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SEVAN

Newsletter Winter-Spring, 2012

Primate's Easter Message

What’s inside? esus said to her, "...Go was wrong. The grave J to my brothers and say was open: its sealing- Women’s Guild to them, ‘I am ascending to stone pushed away. And Update 4 my Father and your Fa- inside the tomb they Sunday/ ther, to my God and your found, not a dead body, Armenian God.'" Mary Magdalene but a mysterious fig- School Update 6 went and announced to the ure—an angel—who disciples, "I have seen the beckoned them to draw Avak Seniors Lord!" And she told them Update 7 closer. Here is how St. that he had said these Matthew tells the story: ACYOA News 8 things to her. (St. John 20:17-18) The angel said to the women: "Do not be Profiles 9 IT WAS STILL DARK, EARLY IN afraid. For I know that you are looking Puppet Theater THE MORNING of the first day of for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not from the week: a Sunday, close to 2,000 here. He has risen, just as he said! Come Visits St. James 12 years ago. To most of the world, the and see the place where he lay. Then go Diocesan News 13 sun would rise on a day no different quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He is risen from any other. Only a handful of from the dead.'" (Mt 28:5-7). News from the people would later realize that some- Mother See 16 thing of importance had occurred. Some 2,000 years later, we use the Parish Events 18 But those few people understood very same words to remember the that overnight, the world had miracle of that Sunday morning: Great Week changed. Krisdos haryav ee merelotz! Christ is and Easter at risen from the dead! And as Chris- St. James 19 Three pious women rose early to tians we celebrate Easter to mark the Calendar of bear spices and burial ointments to most important, most joyous, most Upcoming the grave of their departed teacher glorious day in all of human history. Events 22 and friend. But approaching the tomb, they sensed that something But think again of what it must have

Page 2 SEVAN been like on that first Easter Sunday. In the shows how very close we still are to these darkness before dawn, when the pious oil- events, despite the obvious gulfs of time and bearing women set off on their journey to space. Taking place in the early hours of our Lord's tomb, things must have looked Easter Sunday, the service is dedicated to the very different. oil-bearing women: the "Myrophores" in Greek, or "Yughaperitz Ganaykh" in our own Two nights earlier, the women had watched tongue. The Yughaperitz service culminates in in horror as Jesus endured the torments of a reading from the Gospel of St. John (John crucifixion. They had stood in silent witness, 20:1-18), which begins "Early on the first day of as his lifeless body was brought down from the week, while it was still dark..." and ends the cross, wrapped in a burial shroud, and with Mary Magdalene's ecstatic announce- placed in a tomb. All their hopes and dreams ment to the disciples: "I have seen the Lord!" had come to ruin. Their Master was dead. His mission was over. The salvation of man- And here is the astonishing thing: History kind had failed. The women approached the indicates that this service originated in the tomb that morning, fully expecting to find early centuries of the Christian movement, in Jesus buried within. itself—perhaps at the very site of Christ's tomb!—where the celebrants would But—he was not there. gather at dawn, just as the women had done, Instead, the women discovered that their to re-enact their world-changing discovery. greatest hope had come to pass: "Christ is Through this beautiful ritual, preserved over risen from the dead!"—just as he had prom- many centuries by the Armenian Church, the ised. voices from that original Easter Sunday echo down to us, as if for the first time. Imagine the overwhelming joy, the incredi- ble sense of hope, the feeling of limitless pos- It is surely significant that the oil-bearing sibility that swept over the women at that women held no exalted or privileged status moment. They must have been bursting with in the world of their day. Indeed, even the excitement—eager to share this news with disciples refused to believe them when they others. came to the upper room, breathless, to relate what they had witnessed. Yet it proved that And indeed it was these women—the first these women, even from their humble sta- witnesses to the resurrection—who brought tion, were the ones who had seen the truth the Good News to the disciples. Through with clear eyes. Certainly it was their humi- them, the Gospel mission began: they were lity, their willingness to rise before dawn to the first link in a great chain of evangelism perform a ministry of love and respect at a that would eventually encompass the world, friend's grave, that placed them in the right and transform our own homeland with its place to receive this truth. Perhaps it was the message of love, hope, and victory over sin same attitude of humble ministry to our Lord and death. which prepared their minds to believe in it, A beautiful service of the Armenian Church and prepared their hearts to share it. Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012 Page 3 Armenian history is filled with similar stories Orhnyal eh harootiunun Krisdosee! of people—often from the most powerless Christ is risen from the dead! Blessed is the and marginalized stations of their surround- resurrection of Christ! ing societies—who saw and heard; who be- lieved and shared; and ultimately who trans- This Easter, let us proclaim those words formed their worlds from within. That is the loudly, with conviction to everyone we meet. power and the promise that genuine Chris- Even "while it is still dark," let us pierce the tian ministry—the "Ministry of the Faithful," darkness with our song of joy. And through as we have been calling it in our Diocese this it, may our Risen Lord draw forth the trans- year—can bring to our churches and commu- formative ministry that truly brings Light to nities, to our families and our individual the world. lives. It starts with those simple announce- With prayers, ments of joy and amazement: "He is not here; he has risen!" "I have seen the Lord!" Or in the Archbishop Khajag Barsamian words of our beautiful Easter greeting. Primate Krisdos haryav ee merelotz!

