Publication of the Armenian Missionary Association of America MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 - Vol. XXXVI No. 3 (ISSN 1097-0924)

The Rev. Jirair Sogomian Editor

The Rededication Service of KCHAG - Christian Endeavor Summer Center in Lebanon (See Story on page 17) E D I T O R I A L M E S S A G E

“And the Church Grew …”

Rev. Jirair M. Sogomian At this time of the liturgical year of the church, we find ourselves journeying through the long, inspiring and inspirited season of Pentecost, which reminds us of the phenomenal growth of the church in the first century. In spite of the attrition of the church in the west, statistics show that Christ’s church is experiencing a phenomenal growth in the twenty first century, primarily in Africa, China, Korea and South America. With thankfulness in our hearts, we also praise the Lord of the church for the healthy growth of the body of believers in Armenia. The number of believers is daily increasing in our homeland, claiming more and more of our people to their forefather’s faith and turning their hearts and lives to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. The unusual growth of the church in Africa and Latin America, calls us to celebrate this season of Pentecost with a healthy consciousness that the Spirit of God is once again at work in our times as in the first century!

uite often we tend to forget that the Christ who gave the church. We are not alone in this monumental task of Qus the gift of the church is also the Lord of the church. bringing our people back to the God who called them out We are tempted to think that the growth of the church de- of the wilderness of their pagan ancestry to the only true pends solely on us, and wherever the church fails to grow God of the universe, even our Father in Christ. We have we appeal to all kinds of gimmicks and human ploys to the companionship of the One who is powerful to recreate offset the rate of attrition, instead of praying to the Lord us and restore God’s image in us, and to share with us his of the church and the Lord of the harvest! The beautiful power to help us live our lives in the manner and spirit of season of Pentecost reminds us that, as disciples of Christ, the Christ who emptied himself. we live and move and have our being in the One who not If you happen to be one of those Christians who have only is the Lord of the church, but also the Lord of the already given up on our people and nation, given up on universe who calls us to humbly submit ourselves to the the restoration of peace in the Middle East, or for that promptings of his Spirit, rather than fret in the anxiety of matter, given up on peace on earth and goodwill among our spirits and redouble our human efforts as if all de- the peoples of this earth, just remember that we are not pended on us! alone in this cosmic fight against the principalities and As those who are called to be sent out to teach, preach powers of this world. We are empowered by the Spirit of and share the Good News, we do not do so alone. We are the living God who can do through us more than we can the inheritors of a promise that we will not be laboring in ever think or imagine. A Spirit who can take our foolish- God’s vineyard alone, but will have the powerful pres- ness to shame the wise, and use our weakness to shame ence of God’s Holy Spirit who will teach us everything the strong of this world, always reminding us that what- and remind us of all that Jesus had said to his followers. ever happens in our mission is not the result of our smart- As such, Jesus urges us not to let our hearts be troubled ness, but simply the work of the Spirit who enables us and and to do our work without fear (John 14). As ambassa- keeps us faithful to the end! dors of Christ, called to tell the story of the One who emp- This wonderful season of Pentecost – which stretches tied himself of his divine privileges to assume the limita- from the Day of Pentecost to the end of the liturgical year, tions of our humanity, and who embraced death for our the last Sunday of November that celebrates the Reign of sakes to overcome by his resurrection the ultimate power Christ – calls us to live out the Christian life aware of a of death to separate us from God, we must remember that powerful presence in our lives that enables us to live boldly, we are empowered by the One who sent us to be his wit- abandoned to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, and yes, nesses. So calm down and quiet your heart and remember even vulnerable to be accused of drunkenness, fools for that you are not alone in carrying on the sacred mission of Christ who live to the glory of God!G

AMAA NEWS - A publication of the Armenian Missionary Association of America, Inc., 31 West Century Road, Paramus, NJ 07652. Tel. (201) 265-2607; Fax (201) 265-6015; E-Mail: [email protected]; Website: http://www.amaainc.org

2 AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 A R M E N I A

Sold Out Crowd Raises $130,000 to Support AMAA Orphans and Honor Joyce Stein

festive circus atmosphere with color- Preceding the fashion show, a silent auc- A ful balloons decorated the Ballroom tion and chocolate boutique were enjoyed of the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills by the ladies who vied for the unique and as the Armenian Missionary Association of valuable items. Dr. Lisa Karamardian and America (AMAA) Orphan/Chi1d Care Gayane Tatoulian coordinated the silent auc- Committee held its fifth Children’s Fashion tion while Barbara Poladian, who had made Show and Silent Auction. A sold out crowd lovely Easter baskets full of yummy choco- of parents, grandparents and well wishers late, sold them outright. The Orphan/Child were on hand to witness 45 children model Care Committee members gave full support to benefit the children of Armenia. Michael to the luncheon chairs, Diane, Gina and George Phillips, Vice President of AMAA Agbabian was the Ringmaster and presented Sandra and were delighted to honor their presenting a plaque to Joyce Stein. each of the children and spoke about their wonderful chairperson Joyce Stein. The ties, hot lunches and other necessities hobbies and what each child wished for the event was also a financial success netting, through the efforts and support of the ladies children of Armenia. The finale, a parade $130,000 for the children of Armenia who of Los Angeles and the countless hours of of the models, brought smiles and enthusi- will enjoy summer camps, Christmas par- planning by the committee.G astic applause from those in attendance. The luncheon was opened with a prayer by Mrs.Houri Melkonian and an inspira- tional devotional was given by Mrs. Penny Wood of Women of Vision challenging women to get involved and help wherever they can. She spoke of personal stories of need around the world and specially that of neglected children. Among the sold out crowd was a contin- gent who had arrived just the day before from London to surprise Joyce Stein. The Stein’s daughter Tina and her family flew to LA to be on hand as Joyce was presented with a plaque-letter of glowing tribute from the Ex- ecutive Director of the AMAA, Rev. Jirair Sogomian, which was read by George Phillips, AMAA Vice-President and longtime friend of Mrs. Stein. Grace Kurkjian gave a short biographical sketch of Joyce Stein stressing the myriad of good causes that she has supported and is currently supporting. A congratulatory note was sent by Dr. John Khanjian, President of the Haigazian Univer- sity, commending Joyce for her tireless ef- forts on behalf of the University in Beirut. A beautifully framed Lord’s Prayer etched on silk was given to Joyce by the luncheon co- chair Diane Cabraloff, Gina Felikian and Sandra Kalemkiarian on behalf of the AMAA Orphan/Child Care Committee. Joyce re- sponded graciously by saying that it is a joy to serve the Lord and a joy to do what one loves. She thanked the Committee and ev- The children in the fashion show (above). The AMAA's Los Angeles area Orphan/ Child eryone present. Care Committee members (below).

AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 3 A R M E N I A A Time in Talin

Colin Morris y wife, Arpine, and I visited Arme- Mnia for two months in the late fall of 2001. It was a trip we had been looking for- ward to for a number of years. Indeed, this kind of trip would not have been possible without the help of Pastor Sarmazian, and the leader of the Armenian Missionary As- sociation of Canada, Mihran Jizmejian. We were put in touch with Harout Nercessian of the AMAA Center in Yerevan who sug- gested that we might be of most help in Talin, a small town in the Aragats region, (l. to r.) Mrs. Sylva Yenovkian, Mr. & Mrs. Colin and Arpine Morris and Mr. Mihran not far from the Turkish border. So it was Jizmejian. with a sense of adventure that we stumbled But there was not much leisure for admir- It turned out that the mother of the fam- down the steps on to the tarmac of Yerevan ing the landscape just now. Sister Hannah ily, Haykush, worked in the kitchen of the Airport in the predawn darkness of Octo- was getting ready to go to Berd, a small town kindergarten. We shook hands with her ber 2nd. away to the north-east near the Azerbaijan among the steaming pots and pans. As she Grateful for the van and driver sent by the border. The Lord had led her to minister to was about to have her lunch-break, it was AMAA, we lurched and rattled over the pot- the needs of destitute, elderly people in that the right time to give her a lift to her home. holes through a suburb of nondescript, small area. The other resident of the Center, Mike Her house, a two-story stone dwelling sur- shops and businesses with roll-up corrugated Balabanian, was alternately shouting into the rounded by a large garden was five minutes iron doors which reminded me of Nicosia phone (Only stentorian tones can handle the away from the church. We lugged our heavy in Cyprus fifty years ago. Modern capital- local version of Bell’s invention!), and dash- cases into the spacious bedroom on the sec- ism showed itself here and there in the form ing about with building plans and contracts, ond floor, just off the family room, in which of a brilliantly-lit gas station, a Western fast preparing to drive over to Vanadzor, where we sat down and met Vahan, the husband, food outlet, a recently-built luxury hotel. We he was trying to get the roof of the church and also the three children just home from were taken to the AMAA Center where we building completed before the snow set in. school. They brought us apples, fresh wal- aroused Sister Hannah, well-known for her We felt it was time we got going, too. We nuts, home-made fruit juices, and Armenian ministry in Lebanon, who, good-humored contacted Brother Armen Michaelian, the coffee. in spite of the unearthly hour, showed us to AMAA organizer for the Aragats area, and Arpine was rapidly growing accustomed a room where we had three hours of good we were told that we could go to Talin with to the Armenian spoken in the Homeland, sleep before getting up to take a look at our him on his regular weekly visit the next day. but I was completely at a loss. I soon found new surroundings. In Talin the next morning, Brother Armen out, however, that I could put to good use Breakfasting later that morning, we had a showed us around the two-story AMAA the Russian I had taken at the university. Al- magnificent view of Mount Ararat from the Center. The ground floor was used for most every Armenian is able to speak Rus- kitchen windows. It loomed out of the church services and social gatherings of the sian, many of them fluently. Vahan had done clouds in the hazy sunlight like something Evangelical community; the upper story was his military service in the Red Army as a separate from the land below it. In the fore- devoted to the kindergarten providing free mechanic/driver. Having completed his ser- ground was a jumble of roofs of various schooling and meals to some 50 needy chil- vice, he drove a truck, distributing retail shapes and sizes with corrugated iron, the dren. As we were being shown around, it goods to state outlets around the country. He most conspicuous material. On gable and was explained to us that the rental accom- had a reasonably good living. When the flat roof, large magpies strutted about and modation which we had hoped for was un- U.S.S.R. fell apart, everyone in the country took off on errands into the middle air. To available. Shopping, too, was difficult in a was adversely affected. The currency lost the north, in a shimmer of Turneresque light, place where supplies were sporadic, and one most of its value. In Talin, unemployment the gigantic stacks of the Armenian nuclear needed to know where to go and when. He rose to 80%, about 1/3 of the work force power station sent up plumes of vapor, ver- had, therefore, made arrangements for us to left to find work all over the former Union. tical in the still morning air. Behind them rent a room in the house of an Evangelical A few were able to emigrate to the U.S.A. the extinct volcanoes of the Aragats Moun- family. We would eat with them and we Vahan now owns an old truck with which tains ranged over the horizon. Somewhere might also like to contribute to the cost of he does the occasional odd job a couple of over there lay Talin! any extra food we might want. times a week. Haykush gets a steady in-

