Winter-Spring 2012 - St. James Armenian Church, Richmond, VA.

êºô²Ü
SEVAN
Newsletter
Winter-Spring, 2012
Primate's Easter Message
What’s inside?
Women’s Guild
Update
4
Sunday/
Armenian
School Update
6
Avak Seniors
Update
7
ACYOA News
8
Profiles
9
Puppet Theater
from Armenia
Visits St. James 12
Diocesan News
13
News from the
Mother See
16
Parish Events
18
Great Week
and Easter at
St. James
19
Calendar of
Upcoming
Events
22
said to her, "...Go
J esus
to my brothers and say
to them, ‘I am ascending to
my Father and your Father, to my God and your
God.'" Mary Magdalene
went and announced to the
disciples, "I have seen the
Lord!" And she told them
that he had said these
things to her. (St. John 20:17-18)
IT WAS STILL DARK, EARLY IN
THE MORNING of the first day of
the week: a Sunday, close to 2,000
years ago. To most of the world, the
sun would rise on a day no different
from any other. Only a handful of
people would later realize that something of importance had occurred.
But those few people understood
that overnight, the world had
changed.
Three pious women rose early to
bear spices and burial ointments to
the grave of their departed teacher
and friend. But approaching the
tomb, they sensed that something
was wrong. The grave
was open: its sealingstone pushed away. And
inside the tomb they
found, not a dead body,
but a mysterious figure—an angel—who
beckoned them to draw
closer. Here is how St.
Matthew tells the story:
The angel said to the women: "Do not be
afraid. For I know that you are looking
for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not
here. He has risen, just as he said! Come
and see the place where he lay. Then go
quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He is risen
from the dead.'" (Mt 28:5-7).
Some 2,000 years later, we use the
very same words to remember the
miracle of that Sunday morning:
Krisdos haryav ee merelotz! Christ is
risen from the dead! And as Christians we celebrate Easter to mark the
most important, most joyous, most
glorious day in all of human history.
But think again of what it must have
Page 2
been like on that first Easter Sunday. In the
darkness before dawn, when the pious oilbearing women set off on their journey to
our Lord's tomb, things must have looked
very different.
Two nights earlier, the women had watched
in horror as Jesus endured the torments of
crucifixion. They had stood in silent witness,
as his lifeless body was brought down from
the cross, wrapped in a burial shroud, and
placed in a tomb. All their hopes and dreams
had come to ruin. Their Master was dead.
His mission was over. The salvation of mankind had failed. The women approached the
tomb that morning, fully expecting to find
Jesus buried within.
But—he was not there.
Instead, the women discovered that their
greatest hope had come to pass: "Christ is
risen from the dead!"—just as he had promised.
Imagine the overwhelming joy, the incredible sense of hope, the feeling of limitless possibility that swept over the women at that
moment. They must have been bursting with
excitement—eager to share this news with
others.
And indeed it was these women—the first
witnesses to the resurrection—who brought
the Good News to the disciples. Through
them, the Gospel mission began: they were
the first link in a great chain of evangelism
that would eventually encompass the world,
and transform our own homeland with its
message of love, hope, and victory over sin
and death.
A beautiful service of the Armenian Church
SEVAN
shows how very close we still are to these
events, despite the obvious gulfs of time and
space. Taking place in the early hours of
Easter Sunday, the service is dedicated to the
oil-bearing women: the "Myrophores" in
Greek, or "Yughaperitz Ganaykh" in our own
tongue. The Yughaperitz service culminates in
a reading from the Gospel of St. John (John
20:1-18), which begins "Early on the first day of
the week, while it was still dark..." and ends
with Mary Magdalene's ecstatic announcement to the disciples: "I have seen the Lord!"
And here is the astonishing thing: History
indicates that this service originated in the
early centuries of the Christian movement, in
Jerusalem itself—perhaps at the very site of
Christ's tomb!—where the celebrants would
gather at dawn, just as the women had done,
to re-enact their world-changing discovery.
Through this beautiful ritual, preserved over
many centuries by the Armenian Church, the
voices from that original Easter Sunday echo
down to us, as if for the first time.
It is surely significant that the oil-bearing
women held no exalted or privileged status
in the world of their day. Indeed, even the
disciples refused to believe them when they
came to the upper room, breathless, to relate
what they had witnessed. Yet it proved that
these women, even from their humble station, were the ones who had seen the truth
with clear eyes. Certainly it was their humility, their willingness to rise before dawn to
perform a ministry of love and respect at a
friend's grave, that placed them in the right
place to receive this truth. Perhaps it was the
same attitude of humble ministry to our Lord
which prepared their minds to believe in it,
and prepared their hearts to share it.
Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012
Page 3
Armenian history is filled with similar stories
of people—often from the most powerless
and marginalized stations of their surrounding societies—who saw and heard; who believed and shared; and ultimately who transformed their worlds from within. That is the
power and the promise that genuine Christian ministry—the "Ministry of the Faithful,"
as we have been calling it in our Diocese this
year—can bring to our churches and communities, to our families and our individual
lives. It starts with those simple announcements of joy and amazement: "He is not here;
he has risen!" "I have seen the Lord!" Or in the
words of our beautiful Easter greeting.
Krisdos haryav ee merelotz!
Orhnyal eh harootiunun Krisdosee!
Christ is risen from the dead! Blessed is the
resurrection of Christ!
This Easter, let us proclaim those words
loudly, with conviction to everyone we meet.
Even "while it is still dark," let us pierce the
darkness with our song of joy. And through
it, may our Risen Lord draw forth the transformative ministry that truly brings Light to
the world.
With prayers,
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian
Primate
The Feast of holy Nativity and Theophany of our Lord Jesus Christ
Blessing of water service
Chris Grey,
a member of
our community,
served as
godfather
(gunkahayr) of
the cross during
the "Blessing of
Water" service.
Page 4
SEVAN
Women’s guild update
In
the late 1930s, Armenian women living in Richmond banded together to
begin fundraising efforts for what they
hoped would one day be land on which to
build a church for themselves and for future
generations. In 1941 the Lady’s Auxiliary
(today’s Women’s Guild) was able to purchase the first land to realize the dream of
community members. Fifteen years later, St.