The Feast of holy Nativity and Theophany of our Lord Jesus Christ Blessing of water service

Chris Grey, a member of our community, served as godfather (gunkahayr) of the cross during the "Blessing of Water" service. Page 4 SEVAN Women’s guild update

the late 1930s, Armenian women li- In ving in Richmond banded together to begin fundraising efforts for what they hoped would one day be land on which to build a church for themselves and for future generations. In 1941 the Lady’s Auxiliary (today’s Women’s Guild) was able to pur- chase the first land to realize the dream of community members. Fifteen years later, St. James was built. That is why in November of last year, at the church’s anniversary ban- quet, the Women’s Guild of St. James was honored with a plaque commemorating over 70 years of service. In honor of the vision and Lucia Manoukian and her dance partner was open to members and friends of the Guild. The festivities included a potluck din- ner, a surprise DVD presentation honoring the Women’s Guild, and an even bigger sur- prise—ballroom dancing as performed mas- terfully by Lucia Manoukian and her dance partner. Attendees were also asked for vo- luntary donations that were collected for Families of the Wounded Fund, a local cha- rity. The Guild collected an amazing $1,000

Women’s Guild Executive Commettee: L to R: Lilly Bouroujian Thomas, Sona Pomfret, Linda Sharigian, Peruz Manoukian, Lucy Keshishian Grey, Rev. Fr. Mesrob Hovsepyan, Stella Bandazian determined spirit of those women, the Women’s Guild of today carries the torch for future generations. If you would like to be- come a member or if you would like to rejoin the ranks, the Women’s Guild needs you.

In December, the annual Christmas party L to R: Marni Pilafian, Lucy Keshishian Grey, Shocky Pilafian Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012 Page 5 for the very worthy cause.

The annual Ar- menian Christ- mas lunch took place January 8 when pari- shioners cele- brated the Ar- menian Christ- mas Divine Lit- always, she did an outstanding job. The Rev. Fr. Mesrob Hovsepyan & urgy and Bless- Lenten dinners were prepared by different Anahid Ghazarian ing of the Water volunteers every Friday. To all the women service. The highlight of the day was of who gave so graciously of their time and ta- course the visit from Santa Claus who de- lent, we thank you for coming through for us lighted young and younger with his jolly yet again! demeanor. There are too many to thank here for the success of the event, but a sincere Lastly, a spe- thank-you must be expressed to Jamie Ac- cial note of cashian for always being so kind, gracious, thanks—two and willing to help with a very special as- outgoing exe- signment that was requested of him. cutive mem- bers deserve During the Lenten season that was just com- our expres- pleted, the Guild hosted weekly Friday din- sions of grati- ners and baked holiday bread. Hasmig tude. Lilly Bouroujian Thomas and Linda Schein coordinated the bread making. As Sharigian completed their terms at the end of 2011. We thank both women for their stead- fast commitment to the Women’s Guild and for their dedicated service over the years. This year’s executive committee is made up of the following members: Stella Bandazian, Chair; Seran Kerneklian, Vice Chair; Sona Pomfret, Treasurer; Nvard Topjian, Rec. Sec- retary; Peruz Manoukian, Corr. Secretary; Sheri Harabedian, Adviser; and Lucy Grey, Adviser. LKG Page 6 SEVAN Armenian/Sunday school update

unday School has been quite busy this Our biggest event S fall and winter. was a Talent Show held on Poon We had a fun costume party on Sunday, Oc- P a r e g e n - tober 30th. After attending the Badarak, about tan, February 19. 20 children dressed up as pirates and prin- We had 11 performers who showed off their cesses, cowgirls talents playing the piano, violin, cello, sing- and cowboys, ing and reciting poems in Armenian. There bugs and ani- were classical mals. We en- pieces and Ar- joyed our tradi- menian/folk tional hot dog p e r f o r m a n - lunch, prepared ces. Everyone by Steve and who attended Dorian Barsam- was amazed to discover the talents of the ian, face painting, led by Knarik Arkun, and children. For the parents, it was heart- games, organized by Kathy Wall and Dorian warming and rewarding to see the results Barsamian. This was a very successful event their children's hard work. The program was and we are looking forward to having an- other one next October. On Saturday, January 14, Sunday School chil- dren and parents came together to watch the renewed version of the "Beauty and the Beast" movie and had a lunch. This was a very exciting and memorable outing for both the children and the parents. Yesaie Saakian Mark Arkun organized and coordinated by Raffi Bandaz- ian and Der Hayr. The delicious luncheon was prepared by Sunday School teachers and parents. R.K.

Michael Karapetyan Raffi & Aren Bandazian Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012 Page 7

Vahan Hakobyan Nareh Hovsepyan Maria Avagyan Anna Saakian Zina Avagyan Avak seniors update he AVAK seniors have been busy tra- T veling around town these last few months. After an enjoyable Christmas Party with delicious food and wonderful prizes for everyone, AVAK members filled their gas tanks for luncheon outings. In January, we gathered at the Cracker Barrel on Mayland Court for some southern coun- try food. Orders ranged from salmon to good Luncheon Grocery BINGO with pizza and ole grits! Our next stop was across the street salad. May’s event has not been determined but June 21 will host our annual Indoor Pic- nic with Hot Dogs and all the trimmings. Once again, we will not meet during the months of July, August and September as the AVAKs are busy at church helping to pre- pare for the annual Armenian Food Festival. The AVAK group meets monthly to engage in fellowship and fun. We look forward to at O’Charleys for a Valentine celebration in more of you joining us. All events are posted February. Then, in March, we christened the in the Church Hall, the Sunday Bulletin and new Olive Garden in Short Pump. Atten- the church’s website. Come and join in the dance was very good at each event. Everyone fun! Hope to see you soon! seemed happy, content and full. L.S. On April 18, we will return to church for a Page 8 SEVAN