4 AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 A R M E N I A come from her work with the kindergarten, selves in their white robes. of these feasts. The event took place in the but it is really very little. There were some eighteen young people home where we were staying. The carpets The disappearance of the socialist safety in the Church who were undergoing leader- were rolled up and stored in other rooms. net was not the only disaster to befall Ar- ship training. These leaders shouldered vari- The doors were taken off their hinges to menia. Just over a decade ago, there was ous responsibilities in connection with Sun- leave more space for the trestle tables. The the devastating earthquake, the ruins of day school teaching, and also the visitation occasion was enhanced by the presence of a which we could still see, especially in of the sick, the needy, and those who were dear young friend, well known to the Ar- Gumri, the country’s second largest city. absenting themselves from the regular menian Evangelical Church in Toronto, While we were there visiting friends, there Church services for whatever reason. Bedros Nigoghosian. He had come from were three young men who were killed while Arpine led these young people in a Bible Artik, a village to the north of Gumri, where attempting to salvage steel among the un- study of the Book of James once a week, he was preaching the Gospel, mainly among stable ruins that were once buildings. Add and I taught them basic English three eve- young people. Bedros had already been in to these setbacks an economically draining nings a week. We had a very happy time Talin some months before, and so he re- war with Azerbaijan, and one is no longer with them, and I was surprised at how quired no introduction. I had one of the most surprised at the precarious state of the coun- quickly they learned. Only one of them had enjoyable birthday parties of my life! try. a Bible, but we were able to supply the rest And so the weeks passed in a whirl of As we walked about Talin we would of- with Bibles through our friends, Toros and spiritual highlights and social encounters. ten get into conversation with people on the Virginia Philibosian, missionaries from The Bible-study group had nearly completed street. Many of them had distressing ac- Cyprus working in Gumri. We were able to its discussion of the Book of James, my stu- counts of sons having been killed on mili- buy food to supply a couple of weeks’ basic dents were distinguishing the use of the tary service in Afghanistan or in Karabagh, necessities, for about twenty families who present perfect from the past simple tense, of husbands abroad who had stopped send- were identified by the leaders as being in snow covered the upper slopes of the ing support, of relatives being killed in the dire need. We walked through the dusty Aragats Mountains, and the cold wind stirred earthquake, of totally inadequate pensions streets, with our heavy plastic bags of pro- the heaps of fallen leaves under the walnut and health care. visions, to poor but clean and tidy dwell- trees. The nights grew long under skies of One woman, barely in her sixties, said she ings. We would sit down and read the Scrip- brilliant constellations, clearly traceable in had nothing to live for, and longed for death, tures, trying to bring some spiritual suste- the total absence of street lighting. It was and she apologized for having nothing bet- nance together with our offerings of food. time to go. ter to say to us. Everywhere we looked we Several of the leaders were particularly good We were all silent in the old Lada, as it saw the shells of houses and factories, the in relaying the message which had been bumped its way out of Talin and on to the abandoned housing projects, construction preached the previous Sunday. smooth asphalt of the motorway to Yerevan. cranes rusting away, a mute testimony to the One of the things we really enjoyed was The westering sun was sinking in somber vanity of man’s hopes and ambitions. to have a feast, usually on a Saturday after- glow casting long shadows into the distant In contrast to the despondency all around noon, either at the house where we lived or mountain valleys, and throwing into high re- was the joy to be seen among the believers. in the schoolroom in the church building. I lief the foreground of dark, deserted facto- On Sunday they arrive at Church, joy on found that $100.00 would buy a good feast ries. Vahan and Haykush began to get a little their faces, their children clean and tidy. of the meat of a whole sheep, together with more cheerful as we neared the capital. They Loudly they sang the hymns, many of which vegetables, salad, dessert and soft drinks for were, after all, going to visit some relatives they knew by heart. Those they did not some fifty persons. In this way, under the and have a night out in the big city, when know, they read off handwritten sheets. We guise of a birthday, or an anniversary, one they had dropped us off at the AMAA. Still, were able to be of service here by donating could provide food for church members who they kept on saying it was a pity we were money to provide hymnbooks. They were might not have had a square meal for some going away, and that it would be much bet- very alert during the service, and would an- time. As we sat enjoying the food and the ter if we stayed for Christmas. We parted swer any question the preacher directed at company, those with the inclination would from them at the big, wrought iron gate of the congregation. I took the service one stand up, and hold forth eloquently on the the AMAA courtyard, and stood waving as Sunday and Arpine translated for me. Oc- significance of the occasion and propose a they drove off, a brave Christian couple, casionally she would hesitate over a word, toast in honor of this, that or the other. This, through whose kindness, patience and un- but it would be supplied instantly by sev- of course, provoked a reply of equal oro- derstanding we had been so blessed! eral voices. They were very interested to tundity. There would be spontaneous rounds As our plane leveled out after take-off know how long we had known the Lord as of hymn-singing, and when spirits were thor- from Yerevan, and the jet-engines settled Savior, and many of them could relate the oughly roused, there would be dancing. This into a routine whine, I let my mind wander exact time and circumstances of their own was a bravura performance of vigorous and at random over the experiences of the last conversions. For most, their participation complex footwork combined with the ath- few weeks. And ever and anon, the same in large baptismal groups in Lake Sevan was letic leaps characteristic of the Sassounis. thought recurred insistently until it took the the highest point in their lives, and they A communal demonstration of joy! shape of a conviction: yes, we will go would proudly show us the photos of them- My own birthday was celebrated with one back!G

AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 5 A R M E N I A - D I A S P O R A

Rev. Dr. Vahan H. Tootikian’s Statement On Behalf of the Armenian Evangelical World Council At the Second Armenia-Diaspora Conference

our Excellencies, Presidents of the Re- Second. Guaranteeing the independence our national priorities. And they should re- Ypublics of Armenia and Nagorno- of Artzakh (Karabagh). As in the past, to- view and evaluate the implementation of the Karabagh, your Holinesses and Beatitudes day once again, we, Armenian Evangelicals, adopted resolutions of previous conferences. and Emminences, honored representatives reiterate our resolve to support a fair and Sixth. Strengthening the most important of the Second Armenia-Diaspora Confer- comprehensive settlement of the Karabagh components of our culture, namely, the Ar- ence and dear compatriots: on behalf of the problem, based on the self-determination of menian churches, homes, schools, institu- Armenian Evangelical World Council and its people. tions and the press, which have played a the 155 Armenian Evangelical churches of Third. Halting the emigration (exodus) crucial role in the survival of the Armenian Armenia and Diaspora, we greet you with of Armenians from Armenia and nation. Of vital importance today is the main- warmest Christian love. We also wish to Karabagh. Cognizant of the complexity of tenance of our educational and cultural insti- express our congratulations and gratitude to this problem, we still believe that certain tutions on a high level. To that end, it is vital those who organized this second Armenia- immediate measures should be taken to slow that we encourage both morally and finan- Diaspora Conference. down and eventually halt the emigration of cially our educators, intellectuals, scientists, We are well aware of the fact that this our people from their homeland. We strongly artists, and all those who are dedicated to the conference places serious responsibilities believe that the government of Armenia preservation and perpetuation of the Arme- and commitments on the shoulders of its or- should raise the living standard of its citi- nian culture, heritage and values. Seventh. Respecting the human rights of ganizers and participants. This is the reason zens. It should take drastic measures against all Armenians, including the rights to free- why the Armenian Evangelical World Coun- corruption, bribery, redtape and exploita- dom of religion and worship, freedom of cil is participating in this conference with tion! Furthermore, the government should the prayerful participation of the represen- conscience and speech. It is no secret that create such a trustful atmosphere that for- tatives of Armenian Evangelical regional both in Armenia and Diaspora, we have eign companies, as well as Diasporan Ar- church unions in the world, namely, Rever- people of various ideological, confessional, menian businessmen may be encouraged to ends Vahan H. Tootikian, Jirair Sogomian, political and denominational affiliations. embark upon financial investments in Ar- Réne Leonian, Harout Selimian, Henrig These differences should not be considered menia to improve the economic conditions Shahnazarian, and Masters Mihran a source of curse. In our national life what is Agbabian, Harout Nercessian, Antranig of our country. expected and desirable is not uniformity; Mardoyan and Mrs. Elizabeth Agbabian, Meanwhile, however, we, Diasporan Ar- rather, unity in essential matters. We believe and alternate members Reverends Aharon menians have a moral obligation of not only that each religious, political, cultural, and Sapsezian and Roupen Pehlivanian, and Mr. helping our compatriots in the homeland, but philanthropic entity has its input and contri- Hrayr Jebejian, and Mrs. Zabel Sapsezian. also helping create new job opportunities. bution to our national life, and should not be On the occasion of the Second Armenia- Fourth. Strengthening the ties of com- viewed and treated with prejudice and dis- Diaspora Conference, the Armenian Evan- munication between the Fatherland and crimination. We all form one link, for we have gelical World Council wishes to bring the fol- Diaspora by narrowing the linguistic gap a common history, a common memory, and lowing important issues to the consideration between Eastern and Western Armenian a common destiny. We all belong to one race of the delegates of this Conference: languages. To that end, we propose the res- and we all are compatriots. Let us not lose First. Strengthening the Republic of Ar- toration of the classical Armenian orthog- sight of the fact that patriotism and service menia politically, economically, militarily, raphy, the pre-Soviet Mashtotzian orthog- to one’s country is not the monopoly of any socially, and spiritually. Like all Armenian raphy. We believe such a wise step will be a organization; rather, it is the privilege and organizations, the Armenian Evangelical most conducive factor to enhance and pro- responsibility of all. World Council considers the stability and mote the cultural bond between Armenia and Thus, it is our firm belief that on all fronts prosperity of Armenia an important priority. the Diaspora. of our national life, it is the sacred duty of For Armenian Evangelicals, our Father- Fifth. Planning and organizing future all Armenian organizations to unite in their land, Armenia, is the solid and unshakable periodic Armenia-Diaspora conferences collective efforts and mobilize all their as- foundation for the existence, growth and de- for the purpose of addressing important sets for the sake and for the benefit of our velopment of the Armenian people. Our new issues which affect the collective life of beloved nation, our magnificent culture and and rejuvenated Republic is the indestruc- Armenians and the future of Armenia. our ethnic values, with the full realization tible anchor of our hopes and aspirations. It However, since these conferences are so that Armenia and the Armenian nation can is the powerful testimony of the endurance multifaceted and complex, they need to be exist without any one of us but we cannot of our ethnic genius, and the luminous guar- well-planned in advance. They need to be exist without them. antee of our future. For this reason, we, Ar- representative in nature, with proportional May God bless the Republics of Armenia menian Evangelicals are committed to do our representation from various segments of the and Karabagh and the entire Armenian utmost for our homeland. Armenian community. They should address nation!G