James was built. That is why in November of
last year, at the church’s anniversary banquet, the Women’s Guild of St. James was
honored with a plaque commemorating over
70 years of service. In honor of the vision and
Lucia Manoukian and her dance partner
was open to members and friends of the
Guild. The festivities included a potluck dinner, a surprise DVD presentation honoring
the Women’s Guild, and an even bigger surprise—ballroom dancing as performed masterfully by Lucia Manoukian and her dance
partner. Attendees were also asked for voluntary donations that were collected for
Families of the Wounded Fund, a local charity. The Guild collected an amazing $1,000
Women’s Guild Executive Commettee:
L to R: Lilly Bouroujian Thomas, Sona Pomfret, Linda
Sharigian, Peruz Manoukian, Lucy Keshishian Grey,
Rev. Fr. Mesrob Hovsepyan, Stella Bandazian
determined spirit of those women, the
Women’s Guild of today carries the torch for
future generations. If you would like to become a member or if you would like to rejoin
the ranks, the Women’s Guild needs you.
In December, the annual Christmas party
L to R: Marni Pilafian, Lucy Keshishian Grey,
Shocky Pilafian
Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012
Page 5
for the very
worthy cause.
The annual Armenian Christmas lunch took
place January 8
whe n
par ishioners celebrated the Armenian Christmas Divine LitRev. Fr. Mesrob Hovsepyan &
urgy and BlessAnahid Ghazarian
ing of the Water
service. The highlight of the day was of
course the visit from Santa Claus who delighted young and younger with his jolly
demeanor. There are too many to thank here
for the success of the event, but a sincere
thank-you must be expressed to Jamie Accashian for always being so kind, gracious,
and willing to help with a very special assignment that was requested of him.
During the Lenten season that was just completed, the Guild hosted weekly Friday dinners and baked holiday bread. Hasmig
Schein coordinated the bread making. As
always, she did an outstanding job. The
Lenten dinners were prepared by different
volunteers every Friday. To all the women
who gave so graciously of their time and talent, we thank you for coming through for us
yet again!
Lastly, a special note of
thanks—two
outgoing executive members deserve
our
expressions of gratitude. Lilly Bouroujian Thomas and Linda
Sharigian completed their terms at the end of
2011. We thank both women for their steadfast commitment to the Women’s Guild and
for their dedicated service over the years.
This year’s executive committee is made up
of the following members: Stella Bandazian,
Chair; Seran Kerneklian, Vice Chair; Sona
Pomfret, Treasurer; Nvard Topjian, Rec. Secretary; Peruz Manoukian, Corr. Secretary;
Sheri Harabedian, Adviser; and Lucy Grey,
Adviser.
LKG
Page 6
SEVAN
Armenian/Sunday school update
S
unday School has been quite busy this
fall and winter.
We had a fun costume party on Sunday, October 30th. After attending the Badarak, about
20 children dressed up as pirates and princesses, cowgirls
and cowboys,
bugs and animals. We enjoyed our traditional hot dog
lunch, prepared
by Steve and
Dorian Barsamian, face painting, led by Knarik Arkun, and
games, organized by Kathy Wall and Dorian
Barsamian. This was a very successful event
and we are looking forward to having another one next October.
On Saturday, January 14, Sunday School children and parents came together to watch the
renewed version of the "Beauty and the
Beast" movie and had a lunch. This was a
very exciting and memorable outing for
both the children and the parents.
Our biggest event
was
a
Talent
Show held on Poon
P a r e g e n tan, February 19.
We had 11 performers who showed off their
talents playing the piano, violin, cello, singing and reciting poems in Armenian. There
were classical
pieces and Arm e n ia n /f ol k
performances. Everyone
who attended
was amazed to discover the talents of the
children. For the parents, it was heartwarming and rewarding to see the results
their children's hard work. The program was
Yesaie Saakian
Mark Arkun
organized and coordinated by Raffi Bandazian and Der Hayr.
The delicious luncheon was prepared by
Sunday School teachers and parents.
R.K.
Michael Karapetyan
Raffi & Aren Bandazian
Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012
Vahan Hakobyan
Nareh Hovsepyan
Page 7
Maria Avagyan
Anna Saakian
Zina Avagyan
Avak seniors update
T
he AVAK seniors have been busy traveling around town these last few
months. After an enjoyable Christmas Party
with delicious food and wonderful prizes for
everyone, AVAK members filled their gas
tanks for luncheon outings.
In January, we gathered at the Cracker Barrel
on Mayland Court for some southern country food. Orders ranged from salmon to good
ole grits! Our next stop was across the street
Luncheon Grocery BINGO with pizza and
salad. May’s event has not been determined
but June 21 will host our annual Indoor Picnic with Hot Dogs and all the trimmings.
Once again, we will not meet during the
months of July, August and September as the
AVAKs are busy at church helping to prepare for the annual Armenian Food Festival.
at O’Charleys for a Valentine celebration in
February. Then, in March, we christened the
new Olive Garden in Short Pump. Attendance was very good at each event. Everyone
seemed happy, content and full.
On April 18, we will return to church for a
The AVAK group meets monthly to engage
in fellowship and fun. We look forward to
more of you joining us. All events are posted
in the Church Hall, the Sunday Bulletin and
the church’s website. Come and join in the
fun! Hope to see you soon!
L.S.
Page 8
SEVAN
Acyoa news
On
January 13-15, Sosy Bouroujian
and Rachel Semerjian attended the
fourth annual ACYOA Chapter Workshop in
Boca Raton, Florida, representing the St.
James ACYOA. There were also thirty-five
other young Armenians from parishes
throughout the Eastern Diocese present.
The theme of the weekend was “We’re All in
This Together.” The focus was for everyone
to get together and discuss the successes and
struggles with other chapters to help each
other build stronger ACYOA chapters.
