2018/19
ANNUAL REPORT 2018/19 Celebrating the Global Armenian Evangelical Church
1918 2018 ARMENIAN MISSIONARY ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA Ամերիկայի Հայ Աւետարանչական Ընկերակցութիւն 1 2018/19 FOREWORD
I thank God for giving me the calling to serve Him through the Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA) and the privilege to present to you, our supporters, friends and prayer partners, the Annual Report of the AMAA for the fiscal year 2018-2019. Pursuant to our policy of full disclosure and accountability, we have provided the Statements of Financial Position of the AMAA as of July 31, 2019, and Statements of Income and Expenditures for the past fiscal year, as prepared by our Auditors, Sax LLP, Independent Certified Public Accountants. These reports and financial statements were reviewed and acted upon at the 100th Annual Meeting of the Association held on October 19, 2019 at the Armenian Memorial Church of Watertown, MA. Based on the approval of the reports, we have prepared this Annual Report which is available to all AMAA members, friends and supporting agencies worldwide and accessible on the AMAA website at www. amaa.org. We are grateful to God for blessing our wonderful organization for another year. We uphold all those who in the past, through their passion, dedication, sacrifice and hard work, built the foundation of AMAA. We also would like to thank all those who supported our organization with their prayers, participation and financial support during this past year. We invite you to make every effort to support your organization with greater enthusiasm, and invite others to join us in our worldwide outreach to preach the Gospel and provide a glass of cold water in His name.
Zaven Khanjian Executive Director/CEO
December 2019
Khoren and Shooshanig Avedisian School Class of 2019 - Yerevan, Armenia 2 2018/19
Table Of Contents
AMAA Board of Directors 4
President’s Message 5-6
Executive Director/CEO’s Report 7-16
Treasurer’s Report 17
Director of Finance’s Report 18
AMAA at a Glance 19
AMAA Around the World 20-21
AMAA Ministries 22-24
Financial Reports 25-45
Endowment Funds and Other Financial Info 46-60
Supporting Churches and Organizations 61-62
Historical Financial Data 63
Historical Data 64
How to Give 65
How to Pray 67
Front Cover Photo: Armenian Evangelical Church of Pera, Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey - The first Armenian Evangelical Church world- wide, established on July 1, 1846 Back Cover Photo: Altar stained glass window of the Armenian Church of Martyrs, Worcester, MA - the first Armenian Evangelical Church in the United States, estab- lished on January 1, 1892 and the birthplace of AMAA in 1918.
Design: caspianseal.com
3 2018/19 AMAA Board of Directors
OFFICERS President: Nazareth Darakjian, M.D. Vice President: Michael Voskian, D.M.D. Treasurer: Nurhan Helvacian, Ph.D. Co‑Recording Secretaries: Mark Kassabian, Esq. and Thomas J. Momjian, Esq.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/CEO Zaven Khanjian
FIELD DIRECTOR/Pastor to Pastors in Armenia Rev. Mgrdich Melkonian
AMAA REPRESENTATIVE in Armenia Harout Nercessian
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 H. Steven Aharonian, M.D. Edward Avedisian Bryan Agbabian Ara Apelian, M.D. Nazareth Darakjian, M.D. Bryan Bedrosian Rafi Balabanian, D.D.S. Thomas J. Momjian, Esq. Rev. Avedis Boynerian, D.Min. Rev. Ara Guekguezian Jack Muncherian John Cherkezian Berjouhy Barsoumian Gulesserian Vahe Nalbandian, Ph.D. Mark Kassabian, Esq. Susan Jerian, M.D. Alan Philibosian, Esq. Kenneth Kevorkian Hratch Sarkis Gary Phillips, Esq. Louis Kurkjian
Joseph H. Stein, Jr. Ann Karagozian Sarafian, Ph.D. Heather Ohaneson, Ph.D. Michael Voskian, D.M.D. Eileen Chopourian Stephey, Ed.D. Michele Simourian
EX‑OFFICIO Rev. Berdj Djambazian (Minister to AEUNA) Mihran Jizmejian (AMA-Canada - President/CEO) Joyce Philibosian Stein (Stephen Philibosian Foundation) Rev. Dr. Vahan Tootikian (AEWC - Executive Director) Rev. Dr. Krikor Youmshajekian (AMA-Australia - President/CEO)
PAST PRESIDENTS H. Steven Aharonian, M.D. George Bezirganian, M.D. Andrew Torigian Joseph Zeronian, Ed.D.