Acyoa news

January 13-15, Sosy Bouroujian group of people who are dedicated and will- On and Rachel Semerjian attended the ing to work to have a relationship with one fourth annual ACYOA Chapter Workshop in another and with the Armenian Church. I Boca Raton, Florida, representing the St. learned what it takes to have a strong and James ACYOA. There were also thirty-five healthy chapter and I am looking forward to other young Armenians from parishes implementing what I learned and applying it throughout the Eastern Diocese present. to our newly formed ACYOA chapter here.” (Sosy Bouroujian) The theme of the weekend was “We’re All in This Together.” The focus was for everyone “We learned many tactics on reeling mem- to get together and discuss the successes and bers in and keeping them which to our sur- struggles with other chapters to help each prise was an issue that many ACYOA chap- other build stronger ACYOA chapters. ters were facing and it was nice to know that we were not alone. One main focus was to “One of my favorite activities, during the point out our strengths and weaknesses as a workshop was when we were separated into group and individually assess our position in groups based on where our parishes are lo- our ACYOA. Whether we were better at cated to plan future events with each other. leading, collecting information, or if we were We were paired with the St. Mary’s ACYOA the ‘doers’ we learned that every member group and they told us about many of their had a place and responsibility. fun and successful activities that they have done. They have a big chapter and are well “I personally got so much from this retreat, both as an individual and a youth group leader. I learned that we are not the only ones struggling and there is hope for even the smallest youth group. In the near future we hope to make more plans with the Char- lotte and D.C. ACYOA chapters. We have a lot of faith in our Richmond youth and we hope to keep having events and give back to established so it was extremely helpful and our St. James family.” (Rachel Semerdjian) informative to work with them. In addition, we tried to plan events that our chapters can do together which we are very excited about. “It was great to see other chapters who have more youth than we do struggling with some of the same issues. It taught me that it does not necessarily matter how many members you have, all that matters is that you have a Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012 Page 9

Betty and Haike Giragosian: When ‘I Do’ Really Means Forever

Printed in The very attractive couple with Mrs. Giragosian Armenian being especially beautiful. Weekly on February 18, It was on their third date that the handsome 2012 by Betty Haike and lovely blonde 19-year-old Betty Apigian- decided to marry, a fact unknown to either of Kessel. their parents. Betty says, “I met his parents after the third week and I am sure they must “I loved the Armenian culture and wanted to have wondered what to do with this foreign be part of it,” says Betty Franck Giragosian. teenager.” “There was nothing about it that bothered me. I loved Armenian food. It is so satisfying “The fact I was an odar did not seem to be a and delicious. In answering your questions, I problem. It certainly helped that his parents am getting an even better understanding of spoke excellent English.” (Odar is the term my mother-in-law. She would be pleased she she uses.) is occupying so much of my thoughts.” Betty was not immediately aware of any hur- Betty Jean Franck was brought up in the fine dles to encounter with her in-laws. “I did tradition of the genteel Virginia south. Her sense there was a strong bond of love be- family was of German, French, and English tween Haike and his mother. He made it heritage. She describes her life thusly: “I clear his mother was very important in his grew up in my grandparents’ house. My pa- life. I may have even been a bit jealous. She rents lived with them. I had a wonderful was such a perfect housekeeper and cook.” childhood filled with love, books, and music. Even clearer was that the elder Mrs. Gira- We had a quiet, simple life. I excelled in my gosian thought her golden Armenian son studies.” deserved the best in food, care, and nurtu- ring. Haike Giragosian was the American born son of Armenian Genocide survivors Betty and Haike were married in the chapel of Highland Park Methodist Church in Rich- Manoog and Takouhie from Kharpert, who settled in Richmond, Va. They were success- mond by her minister uncle. St. James Arme- ful restaurant owners. Their photo reveals a nian Church did not exist at the time. “I don’t believe there was resentment that I was Page 10 SEVAN not Armenian. It was just hard for his mother 1963. Haike is a retired general manager and to let him go, and believe me it was just as treasurer of the Cadillac dealership in Rich- hard for my parents to let me go.” mond. They’ve given financial support to both the Methodist Church and St. James “That was one sad wedding. Both sets of pa- Armenian Church. rents did not want us to marry but the diffe- rence in cultures really had nothing to do They participate in the huge annual Arme- with it,” says Betty. nian Food Festival of Richmond, which draws in thousands. Betty describes it “as a “For the first few years there was no close- spirit of brotherhood, fun, and respect. It is ness between us and often a feeling of almost an enormous amount of work for the mem- friction existed” with her mother-in-law. All bers but they do it, the younger generation of that changed because of Betty’s sincere having now taken over for the older one.” interest in Armenian culture and tradition. “There was never a cross word between us. The road to happiness with her immigrant We became very fond of each other. We be- Armenian in-laws did not happen overnight. haved like ladies.” It was her sweetness and genteel personality coupled with true love for Haike that led to a “I remember the first time I took her to a La- smooth, gratifying relationship. “I love my dies Aid meeting. I was going to leave, but husband dearly and would do nothing to decided to stay and had such a good time hurt him.” She was a wise woman who was that thereafter I always went with her until determined to win over his parents and in her health failed. Once afterwards I went the end it paved the road to contentment for alone but couldn’t wait to get home because I all. Everyone was a winner. discovered how much I missed Queenie [Takouhie] not being with me.” Sixty-two years of serene marriage, two sons, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchild- Unlike most odar harses Betty learned it all. ren, the Giragosians have set an example of “My mother-in-law was an excellent cook how people from different backgrounds can and did teach me Armenian cooking: lahma- have true happiness. joun, Kharpert kufta, sini kufta, sarma, dolma, kheyma, and vegetable dishes. I loved the Here is a clue to the character of the wise food and wanted to learn. My mother-in-law Betty Giragosian: As she says, “I feel very wanted her son to have Armenian food. I can humbled to be the subject of your paper. I remember my father-in-law being astonished hope I have honored my Armenian parents at how well I made the kuftas. She taught me by marriage.” all her secrets. I think she praised me to her The reality is she has honored us all by em- friends.” bracing our Armenian culture when she Through the years Betty has had a leadership could have just turned her back on it all. That role in the United Daughters of the Confed- Haike is one lucky Khatpertsi. eracy. She is an organist and pianist and has Don’t you just love a good love story? served in that capacity in her church since Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012 Page 11

