Ջահակիր JULY 2021 Volume 72 | Issue 3

ST. JOHN ARMENIAN CHURCH NEWSLETTER

In this issue: The Feast of Pentecost SEE PG. 10 – 12 Exaltation of the Holy Cross SEE PG. 16 Church School and High School Graduates 2021 SEE PG. 24 – 30

1 Table of Contents (Click to navigate)

Pastor’s Message 3

Parish Council Message 4

A Successful Sunday School Year 5

Men’s Society’s Active Pandemic Year 6

Another Successful Year for the Women’s Guild, Despite the Pandemic 7

Dedication of Baby Nayra 8

Newly Elected ACYOA Seniors Board 9

The Feast of Pentecost (Hokehkalousd) 10-12

The Assumption or Dormition of the Mother-of-God 12-13

ST. MARY Սուրբ Աստուածածին 14-15

Exaltation of the Holy Cross 16-17

Reflection: Celebrating Exaltation of the Holy Cross at Aghtamar 18

My Sanctuary 19

Partners in Protest: Saintly Women of the Vartanantz 20-22

High School and Church School Graduates 2021 24-30

Numbers & Deuteronomy Crosswords 31-32

Bazaar 2021 33

Mission Statement Pastor & Editor-in-Chief Very Rev. Fr. Aren Jebejian The mission of Torchbearer is to in- Rev. Fr. Armash Bagdasarian Assistant Pastor form every Armenian about the Arme- Navasart M. Mardoyan Editor nian Church and her spiritual mission. Vardan Sargsyan Graphic Designer The Torchbearer is an extension of the Alice Argnian Contributor mission of St. John Armenian Church. The Torchbearer will provide knowl- Correne Akarakcian Contributor edge and information about the Arme- Contributor Dr. Gary Zamanigian nian Apostolic and Orthodox Church, Gregory Movsesian Contributor her history, theology, sacraments, ser- Lena Montgomery Contributor vices, hymns, mission, the understand- Lisa Mardigian Contributor ing of the Bible and Holy Tradition. Patr. Shnork Kaloustian Contributor Rev. Fr. Garabed Kochakian Contributor Yn. Roberta Kochakian Contributor MESSAGE Pastor’s Message From isolation to God’s embrace… “The Church after the pandemic…God will embrace you”

“God is waiting for you at the Church. Though masks and face coverings are mandatory, please do not cover your heart. Remember the lockdown has only been “the desert” to strengthen your spiritual life. Thus, you will be starting a new journey with a new promise to live a God-pleasing life and to enlighten the lives of all people with the gifts God has bestowed upon us.

The Church after the pandemic will continue to be the House of God and the Holy sanctuary wherein all will become one in the spirit of divine love. Listening to our heartfelt prayers, God will embrace us all. God expects our hearts to resemble the pure hearts of children to whom the heavenly kingdom belongs.

We are all equal in the eyes of the Almighty. As you enter the House of God, you will all experience the spiritual trans- formation. Then, we will witness the miracle in each other’s life. It will be the miracle that will lead to change – the change to become Christ-like, to be loving and caring for all but above all, to become guardians of world peace.”

– Archbishop Hovnan Derderian

From “Walking Out of The Upper Room” by Archbishop Hovnan Derderian. You can access the full 37-page booklet here.

As I read these vignettes from his experience during the offer us what the church offers us. Christ heals us through Pandemic, I was struck by the particular point of view which his salvific body and blood which gives us our possibility of he presents in the passage above…that is, from God’s point eternal salvation in His Kingdom. of view. Many times, we get caught up in our own situations Christ reminds us in the Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ and seldom think of things from God’s point of view. When according to Matthew, “Come to me, all who labor and are we come to church the gospel reading or the sermon focuses heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you on God’s point of view for our daily lives. However, when and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and we live through extraordinary circumstances, I wonder how you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my many of us thought of the Pandemic and the “lockdown” burden light.” (Matthew 11:28-30) through the eyes of God? What was/is God thinking? People often have asked me, ‘how did you make it through Indeed, God is ALWAYS waiting for us at the this difficult year’? It’s simple - through faith and knowing Church. However, as life begins to get back to normal, our that God is my protector. I find comfort in our beautiful spiritual lives not only need to get back to normal, but as sanctuary. I know that God is waiting for me and yearning Surpazan presents, this experience hopefully will make us for me to be with Him in His house. It is therefore time that better Christians. we return to God’s house…He is waiting for us. He is ready While we were told not to come to church, the op- to remove any of our burdens which we have and to give us posite is now true…we must come to church because God is spiritual healing of our minds, bodies and souls. It’s time to waiting for us there. come in from the desert into the warmth of God’s embrace. Our Coptic Orthodox brothers and sisters remind us that the church is our spiritual hospital. We come to church for spiritual healing. There is no place in society which can Very Rev. Fr. Aren Jebejian Pastor & Editor-in-Chief

3 MESSAGE

Parish Council Message Renovation of Church Facilities

It has been over two years since our parish embarked upon this journey to create plans for a major renovation of our church facilities. We are grateful to be working hand in hand with the Apostolic Society towards the completion of the project. Several design development stages were required to create a beautiful new design and address the many needs of our growing community. We are extremely excited to be planning a town hall meeting this summer to reveal the new proposed facility layout and renderings, along with details for funding the project. What key milestones have we passed through to bring us to this point in time? Initially, Jim Berryman met with Church organizations and parishioners. He created an extensive report summarizing their desires. We are grateful for his steadfast and enthusiastic efforts. Thereafter, the Renovation Committee was formed. Past and present committee members are Annrae Anusbigian, Ara Atesian, Howard Atesian, Sara Sarkisian Bell, Ann Marie Egigian, Michael Kazarian, Fr. Gar- abed Kochakian, James Leacock, Janet Mardigian, Mark Mardirosian, Nayiri Misirliyan and John Shekerjian.

Renovation project goals were drafted as follows:

• Provide a better experience for the parishioners. • Create a timeless design. • Enhance safety and security. • Improve access and convenience. • Enhance efficiency of kitchen operations. • Improve income generating spaces for both parishioners and outside groups. • Provide more efficient administrative operations. • Improve conditions for the choir and enhance classroom experience. • Access and address maintenance and obsolescence items.

Most importantly, we hope this renovation project will help to continue to “Build Up the Body of Christ” in our community. The much-needed facility update will provide a renewed space for our parishioners to worship and the community to gather. The next key milestone was hiring an architect. McIntosh, Poris and Associates (MPA) is an award-winning architectural firm based in Birmingham, Michigan. Some of their other clients include Detroit Athletic Club, Ford Motor Company and Franklin Hills Country Club. The committee has been impressed with their skill set, unique and thoughtful questions and their engaging design process. The renovation committee is presently working on the design development stage with MPA. This summer, they will once again meet with Church staff members and organizations to provide a progress update and dis- cuss how the proposed design will meet their needs. None of these upcoming changes could have been possible without the great dedication and perseverance of the Renovation Committee. We are grateful for everyone’s expertise, creativity and inspiration. Thank you to all who have participated in the process. We look forward to seeing everyone at the Town Hall – Renovation Update meeting for the reveal of the new proposed design. With love, Correne Akarakcian The Parish Council 4 CHURCH NEWS A Successful Sunday School Year