HONORARY VICE PRESIDENTS Rev. Megrditch Karagoezian (President, UAEC‑Near East) Rev. Dr. René Léonian (President (UAEC-Eurasia) Rev. Joël Mikaélian (President, UAEC-France) Rev. Albert Paytyan (President, EC-Armenia) Rev. Jeremy Tovmassian (Moderator, AEU-North America)
4 President’s Message 2018/19
The Centennial celebrations are over with the final event being the Banquet last October that was an appropriate cap to our year of celebrations. The Banquet Hall at the Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles was jam packed with more than 500 people, with a program that was both entertaining and informational regarding the worldwide mission of the AMAA. We also took this opportunity to honor the Stephen Philibosian Foundation, the Conte Foundation and the Turpanjian Educational Foundation for their very important contri- butions throughout the years to various AMAA projects. Special thanks to the four Co-Chairs Arsine Phillips, Lori Muncherian, Helga Sarkis and Tina Segel. The Centennial Campaign will however continue till the end of 2019 and we hope that we will come close to accomplish- ing ourB set goal of $20 million. I am happy to report that as of August 1, 2019, close to 65% of our goal had been accomplished. Centennial celebrations also took place in Armenia last September with multiple ser- vices, artistic programs and a very well attended Centennial Banquet in Yerevan. The high- light of the week, however, was the dedication of the beautiful brand-new Gyumri Church complex. A large number of Gyumretsis welcomed us as we performed the dedication ceremonies, cut the ribbons, unveiled the plaques acknowledging the donors and had a worship service in the sanctuary with many local as well as guest pas- tors participating. Following the dedication ceremonies, I stayed in northern Armenia for a few days visiting the churches of Shirakamout, Vanadzor and Alaverdi and the church of Tbilisi in Georgia. The building in Tbilisi was in poor condition and I’m happy to report that since our visit the Church has relocated to a better building. In Armenia Rev. Mgrdich Melkonian continues his mission of building the Evangelical Church of Armenia and provid- ing continuing education and leadership training to our pastors there. The fruit of his work is apparent in that we have two young men who are interested in studying theology at the Near East School of Theology in Beirut, Lebanon and pursuing a career in ministry. Our major construction project in Armenia at present is the Stepanavan administrative building where the ground has already been broken. This project is expected to be completed by 2021. We also have repair/renovation projects going on at our Ijevan Church complex, the Vanadzor parsonage and the Shushi Bedrosian Camp. Mr. Hratch Sarkis, a current AMAA Board member, follows these projects very closely by personally visiting Armenia several times a year. We can’t thank Hratch enough for the services he provides to the AMAA in Armenia. The Avedisian School has completed another banner academic year with 31 High School graduates all planning to pursue higher education. The Avedisian School building has become the first building in the Republic of Armenia to be awarded LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. Congratulations and special thanks to Ed Avedisian, architect Ron Altoon and members of the Avedisian School Building Committee for this accomplishment. In the Near East, the political instability and economic distress continue to challenge the health of our institutions there. In Aleppo, there is a tentative peace, but the civil war is far from over and the future very uncertain. The need for humanitarian aid as well as the support for our churches and schools is still very significant. In Lebanon, plans are under way to merge the Torossian School with the Shamlian-Tatigian School, both in Bourj Hammoud. This merger will help shrink the payroll and stem the flow of red ink thus creating an entity that is more viable financially. The AMAA will help the two schools in accomplishing this goal since shrinking the payroll requires an infusion of funds to pay outstanding commitments. In addition to the schools, the AMAA continues its support of the churches, the pastors, summer camps and social service centers throughout the Near East. Haigazian University is making headway as far as reducing their annual deficit and stabilizing the number of regis- tered students. It clearly has become harder for Armenian students to attend Haigazian because of the serious economic stress that their families face there. The AMAA continues to identify new sources of scholarships for Armenian students in order to fulfill Haigazian’s mission of providing higher education to Armenian students in the area. The AMAA has continued its support of the French Union by providing support for needed repairs of their churches and summer camps. The AMAA also supports the various churches of the European fellowship including Greece, Bulgaria and Belgium. In the United States, many needy churches continue to receive support per recommendation of the AEUNA. Sum- mer camps on both coasts of the United States and the Merdinian Armenian Evangelical School in Southern California also continue to receive support from the AMAA. During the last year, our West Coast Executive Director Levon Filian decided to retire from his position and his con- tributions to the AMAA were acknowledged during the Centennial Banquet in Los Angeles. Mr. Filian, however, continues to serve the AMAA on a voluntary basis and represents the AMAA when needed. The West Coast office remains open and our goal is to ultimately fill that position with a Field Director based on the estW Coast.