Ruben & Yelena, Maria & Zina Avagyan

vagyan family is one of a few families A that moved to Richmond recently. They tion plants in Armenia; one oil refinery and came to Richmond in October 2010 where dozens of beverage production facilities. Ruben is employed as an Energy Engineer with Honeywell Industries. To balance his academic achievements, Ruben is talented in painting. As a young Ruben Avagyan was born in , Arme- student he attended the School of Art in Ye- nian, and his wife, Yelena Avanesyan, was revan for five years. He enjoys camping and born in , Azerbaijan. She was forced to hiking, and he is interested in history, arche- leave Baku and escaped to Armenia due to ology and paleontology. political unrest and war in Azerbaijan. Ye- lena met Ruben while she was a secretary for Yelena’s parents died several years ago. She a company where Ruben worked. They were has a sister living in Abovian, Armenia and a married in Yerevan and have two daughters, sister and brother living in . Yelena’s Maria and Zina. talents include knitting and decorating. She enjoys the outdoors, hiking, camping and Ruben’s parents were both engineers by pro- teaching kids and communicating with peo- fession. His mother passed away in 2006, and ple. his father lives in Yerevan, Armenia. Maria is 13 years old and attends Pocahontas Ruben received his B.S. degree in Geophysics Middle School as an 8th grader. Her favorite in 1993 from Yerevan State University, M.S. subject is Social Studies and she likes tennis, degree in Industrial Engineering from the piano and hip hop. American University of Armenia in Yerevan in 2006, and PhD in Industrial Engineering Zina is 6 years old and attends Nuckols Farm from University of West Virginia in 2010. He Elementary School. She likes ballet, basket- has also served the Armenian Army for two ball and she is a great conversationalist for years. her age. Ruben is a member of the Institute of Indus- Ruben and his family have traveled in Russia trial Engineers, American Society of Heating, and the United States. Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Engi- They are a talented, warm and friendly fa- neers, and the Association of Energy Engi- mily, and we are pleased and blessed they neers. He is a co-owner of Prom Systems, are a part of our Armenian community in Ltd., an engineering firm in Armenia. He Richmond, VA. was involved in constructing forty distribu- R.K. Page 12 SEVAN

Yerevan’s Hovhannes Tumanyan State Puppet Theater Visits East Coast

or the first time ever, the Hovhannes F Tumanyan State Puppet Theater of Yer- evan visited the United States this January. Its East Coast performance tour began on January 20 at St. James Armenian Church and continued to various Armenian churches and communities in the Eastern Diocese. A five-member ensemble of the group, inclu- ding its artistic director, performed Robert Arakelian’s short story, “The Birthday Gift,” in Armenian, and Hovhannes Tumanyan’s ing, while the famous Tumanyan short story, “The Foolish Man” in English with floor “The Foolish Man,” based on a folk story, puppets. The initial presentation was di- depicted a man who was unable to recognize rected in particular at younger children. The and take advantage of good fortune. four actors of the ensemble also sang a med- The Tumanyan Puppet Theater was founded ley of lively Armenian traditional and folk in 1935 and has a building as its headquar- songs. ters in Yerevan along with a distinguished history. With a large staff, its presentations can include as many as 17 performers. The Republic of Armenia’s Ministry of Cul- ture provided subventions for the East Coast tour of the theater. Thanks to a number of local Armenians (Chuck Ashjian, Bedros Bandazian, Sam & Maral Haboush, Garen & Nouneh Karapetyan, and Harry Deloian) the The Richmond premiere was well attended, Richmond performance was subsidized. with some 65 Armenians in the audience, Also, the local company Party Perfect do- including a strong contingent of children. St. James pastor, Fr. Mesrob Hovsepyan, intro- nated the stage equipment for the perform- duced the performance, explaining the im- ance. portance of introducing various aspects of Short videos of the performances can Armenian culture to Armenian children (and be viewed on the St. James website. adults) in the United States. The two stories had important moral messages for children. This is an abridged version of the complete article by Aram Arkun which was printed in The animals of “The Birthday Gift” showed The Armenian Mirror-Spectator, January 28, 2012 issue. the importance of giving and not just receiv- Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012 Page 13

Boca Raton, FL, Parish Celebrates Pastor's Milestone

arishioners of St. David Church of Boca Fr. Berberian holds master's degrees in divin- P Raton, Fla., gathered to honor their pas- ity and sacred theology, and a doctorate de- tor, the Very Rev. Fr. Nareg Berberian, on the gree in ministry. He served parishes in Hous- 20th anniversary ton, Texas; Richmond, Va.; and Hartford, of his ordination Conn., before being assigned as pastor of St. to the holy David Church of Boca Raton in 2002. priesthood. Parish council vice chair Carol Norigian pre- The celebration sented Fr. Berberian began on Satur- with a Michael Aram day, January 21, decorative piece on be- with a banquet in the church's Mardigian half of the parish coun- Hall. Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Dioce- cil. She stressed Fr. Ber- san Primate, presided over the event, which berian's gift for bring- drew more than 250 guests. ing together the com- munity by organizing spiritual and cultural A native of , Lebanon, Fr. Berberian activities. grew up in a pious family and attended church on Sundays. Inspired by his parents Before concluding the evening, Archbishop Kevork and Nevart, and by relatives in the Barsamian presented Fr. Berberian with a priesthood, he decided to begin seminary plaque in recognition of his milestone. studies at an early age. On Sunday, January 22, Archbishop Khajag He entered the seminary at Holy Etchmi- Barsamian celebrated the Divine Liturgy. adzin, was ordained a deacon, and traveled During the service, Gregory Merjian was or- to the United States in 1988 to continue his dained to the order of sub-diaconate and education at St. Nersess and St. Vladimir's Arlen Avedyan to the order of diaconate. seminaries in New York. He was ordained to Both worked with Fr. Berberian to prepare the holy priesthood at St. Vartan Armenian for their new duties. Cathedral on July 26, 1992. Page 14 SEVAN