6 AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 A R M E N I A - D I A S P O R A

The Second Armenia-Diaspora Conference

Rev. Dr. Vahan Tootikian he Armenia-Diaspora Second Confer- Tence was convened on May 27-28, 2002, in Yérévan, Armenia, attended by over 3000 (three thousand) Armenian lay and spiritual leaders — government officials, clergy, statesmen, intellectuals, political and community leaders from both Armenia and Diaspora. The Conference was organized and chaired by Armenia’s Foreign Minis- ter, Vartan Osganian. The General Assembly meetings were held at Garen Demirjian Cultural Center (the The Armenian Evangelical participants at the Conference. (l to r) Mr. Hrayr Jebejian, former Concert and Sports Complex, Rev. Harout Selimian, Rev. Jirair Sogomian, Rev. Vahan Tootikian, Rev. René Leonian, Hamalir), and the four thematic sessions Mr. Harout Nercessian and Rev. Henrig Shahnazarian. were held at the Government Reception Hall. Around a large table in the Center’s main it is necessary to augment this effort, system- capable and deserving students who desire auditorium, the Presidents of Armenia and atize it and encourage a new generation of a university education and are aware of its Karabagh sat together with their prime and scholars. A center which is staffed and de- future benefits. foreign ministers along with the heads of all veloped by joint Armenia-Diaspora effort. 6. Regional Health Center. The purpose of Diasporan organizations (churches, politi- 3. Virtual Armenian Studies University. This this complex, multi-dimensional project is cal parties, and charities) as well as the rep- project will establish an internet-based uni- to bring together all appropriate resources resentatives of the Armenian communities versity to provide resources and courses in from the Diaspora and within Armenia and of all country delegations. Armenian studies. A combination data base Artsakh together to create and establish in The Armenian Evangelical World Coun- and on-line classes will provide teachers, Yerevan a world-class health care center. It cil was headed by the Council President, the scholars and students an opportunity to ex- will be the objective of this center to de- Rev. Dr. Vahan H. Tootikian. The delega- change ideas, study the past and analyze cur- velop and provide medical facilities an- tion consisted of the following members: rent and future issues. A curriculum devised chored by a hospital and equipped with all Reverends Vahan H. Tootikian, Jirair by practitioners will provide a model for Ar- modern and up-to-date technologies, spe- Sogomian, René Leonian, Harout Selimian, menian studies at the high school and col- cialized institutes, clinics, short and medium Henrig Shahnazarian, and Masters Mihran lege levels. term convalescent facilities to provide ac- Agbabian, Harout Nersesian, Antranig 4. Committee on Curriculum. This commit- cess to clients and patients from the region. Mardoyan and Mrs. Elizabeth Agbabian, and tee will provide a forum for Armenian edu- 7. Diaspora Museum. The purpose of estab- alternate members Reverends Aharon cators to meet and discuss various ap- lishing a Diaspora Museum in Armenia is Sapsezian and Roupen Pehlivanian, and Mr. proaches for teaching Armenian language, to create a repository of artifacts, icons, Hrayr Jebejian, and Mrs. Zabel Sapsezian. culture and history. Aspects of such a cur- material, archival evidence, a narrative of During the Second Armenia-Diaspora Con- riculum may be adopted by schools and edu- the life of communities. This proposed mu- ference, The following projects were adopted: cators in Armenia and the Diaspora. seum will be built through the combined 1. Computerization of Schools. The objec- 5. Identifying and Supporting Armenian resources and planning of Armenia and the tive is to computerize all 1500 schools in University Students. A committee of uni- Diaspora and will be based in Armenia. Armenia and another 200 in Nagorno versity students and professors will devise Besides these projects, the Second Arme- Karabagh. Of this total, 300 will be con- a program to identify, track and support col- nia-Diaspora Conference also adopted a nected by 2003, through the resources of lege students. They will devise ways to pro- communiqué reiterating the collective will existing programs. The target is the comple- vide attention and assistance to individuals, of all Armenians to support Armenia as well tion of the remainder by 2005. as well as student groups capable of initiat- as to defend the right of the people of 2. Center For Genocide Studies. A research ing activities and promoting visibility. A net- Nagorno Karabagh to live securely and with and publication center for the study of the work and database of student groups capable dignity in their own land. Armenian Genocide of 1915 is necessary in of initiating activities and promoting visibil The conference concluded on the evening Armenia. Although, in the last 87 years, there will be the launching pad for finding schol- of May 28, with a celebration at the has been historical, analytical, narrative, an- arship sources, encouraging civic involve- Sardarabad Memorial, marking the 84th an- ecdotal, biographical and personal research, ment, and facilitating higher education for niversary of the battle of Sardarabad.G

AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 7 M I D D L E E A S T

Near East Visit - 2002

Louis Kurkjian he annual UAECNE/AMAA Mission deficits caused by the Tpartner discussions were held in the economy are affecting the Near East from 19-29 April 2002. AMAA schools. Cost reduction participants included Rev. Jirair Sogomian, is urgent for the schools in AMAA Executive Director and Louis Lebanon. In meetings Kurkjian and Herair Mouradian, co-chairs with the Educational of the Near East Committee. The following Council, they were urged is a summary of the visit. to provide leadership with Rev. Megerdich Karagoezian presenting a donation to Rev. • Throughout the visit, there were numer- proposed actions to reduce Jirair Sogomian on behalf of the Nor Marash Church. ous opportunities for Rev. Jirair to partici- cost and develop a more pate in pastoral activities. This included balanced school system. The AMAA will used by the Union. A unique opportunity preaching at the Nor Marash Church in continue to work with the Near East leader- may exist for the use of the Philibosian Beirut on April 21 and in Kessab on April ship on this issue. school property which has been up for sale; 28. The AMAA Executive Director was the • The schools in Syria are centrally man- the Union is exploring the possibility of primary speaker at the April 24 commemo- aged and with a modest increase in AMAA World Vision using the property as a rative services in Beirut and Aleppo, which support can be at an operating break-even children’s center. A petition has been coop- included Armenian Apostolic and Catholic position. Improvements are needed at the eratively filed with the court system in Syria clergy. He had the opportunity to meet with schools and a prioritized request for AMAA to divide the Aleppo College property. the Near East leadership, with the individual assistance will be forwarded for Board con- When this is accomplished, a major asset pastors in Lebanon and Syria and with do- sideration. will come into the hands of the Evangelical nors to the AMAA. • During 2001-2002, 1490 students in Leba- community in Syria that could be developed • There is a continuing flow of young people non and Syria are eligible for the AMAA and become income producing. into the educational system leading to Chris- $200 annual educational sponsorship. The • Additional audit reports are ready and tian work and ministry. Four Armenian AMAA longstanding goal has been to pro- have been provided to the AMAA. There is males will receive their M.Div. degrees in vide educational funding for all qualifying an appreciation of the value of these reports, the next 3 ½ years. Christian Endeavor (CE) students. At this time, AMAA support cov- but there is also a desire to be cost conscicous is a source of these youth and is very active ers 765 students. Filling this support gap is in preparation. Approval and release of in Lebanon. CE activity in Syria needs ad- critical for school system stability. AMAA AMAA guidelines for reporting will be of ditional leadership and plans are being fi- priority must be focused on increasing do- assistance to the Near East organizations. nalized for this need. The Near East will nor funding and using appropriate endow- • The improvement in “mission partner- continue to become a major source of Chris- ment income for this need. It is noted that ship” between the UAECNE and AMAA tian leadership to the Armenian Evangeli- annual tuition fees, depending on school and was noted in many of the discussions. The cal community worldwide. grade level, run from $600 to over $2,000. spirit of openness and cooperation is con- • The economic situation has worsened in • Union outreach to the countries under their tinuing to build trust. The annual visit to Lebanon and Syria. Unemployment has leadership is progressing. Visits will soon the region is mutually felt to be meaningful, grown and relief assistance is needed for an take place to Greece, Cyprus and Turkey. productive and necessary. increasingly growing number of families. Country representatives are being more fully The AMAA has a mission, which has geo- Social action efforts are organized in Leba- integrated into Union activities and meet- graphically broadened in the last decade, non and are effectively working in the com- ings. The AMAA encouraged this endeavor with major projects in Armenia and other munity. A “committee” approach to social and will support strengthening these ties locations. Its roots began with support to action is being established in Syria for in- with the UAECNE. the Near East over 80 years ago and the creased efficiency. Social action is a prior- • Real Estate issues are numerous and are needs there have both continued and are ity area for AMAA support; this need will being addressed. Title problems on Union growing. Your contributions to the AMAA continue until there is significant improve- and AMAA-owned properties are being cor- have a major impact in spreading God’s ment in the economy. AMAA support to rected. This effort will continue into the next word and in providing humanitarian and the Union and to pastors will need to con- fiscal year and AMAA support is needed. educational support to our worldwide Ar- tinue for the foreseeable future. The Union headquarters move to CMC is menian community. Proverbs 3:9 tells us to • The economic situation also has a direct being planned. It will effectively serve the “honor the Lord from your wealth, and from impact on the schools, as many families can- needs of the Union and also can provide in- the first of all you produce, so your barns not even pay discounted tuition. Operating come from the added space that will not be will be filled with plenty.”G

8 AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 E U R O P E The Armenian Evangelical Church in France

Rev. Jirair Sogomian s promised to all the pastors and church future plans and lo- A representatives in France, I begin the cal mission. report on my attendance at the 72nd Synod A welcome break of the Armenian Evangelical Churches in from the daily France by conveying their warm greetings schedule of meet- and salutations to the AMAA Family, along ings was the cere- with their deep gratitude, publicly expressed mony of the laying on several occasions, for all the help and sup- of the cornerstone port the AMAA extends to them in their of a new sanctuary various needs and mission projects. Need- to be built across less to say, I also conveyed your greetings the street from the to them as I addressed the pastors, delegates present facilities of and guests on several occasions. the host church, the The eve of the Synod was dedicated to St. Antoine Arme- the meeting of the Armenian Evangelical nian Evangelical Fellowship of Europe, with reports of all Church of Mar- mission activities in Belgium, Greece, Tur- seilles, the Rev. key, Germany, United Kingdom and Bul- George Dabbo, pas- garia by Rev. Gilbert Léonian, who chairs tor. Taking advan- the Fellowship. Also present for the occa- tage of a break in a sion were The Rev. and Mrs. Paravazian who rather constantly reported in detail about the churches in rainy weather, an Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna and Roussé. We dis- enthusiastic group cussed the needs of these churches and the of church members support of the AMAA to two young men who and delegates sang, are studying at the NEST in preparation for prayed and joyfully The participants in the 72nd Synod Meeting of the Armenian Evan- ministry in Bulgaria, and the sending of an rededicated them- gelical Union of France (above). The ceremony of the laying of the evangelist from Armenia, who will serve as selves to the mis- cornerstone of a new sanctuary of St. Antoine church (below). our missionary in Varna beginning August 1, sion of Christ’s 2002. church. great appreciation expressed regarding The 72nd Synod Meeting of the Armenian During those days, I also carried several AMAA’s presence and participation at this Evangelical Churches in France covered the private consultations with representatives of Annual Synod Meeting in rainy and flooded remaining three days, May 8, 9 and 10. The churches, mission organizations and pastors Marseille. daily schedules included morning worship, on a variety of common concerns in the mis- In a constantly shrinking world and our a variety of reports which covered the fi- sion field. Of primary importance were dis- rising consciousness of the Armenian Evan- nancial and administrative life of the cussions carried on with The Rev. gelical world-wide family, every opportu- churches, reports from the Armenian Evan- Paravazian regarding our work in Bulgaria, nity to connect and participate in gatherings, gelical Fellowship of Europe, the Armenian with The Rev. Georges Dabbo, regarding the synods and activities beyond our limited Evangelical World Council, and the AMAA. forthcoming building of a new sanctuary for borders, gives us a precious occasion to bond There were also a dozen reports from auxil- the host church at St. Antoine, with Mr. with members of our world-wide family and iary organizations, covering their mission to Serge Kurkdjian, who chairs Hope for Ar- to renew our common sense of mission in the youth, their camps (La Source and La menia; Mr. Ari Topouzkhanian, regarding spite of our marked differences in church Fontanelle), Hope for Armenia, and their our participation in the printing of the new polity and cultural nuances. Such connec- publications (the Panpere Revue and Le Western Armenian Bible he has initiated and tions give us a keener sense of the univer- Lumignon). I was privileged to address the worked on for the last seven years, and our sality of the church as a body that rises above Synod on three occasions: The first, as I publication of “Our Daily Bread”; the Rev. all the differences and separations that the preached my first sermon in French, as I Gilbert Léonian, present chair of the Union, world imposes upon us, and unites us with a reported to them on the life and activities of regarding a number of pressing issues of common sense of purpose and a love that the AMAA, and a final reflection on the role common concern; and a few others on a va- conquers all that separates us from God and that the AMAA will continue to play in their riety of mission topics. All in all, there was each other! G

AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 9 E D U C A T I O N Merdinian School’s Anniversary Banquet Highly Successful

he Merdinian Armenian Evangelical TSchool celebrated its “20 Years of Ser- vice to God, Community and Nation” with an elegant banquet organized by the Board of Directors and the Women’s Auxiliary. At- tended by over 300 supporters and consti- tuting the seventh of jubilee events this year, the banquet was held at the Ararat Home Deukmejian Grand Ballroom in Mission Hills, CA, on Saturday, March 9, 2002. Banquet co-chair, Mrs. Elizabeth Agbabian, welcomed, congratulated, and thanked the attendees. She was followed by Mrs. Elise Tashjian and Mrs. Esther Assilian with a performance of the US and Arme- nian national anthems. Rev. Dr. Vahan Tootikian, the moderator of the Armenian Evangelical Union of North America (AEUNA), gave the invocation. included founding members of the school, Abrahamian Elyasi, entertained the appre- Mr. Zaven Khanjian, the chairman of the identified throughout the evening by blue ciative guests with a delightful rendition of Board of Directors, in his introductory re- ribbons of recognition, who received cop- English and Armenian songs. marks underscored the importance of this ies of the book, Armenia: The Story of A At this time, alumnus Heghine Aslanian, milestone achieved through the determined Place in Essays and Images, as a token of now a graduate student at UCLA, spoke efforts of many individuals and organiza- appreciation. They likewise included two highly of the sound academic and moral tions who deserved due praise and appre- founders of the school, Rev. Dr. Vartkes education she and countless other youngsters ciation as exhorted by the Bible. He also Kassouni and Mrs. Alice Jernazian Haig had received at Merdinian, carrying them stressed the fact that the 20th anniversary (founding chair), who were instrumental in through higher education. Mr. Agbabian celebrations should be an occasion for the the establishment of the school. As such, then invited Mr. Aram Saroyan, son of Wil- school to undergo self-criticism, reevalua- they were awarded special plaques of ap- liam Saroyan and an author in his own right, tion and the establishment of a renewed vi- preciation and gratitude. to deliver the keynote address. Saroyan the sion. The audience then learned of a most Past and present Board members and in- son recounted some of his experiences as a auspicious development-the expansion of volved individuals Harold DeMirjian, Koko young student and as a young father through the campus by 5,100 square feet of land that Balian, Herair Mouradian, Hratch Sarkis, a chain of thoughts. Moreover, he spoke was donated by Mr. Thomas Von Der Ahe George Phillips Sr., George Phillips Jr., Dr. about his relationship with his father and of the VDA Property Company. The donor Misak Abdulian, Dr. Nazareth Darakjian, their last encounter. He concluded by thank- was accordingly recognized with a token of Zaven Hanessian, Vahe Ashkarian, Sebu ing the organizers for inviting him and giv- appreciation. Tashjian, Hagop Loussararian, and Lucina ing him the opportunity to address an Ar- Mr. Khanjian then proceeded to introduce Agbabian Hubbard were also recognized for menian audience. the master of ceremonies, Mr. Hrant their dedicated service to Merdinian School In his brief address, principal Dr. Vahram Agbabian, himself a founder and a longtime over the years. Similarly, past and present Shemmassian likened Merdinian to an ad- supporter of the school. After making a few principals, as well as a number of teachers dictive passion fruit whose tree required humorous remarks about the cosmopolitan and staff members with many years of dis- grafting in search of more succulent varia- nature of Armenians, Agbabian acknowl- tinguished service, were accorded unique tions to be able to embrace the future with edged the presence of guests and dignitar- gifts. fresher aroma and nectar. ies from the Armenian Missionary Associa- A touching 20th anniversary cake cer- Mr. Agbabian then presented Mr. Zaven tion of America, the AEUNA, and the Ar- emony followed suit, whereby the audience Khanjian with a gift of appreciation from the menian community at large who were in at- sang happy birthday and blew the candles, Board of Directors and the Women’s Auxil- tendance. thus renewing their commitments of support iary for his 20 years of dedicated service to Mr. Khanjian once again took the podium to Merdinian School. In the same vein, the Merdinian School in various capacities. for special acknowledgments. The honorees school choir, directed by Mrs. Victoria Continued on page 11

10 AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 E D U C A T I O N Haigazian University Women's Auxiliary of Los Angeles Donates $30,000 toward Scholarship for Needy Armenians

he Haigazian University Women’s TAuxiliary proudly presented to Presi- dent Dr. John Khanjian, a check in the amount of $30,000 toward scholarships for needy Armenian students – one of whom will be an orphan girl from Aleppo. The gifts will also benefit Haigazian’s renovated Media Center. Haigazian University was established in 1955 as a liberal arts institution of higher learning, using English as the language of instruction. It offers the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts de- grees. All three are recognized by the Leba- nese government and Association of Inter- national Colleges and Universities. Dedicated to excellence in the liberal arts and professional education, the University (l. to r.) Julie Aharonian, Dr. John Khanjian, Joyce Stein and Sirvart Mouradian. strives to prepare men and women who are inspired to serve with purpose and gener- multicultural world. tion to young Armenians of the diaspora osity in their communities while conscious Haigazian’s founders were initially in- who often had insufficient resources for ad- of living in an interdependent and terested in providing quality higher educa- vanced study.G

Merdinian School's... A NEW LIBRARY OF THE ARMENIAN EVANGELICAL continued from page 10 SCHOOL OF TRAD The banquet, a definite success, concluded with the benediction of Rev. Jirair Sogomian, the Executive Director of the AMAA, who wished Merdinian many more years of successful progress. As a bonus the banquet guests got to view a unique photo exhibit depicting everyday life at Merdinian school since its inception in 1982. Also, the guests took home an attrac- tive anniversary booklet that included a chro- nology of Merdinian’s evolution, messages, pictures, and letters of congratulation. All these were in tribute to a success story. This 20th anniversary function was also suc- cessful in terms of the donations and pledges made directly to the school or to its numerous The Armenian Evangelical School Chris- well. The Armenian Missionary Associa- endowment funds amounting to over $150,000. tian Social Center of Trad, located in one tion of America supported all the finan- Merdinian School is accredited by the of the poorest sections of Bourdj Hammoud, cial expenses of the construction of this Western Association of Schools and Col- in Lebanon, opened a new library in the new library. With the granted help, the leges for the maximum possible term of six school for the use of the students. Since school was also able to repair all the desks years. For information about the school, there are no public libraries in the area of the students and have new desks and which educates children from preschool and not many books at homes, the school chairs for the teachers. The opening of the through middle school, please contact the intends to open the library for parents as library took place on February 22, 2002.G school office at (818) 907-8149.G

AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 11 E D U C A T I O N An AMAA Legacy in Armenia A Brief Report on the Effects from the Haigazian University College Graduate School of Management Louis D. Volpp he year 1992 was a bleak one in Electricity Transmission and Distribution TArmenia. The earthquake, the fall of Project in Armenia. communism, and the flow of refugees from Gohar says, “The Haigazian experience Azerbaijan combined to make conditions was the first step to becoming an indepen- most difficult. Late in the year, an extraor- dent person in life. In addition to profes- dinarily harsh winter added to the misery. sional growth and new opportunities in my A bright spot in the lives of about one hun- career, it made me (and I value it most) a dred young men and women was the prom- mature person, who is able to make deci- ise of a new Haigazian University College sions, has self-esteem and confidence, and Graduate School of Management can think clearly (as opposed to fuzzy think- (HUCGSM). They came with skepticism, ing that I was used to at the time). One of disbelief, and cautious hope. They were the things I most appreciate about HUCGSM bright people educated under the commu- was developing my ability to work in a nist system, seeking something better for group, and the themselves and their families. They had a friendly, profes- reserve arising out of a fear that what was sional environ- promised would not become real. ment at the Uni- The students completed a preparation pro- versity. I cannot re- gram in August 1992. It was mainly a pro- frain from men- gram in English to prepare them well enough tioning the per- to engage in graduate study in the United sonal merit and de- States at the better graduate schools of busi- votion needed in ness. Forty-three were judged to have met building such a that standard and entered the MBA program University. I will in September. Of those forty-three, thirteen always have met the standards for graduation in July HUCGSM in my 1994. This little report is about what they memory as years are doing now, so I won’t review the hard- of light, hope and HUCGSM Board members (l to r) Mr. Joe Stein, Dr. John Markarian ships that beset these students during those success during the and Mr. Herair Mouradian (above). Some of the students of HUGSM with Dr. Louis Volpp (below). two years. I do want to note for the record difficult, cold and that this was the best time of my forty-year dark days facing Armenia in 1993. I feel Levon stated that, “Haigazian established teaching career. My wife, Hollie, and I fell very sorry that the University had to close the basis for all my professional activities in love with these students and will always its doors so soon.” in Armenia. It could also become an excel- be grateful to them for the marvelous expe- Levon Abrahamian currently is engaged lent starting point for continuing my educa- rience we had in Yerevan. in graduate study in business at University tion abroad and for a corporate career after- Gohar Abajian is now working in re- of Georgia. He will graduate this year but wards.” search at International Monetary Fund, Eu- hasn’t shared his plans for the next step, but Mary (Sandicova) Poghosyan is Orga- ropean Department. Her work is concen- he did very recently marry a beautiful Ar- nizational Development Coordinator of trated on economic indicators for the former menian woman who now is in Chicago. ProSME (Promotion of Small and Medium USSR countries, including statistical analy- Prior to his study in Georgia, Levon was a Enterprises). She is also a Director of T&D, sis of economic data. Prior to that, she founding partner in a computer trade and ser- Ltd., a training and development enterprise. worked at World Bank in the Europe and vices company in Yerevan. After capturing Mary’s son is soon to be three years old, and Central Asia Region, designing management more than half the market, they sold the busi- appears to be the joy of her life. and accounting systems for a $5million loan ness to a larger company. Before that, he was Vahe Dalian is engaged in graduate study to Armenia. Before that, she worked at Deputy Director and Head of Information at the London Business School. Before leav- World Bank in Washington as Financial Division of the United Nations’ Trade Point ing for London, Vahe was Senior Loan Of- Analyst dealing with energy, drinking wa- Armenia. His first position after graduation ficer of Shore Advisory Services in Yerevan. ter and irrigation in Armenia. She devel- was one he held during the final months of Earlier he served as Business Consultant oped financial projections and tariff calcu- study at Haigazian, with the Customs Depart- with Sharafian Consulting including work lation models of a $53million loan for the ment of the Republic of Armenia. for Eurasia Foundation, World Bank,

12 AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 E D U C A T I O N

Armenergo, and two commercial banks. He the general forma- also was Director of Armenian Small En- tion of her as an terprise Revolving Loan Program in individual, that Yerevan. was so valuable. Vahe writes, “Haigazian was the starting “We were so eager point for my career. It added not only knowl- to learn the right edge, but also, which is more important, in- answer to a cost valuable experience. I have started to look accounting prob- at things differently. There was a change in lem, and you told mentality. There is one disappointing issue us there was no connected with Haigazian — it is a real chal- one right answer. lenge to be an alumnus of a University that Life is to prove unfortunately does not exist anymore." which is the better Artur Kocharyan completed only one answer.” She re- year of the MBA program, and was drafted. calls a time when In the military, he became a leader in com- the students were HUCGSM Board of Managers. puting for the defense department. After messy in our bath- military service, he completed the graduate rooms, and we were unable to encourage sense a “grown up” person, as I was taught business program at INSEAD in them to correct their behavior. So the bath- to take responsibility, deal with problems in- Fountainbleu, France, the best international rooms were closed. When no student asked dependently and professionally. I will never business school in the world. At present, why the bathrooms were closed, I asked why forget rushing through the cold and icy Artur is Product Manager with 3Com Eu- there was not inquiry. “Simply we did not streets to Haigazian to get a spare computer rope, Ltd. His product line is OfficeConnect, dare to ask. We were used to thinking that and to finish a case study, and all of this at where he estimates demand and customer if it is decided by management, that is it. 6:00 a.m. in the misty morning." needs, develops strategy, interfaces with And many other wise matters.” (The stu- Gayane Dallakyan took over the Inter- manufacturing and sales, and deals with dents did take responsibility for the bath- national Executive Service Corps Office product launch. room behavior after that.) while she was a second year student. One of Artur voices appreciation for the long-last- Karina Nersessian completed her Ph.D. the Haigazian Vice Presidents managed their ing friendships formed at Haigazian and for at Yerevan State University, and now is an office for a short time, and then was hired by the self-confidence he developed at Associate Professor there, on leave to work IESC to manage their office in Moscow, and HUCGSM. He expresses disappointment that with Chemonics International, Inc. as Capi- that is when Gayane accepted the responsi- the school did not achieve what it could have tal Markets Component Coordinator. She bility. She remained in that position for some achieved, despite the goodwill of many people. has been a training specialist in banking in years after graduation. At last communica- Nune Hovanissian wanted especially to Amman, Jordan. She worked with tion, she was the CEO of BusinessLink, a con- express her gratitude for her experience at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Armenia as sulting company in Yerevan specializing in HUCGSM. During the second year at Head of Training and Financial Analysis helping Armenian companies wishing to en- HUCGSM, Nune taught economics in a sec- Team Leader. Karina managed operation ter the international market. ondary school as part of the U.S. Junior audits and financial analysis of four State Tigran Badanian went to work as Vice Achievement Program. After graduation, enterprises in preparation for privatization. President in the largest private bank in Ar- she had a contract with TACIS to evaluate Prior to that she worked at the Eurasia Foun- menia. He is in touch with fellow graduates the project in Armenia. For that work, she dation as Regional Grants Management Of- occasionally, and latest information shows had additional training in Germany, and ficer for the Caucasus Region. And still him remaining in that bank, doing quite well. ended up in Rome to evaluate the program earlier, she was Business Programs Manager Gueram Sargsyan served as Vice Presi- and to recommend what was needed in the for the Peace Corps in Armenia. Karina in- dent of Haigazian in 1993-94 and was chief future. Then she was contracted by USAID tends to continue international consulting administrator while the President was out as a business consultant. In 1995, Nune and hopes to join a large firm for her long- of the country, including all of 1994-95. became Field Assistant for the United Na- term career in international business. During his service at HUCGSM, Gueram tions High Commissioner for Refugees deal- She writes, “Haigazian experience meant completed his Ph.D. in laser physics, and ing with developing programs, strategies, a whole new world to me. It was like the then went to INSEAD for his graduate de- and policies regarding the Armenian ethnic door to new life, new opportunities, but gree in international business. He was asked refugees from Azerbeijan. She remains with what’s the most important it led to the re- to remain there and currently is doing re- UNHCR as Assistant Program Officer. evaluation and restructuring of my future search on market inefficiency, specifically Nune says she cannot compare her under- plans, goals and objectives. I don’t think I on “death spiral” convertibles. Gueram is a standing of life, mentality, and behavior would have gone this far without Haigazian person I would bet on returning and engag- overall before the studies at Haigazian. She experience. These two years played a ma- ing in work important to Armenia. recalls that it was not only the courses, but jor role in my becoming mature and in a Continued on page 14

AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 13 M I S S I O N S

AMAA Sunday - A Homecoming

pril 7, 2002 was a special day for the tian faith have Acongregation of the Armenian Martyrs' been sown in Congregational Church of Havertown in twenty-two cities more ways than one. It was AMAA Sun- in Armenia and day and it was a homecoming for their Karabagh. former pastor, Rev. Jirair Sogomian, the After the film, Executive Director of the Armenian Mis- Rev. Sogomian sionary Association of America (AMAA) highlighted the ar- and his wife Lorraine. eas of mission Rev. Sogomian delivered both the Arme- work and an- nian message and the English sermon, and swered many ques- Some mission committee members and kitchen work crew for the missions luncheon. (l to r) George Hagopian, Elaine left them with the thoughtful question, tions. He spoke Farashian, Rev. Jirair Sogomian, Susan Scarritt (chairperson), "What does the resurrection of Jesus mean about the global Ruth Melian and Marian Buchakjian. for me and the way I live today?" ministries of the After the worship service, the Mission and AMAA and the orphan/child sponsorship ing letters from children, accompanied by Outreach Committee of the church had pre- program, where for $240 one can sponsor a their pictures were displayed, and fifteen of pared a delicious lunch of lahmajoun, a gour- child in Armenia and make a difference in them were sponsored. met salad, and a tray of delectable desserts his/her life. He also talked about the crying Rev. Sogomian closed by saying, "You for each table. needs in the Middle East, where many chil- are the AMAA. There are people relying The program included a twenty-minute dren are unable to afford to go to school, not only on your financial help, but on your well-documented film highlighting the ac- and for $200 one can sponsor a child's edu- human resources, as well as your tivities of the AMAA. The seeds of Chris- cation. On the church bulletin heartwarm- prayers."G

AN AMAA LEGACY... Continued from page 13

Gayne Zargarian was Director of the with excellent professional development op- As disappointed as the graduates were, the Preparation Program beginning in Septem- portunities. I feel proud of being part of Armenian staff members were even more ber 1994, but the school closed. She then Haigazian and have a sense of loyalty to it." disappointed at the closing of the school. led the faculty already hired to provide ser- Larisa Melik-Barghdo has served as Pro- When told that their intended service was not vice to The State Engineering University gram Officer for the Eurasia Foundation, needed, and that HUGSM would meet its part Faculty, mainly in teaching technical English Director of the Micro Credit Program for of the contract provisions (pay for the year), for their work. In 1996, she taught English Oxfam, Program Director for the Open So- those faculty were stunned that AMAA held in the aluminum factory in Armenia, and the ciety Institute Assistance Foundation, Ar- such high standards. They then insisted that following year held the position of Senior menia, and now is Executive Director of they would work for the money, and did so by Scientific Researcher in the Scientific Re- OSIAFA. She taught English and mathemat- teaching at the State Engineering University. search Institute of Pedagogy of the Minis- ics in the Preparation Program at HUCGSM. Still more disappointed were the one hun- try of Science and Education. In that posi- Larisa wrote, “My experience with dred students who had completed the Prepa- tion, she was sent to the University of Iowa HUCGSM was literally opening up to whole ration Program and now would not be able to in a team of six Armenian educators to de- new reality and switching on to real life rather continue into the MBA program. To tell them velop civic education curriculum and course than continuing on survival mode of opera- that it was over for them at HUCGSM was materials for the seventh grade students in tion. It was an exposure to whole new and the most difficult task I faced in Armenia. Armenia. That material is now taught in 100 different career, and to new opportunities. In I imagine now what could have come from schools. Currently, she is Program Manager very difficult, confused times the HUCGSM a decade of additional work in Armenia. The for Teaching English as a Foreign Language set the standard and promoted values far big- graduating classes would have grown, prob- for the Peace Corps. ger than any MBA program could and would ably to about 75 each year. Instead of 13 Gayne writes, "I became more indepen- ever aim at. I am sure that many still use that alumni, there would be about 600 or 700. dent, with higher self-esteem. I acquired standard as a measure as I do in my life. I Perhaps that would have made a significant leadership skills. HUCGSM provided me cannot thank you more for that." difference.G

14 AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 M I S S I O N S

Rev. Sogomian Visits "The Little Church" The AMAA Luncheon at Immanuel Armenian Congregational Church

mmanuel? Yes, the Downey Church. Is child sponsorship Ithere an Armenian church out there? Of card. course, Sunday, March 10, 2002 proved it The chairperson's in many ways. report highlighted With privilege, we welcomed AMAA rep- some ongoing and resentatives Rev. and Mrs. Jirair Sogomian. new AMAA-related The day began with Rev. Sogomian's ser- activities: a sister mons from the pulpit then on to a luncheon. church in Armenia, A message, video presentation focusing on increased Sunday AMAA in Armenia, and a question-answer school involvement period ensued. They were powerful and and Rev. Joseph moving. It was delightful to visit with the Matossian's mis- couple after so many years. sionary work in Ar- Other AMAA representations consisted of menia for which he twenty three (23) flags each representing a was commended. nation where the AMAA serves and posters Together with depicting AMAA related projects. David AMAA representa- Bordonaro, Immanuel Youth Director, per- tive Rev. Rene The Missions' Committee of the Immanuel Armenian Congrega- formed People Need the Lord and Shout to Leonian, hundreds tional Church (l to r) Janeen Dinke, Queenie Kazarian, Chris the Lord. Sunday School children Justin heard the gospel and Ashkarian, Vahe Ashkarian, Rev. Jirair Sogomian, Rev. Joe Sahagian and Ani Marderosian recited the were baptized. Matossian, Araxie Sarchisian, Marlen & Melik Kumjian. names of 12 child sponsorship candidates This little church of which ten were adopted. They thanked came out even with the young fellow- sisted with logistics; and the men who con- all sponsors old and new saying. "Thank You ship women who had served a delicious ducted set up tasks. So you have it; this little For Your Love," the cover of each AMAA Armenian buffet; the senior ladies who as- church seemed much bigger that day.G

AMAA Meets with Mission Partner, UCC

he Armenian Missionary Association Tof America (AMAA) visited one of their mission partners, the United Church of Christ Wider Church Ministries (UCC) Office in Cleveland, Ohio. The AMAA has an outreach program with several mission partners where they mutually help in various projects as well as in emergency assistance in world disasters. Some of the last projects with the UCC were in assisting earthquake victims in El Salvador and on the Indian con- tinent, as well as providing assistance to the September 11, 2001 disaster victims in New York. The UCC, in turn, helps in the AMAA’s mission program in Armenia and in the Near East including Lebanon and Syria. The meet- UCC Treasurer Ann Kiernozek, UCC Collegium member for the Wider Church Minis- ing held over 2 days in Cleveland, Ohio was tries Dr. Dale Bishop, AMAA President Andy Torigian, AMAA Executive Director Rev. very productive and outlined areas of mutual Jirair Sogomian, UCC Area Executive Peter Makari. cooperation in the future.G

AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 15 S U M M E R C A M P S

Camp Arevelk Grows with Donation from AMAA and Plans for 3rd Summer Session

amp Arevelk, a relatively new summer Ccamp ministry sponsored by the AEUNA, is taking a big step forward this year, increasing the age range for its 2002 summer program for campers from ages 10- 15! This year’s program will run from Sun- day, August 11, through Saturday, August 17. Under the direction of Mrs. Sylvia Jizmejian, and her husband, Reverend Ara Jizmejian, participants are hosted by Camp Tri-Mount, a 535 acre Boy Scouts Reserva- tion located in the Catskill Mountains of New York. Funded by private donations and various AEUNA east coast churches, Camp Arevelk held its first program in the summer of 2000. With great reviews from the campers, as well as their enthusiastic parents, Arevelk felt that it was time to take the big step forward and increase the age limit. "The uncertainties that go along with increasing the age group were held in check by our faith and a very gener- ous $2000 donation from the AMAA," said Dave Shahbazian, Arevelk’s registrar and treasurer. “I support and commend the Jizmejians for their strong belief that invest- ing in our youth will yield great benefits to the AEUNA community in years to come”, he added. Well known for their work within the Ar- menian Evangelical Youth Fellowship, the Jizmejians have been able to expand the pro- grams and activities they offer to include the summer camp as part of their overall minis- try. Each day, campers have quiet time in the morning with Bible readings and lessons- questions that they maintain in their camp ties including, swimming, canoeing, hiking, on Saturday, when the parents return to pick journal which they take home with them archery, team sports and even a climbing up their children. This becomes a wonder- when they leave. In addition to their daily tower, all of which are supervised by trained ful time of fellowship for the adults and speaker and worship service there are sing- Boy Scout personnel. The Scouts also pro- campers as they share their stories from the a-longs and skits for all to participate in, re- vide on-site medical staff and the prepara- week. inforcing the Word of God. Cabin time in tion of all meals. By renting an existing camp For more information regarding this year’s the evening brings the day’s events to a facility, Arevelk is able to keep its costs low, program, or those wishing to provide finan- close, and allows the campers to reflect on and can avoid many of the challenges asso- cial support to Camp Arevelk, please con- what they have learned and experienced with ciated with owning and maintaining a camp tact Reverend and Sylvia Jizmejian at 508- their friends. facility. 791-7401 ([email protected]), or The campers sleep on cots in Army style A family style picnic, complete with David Shahbazian, at 845-339-3676 tents and participate in many outdoor activi- shish-kebab and all the trimmings, is held ([email protected]).G

16 AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 S U M M E R C A M P S

No Wall Will Stand in the Way Service of Rededication and Praise at the KCHAG Center in Lebanon