“One of my favorite activities, during the
workshop was when we were separated into
groups based on where our parishes are located to plan future events with each other.
We were paired with the St. Mary’s ACYOA
group and they told us about many of their
fun and successful activities that they have
done. They have a big chapter and are well
established so it was extremely helpful and
informative to work with them. In addition,
we tried to plan events that our chapters can
do together which we are very excited about.
“It was great to see other chapters who have
more youth than we do struggling with some
of the same issues. It taught me that it does
not necessarily matter how many members
you have, all that matters is that you have a
group of people who are dedicated and willing to work to have a relationship with one
another and with the Armenian Church. I
learned what it takes to have a strong and
healthy chapter and I am looking forward to
implementing what I learned and applying it
to our newly formed ACYOA chapter
here.” (Sosy Bouroujian)
“We learned many tactics on reeling members in and keeping them which to our surprise was an issue that many ACYOA chapters were facing and it was nice to know that
we were not alone. One main focus was to
point out our strengths and weaknesses as a
group and individually assess our position in
our ACYOA. Whether we were better at
leading, collecting information, or if we were
the ‘doers’ we learned that every member
had a place and responsibility.
“I personally got so much from this retreat,
both as an individual and a youth group
leader. I learned that we are not the only
ones struggling and there is hope for even
the smallest youth group. In the near future
we hope to make more plans with the Charlotte and D.C. ACYOA chapters. We have a
lot of faith in our Richmond youth and we
hope to keep having events and give back to
our St. James family.” (Rachel Semerdjian)
Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012
Page 9
Betty and Haike Giragosian:
When ‘I Do’ Really Means Forever
Printed in The
Armenian
Weekly on
February 18,
2012 by Betty
ApigianKessel.
“I loved the Armenian culture and wanted to
be part of it,” says Betty Franck Giragosian.
“There was nothing about it that bothered
me. I loved Armenian food. It is so satisfying
and delicious. In answering your questions, I
am getting an even better understanding of
my mother-in-law. She would be pleased she
is occupying so much of my thoughts.”
Betty Jean Franck was brought up in the fine
tradition of the genteel Virginia south. Her
family was of German, French, and English
heritage. She describes her life thusly: “I
grew up in my grandparents’ house. My parents lived with them. I had a wonderful
childhood filled with love, books, and music.
We had a quiet, simple life. I excelled in my
studies.”
Haike Giragosian was the American born
son of Armenian Genocide survivors
Manoog and Takouhie from Kharpert, who
settled in Richmond, Va. They were successful restaurant owners. Their photo reveals a
very attractive couple with Mrs. Giragosian
being especially beautiful.
It was on their third date that the handsome
Haike and lovely blonde 19-year-old Betty
decided to marry, a fact unknown to either of
their parents. Betty says, “I met his parents
after the third week and I am sure they must
have wondered what to do with this foreign
teenager.”
“The fact I was an odar did not seem to be a
problem. It certainly helped that his parents
spoke excellent English.” (Odar is the term
she uses.)
Betty was not immediately aware of any hurdles to encounter with her in-laws. “I did
sense there was a strong bond of love between Haike and his mother. He made it
clear his mother was very important in his
life. I may have even been a bit jealous. She
was such a perfect housekeeper and cook.”
Even clearer was that the elder Mrs. Giragosian thought her golden Armenian son
deserved the best in food, care, and nurturing.
Betty and Haike were married in the chapel
of Highland Park Methodist Church in Richmond by her minister uncle. St. James Armenian Church did not exist at the time. “I
don’t believe there was resentment that I was
Page 10
not Armenian. It was just hard for his mother
to let him go, and believe me it was just as
hard for my parents to let me go.”
“That was one sad wedding. Both sets of parents did not want us to marry but the difference in cultures really had nothing to do
with it,” says Betty.
“For the first few years there was no closeness between us and often a feeling of almost
friction existed” with her mother-in-law. All
of that changed because of Betty’s sincere
interest in Armenian culture and tradition.
“There was never a cross word between us.
We became very fond of each other. We behaved like ladies.”
“I remember the first time I took her to a Ladies Aid meeting. I was going to leave, but
decided to stay and had such a good time
that thereafter I always went with her until
her health failed. Once afterwards I went
alone but couldn’t wait to get home because I
discovered how much I missed Queenie
[Takouhie] not being with me.”
Unlike most odar harses Betty learned it all.
“My mother-in-law was an excellent cook
and did teach me Armenian cooking: lahmajoun, Kharpert kufta, sini kufta, sarma, dolma,
kheyma, and vegetable dishes. I loved the
food and wanted to learn. My mother-in-law
wanted her son to have Armenian food. I can
remember my father-in-law being astonished
at how well I made the kuftas. She taught me
all her secrets. I think she praised me to her
friends.”
Through the years Betty has had a leadership
role in the United Daughters of the Confederacy. She is an organist and pianist and has
served in that capacity in her church since
SEVAN
1963. Haike is a retired general manager and
treasurer of the Cadillac dealership in Richmond. They’ve given financial support to
both the Methodist Church and St. James
Armenian Church.
They participate in the huge annual Armenian Food Festival of Richmond, which
draws in thousands. Betty describes it “as a
spirit of brotherhood, fun, and respect. It is
an enormous amount of work for the members but they do it, the younger generation
having now taken over for the older one.”
The road to happiness with her immigrant
Armenian in-laws did not happen overnight.
It was her sweetness and genteel personality
coupled with true love for Haike that led to a
smooth, gratifying relationship. “I love my
husband dearly and would do nothing to
hurt him.” She was a wise woman who was
determined to win over his parents and in
the end it paved the road to contentment for
all. Everyone was a winner.
Sixty-two years of serene marriage, two sons,
six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, the Giragosians have set an example of
how people from different backgrounds can
have true happiness.
Here is a clue to the character of the wise
Betty Giragosian: As she says, “I feel very
humbled to be the subject of your paper. I
hope I have honored my Armenian parents
by marriage.”
The reality is she has honored us all by embracing our Armenian culture when she
could have just turned her back on it all. That
Haike is one lucky Khatpertsi.