Very rev. Fr. Oshagan Gulgulian: 25 Years of Service

Sunday, February 12, the commu- and Seniors, who also assisted with the room On nity of St. Sahag and St. Mesrob setup. A beautiful program filled the Church of Wynnewood, Pa., came together afternoon, featuring vocal and choral to celebrate its pastor's 25th anniversary of selections and dancing, interspersed with ordination to the holy priesthood. The inspirational remarks. c h u r c h ' s The Rev. Fr. Hakob Gevorgyan spoke on newly reno- behalf of the area Armenian clergy and vated hall shared his first encounter with Fr. Gulgulian looked regal when they were both serving in Germany. with more Archbishop Gizirian then spoke of Fr. than 320 pari- Gulgulian's devotion to the Armenian s h i o n e r s , Church. c o m m u n i t y members, and friends in attendance to Banquet co-chair Elizabeth Barsamian pre- congratulate the Very Rev. Fr. Oshagan Gul- sented Fr. Gulgulian with a pair of gold cuf- gulian on this milestone. flinks embossed with the image of Holy Echmiadzin. This parish gift was handmade Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan by Khosrof Pakhtigian. Fr. Gulgulian Primate, presided over the celebration. expressed his gratitude and said that if he Karinne Andonian began the afternoon with were to start his life anew, he would again renditions of the American and Armenian choose the path of the priesthood in the national anthems. This was followed by an Armenian Church. invocation from Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian. Committee co-chair Sarah Selverian welcomed everyone and offered a toast on the occasion, followed by greetings from parish council chair Laraine Ballard. Ballard spoke of Fr. Gulgulian's outreach to the entire community and the many events he has helped to initiate working side by side with the parish organizations. She also spoke Archbishop Barsamian spoke of Fr. Gulgu- of the admiration of many for his knowledge lian's service to the Armenian Church and of Armenian history and church doctrine, observed that this milestone served as an which has greatly enriched his sermons and opportunity to bring the community closer lectures. together. Steve Barsamian served as the Dinner was served by the ACYOA Juniors master of ceremonies. Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012 Page 15

Armenia’s Minister of Defense Visits Diocesan Center

Wednesday, March 21, Armenia's Council members Oscar Tatosian, Dr. Raffy On Minister of Defense Seyran Hovanessian, and Papken Megerian; Dr. Ohanyan visited the headquarters of the Edgar Housepian and Dr. John Nercessian of Diocese of the Armenian Church of America the Fund for Armenian Relief, and FAR's in New York. He was welcomed by executive director Garnik Nanagoulian. Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate, who After his welco- led him and his delegation on a tour of St. ming remarks, the Vartan Armenian Cathedral. Primate presented In the sanctuary, Mr. Ohanyan and his wife Mr. and Mrs. Ruzanna lit a candle and joined the Primate Ohanyan with and cathedral dean, the Rev. Fr. Mardiros two gold crosses Chevian, in reciting the Lord's Prayer. crafted by jeweler and longtime The delegation included Deputy Defense community leader Hirant Gulian. At the Minister Davit Tonoyan; Ambassador Garen conclusion, Mr. Ohanyan presented Nazarian, the Permanent Representative of Archbishop Barsamian with a medal. the Republic of Armenia to the United Nations, and his wife Nana; and Colonel Mr. Ohanyan was on an official visit to the Mesrop Nazarian, Armenia's Defense United States, where he was scheduled to Attaché in Washington. meet with various U.S. government officials, including his counterpart, U.S. Defense In the Diocese's reception hall, the guests Secretary Leon Panetta. were welcomed by about 25 leaders of the Eastern Diocese. Among these were Diocesan

Easter Celebrated in New York

aster morning was cool and sunny in New Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the E York, as hundreds gathered at the city's St. Diocese of the Armenian Church of America Vartan Armenian Cathedral to celebrate the most (Eastern), celebrated the Divine Liturgy and important day of the year in the church calendar. delivered the homily. He spoke about the three women who were the first to witness the miracle More than 2,000 people participated in services on of Christ's Resurrection. April 8. Early on, pews began to be filled and when seats had become This episode is remembered in the Armenian scarce, many stood at Church through the Yughaperitz Ganaykh, or the the back or spilled onto "Oil-bearing Women" service—an ancient the plaza, where audio tradition that is performed every Sunday before speakers broadcast the the start of the Divine Liturgy. Badarak from the sanctuary. Page 16 SEVAN

Requiem Service for His Holiness Shenouda III, Patriarch of the Coptic Orthodox Church

March 21, in the Mother See of Ho- On ly Etchmiadzin, under the Presi- dency of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, a requiem service was offered for the recently departed His Holiness Shenouda III, Patri- arch of the Coptic Orthodox Church, Pope of Alexandria and the Patriarch of All Africa on the Holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark. Present for the service were His Eminence Archbishop Marek Solczynski, Apostolic Nuncio to Armenia and Georgia of the Ro- man Catholic Church; His Eminence Archbishop Rafael Minassian, leader of the Armenian Catholic Church in Armenia, Georgia and Eastern Europe; Sergei Manasarian, Vice-minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia; and representatives of the Egyptian and Lebanese Embassies to the Republic of Armenia. At the beginning of the service, the Catholicos of All Armenians reflected on the blessed mem- ory of Patriarch Shenouda, leader and shepherd of the Coptic Orthodox Church, and his pro- ductive decades of service. “Through His efforts and devotion, the Coptic Orthodox Church experienced a renaissance through the founding of new churches, dioceses, parishes, and edu- cational and charitable institutions. His pontificate was marked by a revival of the ancient mo- nastic tradition of the desert fathers,” His Holiness stated in part. His Holiness highlighted the departed Pope’s significant role in inter-church and inter- religious relations as an active participant of the ecumenical dialogue and proponent of unity for Christian and inter-faith solidarity. His Holiness, on behalf of the Supreme Spiritual Council and the Brotherhood of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, once again expressed his condolences to the Coptic Orthodox Church and the Authorities of Egypt. Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012 Page 17 The Second Phase of the Program “Assistance to the Families” Launched