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Our Paramus office has experienced turnover in personnel of the Finance Department. Nerses Rastguelenian has been hired as Controller of the Association and has been instrumental in helping us meet all our obligations in the Finance Department including the preparation of the budget for the new fiscal year. September 1, 2019 marks the fifth anniversary for Zaven Khanjian assuming the duties of Executive Director/CEO of the AMAA. Mr. Khanjian has served the organization with great zeal and dedication and we hope that he will continue in the same manner for many years to come. I also want to take this opportunity to thank the entire staff and the volunteers for all that they do for the AMAA and the Glory of God.
Respectfully Submitted, Nazareth E. Darakjian, M.D., President
AMAA Centennial Celebratory Worship Service at the Armenian Church of the Martyrs, the birthplace of AMAA - Worcester, MA 6 Executive Director/CEO’s Report 2018/19
You are the salt of the earth. Matthew 5:13
AMAA’s 2018-2019 Fiscal Year is behind us. The year was marked by a continuous mood of glamourous Centennial celebrations, which extended from Armenia in September and capped with a historic, to be remembered Banquet in Los Angeles in October 2018. Cel- ebrations are not self-serving. Four years ago, at the genesis of our deliberations, our Cen- tennial celebration and fundraising campaign theme set the tone – Faithful to our Legacy, Embracing the Future. We paid tribute to the legacy, revered the founders, published their story and digni- fied their service and sacrifice. We hopped on five continents (Africa joined us in Beirut), held banquets, offered prayers and praises in a multitude of services. AIn an effort to “embrace the future” the Campaign set a bold goal to raise $20M. Over the past few years, numerous appeals were made, personal contacts established, warm and cozy home gatherings hosted, prayers offered and brochures published. Although the Campaign will technically run through the end of calendar year 2019, the core Campaign is behind us with an achievement rate of over 65% having as of fiscal year end raised around $13M. God has been good to the AMAA as it carried its commissioned mission of Faith, Love and Service around the world emulating the life and teachings of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on earth. Through the faithfulness and generous philanthropic spirit of its donors, the AMAA has been able to fight poverty, offer spiritual nourishment, provide quality educa- tion, vital healthcare, sowing hope for a brighter future for our kin in Armenia, Artsakh, the Near East, Europe, Eurasia, the Americas and everywhere the grace of God has taken us. Today, as we come face to face with those whose generosity, love of God and man is mirrored through the mission of the AMAA, we remain cognizant of management’s uncompromising sense of responsibility, total attentiveness to the mis- sion, prudent management of funds, stringent accountability, unblemished reputation and a total commitment to transpar- ency. In that sense of responsibility, we submit to the broader membership of the Association a summary of the significant events and activities, which portray what transpired in the fiscal year 2018-2019.
A. PARAMUS HEADQUARTERS
A.1. Personnel
Paramus: Due to a competitive labor job market, we lost two key personnel in the fiscal year.David Aynejian in October 2018 and Lisa Sudibya in March 2019. On April 1, the AMAA invited Nerses Rastguelenian to serve as acting Director of Finance as an independent contractor. On August 1, 2019, Mr. Rastguelenian was confirmed to be the new AMAA Controller in addition to the post of acting Director of Finance. We are grateful to God for the services of Mr. Rast- guelenian whose employment has been a blessing to the mission. Marilyn Monasterio, Data Entry Coordinator, joined the AMAA Paramus staff in August 2018. Christine Kutlu, Events and Marketing Manager, joined the AMAA Paramus staff in September 2018.
West Coast: Effective January 1, 2019 and after 10 years of service, AMAA West Coast Executive Director Levon Filian retired. Levon was honored and thanked for his services at the October Centennial Banquet in Los Angeles. Mr. Filian con- tinues to voluntarily serve the needs of AMAA when needed and asked.
Armenia and Artsakh: By mutual consent, Arsen Manasyan resigned his post as AMAA Representative in Artsakh and Operations Man- ager in Armenia effective January 1, 2019. Viktor Karapetyan was promoted from the ranks of our Artsakh staff to replace Mr. Manasyan as the AMAA Representative in Artsakh effective January 1, 2019.
In September 2019, Aren Deyirmenjian of Beirut, Lebanon took up his position as Deputy Armenia Representative moving to Yerevan, Armenia.