Don’t you just love a good love story?
Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012
Page 11
Ruben & Yelena, Maria & Zina
Avagyan
A
vagyan family is one of a few families
that moved to Richmond recently. They
came to Richmond in October 2010 where
Ruben is employed as an Energy Engineer
with Honeywell Industries.
Ruben Avagyan was born in Yerevan, Armenian, and his wife, Yelena Avanesyan, was
born in Baku, Azerbaijan. She was forced to
leave Baku and escaped to Armenia due to
political unrest and war in Azerbaijan. Yelena met Ruben while she was a secretary for
a company where Ruben worked. They were
married in Yerevan and have two daughters,
Maria and Zina.
Ruben’s parents were both engineers by profession. His mother passed away in 2006, and
his father lives in Yerevan, Armenia.
Ruben received his B.S. degree in Geophysics
in 1993 from Yerevan State University, M.S.
degree in Industrial Engineering from the
American University of Armenia in Yerevan
in 2006, and PhD in Industrial Engineering
from University of West Virginia in 2010. He
has also served the Armenian Army for two
years.
Ruben is a member of the Institute of Industrial Engineers, American Society of Heating,
Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Engineers, and the Association of Energy Engineers. He is a co-owner of Prom Systems,
Ltd., an engineering firm in Armenia. He
was involved in constructing forty distribu-
tion plants in Armenia; one oil refinery and
dozens of beverage production facilities.
To balance his academic achievements,
Ruben is talented in painting. As a young
student he attended the School of Art in Yerevan for five years. He enjoys camping and
hiking, and he is interested in history, archeology and paleontology.
Yelena’s parents died several years ago. She
has a sister living in Abovian, Armenia and a
sister and brother living in Moscow. Yelena’s
talents include knitting and decorating. She
enjoys the outdoors, hiking, camping and
teaching kids and communicating with people.
Maria is 13 years old and attends Pocahontas
Middle School as an 8th grader. Her favorite
subject is Social Studies and she likes tennis,
piano and hip hop.
Zina is 6 years old and attends Nuckols Farm
Elementary School. She likes ballet, basketball and she is a great conversationalist for
her age.
Ruben and his family have traveled in Russia
and the United States.
They are a talented, warm and friendly family, and we are pleased and blessed they
are a part of our Armenian community in
Richmond, VA.
R.K.
Page 12
SEVAN
Yerevan’s Hovhannes Tumanyan
State Puppet Theater Visits East Coast
F
or the first time ever, the Hovhannes
Tumanyan State Puppet Theater of Yerevan visited the United States this January.
Its East Coast performance tour began on
January 20 at St. James Armenian Church
and continued to various Armenian churches
and communities in the Eastern Diocese. A
five-member ensemble of the group, including its artistic director, performed Robert
Arakelian’s short story, “The Birthday Gift,”
in Armenian, and Hovhannes Tumanyan’s
“The Foolish Man” in English with floor
puppets. The initial presentation was directed in particular at younger children. The
four actors of the ensemble also sang a medley of lively Armenian traditional and folk
songs.
The Richmond premiere was well attended,
with some 65 Armenians in the audience,
including a strong contingent of children. St.
James pastor, Fr. Mesrob Hovsepyan, introduced the performance, explaining the importance of introducing various aspects of
Armenian culture to Armenian children (and
adults) in the United States. The two stories
had important moral messages for children.
The animals of “The Birthday Gift” showed
the importance of giving and not just receiv-
ing, while the famous Tumanyan short story,
“The Foolish Man,” based on a folk story,
depicted a man who was unable to recognize
and take advantage of good fortune.
The Tumanyan Puppet Theater was founded
in 1935 and has a building as its headquarters in Yerevan along with a distinguished
history. With a large staff, its presentations
can include as many as 17 performers.
The Republic of Armenia’s Ministry of Culture provided subventions for the East Coast
tour of the theater. Thanks to a number of
local Armenians (Chuck Ashjian, Bedros
Bandazian, Sam & Maral Haboush, Garen &
Nouneh Karapetyan, and Harry Deloian) the
Richmond performance was subsidized.
Also, the local company Party Perfect donated the stage equipment for the performance.
Short videos of the performances can
be viewed on the St. James website.
This is an abridged version of the complete article by
Aram Arkun which was printed in
The Armenian Mirror-Spectator, January 28, 2012 issue.
Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012
Page 13
Boca Raton, FL, Parish Celebrates Pastor's Milestone
P
arishioners of St. David Church of Boca
Raton, Fla., gathered to honor their pastor, the Very Rev. Fr. Nareg Berberian, on the
20th anniversary
of his ordination
to
the
holy
priesthood.
The celebration
began on Saturday, January 21,
with a banquet in the church's Mardigian
Hall. Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, presided over the event, which
drew more than 250 guests.
A native of Beirut, Lebanon, Fr. Berberian
grew up in a pious family and attended
church on Sundays. Inspired by his parents
Kevork and Nevart, and by relatives in the
priesthood, he decided to begin seminary
studies at an early age.
He entered the seminary at Holy Etchmiadzin, was ordained a deacon, and traveled
to the United States in 1988 to continue his
education at St. Nersess and St. Vladimir's
seminaries in New York. He was ordained to
the holy priesthood at St. Vartan Armenian
Cathedral on July 26, 1992.
Fr. Berberian holds master's degrees in divinity and sacred theology, and a doctorate degree in ministry. He served parishes in Houston, Texas; Richmond, Va.; and Hartford,
Conn., before being assigned as pastor of St.
David Church of Boca Raton in 2002.
Parish council vice chair Carol Norigian presented Fr. Berberian
with a Michael Aram
decorative piece on behalf of the parish council. She stressed Fr. Berberian's gift for bringing together the community by organizing spiritual and cultural
activities.
Before concluding the evening, Archbishop
Barsamian presented Fr. Berberian with a
plaque in recognition of his milestone.
On Sunday, January 22, Archbishop Khajag
Barsamian celebrated the Divine Liturgy.