Lena Montgomery Contributor

Sunday School completed a long and often challenging year of activities with our children and students in the month of May. On May 23, after Divine Liturgy, our church school senior class graduates, nine in number, received their diplomas from Fr. Aren Jebejian and Fr. Armash Baghdasarian before going outdoors for a reception chaired by our Junior Class families. Thank you to learned about our faith and religious • Former church school graduates Karen Kazarian, Karen Shoushanian vocabulary, teachers learned how to stepped in to teach alongside staff and Liz Oknayan for chairing the re- use Zoom, Google Meet, Teams, break in rooms where additional support ception. Congratulations Allison Am- out rooms, send out invites, share the was beneficial and what a joy to see boian, Katherine Amboian, Kathleen screen, mute and backgrounds effec- our young adults stay connected and Andonian, Gabrielle Anusbigian, Kyle tively. contribute. Johnson, Grace Magee, Alexandra Mc- Teachers collectively discussed • In classrooms where content was Causland, Kennedy Poeszat, and Ani their experiences, and it is a pleasure missed, teachers teamed up with Winkler. to sum their words here: their peers to co-teach topics that Each year, the 1st grade students were missed. learn Hayr Mer. In lieu of the tradi- • We had as few as one child attend or tional recitation in the sanctuary on as many as the full class, it was hard Looking forward to Fall, our expec- the last day of church school, this year to predict who would attend in per- tation and hope is children will be at- and last year’s first graders presented a son or virtually, both options were tending in person wherever and when- virtual video presentation produced by offered, and some children attended ever possible. We plan to offer some our Senior Kyle Johnson! both and all. hybrid of remote learning or gathering At the final church school staff as an option to supplement our activi- • Those in attendance had fun. A meeting, Father Aren summed it up ties. We are exploring virtual platforms key ingredient to keeping children nicely by stating his heartfelt message to allow 7th -12th grade students op- engaged in Sunday School, often to the teaching and Sunday school portunities to engage in meaningful, viewed by families today as an elec- staff, “Thank you, thank you and thank time relevant conversations on topics tive. you” for their undying effort, support of interest tied to faith and life. and encouragement to the students in • Christian based projects and our PreK to 6th grade will attend in our care throughout the pandemic. “We Believe” curriculum was taught person and return to a group worship The staff left their comfort zones and experienced both in homes with experience with their peers, our won- of teaching in a classroom to a remote family worship activities as well as derful well-written and appropriate- learning platform with all the zoom in classroom experiences. Many ly grade level developed curriculum. bells and whistles. Sometimes chil- teachers sent materials home or More to come on our Fall planning as dren attended, sometimes not, and families picked up packets of cray- we reenter our church, classrooms and yet teachers persevered. On many oc- ons, pencils, paper, scissors, work- sanctuary to worship with our chil- casions teachers recalled that parents books, and texts. dren, families, clergy, and the Arme- participated alongside their children, • Vemkar website from the diocese pro- nian community. pets joined into the conversation, sib- vided teachers and families access to lings young and older listened in, and the grade level curriculum so all could CLICK HERE to Watch 1st and 2nd lessons were delivered. While students participate and follow along. Graders Singing Hayr Mer 5 CHURCH NEWS

Men's Society's Active Pandemic Year

Gregory Movsesian Contributor

The Men’s Society has been high- ly active throughout the Pandemic, continuing its Service to the Body of Christ, to work to feed/assist those in need, and preparing and delivering “curb-side pick-up” meals for our parishioners. With COVID restrictions gradually being lifted, we hope to soon be able to return to our in-person activities, especially with the Summer and picnic season approaching. On Sunday, April 18th, we prepared over 90 tasty Braised Lamb Shank dinners for curb-side pickup! The meal included Kefta, Piaz, Bulgar Pilaf, and dessert, with Stuffed Flounder/ Alas- oonjian, Dan Cristiano, Greg and Edith Saturday June 5th from 9-11:30 am. kan Crab offered as an alternative. Pa- Baise, Peter and Alice Arginian, and World Medical Relief (WMR) is a rishioners commented that the meal Gary Hachigian. Our own Paul You- global medical goods supplier and was exceptional and the MS SJAC ap- soufian coordinated the volunteers to non-profit organization that has served preciates everyone’s continued sup- produce an outstanding meal for the the sick and poor locally, nationally, port! Mission! and internationally since 1953. Since The MS SJAC is conducting a On Thursday, May 27th, the Men’s the summer of 2020, three shipments canned food drive from May 15th Society conducted its first in person so- totaling approximately 1.5 million dol- through June 19th in conjunction with cial gathering since we began reopen- lars have been sent by our community the Transfiguration Church of South- ing. It took place in the Main Hall. The to Armenia. field Michigan. Canned goods collect- menu included Char Grilled New York Volunteers came from the St. John ed go to the food pantry operated by Strip Steak or Blacken Grouper, Man- Armenian Church Men’s Society, our the Franciscan Outreach Program and go Sauce, Salad and Veggies, with Lem- church community, and our commu- assists Forgotten Harvest. We greatly on Cream Torte for dessert! Chef Paul nity at large. Fr. Armash Bagdasarian, appreciate your support. We exceeded Yousoufian utilized the talent of Assis- Alice Argnian, Peter Argnian, Richard 150 cans on the second delivery. Our tant Chef George Saboonjian to pre- Benian, Diane Garbooshian, Gloria plan is to continue collecting through- pare the meal. Armenian Wines, Arme- Korkoian, Denise and George Boya- out the year, so please be generous in nian Beers and Scotch were available, gian, Greg and Edith Baise and last but your donations to help feed those who and Cigars and Cognac were enjoyed not least, 13-year-old Carter Baise all are in need! outside after dinner. It was great to be contributed their time. If you have not Motor City Mitten Mission (MCMM) back in our face-to-face environment, participated, we invite you to join us in took place on 3 occasions: May 20th, breaking bread and sharing camarade- June 14th, and June 21st. 115 meals rie among good friends! were prepared each day by our volun- The MS SJAC participated in vol- Men's Society teer staff that included George Sab- unteer day at World Medical Relief, CONTINUES ON PAGE 8

6 CHURCH NEWS

Another Successful Year for the Women’s Guild, Despite the Pandemic

Denise Boyagian an, her working elves and West Born Church website or visit our own at St- Contributor Market managed to keep everything JohnWomensGuild.square.site behind the seen, business as usual, and We honored members who have We now have our own website! we sold out! served our organization for 10 years Many hours and long emails by Carol Both Fr. Aren and Fr. Armash were and 40 years by delivering congrat- Cholmakjian made this happen. I am able to attend the Annual Women's ulation gifts to their homes. We also happy to say we can now pay dues as Guild Easter visit to Manoogian Manor welcomed 16 new members with a gift well as make purchases on this sight with Elise Papazian by their side. Elise and a visit. Paulette Apkarian has been “StJohnWomensGuild.square.site”. gathered the choreg and other treats a busy bee this year with all her new Women’s Guild held a drive through that were presented to the residents. membership and guild gatherings sign baby shower April 17th for Yn. Maran The staff and residents really appreci- ups. to welcome the coming of our most ate each feast day visit we make. The Armenian Mirror Spectator beautiful baby girl, Nayra Dalita Bag- World Medical Relief visits are an- featured recipes from our members dasarian. Joy Callan and her talented other part of our outreach. We gath- Yn. Roberta Kockakian’s (Pakhlava) on committee created and orchestrated a ered in April and in June to sort med- April 10th and Nancy Berryman’s (Car- perfect scene that welcomed members ical supplies that are sent to countries rot Cake) on April 24th. These articles as they proceeded with gifts and greet- in need. This work has given us the were written by one of our new mem- ings to Yn. Maran, Rev. Fr. Armash opportunity to send supplies to Arme- bers Christine Vartanian. Readers were and Natan. nia as well. It’s not hard work and we directed to our website to purchase In case you missed it, we had a “Back actually have fun doing it! our cookbook where these recipes to Church” Palm Sunday Bake Sale Our Women’s Guild Gatherings came from. Hokehankist prayers were filled with home baked goods donated has produced 8 new videos to watch at held on June 6th for the 8 members by the loving hands of dedicated mem- your convenance. These are How To's who have departed this year. Asdvadz bers. Baking was restricted because of that our members and their families Hokeeneruh Loosavoreh (Աստուած the remodeling of kitchen space which have made with love for our communi- հոգիները լուսաւորէ) left us minus a freezer. Marlyn Dadi- ty. You can get to them via St Johns