ith the blessings of His Holiness Ka- W rekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Ca- tholicos of All Armenians, the second phase of the program “Aid to Families” has been launched. The program is a joint effort of the Christian Education Department of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, the ecu- menical organization Acting by Churches Together (ACT) and the Armenian Round Table Foundation, in cooperation with Mr. Armen Ashotian, Minister of Education and Science of the Republic of Armenia. The aim of the program is to strengthen the connection of church-school-family, and to pro- mote spiritual, national, and moral values. The first phase of the program was implemented during the 2010-2011 educational year. The Armenian Apostolic Church, with the cooperation of regional Armenian dioceses and lo- cal authorities, has been organizing informational meetings in roughly 100 schools throughout the regions of Armenia, with clergy and parents within the communities. During periodically held meetings, clergy have analyzed the diversified domestic challenges facing families in the context of the value system of the Armenian Church, as well as discussed problems on domes- tic violence, and answered questions that are concerning parents. As a supplementary re- source, the “Modern Christian Family in Society” informational pamphlet has been distributed to schools and parents. As part of the second phase, a conference was held in , March 5-7, with the theme “The Spiritual Outlook on Violence.” Thirty-five clergy from various Dioceses in Armenia that are directly involved in the program were in attendance. During the conference, His Grace Bishop Arakel Karamian, Primate of the Diocese of , and His Grace Bishop Markos Hovhannisian, Primate of the Diocese of Gegharkunik, spoke and offered their blessings. Reverend Father Vartan Navasardian, Director of the Christian Educational Center of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and Dr. Karen Nazarian, Director of the Armenian Church “Round Table” Foundation both made presentations and facilitated discussions. Sergei Borzov, Senior Advisor at the National Foundation for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, analyzed the psychological basis of family issues. He highlighted the importance of the role of the parish priest in resolving issues of domestic violence and in providing education on these topics to children and adults. Page 18 SEVAN Parish Events Winter – Spring, 2012 • November 17 – The AVAK Seniors Bingo luncheon took place in the Church Hall and it was fun. Linda Sharigian at the helm did a great job. • November 20 – The Pre-Thanksgiving food sales after church services was successful. • December 2 – The Virginia Armenian Network (V.A.N.) happy hour was held at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The group enjoyed live music and entertainment at the museum. • December 3 – Women’s Guild Christmas party at the Church hall was a warm, pleasant eat-and -drink occasion. The dinner was buffet style with soft music in the background. Great food, great fun. • December 9 – Our newly formed ACYOA organized the Friday Family Night for all young families with children. It was a fun evening with lots of games and activities. • December 11 – The Virginia Holocaust Museum’s grand opening and reception of The Ongoing Armenian Genocide - Death, Denial & Desecration exhibit hosted a packed crowd. The guest speakers were Aram Arkum from the Mirror-Spectator staff and Dr. Roger W. Smith who is- Professor Emeritus of Government of The College of William and Mary. The members of the Virginia Holocaust Museum and the Armenian Education Center shared their joint vision for the development of a permanent Genocide exhibit. • December 15 – AVAK Seniors Christmas party luncheon was fun. The food was great and sen- iors received a surprise gift. • January 5 & 6 – Christmas Eve and Christmas Day – Feast of the Nativity and the Theophany of Our Lord Jesus Christ. • January 8 – Holy Badarak and Blessing of the Water followed by Christmas lunch hosted by the Women’s Guild and a visit by Santa Claus. • January 20 – We were pleased to have the Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet State Theater of Yere- van’s Puppet Shows & Concert for the first time in Richmond at our church hall. Those that at- tended were pleasantly surprised. The children were captivated by the performance and were laughing and singing along. • February 19 – Poon Paregentan Badarak was followed by the Blessing of the Children Service at the end of Divine Liturgy. It was a day to honor the children, parents, grandparents and godpar- ents. Poon Paregentan Lunch & Talent Show was held in the church hall after Badarak. The lunch was delicious and the talent show was, indeed, something to see. The children were well rehearsed and performed beautifully. The talent show included recitations, singing, and playing of various musical instruments. It was a joy to watch them. • March 15 – The AVAK Seniors met for lunch at The Olive Garden Restaurant in Short Pump at the far west end on Henrico County. It was an interesting drive and the food and company was good. • February 24-March 30 - Friday Lenten Services and Dinners were organized by St. James Women’s Guild with the participation and sponsorship of our members. • February 26 - Annual Parish Assembly was held in the church hall. Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012 Page 19 Page 20 SEVAN