During the service, Gregory Merjian was ordained to the order of sub-diaconate and
Arlen Avedyan to the order of diaconate.
Both worked with Fr. Berberian to prepare
for their new duties.
Page 14
SEVAN
Very rev. Fr. Oshagan Gulgulian: 25 Years of Service
On
Sunday, February 12, the community of St. Sahag and St. Mesrob
Church of Wynnewood, Pa., came together
to celebrate its pastor's 25th anniversary of
ordination to the holy priesthood. The
church's
newly renovated
hall
looked regal
with
more
than 320 parishioners,
community
members, and friends in attendance to
congratulate the Very Rev. Fr. Oshagan Gulgulian on this milestone.
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan
Primate, presided over the celebration.
Karinne Andonian began the afternoon with
renditions of the American and Armenian
national anthems. This was followed by an
invocation from Archbishop Yeghishe
Gizirian.
Committee co-chair Sarah Selverian
welcomed everyone and offered a toast on
the occasion, followed by greetings from
parish council chair Laraine Ballard. Ballard
spoke of Fr. Gulgulian's outreach to the
entire community and the many events he
has helped to initiate working side by side
with the parish organizations. She also spoke
of the admiration of many for his knowledge
of Armenian history and church doctrine,
which has greatly enriched his sermons and
lectures.
Dinner was served by the ACYOA Juniors
and Seniors, who also assisted with the room
setup. A beautiful program filled the
afternoon, featuring vocal and choral
selections and dancing, interspersed with
inspirational remarks.
The Rev. Fr. Hakob Gevorgyan spoke on
behalf of the area Armenian clergy and
shared his first encounter with Fr. Gulgulian
when they were both serving in Germany.
Archbishop Gizirian then spoke of Fr.
Gulgulian's devotion to the Armenian
Church.
Banquet co-chair Elizabeth Barsamian presented Fr. Gulgulian with a pair of gold cufflinks embossed with the image of Holy
Echmiadzin. This parish gift was handmade
by Khosrof Pakhtigian. Fr. Gulgulian
expressed his gratitude and said that if he
were to start his life anew, he would again
choose the path of the priesthood in the
Armenian Church.
Archbishop Barsamian spoke of Fr. Gulgulian's service to the Armenian Church and
observed that this milestone served as an
opportunity to bring the community closer
together. Steve Barsamian served as the
master of ceremonies.
Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012
Page 15
Armenia’s Minister of Defense Visits Diocesan Center
On
Wednesday, March 21, Armenia's
Minister of Defense Seyran
Ohanyan visited the headquarters of the
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America
in New York. He was welcomed by
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate, who
led him and his delegation on a tour of St.
Vartan Armenian Cathedral.
In the sanctuary, Mr. Ohanyan and his wife
Ruzanna lit a candle and joined the Primate
and cathedral dean, the Rev. Fr. Mardiros
Chevian, in reciting the Lord's Prayer.
The delegation included Deputy Defense
Minister Davit Tonoyan; Ambassador Garen
Nazarian, the Permanent Representative of
the Republic of Armenia to the United
Nations, and his wife Nana; and Colonel
Mesrop Nazarian, Armenia's Defense
Attaché in Washington.
In the Diocese's reception hall, the guests
were welcomed by about 25 leaders of the
Eastern Diocese. Among these were Diocesan
Council members Oscar Tatosian, Dr. Raffy
Hovanessian, and Papken Megerian; Dr.
Edgar Housepian and Dr. John Nercessian of
the Fund for Armenian Relief, and FAR's
executive director Garnik Nanagoulian.
After his welcoming remarks, the
Primate presented
Mr. and Mrs.
Ohanyan
with
two gold crosses
crafted by jeweler
and
longt ime
community leader Hirant Gulian. At the
conclusion, Mr. Ohanyan presented
Archbishop Barsamian with a medal.
Mr. Ohanyan was on an official visit to the
United States, where he was scheduled to
meet with various U.S. government officials,
including his counterpart, U.S. Defense
Secretary Leon Panetta.
Easter Celebrated in New York
E
aster morning was cool and sunny in New
York, as hundreds gathered at the city's St.
Vartan Armenian Cathedral to celebrate the most
important day of the year in the church calendar.
More than 2,000 people participated in services on
April 8. Early on, pews began to be filled and
when seats had become
scarce, many stood at
the back or spilled onto
the plaza, where audio
speakers broadcast the
Badarak
from
the
sanctuary.
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America
(Eastern), celebrated the Divine Liturgy and
delivered the homily. He spoke about the three
women who were the first to witness the miracle
of Christ's Resurrection.
This episode is remembered in the Armenian
Church through the Yughaperitz Ganaykh, or the
"Oil-bearing Women" service—an ancient
tradition that is performed every Sunday before
the start of the Divine Liturgy.
Page 16
SEVAN
Requiem Service for His Holiness Shenouda III,
Patriarch of the Coptic Orthodox Church
On
March 21, in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, under the Presidency of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme
Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, a
requiem service was offered for the recently
departed His Holiness Shenouda III, Patriarch of the Coptic Orthodox Church, Pope of
Alexandria and the Patriarch of All Africa on
the Holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark.
Present for the service were His Eminence
Archbishop Marek Solczynski, Apostolic
Nuncio to Armenia and Georgia of the Roman Catholic Church; His Eminence Archbishop Rafael Minassian, leader of the Armenian
Catholic Church in Armenia, Georgia and Eastern Europe; Sergei Manasarian, Vice-minister of
the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia; and representatives of the Egyptian
and Lebanese Embassies to the Republic of Armenia.
At the beginning of the service, the Catholicos of All Armenians reflected on the blessed memory of Patriarch Shenouda, leader and shepherd of the Coptic Orthodox Church, and his productive decades of service. “Through His efforts and devotion, the Coptic Orthodox Church
experienced a renaissance through the founding of new churches, dioceses, parishes, and educational and charitable institutions. His pontificate was marked by a revival of the ancient monastic tradition of the desert fathers,” His Holiness stated in part.