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A.2. Development, Fundraising and Publicity AMAA Direct Mail, Social Media Fund Raising, Publicity and Promotion continued throughout the year with added vigor and without interruption. During the current fiscal year, AMAA produced and mailed out promotional and fundraising appeals, which included: - AMAA News Appeals - Christmas Joy Appeal - Christmas Direct Mail Appeal - Christmas Greeting Card - 2017-2018 AMAA Annual Report - AMAA Endowment Fund Statements - Annual Donor Statements - AMAA Life Member Certificates - Easter Direct Mail Appeal - AMAA Summer Camp Appeal - AMAA Milk Fund Appeal
In addition to the Direct Mail appeals, Paramus continued to E-Blast appeals, commemorations, observa- tions, salutations and program and service news to our growing Email list. Contributions have flown in. Encouraging statements, supportive messages, a few grievances and some significant donations have touched our hearts, multiplied the joy and treasured the mission.
A.3. AMAA News 1) The July-Aug-Sept 2018 issue featured the Simourian mission 30 years ago. 2) The Oct-Nov-Dec 2018 issue featured Centennial Celebrations in Yerevan 4) The Jan-Feb-Mar 2019 issue featured No More Walls 5) The Apr-May-June 2019 issue featured Children Helping Children
A.4. AMAA 2018 Annual Meeting and Centennial Banquet In October 2018, a Banquet was held at the Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles, crowning AMAA’s Centennial Celebrations. Co-Chairs Lori Muncherian, Arsine Phillips, Helga Sarkis and Tina Segel masterfully planned the Banquet which honored: SHEEN FAMILY TRUST STEPHEN PHILIBOSIAN and CONTE FOUNDATIONS GERALD and PATRICIA TURPANJIAN – TF FOUNDATION The 2018 AMAA Board and Annual Meetings were graciously hosted by the United Armenian Congrega- tional Church.
A.5. AMAA Scholarships For the academic year of 2019-2020, the AMAA provided over $230,000 in direct scholarship grants to col- lege students. Eighty deserving students in North America received scholarships. Specially designated scholarships to Haigazian University students continued to flow. AMAA funding also provided college scholarships to students in Armenia, Lebanon and Seminary students in the United States.
A.6. Centennial Capital Campaign The AMAA Centennial Capital Campaign embarked in October 2016 and will run through the end of the 2019 calendar year. The purpose of this Campaign was to raise funds for specific Capital Projects in the AMAA mission field and establish new or supplement existing Endowment Funds. A bold target to raise $20M was set. Development Committee Chair, Ken Kevorkian, diligently led the Campaign together with Joyce Stein, Centennial Campaign Committee Co-Chair, Dr. Nazareth Darakjian, President, Levon Filian, West Coast Execu- tive Director, Magda Poulos, Director of Annual Giving, your Executive Director/CEO and all Development Com- mittee members. The relentless spirit and effort of the Committee resulted in achieving 65% of the targeted goal by raising $13M.
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A.7. Cooperative Committee on Armenian Missions (CCAM) The Cooperative Committee on Armenian Missions, which conducts the annual review and distribution of the Donchian Fund held by the United Church of Christ (Global Ministries), teleconferenced on Wednesday, March 5, 2019. The 2019 spendable distribution was $180,538. A distribution of 75% to Armenia, 15% to Lebanon and 10% to Syria was approved and later funded.
A.8. Armenian American Museum The Armenian American Museum continues its quest to raise funds for the construction of the Museum to be erected in Glendale, California. The President and/or the Executive Director/CEO represent the AMAA on the Board of Governors. Levon Filian fills in as an alternate representative. The AAM project is confidently moving forward with community, city, county and state support. There is still a long way to go to place it on very solid ground.
A.9. Relations with the Mother Church in Armenia Relations with the Mother Church both in the Homeland and the Diaspora remain warm and friendly. The AMAA Executive Director/CEO has regularly met Catholicos Karekin II on his visits to Armenia in Sep- tember 2018 and May 2019. Despite the improved relationship, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two churches in Armenia seems to have been stalled. Although the AMAA and ECA have not encountered difficulties in carrying out their missions in the Homeland and operate in an uneventful atmosphere in the spirit of the desired MOU, it is advisable to have the MOU signed to secure orderly relationship in perpetuity and without regard to cur- rent leadership.
A.10. AMAA Hot Line In spring 2018, AMAA contracted NAVEX Global to reactivate its hot line. Hot Line materials have been circulated in all AMAA operational centers in Armenia, Artsakh and the United States. Training sessions will follow.