7 CHURCH NEWS

Dedication of Baby Nayra By Lisa Mardigian Contributor

On Sunday, June 13th, at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, Fr. Armash and Yeretzgin Maran Bagdasarian presented their daughter to God on the 40th day of her birth. After the short blessing by Fr. Aren Jebejian, Der Hayr and Yeretzgin sponsored an outdoor fellowship tea for parishioners, while big brother Natan passed out cookie favors to all. Congratula- tions Der Hayr, Yeretzgin, Natan and baby Nayra!!

year! We anticipate an even better turn- menian Church welcomes you to “Home Men's Society out! Part of the success of these events is Coming” on Sunday, July 18th, 2021. Continued from page 6 our Volunteers, organized by Chef Paul Come worship with your family and Yousoufian! Our thanks go out to George church family as we celebrate everyone Saboonjian, Greg and Edith Baise, Steve back in church! After Divine Liturgy join August for this worthwhile effort. Hagopian, Robert and Patricia Magee, us for an outdoor picnic sponsored by St. Father’s Day, June 20th, was anoth- Harry Dulger and Kazar Terterian. We John Men’s Society. Luleh Kabob Sand- er remarkably successful event, thanks were also Blessed with financial support wich and Armenian Potato Salad, Dogs to the support of our Church Family. by Gary Hachigian who donated the Bas- and Chips for the kids. Bottled Water; The Men’s Society prepared 70 complete turma and George Saboonjian who do- Strawberry Short Cake for dessert. This and delicious dinners and 26 appetizing nated the Eech and all the produce for the event will be a free will offering, with Mezza platters, that were picked up “curb event. Fathers have responded that their proceeds going to the Men’s Society spon- side” following the Badarak. This was our Father’s Day meals were outstanding! soring an orphan in Armenia through the first Father’s Day dinner with the hopes July 18th will be our next event, and Fund for Armenia Relief /CASP. The MS of doing many more, and in person next this one will be in person! St. John Ar- SJAC hopes to see you all there! 8 CHURCH NEWS

Newly Elected ACYOA Seniors Board

By Lisa Mardigian Contributor Chairman: Armen Arslanian

In honor of our Mother’s Day, the ACYOA seniors sponsored a Vice Chairperson: Victoria Boyadjian special Mother’s Day take away coffee and croissant following the special blessing by Fr. Aren to all our mothers at the end of the Treasurer: Zaven Dadian Divine Liturgy on May 9th. Our ACYOA distributed special “Love You Mom” succulent plants and yummy chocolate croissants by Secretary: Sevana Mailian Crispellies Bakery! Outreach/Service Coordinator: Danielle Sarafian On Friday, June 18th, the seniors had a summer kick off gathering in the ACYOA Room. Members brought mezza platters and Events Coordinator: Celene Philip desserts and we were able to join the ACYOA Central Council’s virtual wine tasting! Over 20 kids came and enjoyed our first in-person Juniors Advisor: Talia Oknayan gathering! The ACYOA is looking forward to hosting a car wash on July 11th Social Media Chair: Lerna Lacinian for Vartavar (Transfiguration) and our annual church picnic on August 15th!

9 LITURGICAL LIFE

The Feast of Pentecost (Hokehkalousd) Two Names But the Same Feast for the Armenian Orthodox Church.

By Rev. Fr. Garabed Kochakian ately as Hokehkalousd /Հոգեգալուստ Contributor or Գալուստ Հոգւոյն Սրբոյ, [The De- scent/ Coming of the Holy Spirit] We could use our own imagination and the Birthday of the Christ’s Holy to get a picture of what happened on Church on Earth. that great day, but the sacred artists We read about this awesome divine and painters of Icons in our Armenian encounter from the New Testament Orthodox tradition did this for us. Book, the Acts of the Apostle: The story of Pentecost became the Feast of the Coming of the Holy Spir- …And when the day of Pentecost it and the earthly birthday of Christ’s was fully come, they were all with Church. Presented here is a beautiful one accord in one place. And sud- Icon in glass mosaic adorning the sanc- denly there came a sound from tuary of St. John Armenian Church heaven as of a rushing mighty mounted on a wall and showing that wind, and it filled all the house event. And, as we gaze upon its beau- where they were sitting. And ty and view the image, the iconogra- there appeared unto them cloven phy as the artisan has created helps tongues like as of fire, and it sat us to remember that special day when, upon each of them. And they were by heavenly power and grace of Our all filled with the Holy Spirit, and Lord’s Holy Spirit, the Church of Jesus began to speak with other tongues, Christ came into existence on earth as the Spirit gave them utterance. Jesus had promised to send His (Acts 2:1–5) Holy Spirit to Apostles saying, What happened to those present “Do not be troubled. Believe in God and how were they changed? They and believe in me. My Father’s were showered with Divine Grace from house has many rooms. If that were Heaven. Christ’s Holy Spirit indeed not true, would I have told you that gave them gifts of wisdom and the I am going to prepare a place for day after Passover, or the sixth day of ability to speak in various languages to you? If I go to prepare a place for the Hebrew month of Sivan, which cor- preach the message of salvation to all you, I will come again. Then I will responds with May or June. Another the nations of the earth. In the mosaic bring you into my presence so that name is the "Feast of Weeks" Shavuot Icon we see who was there; the Apos- you will be where I am. [ John 14: in Hebrew; a festival for expressing tles and the Holy Mother of God, the 1-3]. thankfulness to the Lord for the bless- Blessed Virgin Mary all together and ing of the harvest. It is commanded seated in the ‘upper room’. It was the Thus, as a Christian Feast, a new Pen- to the Jews from the scriptures in the fulfillment of Jesus’ commission to the tecost was inaugurated by The Lord Book of Leviticus (23:15-16). The time twelve which He gave on the day of His Jesus Himself by His Holy Spirit who frame was determined to count seven Ascension, …go therefore and preach came to the Apostles who with their full weeks (or 49 days) beginning on to all the nations, baptizing them in the ministry would transform the world the second day of the Jewish Passover, name of the Father and of the Son and into the Kingdom of Heaven. and then present offerings of new grain of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to ob- Stepping back for a moment, we to the Lord as a lasting ordinance. The serve all that I have commanded you… learn that the Feast of Pentecost is word Pentecost derives from the Greek Likewise, after Pentecost Day, it was rooted and embedded in the Judaic word meaning "fifty." The word in Clas- Faith. It was celebrated on the fiftieth sical Armenian identifies it appropri- CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE 10 LITURGICAL LIFE this same admonition which spurred THE FLAMES: The inclusion THE DOVE: At the Baptism of Je- Saints Thaddeus and Bartholomew, in the overall iconography of what sus, we read from the Gospel [Matthew members of this sacred fellowship, to the Gospel tells us - appearing to be 3: 17] that the Holy Spirit, in the form eventually come to Armenia with the flames- resting upon the heads of each of a Dove descended upon him. What gift given to them by the Holy Spirit, of the Apostles, tells us more about the was seen and reported at that very thus enabling them to communicate Divine energy given by the Holy Spirit. moment was perceived as something the words of the Lord and what He We know that fire and their flames that looked like a dove that came down taught, to the people of Armenia. can destroy, but also, they can build from the heavens and rested over Je- up and bring light to where it is most sus, standing in the waters of the Jor- A Look at Three Important Features in needful. The Icon shows the heavenly dan River. What was sighted could the Iconography. and divine flames descending and hov- very well have been an intense and flut- ering over the Apostles’ heads, repre- tering of light and a burning flame, as THE VIRGIN MARY: Orthodox senting the work that they were first the one seen by Moses in the burning Christian teaching initially traces Saint charged with; to organize the Body of bush. It was a blinding light that this Mary’s greatness to the Power of the believers in Jesus Christ as the Church, time, waved in the wind, and appearing Holy Spirit which came upon her. By on the new Pentecost mystically con- to the eye to be like a bird with wings. that heavenly grace she continuously structing, sparking, illuminating, and It was a pure bright white light, that lived in the presence of God through- setting anew their works ahead. It was identified Jesus as the Savior and the out her life. Espoused to God, by the Heavenly Fire Upon the Earth. It was Beloved Son with who God the Father grace of His Spirit, she is understood a Fire from and the Spirit of God, in was ‘well-pleased”. in our theological teachings as the im- our Christian History, which continues We note in the icon we note in the age of the earthly Church because of to come to us all, from the moment of icon that the Dove appears, a universal her significant part in the Incarnation our Baptism when we received adop- symbol in sacred Christian art, present- of Christ-God. Therefore, to include tion to become children of God and, ing the same transforming power from the Holy Mother Mary is an important to the Sacrament of Anointing with heaven, the same Eternal Light from and aspect of this event. Placed at the cen- Holy Muron / Chrismation when we of God’s Holy Spirit descending upon the ter of the Apostles the Holy Mother of are marked with heavenly that flame group in the upper room. It gave them a God presides at the heart of the assem- of divine energy which has clothed us new breath, a new insight, wisdom, and bly. Her place in their midst has many to live out our lives on this earth as skill as the Lord’s chosen coworkers. The messages. But first and foremost, it Christians and to remain faithful every Holy Mother who physically bore Him is- The Church of Jesus Christ includes day. It suddenly becomes clear for us, into the world and, the Apostles who every human being, slave and free, Jew what it means to be the Body of Christ, revealed Him to all nations. Both were and Greek, male and female [Galatians in Worship, Ministry, Acts of Charity chosen with a purpose for and by God for 3:29] who are all one in Christ’s fellow- and Witness to Our Lord. His Force re- transforming work. ship, united by the mystical presence mains within us as power to transform When we became Christians, Jesus and power of the His Holy Spirt. All the fallen world into a heavenly one. breathed upon us His Holy Spirit as He comprise the Church of Christ. It was I remember a phrase from the well- did upon the Apostles. After the manner the same Spirit who came upon her at known film, Star Wars, that was said of the Hebrew prophets, who express the Annunciation when the Archangel at the end of the movie by Obi-Wan by the symbolic act of breathing, Christ Gabriel gave that startling announce- Kenobi, "May the Force be with you." It communicates His Holy Spirit to us. He ment to her saying, "the Spirit of the was a phrase in the movie used to offer breathes upon us to continue His work Lord is upon you and the power of the good will. Understanding those words to Build up the Body of Christ, to keep Most-High will overshadow you" [Luke in Christian context, it is like a blessing Holy His Church "making it spotless 1:35]. It was and is the unity of the pow- implying that that power - the Force, and pure and without any wrinkle with- erful and mystical presence of Christ the Spirit of God can eternally be alive out any stain or other blemish, but holy and His Holy Spirit that the Church and at work upon us, all for the good of and blameless" (Ephesians 5:27). It is lives today. We could even state that God and Promise of Christ. The power the Holy Spirit who called us at our Bap- the Virgin Mary, in fact, portrays her of Jesus and His Spirit fueling, propel- tism…to be born anew every day of our profound humility and virginal love ling, and igniting a flame of faith in us lives and to live in the Spirit who anoint- as the Spouse of God’s Holy Spirit and imbues us with the same strength and ed us, to preach, teach, and be Christ in doorway toward salvation. hope it gave to the Apostles. the World. And it is in the Church, the Holy Spirit warms and enlightens us to

CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE 11 LITURGICAL LIFE do these wonderful works of God. From the day of our Baptism, we have Lord’s Great Commission and for us On the day of the Ascension, the inherited this blessing, this grace, and The Church to be new Apostles. Christ Apostles received the Great Commis- gifts - to go out into the world and de- is the fulfillment of the Old Law, and sion. Yet, it is the Christian Feast of clare the message of salvation, and the New Covenant. It is in His mysti- Pentecost that we, like them, receive without fear and always praying to the cal Body, the Church, and by His Holy anew the gifts of the Spirit of Christ Holy Spirit. Communion, the Eucharist, that He is our God. We find ourselves imbued The annual remembrance and forever, Life Hope and Resurrection. and filled to continue, from genera- celebration of Pentecost (Hokehka- tion-to-generation apostolic ministry. lousd) then, fulfills and renews our

The Assumption or Dormition of the Mother-of-God

By Rev. Fr. Garabed Kochakian See in detail the story an Armenian Contributor iconographer has captured.

Following the Third Ecumenical Behold this funeral scene where the Synod of Ephesus in A.D. 431, record- Blessed Mother is at the center resting ed in an Armenian Lectionary dated on her deathbed. Therefore, in some A.D. 434, a reference is that preserves Christian traditions the feast is referred the ancient liturgical practices of the to as the Dormition [falling asleep]. Jerusalem Church between from 417 Note the Apostles gathered around her to 439. It describes a feast of Saint viewing the Holy Virgin and, likewise, Mary, the Theotokos [in Greek], which the angels are descending from blue was celebrated on August 15th, …“at cloud bursts from the realm of heaven the second mile from Bethlehem." entering earth. They appear leaping Thereafter this solemn celebration forth toward Christ who is standing was extended to the entire East during erect and hovering over her body. He is the sixth century. Since the feast was holding her soul, depicted as an inno- celebrated on different days, it was de- cent infant, taking her into His arms. creed by Emperor Maurice (582-602) The golden field behind Him, a sym- that, the feast will be celebrated on bol of Divine Majesty, covers the en- August 15th under the name of Dormi- tire background announcing that The tion which, literally translated, means The Dormition of the Virgin (Manuscript illumination Lord Christ God has descended from “the falling asleep.” It also came to be from the Matenadaran Gospel), 14th century. Found in the uncreated glorious Light of Heav- celebrated in the Western Church by the Collection of Mesrop Mashdots Institute of Ancient en into our world as He receives His Manuscripts (Matenadaran), Yerevan. the eighth century when Pope Leo III beloved mother into eternity. In some officially confirmed the feast. other variations of this icon, in place major Tabernacle Feasts [Daghavar of the golden field, behind Christ there Though the account is not written - Տաղաւար] properly called Վերա- is a large halo of concentric bands of about in the Gospels, it is nonetheless փոխում/Verapokhoom (the taking up bright color called a mandorla. They the early church's testament of the life of the Holy Mother-of-God). The Ar- both signify the Almighty Creator in of Saint Mary which is an important menian word for this feast acknowl- the heavenly realm. Jesus the incar- part of the Mystery of God's promise edges her physical and spiritual 'trans- nate God came into the world to save and revealed through her. The story port' or translation into the embrace all mankind, and at this moment trans- comes to us from an orally transmitted of her Son, as she inherited a place in ports into Heaven His mother to take account of the Apostles and is the only the glorious realm of heaven with Him. His mother into her eternal home. one dedicated to the Virgin. She said Yes to God at his incarnation In the Armenian Church the name giving Him birth, and like Him she was, of this feast is call Assumption. This bodily 'assumed' or taken into heaven. commemoration became one of the CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE

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The Apostles gaze at the Holy Hierotheus. They both had come with forgiveness when we repent. In doing Mother-of-God with sorrowful faces St. Paul who is shown standing in the so, we can be redeemed and find our and trembling expressions of sadness foreground in front of the funeral bier. place with God when we, say YES and that pierced their hearts and are also a There is an interesting apocryphal believe, becoming participants in His part of this event. Yet observe, in this story about St. Mary's falling asleep plan for our Salvation. Armenian Icon, there are only eleven where, yet another figure appears at of them. Missing from the group is St. her deathbed and included in this St. Mary is the Doorway of Redemption Bartholomew who was preaching in In- scene of the story. It was Athonios dia and not present at the time of her [sometimes in other Armenian expli- As the Virgin said YES at the out- death, as the received tradition of the cations of the same Assumption narra- set of her life with the words “Let it be Armenian Church describes the narrative called Jephonias]. He was known unto me”, like her if we give our lives tive. to have been a fanatical Jewish priest, in obedience to the will and call of It was upon his return and follow- who often spoke against the Lord's God and become bearers of Jesus the ing her burial that the Apostle Bar- Resurrection and was filled with such Lord into the world, saying Yes, He will tholomew arrived and was presented envy and disbelief about St. Mary's role reach out, embrace, and receive us also with a sacred icon of her face believed in the Incarnation as this apocryphal into heaven. That Hope of inheritance by some to have been painted by St. account states that he rushed forward at His eternal banquet table in heav- Luke. Though this gift was intended to to throw her body to the ground. en will be granted to join the Blessed comfort him, nonetheless he wanted to But confronting him is an angle Mother and all the righteous saints. see her body. For three days of keep- standing to his left who stopped him And we will sit at His Right hand. ing vigil at her tomb his fellow Apos- and cut off his hands as he attempted tles to comply with his request opened to defile her. His hands are separated The Icon is a prayer her grave only to discover it empty. It from his body and left dangling from was their belief that Jesus her Son had the edge of her funerary bier. Also Thus, we pray, O Mother of God, come to take her home as she ascended note St. Peter, standing to the right Mother of Light, and Temple of the to heaven to be with Him. Interestingly of Athonios’, admonishing him for his Word of God, pray unto Christ your it is recorded that this Icon of the Holy disbelief. Later, as the story concludes, Son to reconcile us to the Father, and Mother was eventually brought by St. Athonios repented of his rejection of by your intercession to Him, receive Bartholomew to Armenia during his Christ and his disbelief. He eventual- our supplications and save us. evangelization. ly repented and believed in Christ and Added to the figures in the Icon, we that Mary was His mother. At his con- see St. John the beloved one and the fession, his severed arms were rejoined youngest Apostle bending toward the to his body. Holy Mother in the gesture of embrac- ing her. St. John's sad expression truly Perhaps there is a message for us shows the great pain in his heart. For even today in the iconography of this it was to John that the Lord entrusted apocryphal account. the care of St. Mary when they both stood at the foot of the Cross. Thereaf- Consider this. When we have faith ter, historical accounting records that and hope, miracles can occur, moun- they lived together in Jerusalem and tains are moved, water becomes wine, Ephesus for many years following the the paralyzed can walk, the woman Resurrection of Christ. with a flow of blood is healed. All things Additionally, take note that at this can be restored when faith is born in funeral event, the images of three bish- one’s heart and soul. This is possible ops attired in black and white checker when willed by God. robes who are included; one of them In this Icon of the Assumption, we is St. James, the brother of the Lord- see it clearly unfold especially with and first Bishop of Jerusalem - holding a by Athonios' own faith. And, like him Cross and vested as if performing the we too understand that with HOPE burial ritual. He is joined by two other to be given another chance to receive bishops presumed to be Timothy and the grace of redemption and gift of

13 LITURGICAL LIFE

ST. MARY Սուրբ Աստուածածին

By Patr. Shnork Kaloustian Շնորհք Պտր. Գալուստեան

One of the main differences between the Protestant churches on the one hand, and the ancient Apostolic churches, including the Armenian Church, on the other hand is that the latter have canonized saints, while the former have not. The first thing we must know about saints is that we do not adore them; we adore God alone. We simply venerate the saints as the true and closer followers of Jesus Christ. Just as the state honors and respects its great men and women, so the Church honors its saints. By honoring the saints, the Church values their love of God and their devotion to His cause on earth. Saints are to us as models to be imitated, because they were better and closer imitators of Christ. St. Paul says: “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (I Cor. 11: 1). The veneration of the saints is really an incentive to a better Christian living. Saints were made of the same flesh and blood as we are, meeting the same difficulties and temptations as we do here on earth. They were subject to the same infirmities as we are. Yet they became imitators of Jesus Christ by conquer- ing those infirmities and temptations. That is why they are honored. The list of saints is headed by the Holy Virgin Mary, as she is the first and greatest saint of the Christian Church.

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She is a great saint for two reasons. A) She has the most Eve is our natural mother because she is the origin of our and the highest qualifications which make a saint. B) She natural life. Mary is our spiritual mother, because she gave has played the most important role in the life of Christ, our birth to One who became the origin and source of our spir- Savior. Therefore, the veneration of the Blessed Virgin Mary itual life. is due to the recognition of her divine motherhood, and of We must realize and declare that nothing has exercised the unique sanctity which was hers as the mother of the in- a more profound and a more salutary influence upon Ar- carnate Son of God. Our veneration is shown by the fact that menian womanhood than devotion to and veneration of the her picture with the Child Jesus in her arms is placed on all Holy Virgin. If Armenian women had higher moral attri- our church altars. butes in the East than their sisters in other neighboring na- The veneration of the Blessed Virgin Mary has been spon- tions, it was mostly due to the high esteem that our Church taneous and gradual, almost without stimulation of Church has about this Holy woman, the mother of Christ. authorities. Speaking of the gradual way the veneration of May she continue to be always an inspiration to all of us, the Holy Virgin has been established in the Church, some- particularly to our mothers and sisters, for a higher, purer one has said: “As she increased day by day in God’s grace and better life. in Nazareth, her hometown, while the world knew nothing of her, so the Holy Spirit, working in the Church, has raised The Armenian Church observes five main holy days in her silently and by a natural process to the place which she honor of the Virgin Mary: occupies in our churches.” Her image is found in catacombs, the earliest places of 1. Annunciation on April 7; Christian worship. This proves that from the earliest times 2. Her Conception from Anna, her mother, on December 9; the Church has shown great veneration to the Mother of God, the Blessed Virgin Mary. The first and the most ven- 3. her Birthday on September 8; erated shrine in the Armenian Church, Holy Etchmiadzin, 4. her Presentation to the Temple when she was, is dedicated to her. Our Prayer Books, as well as our Hymn according to tradition, three years old, on November Books, are full of songs in her honor. The honorable position which she enjoys in the Church is nothing else but fulfill- 21; and ment of her own prophecy about herself, as preserved in the 5. her greatest holiday, however, is the Feast of Gospel: “From now on all generations shall call me bless- Assumption, which is celebrated in our Church on the ed, because He that is mighty hath done great things to me” Sunday nearest to August 15 and lasts nine days. (Luke 1: 48-49). Scripture and Tradition agree in ascribing to Mary the greatest personal sanctity. She has shown the greatest hu- Assumption means “taking up” (to heaven). The Arme- mility and patience in her daily life. Humility and patience nian word for the feast, “Verapokhoum,” (Վերափոխում) are the key virtues in a holy life. She has exhibited a heroic has the same meaning. This great feast of the Church honors patience under the most trying circumstances, on Calvary the Holy Virgin for the sanctity of her life and purity of her for example at the Crucifixion of her beloved Son. heart with which God has endowed her, our blessed Mother. Mary was truly the mother of Jesus; and as Jesus was The story behind this great feast, in a nutshell, is this: be- truly God from the first moment of His conception, there- cause of her extreme holiness and purity, St. Mary was pre- fore Mary is truly the Mother of God, “Astvadz-a-Mayr,” as served from corruption after her death and was raised and we call her affectionately in our language. taken in heaven. The Assumption differs from the Ascension As Mary is the mother of Christ, so she is mother of all of our Lord in the fact that Christ went up to heaven by His those in whom Christ live. Therefore, we have the right to own divine power, whereas St. Mary was taken up by the claim Mary as our mother, in so far as we identify ourselves power of God, and by the ministry of angels. with Jesus by the life of grace, i.e., by a true Christian life.