His Holiness highlighted the departed Pope’s significant role in inter-church and interreligious relations as an active participant of the ecumenical dialogue and proponent of unity
for Christian and inter-faith solidarity.
His Holiness, on behalf of the Supreme Spiritual Council and the Brotherhood of the Mother
See of Holy Etchmiadzin, once again expressed his condolences to the Coptic Orthodox
Church and the Authorities of Egypt.
Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012
Page 17
The Second Phase of the Program
“Assistance to the Families” Launched
W
ith the blessings of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, the second phase
of the program “Aid to Families” has been
launched. The program is a joint effort of
the Christian Education Department of the
Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, the ecumenical organization Acting by Churches
Together (ACT) and the Armenian Round
Table Foundation, in cooperation with Mr. Armen Ashotian, Minister of Education and Science
of the Republic of Armenia.
The aim of the program is to strengthen the connection of church-school-family, and to promote spiritual, national, and moral values. The first phase of the program was implemented
during the 2010-2011 educational year.
The Armenian Apostolic Church, with the cooperation of regional Armenian dioceses and local authorities, has been organizing informational meetings in roughly 100 schools throughout
the regions of Armenia, with clergy and parents within the communities. During periodically
held meetings, clergy have analyzed the diversified domestic challenges facing families in the
context of the value system of the Armenian Church, as well as discussed problems on domestic violence, and answered questions that are concerning parents. As a supplementary resource, the “Modern Christian Family in Society” informational pamphlet has been distributed
to schools and parents.
As part of the second phase, a conference was held in Tsaghkadzor, March 5-7, with the theme
“The Spiritual Outlook on Violence.” Thirty-five clergy from various Dioceses in Armenia that
are directly involved in the program were in attendance.
During the conference, His Grace Bishop Arakel Karamian, Primate of the Diocese of Kotayk,
and His Grace Bishop Markos Hovhannisian, Primate of the Diocese of Gegharkunik, spoke
and offered their blessings. Reverend Father Vartan Navasardian, Director of the Christian
Educational Center of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and Dr. Karen Nazarian, Director
of the Armenian Church “Round Table” Foundation both made presentations and facilitated
discussions.
Sergei Borzov, Senior Advisor at the National Foundation for the Prevention of Cruelty to
Children, analyzed the psychological basis of family issues. He highlighted the importance of
the role of the parish priest in resolving issues of domestic violence and in providing education
on these topics to children and adults.
Page 18
SEVAN
Parish Events
Winter – Spring, 2012
· November 17 – The AVAK Seniors Bingo luncheon took place in the Church Hall and it was
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fun. Linda Sharigian at the helm did a great job.
November 20 – The Pre-Thanksgiving food sales after church services was successful.
December 2 – The Virginia Armenian Network (V.A.N.) happy hour was held at the Virginia
Museum of Fine Arts. The group enjoyed live music and entertainment at the museum.
December 3 – Women’s Guild Christmas party at the Church hall was a warm, pleasant eat-and
-drink occasion. The dinner was buffet style with soft music in the background. Great food,
great fun.
December 9 – Our newly formed ACYOA organized the Friday Family Night for all young
families with children. It was a fun evening with lots of games and activities.
December 11 – The Virginia Holocaust Museum’s grand opening and reception of The Ongoing
Armenian Genocide - Death, Denial & Desecration exhibit hosted a packed crowd. The guest
speakers were Aram Arkum from the Mirror-Spectator staff and Dr. Roger W. Smith who isProfessor Emeritus of Government of The College of William and Mary. The members of the
Virginia Holocaust Museum and the Armenian Education Center shared their joint vision for
the development of a permanent Genocide exhibit.
December 15 – AVAK Seniors Christmas party luncheon was fun. The food was great and seniors received a surprise gift.
January 5 & 6 – Christmas Eve and Christmas Day – Feast of the Nativity and the Theophany of
Our Lord Jesus Christ.
January 8 – Holy Badarak and Blessing of the Water followed by Christmas lunch hosted by the
Women’s Guild and a visit by Santa Claus.
January 20 – We were pleased to have the Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet State Theater of Yerevan’s Puppet Shows & Concert for the first time in Richmond at our church hall. Those that attended were pleasantly surprised. The children were captivated by the performance and were
laughing and singing along.
February 19 – Poon Paregentan Badarak was followed by the Blessing of the Children Service at
the end of Divine Liturgy. It was a day to honor the children, parents, grandparents and godparents. Poon Paregentan Lunch & Talent Show was held in the church hall after Badarak. The
lunch was delicious and the talent show was, indeed, something to see. The children were well
rehearsed and performed beautifully. The talent show included recitations, singing, and playing
of various musical instruments. It was a joy to watch them.
March 15 – The AVAK Seniors met for lunch at The Olive Garden Restaurant in Short Pump at
the far west end on Henrico County. It was an interesting drive and the food and company was
good.
February 24-March 30 - Friday Lenten Services and Dinners were organized by St. James
Women’s Guild with the participation and sponsorship of our members.
February 26 - Annual Parish Assembly was held in the church hall.
Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012
Page 19
Page 20
SEVAN
Hokehankist - Requiem
For: Zarouhi DerKrikorian Deloian
(40 days)
By: Harry Deloian & Family
For: Ossanna Vahanian
By: Gilda & Edward Arslanian
For: His Eminence Archbishop Mesrob Asjian
By: Lucy Papazian & the Dean Family
(Fredericksburg, VA)
Aaron Burghardt; Servart Topjian;
Salpi, Richard & Serar Kevorkian;
Lilly, Robert, Christopher & Raffi
Thomas; and Douglas & Maria
Carden
For: Charles & Melinee Bezirdjian,
Sahag & Athanas Kibinian
By: Diran & Esther Bezirdjian and Ossana Kibinian
For: Lousaper Keshishian
By: Chris & Lucy Grey
For: George & Dora Diradour
By: The Diradour and Barsamian Families
For: Alexan & Nvard Iskandarian,
Anjelina Iskandarian
By: Ara Iskenderian
For: Satenig Der Sarkisian & Esther
Kavafian
By: Lucy Papazian and the Dean Family
For: Haig Markarian
By: Ann Markarian & Family
For: Sahag & Haygouhi Garabedian
By: Anahid Ghazarian & Family,
Marlene & Haig Garabedian &
Family and Lusene & Fadi Salloum
For: Kevin Jacobe
By: Sarah Jacobe-Arici & Family
For: Marie Akseraylian
By: Arlene Akseraylian & Family
For: Mihran Ozbalik & Kevork
Zeroukoglu
By: Nubar & Janet Ozbalik and Arshalouys Zeroukoglu
For: Alice Bouroujian
By: Levon, Arpi, Liza Bouroujian;
For: Elizabeth Pattinian
By: Patricia Davidson
For: Manuk & Zinaida Margaryan,
Vladimir & Araxia Avanesyan
By: Ruben & Yelena Avagyan
For: John Dermanjian &
Janet Caporale
By: Zevart & Anthony Caporale
For: Kilerciyan, Zurnacian, Duman,
& Turpajian Families
By: Zurnacian, Kilerciyan & Gulian
Families, Bederos & Stella Bandazian
For: Emma Livingstone
By: David Livingstone
For: Archalouys & Antranik Bouroujian & Betty Carden
By: Lilly, Robert, Chris, & Raffi Thomas;
Salpi, Richard & Serar Kevorkian;
Maria & Douglas Carden; Levon &
Arpi Bouroujian, and Yeghia, Leiza
& Sosy Bouroujian
For: Hasmig Ghazarian Jacobe
By: Anahid Ghazarian & Sarah
Ghazarian Arici & Families
For: Wilfred Schein, Sepouhi Vartanian, Archalouyse & Ara Garabedian
By: Hasmig Schein & Family
For: Akabi Zakar Hacikyan
By: Arshalouse Zeroukoglu & Family
MEMORIALS
In Memory of: Archie Giragosian
Haike & Betty Giragosian
John & Ruby Giragosian
Roxie & Arpina Kricorian
In lieu of flowers
Zarouhi “Liz” Deloian
(Continued from last issue)
John & Ardemis Jerikian
Murad & Melanie Kerneklian
Ohanes Shadoyan
(St. James Senior Choir)
(Continued from last issue)
Rose & Florence Soghoian
Francis & Donna Campbell
Marie Akseraylian
(Continued from last issue)
Anahid Ghazarian
Mark Chookazian
(Paramus, NJ)
Kachi & Sue Dedian
Paris Dedeian
Roxie Kricorian
Alice LeVay
Dianne & Tony Velegris
Linda Sharigian
Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012
Page 21
Special donations
St. James Armenian Church
55Th Anniversary Donations
Patron
Harry Deloian
“In Memory of Zarouhi Deloian”
Sponsors
Diran & Esther Bezirdjian
Shocky & Marni Pilafian
Chris & Lucy Grey
Donors
Bruce Forbes (Alexandria, VA)
Cynthia Maghakian
Robert & Lilly Thomas
John Heyser
Joyce Soghoian
Kachi & Susan Dedian
Garen & Nouneh Karapetyan
Nishan & Irene Bouroujian
Bruce Forbes & Becky BakalianHachikian
CHRISTMAS YUGHAkIN
2012
Alan & Veronica Arikian
Bedros & Stella Bandazian
John Baronian & Nancy Avakian
Margaret Butler
Anahid Ghazarian
Fr. Mesrob & Ruzanna Hovsepyan
Haike & Johnny Giragosian
“In memory of Manoog & Archie Giragosian”
Betty & Haike Giragosian
Becky & Stephanie Green
Sam & Maral Haboush
Richard & Salpi Kevorkian
Arpina & Roxie Kricorian
Pamela Little
Peruz Manoukian
Ann Markarian
Charles Moogalian
Lillian Mooradian
Mary Ann Pedigo
Hasmig Schein
Sirvart Sabounjian
Linda Sharigian
Joyce Soghoian
Elizabeth Tootelian
Tony & Dianne Velegris
Vahe & Ruzanna Ghazarian
CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
SPONSORS
Garen & Nouneh Karapetyan
Nubar & Janet Ozbalik
CHRISTMAS GREETING
CARD
Ann Markarian
PUPPET SHOW & CONCERT
SPONSORS
Chuck Ashjian
Garen & Nouneh Karapetyan
Bedros & Stella Bandazian
Sam & Maral Haboush
Harry Deloian
Party Perfect
SUNDAY SCHOOL
RENOVATIONS
Garen & Nouneh Karapetyan
Rose & Florence Soghoian
Hovig & Liza Suleymanian
Mirik & Nelia Suleymanian
NEW OFFICE COPY
MACHINE
Harry Deloian
FOOD BANK
Azarik Pugh (Norfolk, VA)
In loving memory of Alice Bouroujian
Ann Markarian
In loving memory of Haig Markarian
Roxie Kricorian
In loving memory of Apraham & Mary
Kricorian, John Kricorian, Sr., Taguhi
Kapamackjian, & Marshall Knox
Joyce Soghoian—Christmas Poinsettias
& Easter Lilies
Yeran Topjian – Easter Lilies
CHURCH
Robert & Barbara Roe
John & Ruby Giragosian
Anahid Deese
EASTER YUGHAKIN
Alan & Veronica Arikian
Queen Benson (Newport News, VA)
Margaret Butler (Hopewell, VA)
Vartouhi & Avedis Garabedian
Robert & Martha Garian
Vahe & Ruzanna Ghazarian
Fr. Mesrob & Ruzanna Hovsepyan
Garen & Nouneh Karapetyan
Richard & Salpi Kevorkian
Roxie Kricorian
Peruz Manoukian
Mary & Joseph Melton
Charles Moogalian
Zadig & Lucille Setian
(Williamsburg, VA)
John & Ruby Giragosian
Becky & Stephanie Green
Victoria & Hugo Tito
Isabel Vartanian (Hopewell, VA)
Linda Sharigian
ALTAR FLOWERS
Patricia Davidson
In loving memory of her mother,
Elizabeth Pattinian
Chris, Katherine, & Katie Wall
Krikor & Servart Zurnacian & Family
The Bouroujian Family
EASTER LUNCHEON
SPONSORS
Nubar & Janet Ozbalik
Garen & Nouneh Karapetyan
Page 22
SEVAN
Calendar of Upcoming Events
· April 19, Thursday - V.A.N. Happy Hour at Cafe Caturra , 5:30pm.