A.11. Amaa-Lark Centennial Concert – March 9, 2019 The graceful tradition of an annual joint concert with LARK Musical Society was repeated this year on March 9, 2019. Titled ‘Promise of Hope’ this magnificent presentation of Brahm’s German Requiem was dedicated this year to the memory of Dr. Mihran Agbabian. Thanks to Ken Kevorkian for masterfully chairing the organizing Committee and to Maestro Vatsche Bar- soumian for brilliantly presenting this joyful, memorable and consummately admirable concert.
A.12. Child & Orphan Care Annual Fashion Show – March 23, 2019 ‘Wish Upon a Star…’, another remarkable Child and Orphan Care Annual Fashion Show was held at the Beverly Hills Hotel on March 23, 2019. Supported by 450 attendees and many others contributing remotely, the event raised around $260,000 for the AMAA Child and Orphan Care Program. Kudos to AMAA’s dynamic West Coast Orphan and Child Care Committee Chairs, Event Co-Chairs and Committee members who year after year excel in their efforts.
A.13. Boston Orphan & Child Care Gala ̶ MAY 9, 2019 Around 100 honorable guests gathered at the Wellesley Country Club in Wellesley, MA on May 9, 2019 to honor AMAA’s National OCC Founding Co-Chair Michele Simourian and raise funds for the children of Armenia. Thanks to the dedication and vigilant efforts of the OCC Committee, the event raised $71,000 for the cause.
A.14. AMAA 2019 Summer Internship The 2019 AMAA Summer Internship was planned, organized and led by Rev. Serop and Dr. Alina Meg- erditchian of the Cilicia Armenian Evangelical Church in Pasadena, CA. AMAA Events and Marketing Manager, Christine Kutlu and a filmmaker joined the interns for the production of promotional material. Fifteen interns from eight countries were blessed witnessing the AMAA in action in the Homeland, serving in several mission projects and experiencing the magic of the ancestral home.
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A.15. AMAA Centennial Celebrations
1) September 23-30, 2018 – Armenia The AMAA Centennial celebrations in Armenia were held in an atmosphere of joy and praise and were a smash- ing success in terms of activities and attendance. Close to 100 AMAA members and supporters from the Dias- pora participated in the festivities together with huge crowds of Evangelical Church of Armenia members and friends of the AMAA in the Homeland. The following is a list of the activities during the celebration week. - Sunday, Sept 23: Celebratory Worship Service at the Baghramyan Church - Sunday, Sept 23: A Concert at Baghramyan by the Armavir AEC Choir - Tuesday, Sept 25: ’The Angel of Salvation’ theater presented by the ECA Hayasa group - Wednesday, Sept 26: Art Exhibition by Armenian Evangelical artists at the Artists Union - Friday, Sept 28: Multi Media artistic presentation at Yerevan’s Opera House - Saturday, Sept 29: A Celebratory Centennial Banquet at the Yerevan Marriott - Sunday, Sept 30: Inauguration of the Gyumri Church and Community Center
2) October 20, 2018, Los Angeles, California A capacity crowd of 500 honorees, guests, members and supporters filled the Los Angeles downtown BILT- MORE Hotel celebrating AMAA’s Centennial. It was an historic event long to be remembered by the community at large. (See A.4. for more). I am humbled to have had such a support group who marveled in the planning and execution of the event. From the Banquet Co-Chairs to every single member of the Committee, to the office personnel in Paramus and Glen- dale, all carried out a professional job giving honor to God and reverence to the Mission.
A.16. AMAA Medical Mission June 22-July 1, 2019 For the 11th year in a row, led by Dr. Albert and Sue Phillips, 41 members of AMAA’s Medical Mission sowed blessings in Vanatzor and Stepanavan in the north and in Sissian and Kapan in the south between June 13 and 23. There is serious consideration to expand the Mission into Artsakh in the coming years. Dr. and Mrs. Phillips, Dr. Chris Tashjian and all the Medical Mission volunteers are a blessing to the Mission as they follow the example of our Lord Jesus Christ.
A.17. “HAYASTAN” All-Armenia Fund Meeting In Yerevan On June 8, 2019 The AMAA Armenia Representative, Harout Nercessian attended the 27th Annual Meeting of the ‘Hayastan” All-Armenia Fund Board of Trustees. Following the velvet revolution in Armenia in Spring 2018, the HAAF has undergone major reforms in leadership, strategy and programs. The Armenia Fund Telethon on Thanksgiving Day 2019 will allocate the proceeds of the day, supporting various water projects across Armenia and Artsakh.