L. Nishan Bakalian dream became a reality that Satur- A day afternoon, May 25th, at the “KCHAG” Conference Center in the hills overlooking Beirut. More than three hun- dred people, from newborns to the elderly, enjoyed a moment of worship, lifting up prayer and praise to their heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, within the grounds of their very own Armenian Evan- gelical “Christian Endeavor Summer Cen- ter” (called by the acronym of “Kchag”). Purchased in 1948, and holding its first conference the following year, the Center was built up, improved, and developed with great sacrifice. Buildings went up, roads built, and a basketball court was constructed. Now the present unkempt condition of Kchag is a poignant testimony to more than 12 years of it being under others’ control, with the rightful owners being unable to maintain or improve the site. Yet despite its current run-down con- old Armenian hymns, last heard so long present to lend their support for the re- dition, nothing was able to quench the high ago, while also joining in to learn the new building of Kchag, which will require not spirits of the crowds attending the service praise songs of the youth. just their material gifts, but especially their that day. The newly-placed signs at the Two veteran C.E. members, Miss Sona earnest prayers. He mentioned the need for entrance way, as well as the hand-painted Nashian and Mr. John Sagherian, sharing a live-in groundskeeper, citing the theft of banners hanging overhead bid a warm their memories and words of encourage- the engraved Kchag bell from its stand in “Welcome to Kchag” to those who as- ment, vividly depicted Kchag’s 54-year the previous one or two days. Yet at the cended on their “pilgrimage” to the history through laughter, tears, and occa- same time, he reminded those assembled Center’s chapel. sionally even pain. Their words traversed that God still has much more work to ac- The pathway to the chapel was just as the years, from Mr. Augustine Badeer’s complish in Kchag, for which his people steep as before, the stairs just as exhaust- vision, to the creative antics of young will be his co-workers, “to give them a ing as they were in 1986, the last time an people, to the kitchen spices of a certain future and a hope” (Jer. 29.11). The ad hoc Easter sunrise service or a C.E. conference women’s conference, to even the tragic Emergency Committee, which had already took place in Kchag. But, amazingly, God deaths that occurred in the Center during raised half of the projected ten thousand renewed each person’s strength “like the the war. But they both affirmed a message U.S. dollars budgeted for immediate eagle’s,” and the service of praise went higher than all of this, namely that Kchag needs, received gifts amounting to another forward with great enthusiasm. is holy ground; a place where generations quarter of the total figure that day. Opening the program was the chairman have come to know the Lord Jesus as Sav- Armenian Evangelical Union President of the C.E. Union’s Executive Commit- ior, where numerous persons have re- Rev. Megerdich Karagoezian closed the tee, Pastor Sebouh Terzian, giving words ceived the call to Christian service, where service of rededication, though not in the of welcome, along with Miss Vartoug Armenians and non-Armenians alike have typical way. Before his closing prayer, he Balekjian, offering a heartfelt prayer. Rev. enjoyed God’s blessings. took a sledgehammer in hand and struck Nerses Balabanian, along with the “Nor In the final portion of the program, the determined blows at the wall that had been Yerk” ensemble, led an energetic singing Rev. Dr. Paul Haidostian laid out the cur- built to cover the chapel doors, declaring time. It was as if the trees and rocks, too, rent challenge and the urgency of the hour. that no wall would stand in the way of the were remembering the familiar strains of Looking to the future, he exhorted those worship of God, nor of this sacred task.G

AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 17 F A | : R H N B A V I N

Th#r4 Tour In6i Qriston;a\ Fa\astane F;[inak3 W;r1 :sa\i Sarmax;an

\1g1 W;r=;rs lo\s t;sau Joronjo\i Fa\ Au;taranakan parxaban;lou fmout ou :k;[;zii fowiu3 W;r1 :sa\i Sarmax;ani Th#r4 Tour .;lazi oye4 ;u apa3 mi,t In6i Qriston;a\ Fa\astane qaroxagirqe! Stor;u Astoua6a,ncakan d;[a- koutanq fratarakicin3 Dokt1 :rouand F1 Qasounii girn ou balasane fiuandn "o.an |a5a=abani >7sqe3 so\n girqin masin! ou fiuandoujiunn;re bouv;lou! Fatore4 or Fa\ Au;t1 B;m mat;na,arow kou ga\ Mardka\in enk;- fraparak4 ardar gnafatanqi arta\a\toujiun men rouj;an mh=4 W;r1 :1 h fandhp Fa\ Au;taranakan b;min 6a5a\o[i me4 or Sarmax;ani famar kixakht h fa\ marde4 fa\ au;li qan ;r;q tasnam;ak h or na;u grauor .7sqow vo[owourde4 fa\ m,ako\je4 Fa\ :k;[;zin4 Fa\kakan ke katarh qristonhakan fauatqin qaroxoujiune! Farze ou noranka. Fa\astane4 ;u apa bolore3 Gnafatanqe3 tarin;rou wra\ 6auala6 qanakin lousar]aki tak a5a6 Qristosi kocin enda5a=a6 famar ch4 a\l3 orakin! A\d tasnam;akn;roun3 W;r1 fa\ mardou ariouj;amb! :sa\i Sarmax;an \a=o[a6 h ir patgamn;roun dimagi6 W;r1 :1 Sarmax;an gith ir patgame fam;m;l ou nkaragir tal4 .orq ou k;ndanoujiun n;rark;l4 mardka\in 'or]i ou 'or]a5ouj;an imastouj;amb4 biur;[azn;l mitq ou mtafogoujiun4 \[k;l l;xoun4 mi#,t inc or anmatc;lin ke dar]nh anmi=akan4 fa[ordakan mnal 7rouan ;u vamanakin f;t4 fauatarim qa[aqazi4 ;u ousan;li! fa\ fo[in ou m,akouja\in va5angin srbouj;an :u d;53 an gith \ankar6 xro\zi nstil ir fauatazo[ fa\4 ;u Astou6o\ >7sqin ansakark enj;rzo[in f;t4 ;u anaknkali b;r;l xinq ir fatou spasarkou! ;u xarjouzic mi=amtoujiunn;row! Inqnapa,tpa- Giu[i xauak h W;r1 :1 Sarmax;an! Fo[in k;nsa- nouj;an famar qriston;an xhnq ph2tq h w;rznh! tou bo\rin kar7tow apro[ mard4 or faka5ak fa\ou A\o#4 k*esh W;r1 :1 Sarmax;an4 mi,t apauin;low yakatagrow owkhann;r anzn;loun4 takauin ke ,nch Astou6o\ >7sqin! Ba\z ;u k*au;lznh1 9An or ci krnar ir 6nndawa\r pa[ya[axow4 a\d giu[hn tara6 ir xhnq w;rzn;l4 jo[ cw;rznh (i shr Astou6o\ ;u axgin111 tokounouj;amb4 inqnawstafouj;amb ou laua- jo[ cw;rznh)4 ba\z ;jh krna\ a[7j;l4 jo[ a[7jh t;souj;amb dit;low a,.arfe4 oroun fandhp ir anpa\man0! Qani or an ke fauata\4 jh3 9C*arv;r partqn ou patas.anatououjiune w;rzouza6 h april k;anqe bani me famar4 ;jh c*arv;r na;u anor Astou6o\ a5aq;louj;an da,tin mh= \an]na5ou famar m;5nil0! 6a5a\ouj;amb! W;r1 :1 Sarmax;ani patgamn;roun mh= tiro[ gi6 W;r1 :1 Sarmax;ani patgamn;re oc mia\n ke wka\;n h lauat;soujiune! Orqan 6anr h dimagrauoua6 ir oun;za6 Astoua6a,ounci gitouj;an ;u tagnape4 a\nqan m;6 h Astou6o\ fandhp fauatqn ou Astoua6abanakan faroust pa,arin masin4 a\l;u3 wstafoujiune4 ;u a\d fauatqow3 inqnawstafouj;an a\n iro[ouj;an4 or an ir lousar]ake baz pafa6 h frauhre! Irn ;n ba5;re3 mardka\nakan a\l gitoujiunn;rou wra\4 ke yancna\ 9Fauata# jh k*ella\4 A[7jh# or ella\4 marde3 patmouj;nhn va5anga6 ;u a57r;a\ ir Gor6h#4 ;u k*ella\0! mtafogoujiunn;row ou tagnapn;row4 gith Astou- Fa\ Au;taranakan qaroxcouj;an mh= W;r1 :sa\i 6o\ 6ragrin mh= mardoun na.apatiu t;[e4 Qristosi Sarmax;ani a\s qaroxagirqe nor auand h4 or kou a5aq;louj;an g;rago\n npatake4 ourkh3 famapar'ak ga\ nor ,ouncow npastazn;lou m;xi fasa6 faroust enkalman 'or]e mardoun mardka\in farz;roun4 xanonq va5ange! :FQG

Cka\ :k;[;zi a5anz Sourb Fogii n;rka\ouj;an ;u x7rouj;an! Cka\ Sourb Fogii n;rka\oujiun ;u x7roujiun3 a5anz a[7jqi! Fauatq3 |isousi wra\4 Sourb Fogi ;u A[7jq3 fauataz;aln;roun k;anq;roun mh=! Asonq hin A5aq;lakan a5a=in ;k;[;ziin go\a5man4 ayoumin ;u go\at;uman ;r;q na.a.namakan ;u k;nsakan axdakn;re! No\ne ;[a6 h dar;rou enjazqin4 ;u h# a\s7r! W;r1 :sa\i Sarmax;an

18 AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 F A | : R H N B A V I N

9B;jhl0 :k;[;zii Patmagroujiune Patrast;z3 W;r1 Parg;u &r=an;an

\1g1 W;r=;rs lo\s t;sau Falhpi Fa\ Au;taranakan W;rapatou;lin oc 9B:JHL0 :k;[;zii patmagroujiune W;r1 Parg;u =anq4 oc a,.atanq ;u oc &r=an;ani >mbagrouj;amb! Stor;u koutanq W;r1 Dokt1 al ir fam;st louman F1 K1 Fashs;ani gra.7sakane so\n fatorin masin4 .na\a6 h 6an7joujiunn;r karg me \apauoumn;row3 t;[i patya5ow! fauaq;lou! An manramasn ;u .[ymt7rhn .ouxarka6 ou 9:ll;nq ,in;nq4 ;u ir;nz ];5q;re ouvowzouzin a\s bari s;rta6 h patmakan gor6in famar!0 Nh;m;a\ Ê1 ÉÐ dhpq;re ;u patouakan Fa\e ,inarar axg men h! Ibr ga[jakan3 6ia6ani or dhmq;re3 ellan anonq apro[ ;u kam ir;nz a,.atanqhn kamarin tak or al ella\4 an fine \i,;low nore ke ,inh! dadra6 \auit;nakan fangist mta6n;r! Falhpi 9B:JHL0e4 9Sourb >ac0e or apa 9Sourb ^an7joujiunn;re imastouj;amb famadr;low4 Ghorg0 ;k;[;zin h4 ;u Ph\rouji famafa\kakan 9Nor \7doua6n;re .mbagr;low4 patouakan dhmq;rou Mara,0 ga[ouje kojo[n;r ;n4 oronq fa\oun ,inarar k;nsagrakann;rn ou faxouagiut .mbankarn;re4 na;u fogin ;u nkaragire k*arta\a\t;n! akanauor an];rou nkarn;re dasauor;low ir;nz vama- ÉÑÉÍi ano[oq =ardhn faxiu axatoua64 lman nakagrakan ,arqow4 W;rapatou;lin Au;taranakan m;rkaza6 ir;nz pap;nakan barqhn4 ou b5ni wtaroua6 fama\nqin \atkaphs4 ;u o[= kr7nakan a,.arfi ir;nz bo\nhn4 ko[optoua64 snankaza64 m;rk ou bokotn endfanraphs4 ke framznh ir a,.atasirouj;an b;[oun fa\ou mnazord s'iu5qi kotorake apastan ke gtnh argasiqe ibr 9

AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 19 F A | : R H N B A V I N