· April 22, Sunday - Memorial Requiem Service followed by a short program for the victims of the
Armenian Genocide. Submit the names for the Requiem Service by April 19th.
· April 25, Wednesday - Bible Study Morning Group, 10:00-11:00 a.m.
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Come to explore together the pathways of the New Testament and to increase our faith and spiritual
fulfillment through study of the Gospel of Matthew.
April 25, Wednesday - Annual Armenian Genocide Observance on Capitol Hill, 6:00 p.m.
Everyone is welcomed to join our small group from Richmond attending the Congressional event in
Washington D.C. We will depart from the church parking lot at 13:00 p.m.
April 28, Saturday - Armenian Relief Society—Golf & Tavloo tournament.
April 29, Sunday - Women's Guild General Meeting, 12.30 p.m.
May 5, Saturday - Spring Clean-Up Day. Join us to clean up and dust the church sanctuary, 8:00 a.m.
May 6, Sunday - Screening of "From Ararat to Zion" documentary following the Divine Liturgy &
light luncheon, 12:30 p.m.
May 9, Wednesday - Bible Study Morning Group, 10:00-11:00 a.m.
May 16, Wednesday - Bible Study Evening Group, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
May 19, Saturday - Women's Guild Fashion Show hosted by Stein Mart, 8:30 a.m.
May 23, Wednesday - Bible Study Morning Group, 10:00-11:00 a.m.
May 30, Wednesday - Bible Study Evening Group, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
BIBLE STUDY
Come to explore together the pathways of the New Testament and to increase our faith and spiritual fulfillment through studying of the Holy
Scriptures with Der Mesrob.
We have morning and evening groups and meet twice a month on
Wednesdays. Feel free to join one of the groups.
SACRAMENTS
November 27, 2011
Katherine Julianna Wall
Daughter of Christopher &
Katherine Wall
November 27, 2011
Valentina Armenie Fisher
Daughter of Ronald & Taline
Fisher
February 28, 2012
Saakian Family,
Artur, Christina, Anna, Yesaie,
Gaiane, Mariam, Avedis, Davit
Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012
Page 23
ST. JAMES ARMENIAN CHURCH
MEMBERSHIP 2012
Name(s) ___________________________________________________
Address ___________________________________________________ Phone ____________________
___ I/We wish to become a new voting member(s) of St. James Armenian Church.
___ I/We wish to be reinstated as a voting member(s) of St. James Armenian Church.
___ I have already paid my dues for the year 2012
My/Our check for $_____ ($200.00 per member, $100 per student) as my/our dues for the year 2012:
___ is enclosed
___ will be mailed before December 31, 2012
Please, make your check payable to St. James Armenian Church; Memo: Membership
Sevan Donations
We thank the donors who answered our call
in the previous issue to help offseting the
costs of our newsletter. A total of $520 was
received from the following:
Virginia & Hugh Abernathy
Harry & Mariam Eretzian – CA
Joyce Soghoian
Harry Deloian
Dikran Kabbendjian Family – NC
Hayk & Hamest Melikyan – NC
G. & T. Degermajian - NC
Phil & Marilynn Guzelian – CO
John Baronian
Andre & Diane Karakashian
Arsh & Shirley Kapigian –NJ
Richard & Margaret Owen
We thank you for your generosity. Please
feel free to send us also your comments and
suggestions regarding our publication.
PLEASE NOTE: Any contribution sent to defray the printing and
mailing expanses would be greatly appreciated. Please use this
form to send your donation for this purpose. We would also appreciate your comments and suggestions regarding our publication.
St. James Armenian Church
834 Pepper Avenue, Richmond, VA 23226
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ST. JAMES ARMENIAN CHURCH
834 Pepper Avenue
Richmond, VA 23226
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PERMIT # 628
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Please Rush, Dated Material
Parish Administrative
Directory
WORSHIP HOURS
Sunday Morning Service 10:00 a.m.
Sunday Divine Liturgy 10:30 a.m.
PASTOR
Rev. Fr. Mesrob Hovsepyan
Res: 9604 Craigs Mill Dr., Glen Allen, VA 23060
Home Phone/Fax 804-270-3189
Email: frmesrob@stjamesva.org
PARISH COUNCIL
Rev. Fr. Mesrob Hovsepyan
Rob M. Norris, Chairman
Leiza Bouroujian, Vice-Chairperson
Dale Baronian, Treasurer
Steve Barsamian, Co-Treasurer
Gregory Boyajian, Secretary
Jamie Accashian, Adviser
Nubar Ozbalik, Adviser
John Baronian, Senior Adviser
CHURCH OFFICE
Office Hours: 8:30-11:30am, 12:30-3:00pm
Office closed on Monday.
Phone: 804-282-3818
Fax: 804-282-2330
Email: info@stjamesva.org
www.stjamesva.org
WOMEN’S GUILD
Stella Bandazian
TheMayrig@aol.com
ARMENIAN/SUNDAY SCHOOL
Nouneh Karapetian
nmovses@verizon.net,
Yn. Ruzanna Hovsepyan
ruzkas@yahoo.com
CHOIR DIRECTOR
Peruz Manoukian
plm7ian@yahoo.com
SEVAN EDITORIAL BOARD
Rev. Fr. Mesrob Hovsepyan
Roxie Kricorian
Linda Sharigian
PASTORAL CARE: HOME AND HOSPITAL
CLERGY VISITS
The pastor is 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 (804) 282-3818 or (804) 405-9399 (direct).
Please note: when asked about religion at a hospital, patients should list themselves as “Armenian
Orthodox” or “Armenian” not “other.”