15 LITURGICAL LIFE Exaltation of the Holy Cross

By Rev. Fr. Armash Bagdasarian Assistant Pastor

Background

During Roman times BC, the cross represented the severest punishment possible for an individual. It was used in putting criminals and run-away slaves to death because it was a slow and tortuous process. It was such a disgraceful way to die that no Roman citizen could be crucified, according to the law of the land, only other class of inhabitants. Yet Christ’s crucifixion on the cross and thereby giving it a new meaning. By His death, the cross changed from The Exaltation of the Holy Cross by Mesrop Khzanetsi, Oxford, Bodleian Library an instrument of shame into a symbol of glory. It was not very long before the early Christians began to use the sign Feast of the Holy Cross simply “The Cross” (Khach – Խաչ). It of the cross as the symbol of their faith, stood right next to the Holy Sepulcher, that through Jesus Christ, death had at “May I never boast of anything ex- the round church built over Christ`s last been conquered. cept the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, tomb, which Armenians to this day re- The cross is such an important sym- by which the world has been crucified fer to as “Holy Resurrection” (Soorp bol to the church that our early church to me, and I to the world.” writes St. Harootyoon – Ս. Յարութիւն), and fathers had special feast days set aside Paul, “Except in the cross of our Lord where, to this day, Armenian monks dedicated to it. The Armenian Church Jesus Christ.” (Galatians 6:14). Like all from the Armenian Patriarchate of celebrates four feasts of the Holy cross. Christians, Armenians recognize the Saints James celebrate the Holy Bada- Three are celebrated during the season cross to be the consummate symbol rak every morning before sunrise. of the Holy cross, and one during East- of Jesus` death and resurrection, and These churches were built to memo- ertide. They are: through them, of God`s presence in rialize the most important events of the our lives. Christian faith. Constantine chose to 1. Exaltation of the Holy Cross Historical sources tell us that the consecrate and dedicate the Martyrium (Խաչվերաց), A.D. 629 (1st Sunday service of Procession and Veneration on the anniversary of the discovery of of the Holy Cross. Closest Sunday to of the Holy cross originated in Jerusa- Jesus` cross by the Emperor`s mother, September 14) lem in connection with festivities sur- Queen St. Helena. The anniversary of 2. Holy Cross of Varak (Վարագայ rounding the dedication of a church the discovery of the cross, coinciding Խաչ), A.D. 650 (3rd Sunday of built there by Emperor Constantine now with the anniversary of the con- the Holy Cross. Last Sunday in in the early fourth century. The so- secration of the great Church of the September) called Martyrium was a basilica built Cross, became the focus for a jubilant 3. Discovery of the Holy Cross on Mount Golgotha as a shrine for the eight-day celebration in early Jerusa- (Գիւտ Խաչ), A.D. 327 (7th Sunday most precious relic in Christendom: lem, consisting of church services in all of the Holy Cross) the wooden cross on which Jesus was of the shrines of the Holy City. 4. Apparition of the Holy Cross condemned to capital punishment. For (Երեւումն Ս. Խաչի), A.D. 351(4th this reason, Armenian pilgrims to the Holy Cross Sunday after Easter) holy land referred to this basilica as CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE

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Lord once said, “Whoever does not take up the cross and Holy Cross follow me is not worthy me.” (Matthew 10:38); meaning Continued from previous page that those who cannot endure moral hardships, those who cannot sacrifice their own selfish and bodily interests for the sake of a higher life of sanctity and honesty, cannot worthily The Holy Cross be called Christians. The cross is so important to us that we have it everywhere Symbols occupy a very important place in the Christian in our churches. It is on the altars and on the walls to mark religion. They express to us in a visible way some invisible the cornerstones. In Armenian ecclesiastical architecture, truth which words are unable to convey clearly. A piece of Armenian churches are often shaped like a cross. We cross yardage of material, for example, does not have much val- ourselves in prayers, to remember the love that Jesus has for ue or special significance in itself, but once a nation accepts us and the promise of life that he gives us. In other churches, that piece of material for its own flag, that material imme- the crosses often have Jesus on them to remember when he diately assumes almost a sacred meaning, because it is the died. But in the Armenian Church, the cross does not have a symbol of that particular nation and country. crucified Jesus on it. It is fancy gold, with flowery ends and The Cross is the most sacred symbol of Christianity. It is rays coming from the center. It is a symbol of the promise of the sign of the Christian religion. It was the first sign used life that Jesus gave us. by Christians, and it will be the last sign to appear in the The cross is important, but why is it also significant? Be- history of the Church. It is related in the Gospel; once the cause in the beginning of 600’s the Cross was taken captive disciples asked Jesus: “Tell us, when will this be, and what by the Zoroastrian Persians and after a couple of decades, will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” Christians got it back, lifted it up high and exalted it! Why (Matthew 24:3). He gave a long answer to this question and do we celebrate that event today? After all, it was more than among many other things said, “Then the sign of the Son a thousand years ago! Is there a message for us? of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the The celebration of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross does earth will mourn, and they will see ‘the Son of Man coming give an important message for each of us. When we exalt on the clouds of heaven’ with power and great glory ” (Mat- something, we lift it up high; we put it in front of us. It’s thew 24:30), referring to the sign of the Cross. Christians, there up high, in the direction that we are going, almost as a especially the Armenian Apostolic, Catholic and Orthodox goal for us to reach. Each of us need to exalt the cross, to lift Christians, render great reverence to the Holy Cross. it up high in our minds, and place it in front us. We need to Every Christian should know why we render so much make the cross, and the meaning of the cross, our goal in life, veneration to this holy sign of the Cross. The answer is that something that we are always moving towards, something Christ gave His life for our salvation on a cross; from that that is up high in front of us and sets the direction that we day on it became a reminder of the great sacrifice that the follow in our lives. Son of God made for mankind. That is the reason why the And what is the meaning of the cross? The love that God Church from the early days has given so much importance to gave us through his Son, Jesus in dying on it for us and the this sign; that is that reason why the Armenian Church has life that Jesus promises us, if we accept his love and love established so many feasts in honor of the Holy Cross. him back. “For God loved the world so much, that he gave As this sign reminds us of the greatest sacrifice ever made his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not on earth, the cross has assumed, in Christian vocabulary, the perish but have eternal life” (Jn. 3.16). meaning of a life of endurance, courage, and sacrifice. Our

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Reflection: Celebrating Exaltation of the Holy Cross at Aghtamar

