuary prior to making any other
arrangements.
All weddings must follow the Canons of the
Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church and the
laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. In
accordance with Diocesan discipline mandated by
the Primate, all Sacraments must be performed in
the church sanctuary.
The couple must meet with the Pastor at least
once for pre-marital preparation and counseling.
Weddings cannot be performed during Great Lent
or Holy Week, or on the five major feast days:
Armenian Christmas, Holy Easter, The Feast of the
Transfiguration, The Feast of the Assumption of
the Mother of God, and The Feast of the Exaltation
of the Holy Cross.
FUNERALS
Families should make arrangements with the
funeral director of their choice, who will contact
the church office to arrange the funeral service.
Generally, St. James coordinates funerals with
Bedrosian Funeral Home and Giragosian Funeral
Home; both are located in Watertown and are
familiar with our Church traditions.
Funerals may not be performed on religious
holidays, major feast days, Saturdays after 3:00
p.m., or on Sundays.
Non Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Boston, MA
Permit No. 56192