Hokehankist - Requiem

For: Zarouhi DerKrikorian Deloian Aaron Burghardt; Servart Topjian; For: Kilerciyan, Zurnacian, Duman, (40 days) Salpi, Richard & Serar Kevorkian; & Turpajian Families By: Harry Deloian & Family Lilly, Robert, Christopher & Raffi By: Zurnacian, Kilerciyan & Gulian Thomas; and Douglas & Maria Families, Bederos & Stella Ban- For: Ossanna Vahanian Carden dazian By: Gilda & Edward Arslanian For: Charles & Melinee Bezirdjian, For: Emma Livingstone For: His Eminence Archbishop Mes- Sahag & Athanas Kibinian By: David Livingstone rob Asjian By: Diran & Esther Bezirdjian and Os- By: Lucy Papazian & the Dean Family sana Kibinian For: Archalouys & Antranik Bourou- (Fredericksburg, VA) jian & Betty Carden For: George & Dora Diradour By: Lilly, Robert, Chris, & Raffi Thomas; For: Lousaper Keshishian By: The Diradour and Barsamian Fami- Salpi, Richard & Serar Kevorkian; By: Chris & Lucy Grey lies Maria & Douglas Carden; Levon & Arpi Bouroujian, and Yeghia, Leiza For: Alexan & Nvard Iskandarian, For: Satenig Der Sarkisian & Esther & Sosy Bouroujian Anjelina Iskandarian Kavafian By: Ara Iskenderian By: Lucy Papazian and the Dean Family For: Hasmig Ghazarian Jacobe By: Anahid Ghazarian & Sarah For: Haig Markarian For: Sahag & Haygouhi Garabedian Ghazarian Arici & Families By: Ann Markarian & Family By: Anahid Ghazarian & Family, Marlene & Haig Garabedian & For: Wilfred Schein, Sepouhi Varta- For: Kevin Jacobe Family and Lusene & Fadi Salloum nian, Archalouyse & Ara Gara- By: Sarah Jacobe-Arici & Family bedian For: Elizabeth Pattinian By: Hasmig Schein & Family For: Marie Akseraylian By: Patricia Davidson By: Arlene Akseraylian & Family For: Akabi Zakar Hacikyan For: Manuk & Zinaida Margaryan, By: Arshalouse Zeroukoglu & Family For: Mihran Ozbalik & Kevork Vladimir & Araxia Avanesyan Zeroukoglu By: Ruben & Yelena Avagyan MEMORIALS By: Nubar & Janet Ozbalik and Arsha- In Memory of: Archie Giragosian louys Zeroukoglu For: John Dermanjian & Haike & Betty Giragosian Janet Caporale John & Ruby Giragosian For: Alice Bouroujian By: Zevart & Anthony Caporale Roxie & Arpina Kricorian By: Levon, Arpi, Liza Bouroujian;

In lieu of flowers

Zarouhi “Liz” Deloian Rose & Florence Soghoian Dedeian (Continued from last issue) Francis & Donna Campbell Roxie Kricorian John & Ardemis Jerikian Alice LeVay Murad & Melanie Kerneklian Marie Akseraylian Dianne & Tony Velegris (Continued from last issue) Linda Sharigian Ohanes Shadoyan Anahid Ghazarian (St. James Senior Choir) (Continued from last issue) Mark Chookazian (Paramus, NJ) Kachi & Sue Dedian Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012 Page 21

Special donations

St. James Armenian Church Sirvart Sabounjian In loving memory of Alice Bouroujian 55Th Anniversary Donations Linda Sharigian Ann Markarian Patron Joyce Soghoian In loving memory of Haig Markarian Harry Deloian Elizabeth Tootelian Roxie Kricorian “In Memory of Zarouhi Deloian” Tony & Dianne Velegris In loving memory of Apraham & Mary Sponsors Vahe & Ruzanna Ghazarian Kricorian, John Kricorian, Sr., Taguhi Diran & Esther Bezirdjian Kapamackjian, & Marshall Knox Shocky & Marni Pilafian CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON Joyce Soghoian—Christmas Poinsettias Chris & Lucy Grey SPONSORS & Easter Lilies Donors Garen & Nouneh Karapetyan Yeran Topjian – Easter Lilies Bruce Forbes (Alexandria, VA) Nubar & Janet Ozbalik Cynthia Maghakian CHURCH Robert & Lilly Thomas CHRISTMAS GREETING Robert & Barbara Roe CARD John Heyser John & Ruby Giragosian Joyce Soghoian Ann Markarian Anahid Deese Kachi & Susan Dedian PUPPET SHOW & CONCERT Garen & Nouneh Karapetyan SPONSORS EASTER YUGHAKIN Nishan & Irene Bouroujian Chuck Ashjian Alan & Veronica Arikian Bruce Forbes & Becky Bakalian- Garen & Nouneh Karapetyan Queen Benson (Newport News, VA) Hachikian Bedros & Stella Bandazian Margaret Butler (Hopewell, VA) Sam & Maral Haboush Vartouhi & Avedis Garabedian CHRISTMAS YUGHAkIN Harry Deloian Robert & Martha Garian 2012 Party Perfect Vahe & Ruzanna Ghazarian Alan & Veronica Arikian Fr. Mesrob & Ruzanna Hovsepyan Bedros & Stella Bandazian SUNDAY SCHOOL Garen & Nouneh Karapetyan John Baronian & Nancy Avakian RENOVATIONS Richard & Salpi Kevorkian Margaret Butler Garen & Nouneh Karapetyan Roxie Kricorian Anahid Ghazarian Rose & Florence Soghoian Peruz Manoukian Fr. Mesrob & Ruzanna Hovsepyan Hovig & Liza Suleymanian Mary & Joseph Melton Haike & Johnny Giragosian Mirik & Nelia Suleymanian Charles Moogalian “In memory of Manoog & Archie Gira- Zadig & Lucille Setian gosian” NEW OFFICE COPY MACHINE (Williamsburg, VA) Betty & Haike Giragosian Harry Deloian John & Ruby Giragosian Becky & Stephanie Green Becky & Stephanie Green Sam & Maral Haboush FOOD BANK Victoria & Hugo Tito Richard & Salpi Kevorkian Azarik Pugh (Norfolk, VA) Isabel Vartanian (Hopewell, VA) Arpina & Roxie Kricorian Linda Sharigian Pamela Little ALTAR FLOWERS Peruz Manoukian Patricia Davidson Ann Markarian In loving memory of her mother, EASTER LUNCHEON Charles Moogalian Elizabeth Pattinian SPONSORS Lillian Mooradian Chris, Katherine, & Katie Wall Nubar & Janet Ozbalik Mary Ann Pedigo Krikor & Servart Zurnacian & Family Garen & Nouneh Karapetyan Hasmig Schein The Bouroujian Family Page 22 SEVAN Calendar of Upcoming Events • April 19, Thursday - V.A.N. Happy Hour at Cafe Caturra , 5:30pm. • April 22, Sunday - Memorial Requiem Service followed by a short program for the victims of the Armenian Genocide. Submit the names for the Requiem Service by April 19th. • April 25, Wednesday - Bible Study Morning Group, 10:00-11:00 a.m. Come to explore together the pathways of the New Testament and to increase our faith and spiritual fulfillment through study of the Gospel of Matthew. • April 25, Wednesday - Annual Armenian Genocide Observance on Capitol Hill, 6:00 p.m. Everyone is welcomed to join our small group from Richmond attending the Congressional event in Washington D.C. We will depart from the church parking lot at 13:00 p.m. • April 28, Saturday - Armenian Relief Society—Golf & Tavloo tournament. • April 29, Sunday - Women's Guild General Meeting, 12.30 p.m. • May 5, Saturday - Spring Clean-Up Day. Join us to clean up and dust the church sanctuary, 8:00 a.m. • May 6, Sunday - Screening of "From Ararat to Zion" documentary following the Divine Liturgy & light luncheon, 12:30 p.m. • May 9, Wednesday - Bible Study Morning Group, 10:00-11:00 a.m. • May 16, Wednesday - Bible Study Evening Group, 6:30-7:30 p.m. • May 19, Saturday - Women's Guild Fashion Show hosted by Stein Mart, 8:30 a.m. • May 23, Wednesday - Bible Study Morning Group, 10:00-11:00 a.m. • May 30, Wednesday - Bible Study Evening Group, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