Dr. Gary Zamanigian Contributor

In September 2014 I took advantage of an opportunity, offered by the East- ern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, to tour historic Western Ar- menia. After landing in Istanbul, the first city we traveled to on our itinerary was Van. The highlight of this particular part of our journey was visiting the Cathedral of the Holy Cross (Surp Khach) located on Aghtamar Island in Lake Van on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. Surp Khach is a medieval Armenian Apostolic cathedral built as a palatine church for the kings of Vaspurakan and later served as the seat of the Cathol- icosate of Aghtamar (1111 – 1895). It was constructed of pink volcanic tufa by the architect-monk Manuel during the years 915-921, with an interior used as a military training ground. nian princess named Tamar who lived measuring 48.5 feet by 37.7 feet and Between May 20, 2005, and July on the island. She was in love with a the dome reaching about 67 feet above 21, 2006, the church underwent a con- commoner who would swim from the ground. The architecture of the church troversial renovation program. The mainland to the island each night, his is based on a form that had been de- church was turned into a museum way guided by a light she lit for him. veloped in Armenia several centuries rather than reopened as a place of wor- Her father found out about this ar- earlier; the best-known example is ship following the restoration which rangement and he was very upset. One the seventh century Saint Hripsime did not bode well with Turkey’s Arme- night as she held the light waiting for Church in Etchmiadzin. The unique nian community. Adding insult to inju- her love, Tamar’s father smashed the importance of the Cathedral Church ry, permission to place a cross on top of light leaving the boy in the middle of of the Holy Cross comes from the ex- the church was not given by the Turk- the lake to drown because he had no tensive array of impressive bas-relief ish Government; later the issue was re- idea in which direction to swim. It is carvings of mostly biblical scenes that solved and since October 2, 2010, the said his dying cries of Akh Tamar…Oh adorn its external walls. cross, sacrosanct to all Armenians, sits Tamar can still be heard each night Following the Armenian Genocide, at the top of the church. to this day, hence the island’s name the church was exposed to extensive Aghtamar Island, with this Arme- Aghtamar, also spelled Akhtamar! vandalism wherein the ornate stone nian religious architectural jewel on it, balustrade of the royal gallery disap- has a few somewhat differing legends, peared, the khatchkars of Catholicoi known to many Armenians around Aghtamar were badly mutilated or smashed into the world, as to how the island got its CONTINUES ON PAGE 23 fragments. In the 1950s the island was name; one of them is about an Arme-

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My Sanctuary

By Alice Argnian | Contributor

As I enter, my eyes go to the image of Mother Mary and baby Jesus, a reminder that Our Savior was sent to be born and die for our sins. I come for refuge from the noise, both in my head and around me. “You are my hope and refuge, you are my salvation Benevolent and Unrevengeful One, Mighty Visitor, help me and calm down the turbulent waves of my agonizing mind with the dew of your compassion” (Hovhannes of Garni)/ “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

I come to receive reassurance that God is a caring God and knowing and feeling his presence, in order to receive a sense of peace, calm and serenity. The loneliness is softened by the arms of our God. I also gaze at the Armenian letter (“Է”) The seventh letter of the Armenian alphabet. God is Love. (Asdvadz Ser Eh.). Our “Eh” (“Է”) meaning “is” or “he is”. “God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM” (Ex- odus3:14).

I come for the lifting of my concerns and burdens and look for the light, truth, and hope. I feel that in my church. Jesus is the way, the truth, the warmth and spiritual illumination, “The LORD will be your everlasting light” (Isaiah 60:20). “Walk while you have the light, lest the darkness overtake you; he who walks in the darkness does not know where he goes” (John 12:35).

Jesus gives that light that shines to bring clarity. The light and the calmness that comforts me also renews my being. My faith is refueled with the Holy Spirit, the light shines and dispels the hurt and brokenness. “But those who wait for the LORD should renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31). “… let the light of your grace shine upon me and rescue me unto the freedom of eternal life, O caring one” (Hovhannes of Garni).

Our beautiful Armenian hymns comfort believers with their soothing sounds and meaningfulness. Listening to Der Voghormia (Lord Have Mercy) and Soorp, Soorp (Holy, Holy) brings me closer to Our Lord and Savior. “The LORD your God is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice over you with gladness, he will renew you in his love; he will exult over you with loud singing” (Zephaniah 3:17).

I remember our ancestors who gave their lives for their faith. We must keep the faith and, believe in the unseen, not the temporary. For the unseen is eternal. Whatever is happening in the world or in our lives doesn’t determine our journey, because our path in life is one of God’s promise. We have God in our presence, His care, love, and protection. He gives us peace and strength to live with hope. As I leave church, I remember the words of Jesus Christ “For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him should have eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” (John 6:40)

What a Beautiful Picture!

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Partners in Protest Saintly Women of the Vartanantz

By Yn. Roberta Kochakian The battle was fought on the plain of Avarayr in what Contributor is today in historical Armenia and is so significant because it was the first of wars between nations fought to keep the In May of A.D. 451 in Armenia a battle was fought be- Christian Faith. From the time of Christ, there have been tween the Armenian Nakharars or princes and the army of many individuals martyred because of their witness in the Sassanid Kingdom [what was then called Persia]. The Christ, but this battle was the first full-out war by a nation to battle lasted one day. The Persian armies numbered over defend and bear witness to its faith. 300,000 soldiers and the Armenians numbered around Vartan as well as numerous other Nakharars (նախարար) 66,000. There are several sources for the events of this bat- and their valiant armies had a very well-regarded military tle, but most well-read poetic, eyewitness description is by strategy, but ultimately lost the battle, losing 1,036 soldiers; the writer known as Yeghishe. In fact, the title of the Book the Persian army despite its huge numbers lost over 3000 is “About Vartan and the Battle of the Armenians.” He was soldiers. In remembrance of this great feat in defense of the the personal secretary to the leader of the Armenian army, Christian faith, this event has become a feast day in the Ar- Vartan Mamigonian. He was basically an historical journal- menian Church calendar, not in May, but on the Thursday ist because Yeghishe tells the heroic story of the plight of preceding the beginning of Great Lent and it is called Var- the Armenians under Persian rule centuries before and for tanantz. Vartan and his soldiers were canonized as saints. a time after the Battle of Avarayr. In reading the book it was They are called saints of the Holy Vartanank just as the Mar- a challenge to find references to women and their role in the tyrs of the 1915 Genocide were canonized just six years ago conflict. (2015). CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE 20 HISTORY & CULTURE

We tend to think of this great battle that so defines the “Men and women and the entire multitude of the peas- Armenians’ spirit of bravery, valor, and love of God as an antry having succeeded with the power of God, ex- isolated event, however, it was just one day in a long, ardu- claimed aloud and said: We are ready to suffer perse- ous struggle of the Armenian people to retain their identity cution, death, and all sorts of violence and afflictions for through their faith. For many years, under Persian rule the our holy churches, which our forefathers entrusted to us Armenians were allowed to build their churches and to wor- by the grace of the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and ship, but under much duress. The Persian religion of Zoro- through which we were reborn; and we were baptized astrianism or fire worship was prevalent in the area. The in the name of Jesus Christ with the hope of one faith. In Mazdeist had religious leaders who were called Magi who the same manner we wish to redeem ourselves by tor- were learned men who were aware of Christian theology. ture and by shedding of blood. Since we recognize the They used their knowledge of the Christian faith in an at- Holy Gospel to be our father and the Apostolic Orthodox tempt to turn the Armenians away from their beloved faith. Church our mother, let no evil meddler come between us But the Armenians would not give up the fight. Countless to separate us from her. [Yeghishe, p. 79] times the write Yeghishe tells of martyrdom and the torture of the Armenian Christian faithful. Stories of brave souls Yeghishe equated both men and women in the militancy who joyfully surrendered their lives rather than submitting of their faith. They were the armor of faith in Christ and re- to the will of the powerful. inforced their waist with the same girdles of truth. Yet even Women in fifth century Armenia were challenged not though the princes who followed Vartan, the priests and only by the limits of society, but they were persecuted just even the traitors were mentioned by name, very few times like and alongside the clergy and laymen because of their Yeghishe mentions women few times and never by name. Christian beliefs. Listen to this section from Yeghishe: The Not until the last few pages of this historical accounting passage is from a decree by the Persians giving their de- does Yeghishe refer specifically to women and their bravery. mands to the Armenians, to forsake Christianity. How they suffered in the wilderness during a so-called truce