ÉÏÈÈ-AM:AKI ASTOUA^A

Fa\astani mh= qristonhouj;an p;takanazman ÉÏÈÈ- am;aki bar;bastik a5ijow3 fratarakou;zau ar;u- mtafa\;rhn Astoua6a,ounci fimnowin w;ram,akoua6 fratarakoujiun me! Ardi .7sakzakan l;xouin ou gor- 6a6oua6 ba5;roun kar;li ;[a6in ca' m7t4 biur;[aza6 oyow xout a,.arfabari w;ra6oua64 ;bra\;rhn ;u \ounarhn bnagirn;roun bazar]akaphs fauatarim ou ta5azi so\n jargmanouj;an npatakn h IA1 darou enj;rzo[in diuremb5n;li dar]n;l Astou6o\ >7sqin k;nsatou patgame4 xa\n ];5baxat;low vamanakawrhp fnabanoujiunn;rh! Anor imaste faraxat7rhn arta\a\t;lou famar gor6a6oua6 ;n m7t faxar nor ;xr;r mimia\n Fin Ktakaranin mh=! Nmanaphs farstaza6 h Nor Ktakarani ba5apa,are! Baxmajiu h=atak bazatroujiunn;r ke diurazn;n imastasirakan ;u margarhakan girq;roun enj;rzoume1 na;u =anq ja'oua6 h w;rartadr;lou asonz banast;[6akan ,aradroujiune4 yo.azn;low jargmanouj;an grakan arvhqe! N;rka\ w;rana\oumin mh= ibr skxbounq ord;groua6 h bnagri iuraqanciur ba5in famar 7gtagor6;l famapatas.ano[ mhk fa\;rhn ;xr! Saka\n ;jh a5a=ine imasti nrboujiunn;r ouni4 xanonq arta\a\t;lou famar gor6a6oua6 ;n xanaxan ;xr;r4 7gtou;low m;r l;xouin yo. ba5apa,arhn! Do\xn anfaskazo[oujiun \arouzano[ or;uh na.adasoujiun manrakrkit qnnouj;an ;njarkoua6 h4 ;u imaste3 parxabanoua64 a5anz ,;[;lou bnagrin parounaka6 ba5;rhn1 faka5ak paraga\in4 ;rb tarb;r ;xr me na.entroua6 h4 'o'o.oujiune n,oua6 h! Faxouagiut fa\;rhn ba5;rou imastn al parxabanoua6 h h=atak n7jagrouj;amb! An]nakan jh a,.arfagrakan anounn;rou ankanon ta5adar]oujiunn;re ,tkoua6 ;n4 ou[[agrakan s.aln;re3 srbagroua64 ;u q;rakanakan 7rhnqn;re3 \argoua6! |atouk ou,adrouj;an a5arka\ ;[a6 h khtadroujiune4 ou masnauorabar3 ,;,tadroume4 incphs na;u ir;ra\a=ord ba5;rou qa[zrafncoujiune4 enj;rzoume (manauand ;rb bar]ra]a\n ke kataroui) fasknali ou grauic dar]n;lou famar1 no\n npatakin ke 6a5a\h ord;groua6 f;xasaf oye4 7gtagor6;low fa\ l;xoui ykounoujiune3 ba\;rou .onarfoumin a5encouj;amb3 ;u .ousa';low au;lord krknoujiunn;rh! Amhn siunaki tak t;[ graua6 ;n na.ord fratarakoujiunn;rhn pakso[ wka\oujiunn;re! Anonzmh iuraqanciure n,oua6 famare ke kaph ouri,n;rou f;t3 oronq ke ,7,a';n no\n niuje4 ounin nman imast kam tarb;r t;sankiun4 ke parounak;n no\nanman ba5;r4 ;u kam ke w;rab;rin mi;uno\n an];roun kam wa\r;roun! Gor6a6oua6 ;n w;r=akht;r3 ;rkou glou.n;r kam girq;r irarmh xat;lou4 mi=akhtn;r3 glou. me famarn;rhn bavn;lou4 ;u storakht;r3 asonq xanaxan;lou npatakow! So\n mh=b;roumn;re enj;rzo[e ke m[;n endar]ak ousoumnasiroujiunn;rou4 orowf;t;u 9ambo[= Girqe astoua6a,ounc h4 ;u 7gtakar3 sorw;zn;lou4 k,tamb;lou4 ou[[;lou ;u ardarouj;an mh= krj;lou famar!0 Ê Tim1 Ë1 ÉÎ! Kaska6h dours h jh amhn entaniq4 ;k;[;zi jh dproz apafow;lou h 7rinak me so\n m;6a6aual (118 x 8 x 11 inches) ou gounauor qarthsn;row yo.aza6 Sourb Girqhn oroun iuraqanciur 7rinake k*arvh ÊÈ1ÈÈ Am;rik;an tolar4 a5au;l a5aqman 6a.se! A\s Astoua6a,ounchn 7rinakn;r stanalou famar fay;zhq l;zn;l ;t;ui ko[qin wra\ gtnouo[ ktr7ne ;u xa\n [rk;l Fa\ Au;tarancakan Enk;rakzouj;an K;dronat;[in!G

20 AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 O B I T U A R I E S

Mary Mehagian Ruth Strachan of Berkeley, CA, and nieces and College, Dr. Berberian immigrated with his family to the United States in 1947, where he Mary Matilda nephews. Private family memorial services served as Senior Member and Director, and Mehagian, 98, a have been held at the Church of the Beatitudes, Staff Physician of the Sterling-Winthrop Re- long-time Valley the Rev. Dr. Stephen L. Sterner, officiating. Arrangements by A.L. Moore Grimshaw search Institute in Rensselaer. Mrs. Berberian resident, passed swiftly became involved in local organizations away Tuesday, Bethany Chapel. A special note of thanks to Posey Moore Nash for her love and assistance including: The Monday Musical Club; the March 26, 2002, League of Women Voters; the Capital Artists with her family by to our family. Also to Ruth Ann Masch for her loving care and to the staff at Orangewood Resident Opera Company and the Capitol Hill her side. Her long Choral. She was a faithful member of the life has left her fam- Retirement Community, Health Center South, for their devoted care of our Mother. A me- Cilician Student Association of Troy, New ily with many cher- York, the AMAA and the AGBU. She was a ished memories. Mary was born in Armenia morial contribution may be made to the AMAA, 31 W. Century Road, Paramus, NJ 07652.G founding member of the Loudonville Commu- on April 22, 1903 to Rev. Dr. and Mrs. nity Church. At the Community Church, she Armenag H. Haigazian. She came to the served as Sunday school and VBS teacher and United States after World War I with her Arminé D. Berberian director, chairperson of the Music Commit- mother and five sisters. She and her late hus- (September 21, 1907 - March 22, 2002) tee and church choir and Mary-Martha band, A. Stephen were married October 30, by Raffi Robert Berberian Women’s Circle. She served as a soprano so- 1924 and moved to Phoenix in November 1928 loist at Sunday worship services. With her hus- from San Francisco. On March 11, 1929, A resident of Lou- band, she often visited newcomers to Stephen and Mary opened a small oriental rug donville for the past Loudonville, inviting them to church services. and carpet store in downtown Phoenix, the pre- 55 years, Arminé From 1954 until 1977, the Berberian fam- decessor of the present Mehagian’s home fur- Berberian died of a ily lived in Colonial Homestead, also known nishings company in Phoenix and Scottsdale. stroke at her home as Georgian Hall, a landmark Loudonville Mary dedicated much of her time to charitable on March 22, 2002. mansion built in 1907, where she was cel- community endeavors. The first antique sale She was 94. She was ebrated as a brilliant hostess. The Berberian for Goodwill was held at her home. Mary a native of Marash, home was a frequent stop for visitors from served on the Salvation Army Auxiliary, Phoe- Turkey, where she many parts of the world. Mrs. Berberian was nix Symphony Guild, the Phoenix Little The- attended Protestant an advocate for the arts and culture of Arme- atre and hosted social functions for the YMCA Church schools. The daughter of Dr. Vartan nia, leading a local dance troupe and provid- Board and its International visitors. She was Poladian and Leah Sarkissian Poladian, her ing the group with authentic ethnic costumes. past President of the Rotary Anns of Phoenix father was one of three physicians serving that She was an accomplished dressmaker. Her 100 Rotary Club. She was a member of the city with a population of 60,000. Her mater- interests included china painting, drying flow- Church of the Beatitudes and the Armenian nal grandfather was the Reverend Harootune ers from her gardens, arranging them artfully, Apostolic Church. In 1955, she helped found Sarkissian, a Presbyterian clergyman, ordained and supporting her children’s and the local chapter of the Armenian General in 1852, who settled in New Haven, Connecti- grandchildren’s artistic and cultural interests. Benevolent Union (AGBU), a humanitarian cut. In the Marash War of January 1920, her She took great interest and pride in her son- organization. In memory of her father, Mary mother, Leah, was fatally shot by a stray bul- in-law Tom Jr.’s Bible commentary compila- and her husband were instrumental in co- let, and the following year, her father married tions and writings about Nepal and in Tom and founding Haigazian College in Beirut, Leba- Araxie Kouyoumjian, (nee Haidostian), a Cynthia’s missionary endeavors. non, where a large Armenian community pre- schoolteacher herself widowed (with a baby After a moderate stroke in 1996, she re- vailed after being dispersed during World War boy) by the massacre of Armenians in the Ot- quired around-the-clock care in her home by I. The school was named after her father, a toman Empire. the devoted attendance of her children, Cynthia well known educator and a doctorate graduate Driven out of Turkey, the Poladian family and Raffi, and a splendid cadre of caregivers of Yale University. For 15 years, Mary was in relocated in Aleppo, Syria. Soon after, the who became a cherished part of her life. Her charge of a popular benefit dinner to raise young Arminé departed Syria for San Fran- surviving family acknowledges with gratitude funds for the school. Preceded in death by her cisco, CA. She graduated from the University the attentive visits of so many who were dear husband, A. Stephen Mehagian in 1980, she of the Pacific in Stockton, CA, with a Master’s to her heart. is survived by her two sons, Arthur Stephen degree in Christian Education. Mrs. Berberian is survived by her daughter, (Peggy) and John Armen (Marjorie). Children In 1932, she returned to the Near East, where Dr. Cynthia Berberian Hale of Loudonville, her of Arthur Stephen – Mary Ann (Mark), Peggy she married Dicran Abraham Berberian, a son, Raffi Robert Berberian of Boston, Massa- Louise (Edward), Stephen (Martine), and childhood friend, who had become a physi- chusetts, two grandsons, Thomas Hale III and Carol Sue. Children of John Armen – Laurie, cian in Beirut, Lebanon, serving in the Ameri- Christopher Dicran Hale , and two great grand- Douglas, Diane (Scott), Stephanie (Tim) and can University of Beirut. In Beirut, Mrs. sons, Thomas Hale and Gregory Christopher Mary Christine (Roger). Six great-grandchil- Berberian was active in her church and in the Hale. Her husband, Dicran Abraham, and her dren, Lia (Joshua), Tera, Mark, Jr., Mariam, university community, particularly in music other son, Dicran Aram, both died in 1987. Eric, Michael, and great-great grandchildren and drama events. The Berberians’ three chil- Memorial donations may be made for the Reid, Campbell, and Truman. Also survived dren were born in Beirut and spoke Armenian Berberian Fund of the Loudonville Commu- by three sisters, Nelly Constantian of Sierra as their first language. nity Church, the AMAA or the Scholarship Madre, CA, Pansy Irish of San Diego, CA, and Answering a call from the Albany Medical Fund of The Monday Musical Club.G

AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 21 O B I T U A R I E S

Siranoush Hassessian standing by her good life, and deeds were done She visited sick people in their houses and Siranoush Margoss- in humility. at times she took care of them for weeks in ian Hassessian was A memorial service was held on Tuesday, their home. born in Turkey March 19 to which most of the area ministers Louisa left an indelible mark on the many lives she touched. Several young women were some ninety years participated. The family requests that contri- attracted to her noble profession of nursing. ago. Her celebrated butions in lieu of flowers be given to the Louisa is now at peace enjoying the pres- birthday was July AMAA for Orphan and Child Care programs G ence and glory of her heavenly Father, whom 21, 1912, however, in Armenia. she loved and served.G no one really knows Louisa Merjanian her true date of Louisa Merjanian Manuel Minas Manoukian birth. During the photo by H. Koundakjian Piranian went to be August 11, 1922 - October 22, 2001 Armenian Ge- with the Lord on Manuel and John nocide of 1915, she was somewhere around March l6, 2002. were the first twins three years old. She remembers walking with She grew up in a born to Minas and her mother and her brother to somewhere. This Christian home Magdalene, in a turned out to be the death march in the desert where the exem- mountain village of Der-el-zor. It was there that she became plary life of her par- called Baskinta. Af- separated from her mother and brother. It was ents inspired and ter two years, the last time she would see her family. encouraged her for George, and his twin In miraculous ways, she was admitted to her life of service. sister, Georgette, orphanages in Aleppo, Syria, and Juni, Ghazir, She showed interest in taking care of sick were born. They had Sayda and Beirut in Lebanon. In the Arme- people when she was only five years old. Serv- a happy childhood nian American High School for Girls in Beirut, ing the needs of people gave meaning and ful- and lived a simple life. she caught the attention of the school’s direc- fillment all through her life. Later, when the children had to go to High tors, Miss Webb and Miss Davis. They not only After graduating from the nursing school of School, the family moved to Beirut. The chil- encouraged, but made possible her desire to the American University of Beirut, she was dren learned Arabic, French, English and Ar- become a nurse. She graduated with a nursing invited by the University to supervise and in- menian. But it was not easy for them to adjust degree from the American University of struct the nursing students. to city life. Beirut. She never ceased to thank God for His After her marriage to Simon Piranian, they From the start, Manuel had the gifts of an intervention through them. became partners in Louisa’s varied endeavors. artist and inventor. Before World War II, he After some ninety years of gracing her fam- She taught Home Economics and Health- was taking music lessons from the head of the ily and friends with her presence, God called Wellness in three Armenian high schools in Music Conservatory in Lebanon. His French her home on March 15, 2002. She is survived Beirut, Lebanon. She enriched and energized music teacher told him that he has special tal- by her husband of 62 years, Rev. Dr. Herald the lives of her students. And today they try to ent and should never quit. But because of the Hassessian, two sons, Garabed and Herag, emulate her joy and vitality in their own lives. war, when the teacher left the country, the daughter-in-law Vicki, and grandson Jonathan Below are a few comments from her students: music lessons had to stop. and granddaughter Aimee and her husband She became a blessing to our community. Manuel loved nature. He loved it so much Jarred, and many nieces and nephews. She is a poised, gracious and dignified per- that he taught himself to paint, and his love First and foremost, Siranoush was a godly son, she commands the respect of her students. for nature is clearly expressed in each of his woman. She was the living embodiement of She listens intently and patiently to our needs paintings. In addition to painting nature, he the woman of Proverb 31. She brought honor and with caring. also loved to taste and eat whatever nature of- and fortune to her husband. Her family was She is a fine steward of the talents God has fered. He accomplished this by planting fruit always clothed and fed. She prayed inces- given her. trees in his backyard as well as the backyards santly. She read her bible daily until her eye- Our classroom was always filled with joy of his friends and family. sight failed. and fun. After Manuel's sister Georgette and her hus- The Bible says that we should love God with Her book ”The Pleasure of Cooking” be- band Frank came to America, they eventually all our hearts, and she did. Christ told us to came a best seller. It was used as a textbook in sponsored all the family to come to the United love our neighbors, and she did. He said “Love her classroom. States. As the bachelor big brother, Manuel your enemies”, and she did. She said that love She continued her ministry at CMC (Chris- took care of his siblings and their offspring as was everything and nothing could stand in it’s tian Medical Center), with two dedicated doc- they came to America. way. The Bible teaches to do good to others, tors, Dr. Puzant Krikorian and Dr. Peter Manuel spoke a lot about heaven, to make and she took every opportunity to do that. She Manougian. To alleviate their pain and suffer- sure that his family and neighbors knew Jesus seldom said “No!”, yet her “Yes!” always ing became their daily concern. as their personal Lord and Savior. Because of meant yes, and not probably. She made her After they came to Pasadena, California, she his actions, he was instrumental in the growth requests prayerfully. When trials and tribula- led the Women’s Fellowship group at the Ar- of a godly generation. Manuel knew how to tions came, she thanked God and praised Him. menian Brotherhood Bible Church, every week give, even giving of himself, to his family, to She endured her sorrows quietly and gra- for thirteen years. She relied strongly on the his neighbors, and to missionary work world- ciously, and she rejoiced with others in their words of St. Paul, “I can do all things in Him wide. He brought glory to God, whom he happiness. She showed wisdom and under- who strengthens me.” Phil. 4:13 served well, with the example of his life.G

22 AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 2002 O B I T U A R I E S

Rose Mary Serrajian Kaye County Memorial Hospital in Upper Darby Madeline was unique. She was one of a Rose Mary was born in Bardezac, Turkey, and Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital in Drexel Hill. kind. Thoreau’s verse describes her appropri- on April 3, 1911, the first of 5 children. Her In the 1960s, he opened a private prac- ately. “If a man does not keep pace with his parents, Hovhannes and Haiganoush Serrajian tice in Yeadon. He also had evening hours companions, perhaps it is because he hears a were very active in the Armenian Congrega- one night a week in his home in different drummer. Let him step to the music G tional Church all their lives. They came to the Wynnewood. Health problems forced him he hears, however measured or far away.” United States in 1912, arriving in the New York to retire in 1995. City area. Their entire family and extended He was a member of the parish council of The AMAA Board of Directors and staff family were fortunate that they were able to St. Mark’s Armenian Catholic Church in wish to extend their heartfelt condolences leave Turkey before the Genocide. In 1914 Wynnewood and was a devoted Phillies fan. to the families of the following deceased they moved to the Bridgeport, Connecticut In addition to his son, he is survived by his friends whose names were submitted to us area where other members of the extended wife of 46 years, Rita Der Bedrossian for publication in the AMAA News. family lived. They moved to Detroit when Odabashian; daughters Tania Scharpf and Lara * Antoian, Grace Rose was about 14. She graduated from High Croy; and a granddaughter. * Assadourian, Fred School in 1929. A funeral was held on Saturday at St. Mark’s North Bergen, NJ Armenian Catholic Church of Wynnewood, While she became active in the Junior * Aoundaki, Nicolas PA.G League of the AGBU, she met her future hus- * Bedoyan, Henry band, Vincent Keshishian Kaye. They were Pico Rivera, CA married in October 1935. Madeline Manoogian * Charleson, Helen Vincent and Rose have been active in the Madeline of Winchester, MA passed away st Cranston, RI Armenian Congregational Church of Greater on May 4, 2002, just shy of her 91 birthday. Chickalian, Norma Detroit virtually all their lives. She was the second child of Vahan and Rochester, MI Rose Kaye made her transition from this Aghavnie Manoogian. Madeline had one sis- * Daisy (Talanian), Rose world to eternity on March 9, 2002. Her fu- ter, the late Nervarte Smith of Klamath Falls, Fesjian, Suren D. neral services were held on Thursday, March Oregon, and two brothers, the late Archie Pelham Manor, NY 14 at the Armenian Congregational Church of Manoogian of Byfield, MA, and Edward * Gabadian, Maritza Detroit and the interment took place at Manoogian of Everett, MA. * Gulezian, Jennie Woodlawn Cemetery. Memorial gifts were re- Madeline showed a talent for art at an early San Gabriel, CA G ceived by her church and the AMAA. age. After graduating with honors from * Hampartzoumian, Nevart Everett High School, she attended the Massa- Los Angeles, CA Arthur Odabashian chusetts College of Art in Boston. During her * Ilanjian, Marie Arthur Odabashian, 73, of Wynnewood, a ped- college years, Madeline worked as a waitress Spring Valley, NY iatrician who treated patients from many eth- in the summer at the Fairmont Hotel in York * Kashishian, Sonia nic backgrounds in his office in Yeadon, Dela- Beach, MA. She graduated in 1932 during the Westwood, NJ ware County, for more than 30 years, died of darkest days of the depression. She did some * Kochakian, Martha heart failure on Wednesday at Bryn Mawr free lance work, and also worked occasion- Methuen, MA Hospital. ally as a substitute teacher in the Everett Pub- * Manougian, Charles Fluent in five languages, Dr. Odabashian lic Schools. N. Attleboro, MA had patients whose nationalities included Ar- She finally obtained a job as a greeting Mardirosian, Gary menian, Russian, Iranian and African-Ameri- card designer at the Doehla Card Company Emerson, NJ can. His son, Stephen, said that whatever their in Fitchburg, MA and she lived and worked * Markarian, Yervant heritage, children and parents loved “Dr. O.” in Fitchburg for several years. Later she Sherman Oaks, CA “The house was constantly flooded with came to Boston, and worked for the Chilton * Nalbandian, Ayko cards, flowers, cookies, and drawings from his Greeting Card Company. Later she went Paramus, NJ patients and their parents,” his son said. “He to work in the ship design section of the * Nazarian, Haroutune would never let us throw out the children’s Boston Naval Shipper, from which she re- San Jose, CA drawings.” tired. * Papazian, Peter Dr. Odabashian was born in Krasnodar, Rus- Madeline had two particular passions in life Wayne, NJ Parseghian, Marie sia, to Armenian parents. The family fled to – the protection and preservation of the envi- Park Ridge, NJ Iran to escape communist rule when he was 4. ronment, and the humane treatment of animals. * Renjilian, James He was educated in Tehran, Iran, and received She was a generous person, giving freely to Germantown, MD a medical degree from Tehran University. benevolent animal, and environmental orga- * Sarafian, Sylvia In 1961, he and his family emigrated to nizations, even though she lived a very frugal Fresno, CA America, living in New York City for a year and simple life herself. Stone, Barbara before moving to Philadelphia. As she grew older, she gradually withdrew DeLand, FL After completing a residency at Hahnemann from society, and lived a simple and Spartan * Talanian, Gerald University Hospital, he joined the pediatric life, content to listen to her favorite classical * Talanian, Hidy staff of Misericordia Hospital in Philadelphia. music on the radio, and commune with nature He later joined the pediatric staffs of Delaware while she fed the birds, squirrels and chipmunks. * Memorials were designated for AMAA.

AMAA NEWS, MAY/JUNE/JULY 23 THE 1700TH ANNIVERSARY ARMENIAN REFERENCE BIBLE IS OFF THE PRESS

On the occasion of the 1700th Anniversary of Armenian Christianity, a special edition of the Western Armenian Bible was recently published by the Bible Society of Lebanon. The project was headed by The Rev. Manuel Jinbachian, with the major contributions of Dr. Ari Topouzkhanian and The Rev. Hovhannes Karjian. As Dr. Topouzkhanian puts it: “In the end our goal was to make the old translation into something contemporary that could be well under- stood by Western Armenians in the 21st century. We didn’t neglect mak- # ing the transla- # tion as true as BOOK ORDER FORM possible to the Armenian Missionary Association of America original texts, Please forward ______copies of the newly published but we worked hard on making Armenian Bible @ US $20.00 (Can.$30.00) each, for the Armenian fluent. When reading it you will find the brilliance in clarity and all Armenians will re- a total of $______plus $______for postage. joice that archaic expressions that are no more in (For postage add $4.00 for the first copy and $2.00 for use have been excluded.” each additional copy.) The end-result is just great. In our hands we’ve got a Bible in a language that can be understood Name ______and a joy to read. The typesetting is beautiful, the Address ______references are in the right place and the full-colour maps on the inside of the cover make the Bible ______into a magnificent work. This hard cover Bible is Enclosed is my check for $______available in green and the size of this 1700 page Bible is 1.8 x 8 x 11 inches. The price of each [In US make checks payable to AMAA and mail to copy is $20.00. If you are interested in owning a 31 West Century Rd., Paramus, NJ 07652. copy of this unique edition of the Bible, please fill In Canada make checks payable to AMAC and mail to 45 Fairglen Ave., Toronto, Ont. M1T 1G8] out the form and send it with your check to the AMAA.G

Armenian Missionary Association of America 31 West Century Road Non-Profit Org. Paramus, NJ 07652 U.S. Postage PAID Paramus, NJ Permit No. 55