BIBLE STUDY Come to explore together the pathways of the New Testament and to in- crease our faith and spiritual fulfillment through studying of the Holy Scriptures with Der Mesrob. We have morning and evening groups and meet twice a month on Wednesdays. Feel free to join one of the groups. SACRAMENTS

November 27, 2011 November 27, 2011 February 28, 2012 Katherine Julianna Wall Valentina Armenie Fisher Saakian Family, Daughter of Christopher & Daughter of Ronald & Taline Artur, Christina, Anna, Yesaie, Katherine Wall Fisher Gaiane, Mariam, Avedis, Davit Newsletter, Winter-Spring 2012 Page 23

ST. JAMES ARMENIAN CHURCH

MEMBERSHIP 2012

Name(s) ______Address ______Phone ______

___ I/We wish to become a new voting member(s) of St. James Armenian Church. ___ I/We wish to be reinstated as a voting member(s) of St. James Armenian Church. ___ I have already paid my dues for the year 2012

My/Our check for $_____ ($200.00 per member, $100 per student) as my/our dues for the year 2012: ___ is enclosed ___ will be mailed before December 31, 2012

Please, make your check payable to St. James Armenian Church; Memo: Membership

Sevan Donations

PLEASE NOTE: Any contribution sent to defray the printing and We thank the donors who answered our call mailing expanses would be greatly appreciated. Please use this in the previous issue to help offseting the form to send your donation for this purpose. We would also appre- costs of our newsletter. A total of $520 was ciate your comments and suggestions regarding our publication. received from the following:

St. James Armenian Church Virginia & Hugh Abernathy 834 Pepper Avenue, Richmond, VA 23226 Harry & Mariam Eretzian – CA

Joyce Soghoian Donation for Sevan in the amount of $ ______Harry Deloian Dikran Kabbendjian Family – NC Name: ______Hayk & Hamest Melikyan – NC G. & T. Degermajian - NC Address: ______Phil & Marilynn Guzelian – CO John Baronian City: ______State ______ZIP ______Andre & Diane Karakashian Please list occasion if any: ______Arsh & Shirley Kapigian –NJ Richard & Margaret Owen ______

We thank you for your generosity. Please feel free to send us also your comments and suggestions regarding our publication. êáõñµ Ú³Ïᵠг۳ëï³Ý»³Ûó ºÏ»Õ»óÇ NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE ST. JAMES ARMENIAN CHURCH 834 Pepper Avenue PAID Richmond, VA 23226 RICHMOND, VA

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Parish Administrative WOMEN’S GUILD Directory Stella Bandazian [email protected] WORSHIP HOURS Sunday Morning Service 10:00 a.m. ARMENIAN/SUNDAY SCHOOL Sunday Divine Liturgy 10:30 a.m. Nouneh Karapetian [email protected], PASTOR Yn. Ruzanna Hovsepyan Rev. Fr. Mesrob Hovsepyan [email protected] Res: 9604 Craigs Mill Dr., Glen Allen, VA 23060 Home Phone/Fax 804-270-3189 CHOIR DIRECTOR Email: [email protected] Peruz Manoukian [email protected] PARISH COUNCIL Rev. Fr. Mesrob Hovsepyan SEVAN EDITORIAL BOARD Rob M. Norris, Chairman Rev. Fr. Mesrob Hovsepyan Leiza Bouroujian, Vice-Chairperson Roxie Kricorian Dale Baronian, Treasurer Linda Sharigian Steve Barsamian, Co-Treasurer Gregory Boyajian, Secretary PASTORAL CARE: HOME AND HOSPITAL Jamie Accashian, Adviser CLERGY VISITS Nubar Ozbalik, Adviser The pastor is always available and would like to John Baronian, Senior Adviser visit homebound and hospitalized parishioners. If you or someone you know is ill or hospitalized and CHURCH OFFICE would like to be visited, please call the church of- Office Hours: 8:30-11:30am, 12:30-3:00pm fice at (804) 282-3818 or (804) 405-9399 (direct). Office closed on Monday. Please note: when asked about religion at a hospi- Phone: 804-282-3818 tal, patients should list themselves as “Armenian Fax: 804-282-2330 Orthodox” or “Armenian” not “other.” Email: [email protected] www.stjamesva.org