“Nakharars’ wives shall be instructed, furthermore in … since the entire Armenian womanhood has been sub- the doctrine of the Magi. The sons and daughters of no- ject to distressing dangers and unbearable degradation, bles and peasants shall be instructed by the same Magi in we shall neither heed your deceptive commands, nor de- public assemblies. The laws of holy matrimony, received liver ourselves into the hands of your godless princes. of their forefathers according to the tenets of Christiani- ty, must be curtailed and prohibited, and instead of one Thereupon, they abandoned their villages, their towns, wife, a man shall take many, so that the Armenian race and their farms. Brides left their nuptial chambers and may grow and increase in number. Daughters shall be bridegrooms their rooms; the old dropped out of their for their fathers and sisters for their brothers, mothers chairs and infants from their mothers' breasts. Boys shall not withdraw from their sons, and grandchildren and girls and the entire multitude of men and women may enter the couch with their grandparents. [Yeghishe, departed and settled in the fastnesses of the wilderness p. 59-61] and in the defensible regions of many mountains. They preferred to live like beasts in caverns and worship God It is interesting to note that the Magi were the same class than enjoy the comforts of their homes in apostasy. of scholars who followed the star and found Jesus the infant [Yeghishe, p. 153] Christ child as recorded in birth narrative from Gospel according to St. Matthew. On these last 4 pages of the entire volume, Yeghishe de- This would have been an abomination to these women scribes the suffering bravery and deep devotion of the wives just as it is to us today. They refused to succumb. It is no and widows of the leaders of the battle. In these sections, we wonder then that Yeghishe also wrote of women: not only are witness to their persecution, but we also get a glimpse of the sacrifices they made, what comforts they gave up in memoriam of the deceased or tortured or imprisoned loved ones.

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21 HISTORY & CULTURE

“During the fifth year the king returned the properties of We know without being told that the courage, love and some of the Nakharars and gave hope to others that in persistence of the wives and widows of the Vartanank kept the year following he would release all of their belong- the warriors going. ings and with honor. And while their minds were thus stormed on every side, But I shall turn to that point again. they never weakened in their heavenly virtue. Those looking upon them from the outside they appeared to be I am unable to give the exact number of the wives and mournful and tortured widows, but in their souls, they widows,” were enriched and comforted by heavenly love. he says, of the blessed men of virtue in bondage or fallen in They no longer asked anyone coming from the distant battle… [of the women] country: 'When shall we be able to see our beloved?' They only wished and prayed God that they might be “They forgot completely the passion of maternal free- able to complete their mission with the same valor and dom and undertook greater pains than did men injured heavenly love as they had begun. to the drudgery of peasant life and submitted with more patience to suffering. And may we and they, in common, inherit the kingdom of heaven and be worthy of all that has been promised to While their souls were comforted by the invisible pow- the beloved of God, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. er of eternal hope, their persons were heavily beset by [Yeghishe, pp. 247-251]. physical hardships. Although all of them had maidser- vants, it was no longer clear who was the mistress and who the lady's maid. The garments of all were alike, and they all slept on the ground. No one made the bed of another because they could not distinguish one pallet from another. The straw mats had the same brownish color and the pillows under their heads were of the same black.

There were no chefs to prepare special delicacies for them, nor private bake shops to provide them in the manner to which the nobility had been accustomed. Ev- erything was common to all. They passed the Sabbath Eve like hermits inhabiting the wilderness… No soap ever came into the hands of the graceful ladies, and no fragrant oils were offered as in time of festive merri- ment…

The delicately bred ladies of Armenia, who grew up on divans and in litters, caressed and indulged, went on foot, barefooted to the houses of worship, making vows and offering prayers untiringly, that they may be able to endure their great suffering… the widows among them became brides of virtues.

22 HISTORY & CULTURE

On this occasion, there were many religious and civic dig- Aghtamar nitaries in attendance; especially significant was the pres- Continued from page 18 ence of His Holiness Bartholomew I, Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Appar- ently, it was the first time an Eastern Orthodox Greek Pa- Having been informed of the history, the architecture and triarch had ever been to the Cathedral of the Holy Cross to the restoration of the Holy Cross Armenian Church, it is now celebrate the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on obvious why it was so important for our group to be pres- Aghtamar. Of course, the General Vicar of the Armenian ent to celebrate the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross Patriarchate of Constantinople, Archbishop Aram Atesian, (Khachveradz) on Aghtamar Island Sunday, September 14, attended along with Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, the 2014. It was mid-morning by the time our bus reached the Primate of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of shore of Lake Van which was a much larger lake than I imag- America. Also present, were Archbishop Yusuf Cetin, Patri- ined. There was not a cloud in the sky; it was already very archal Representative of the Syriac Orthodox Church, and warm, and the sun’s rays reflected beautifully upon the wa- the Mayor of the Gavash Region of Van, Sinan Hakan. ter creating a magnificent glistening effect over the waves. Immediately after the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, We were promptly ferried to the island and upon our ar- we witnessed an impressive procession from the church out rival it was amazing to see literally thousands of Armenians to the tent, which was then followed by several speeches. from all over the world making their way to the Cathedral of Especially touching and extremely emotional for everyone the Holy Cross Church. The sanctuary of the church was far in attendance was several songs of lamentation sung in the too small to accommodate the multitude gathered, therefore Kurdish language about the Armenian Genocide performed a large tent was assembled nearby with a speaker system al- by a Kurdish ensemble in their traditional dress. Without lowing all of us to hear the Divine Liturgy which had just question, this was the perfect finale to an unforgettable day. started.

The Sculpture on the East Facade of Aghtamar

23 GRADUATES

High School and Church School Graduates 2021

The entire St. John Parish Community wishes to dedicate this issue of the Torchbearer to all of our graduates, High School and Church School. We lift them up and congratulate their many accomplishments. We ask the Almighty to continue to guide, bless and protect them in all of their future endeavors.

Alajajian, Christopher

School: AGBU Manoogian School College: University Of Michigan

Amboian, Allison

School: Walled Lake Northern High School College: Michigan State University

Amboian, Katherine

School: Walled Lake Northern High School College: Michigan State University

24 GRADUATES

Andonian, Kathleen

School: Bloomfield Hills High School College: University of Michigan

Anusbigian, Gabrielle

School: University Liggett School College: Colby College

Calukyan, Karine

School: AGBU Manoogian School College: University Of Michigan

Eurdekian, Ariana

School: Walled Lake Central High School College: University of Michigan

25 GRADUATES

Habring, Mariam

School: Lamphere High School College: University of Michigan

Halagian, Michael

High School: Walled Lake Western High School College: Michigan State University

Johnson, Kyle

School: Walled Lake Central High School College: Michigan State University

Keoleian, Michael Souren

School: Notre Dame Preparatory College: University Of Michigan

26 GRADUATES

Kojamanian, Caylyn

School: North Farmington High School College: Central Michigan University

Koceyan, Alex

School: University of Detroit Jesuit College: Wayne State University

Lafian, Daniel

School: AGBU Manoogian School College: Schoolcraft College

Magee, Grace

School: Roseville High School College: Oakland University

27 GRADUATES

Manzo, Jack

School: The Roeper School College: Purdue University

Mardoyan, Kevork

School: Northville High School College: Schoolcraft College

McCausland, Alexandra

School: Northville High School College: Purdue University

Messner, Peyton

School: Cranbrook College: University Of Michigan

28 GRADUATES

Mirachian, Darron

School: AGBU Manoogian School College: Oakland Community College

Najarian, Mara

School: Walled Lake Northern High School College: Michigan State University

Nigoghosian, Victoria

School: Northville High School College: University Of Michigan

Poeszat, Kennedy

School: Walled Lake Northern High School College: Michigan State University

29 GRADUATES

Shebot, Anthony

School: AGBU Manoogian School College: Oakland Community College

Souss, Layla

School: AGBU Manoogian School College: Oakland University

Togmajian, David

School: AGBU Manoogian School College: University Of Michigan

Toovalian, Lia

School: Walled Lake Northern High School College: Michigan State University

30 GRADUATES

Winkler, Ani

School: Bloomfield Hills High School College: Michigan State University

31 EXTRA

32 EXTRA

33 CALENDAR

Return of St John’s Bazaar

St. John’s will be hosting its annual Bazaar again this year.

The event will take place from October 1 – 2.