A.18. US Sanctions – Compliance Policies & Procedures And Effect On Amaa Budget Trasmittals To Syria and Iran US Sanctions on countries within the interaction and support of the AMAA came to hit us in the early days of the fiscal year 2018-2019. In September 2018, our bankers froze wire transfers eventually reaching Syria and Iran igniting a crisis which has not yet seen a resolution. In fall 2018 AMAA employed Vigilance Consulting Group to help us navigate the crisis. In March 2019, the AMAA filed a submission to the Office of Foreign Assets Control – (OFAC) ‘requesting interpretive guidance whether AMAA’s provision of service to its Syria and Iran communities are in line with the general licenses found in the Syria and Iran Sanctions Resolutions.’ Simultaneously, and in accordance to the law and through the help of the consultant, the AMAA prepared and adopted new Sanctions Policies and Procedures. In consultation with our consultant and within the limits of the law we are vigorously pursuing a response from OFAC. It has been hard for us to experience this situation and deny assistance to our communities in Iran, and especially in Syria. It is our hope and prayer that the matter will soon find a resolution and that we will be able to resume our budgetary support to Syria.
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A.19. AMAA Employee Handbook Thanks to the volunteer services of Human Resources expert James Gulezian of the Havertown Armenian Martyrs Congregational Church, the AMAA Employee Handbook was updated, approved and adopted effective January 1, 2019.
B. MISSION FIELDS
B.1. AMAA ARMENIA Here is a list of our activities in the Homeland.
B.1.1. RA Prime Minister Received AMAA Executive Director/CEO On June 14, 2019, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan received AMAA Executive Director/CEO accompanied by Sona Khanjian, Armenia Representative Harout Nercessian and Rev. Hovhannes Hovsepyan. The newly appointed High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs Zareh Sinanian participated in the meeting. The Prime Minister highly appreciated the activity of the Association in Armenia. He expressed hope that the programs of the Armenian Missionary Association in Armenia shall continue to expand and develop. The Ex- ecutive Director/CEO presented the programs and services of the Association and stated that, encouraged by the changes taking place in the Homeland, the AMAA will give a new impetus to the economic, social and educational programs it administers. The Prime Minister took time to appreciate the contributions of the Evangelical Church of Armenia in the life of the Armenian people and imparted full knowledge the Church has played in the spiritual and educational fields.
B.1.2. Mission AMAA operations in Armenia and Artsakh constitute its major mission field of operations with over 50% of its budget being allocated there. Harout Nercessian and Rev. Mgrdich Melkonian continue to lead the AMAA and ECA operations respectively. During the current fiscal year, I visited the mission field twice ̶ once in September 2018 and then in May 2019. As the year progressed, positive recognition and awareness of AMAA presence and activities in the Homeland has grown. AMAA centers have seen a decent expansion thanks to new construction and expanded capacities. Em- ployment continues to show a slight increase as services and programs expand and increase. Relations with the Mother Church can be categorized as warm and friendly in most regions with a few exceptions. The political atmo- sphere is calm and the spirit of optimism, confidence and hope, welcomed after the velvet revolution, persists and continues to reflect the popular mood in the country. The much anticipated economic growth might not have reached ‘miraculous’ expectations but persists in the country with a wider global professional business traffic stumbling Ye- revan. AMAA operations are dynamic and interaction with government offices smooth and warm. The general at- mosphere in which the church operates is positive with declined pressure and/or restrictions. The AMAA continues to follow a policy of restrained expansion coupled with improved services.
B.1.3. Evangelical Church of Armenia I cannot minimize the importance and the role of the Evangelical Church of Armenia (currently 24 churches in Armenia and Karabagh) in the framework of the future of the Armenian Evangelical movement. Armenian com- munities in the Middle East continue to lose magnitude and as a result, fervor. Both political upheaval and economic unrest dominate the region portraying an opaque future. The West too is experiencing a decline resulting from natural assimilation, schisms within the church and decline in new recruits answering the call to spiritual leadership. I believe that Armenia remains the most fertile soil where the Evangelical Church of Armenia can grow and retain its mission in disseminating the Word of God among our people. The AMAA should continue to encourage and nurture the Church, which can and should thrive and potentially perpetuate the movement in independent Armenia. Rev. Melkonian continues his diligent service in leading, teaching, supervising and mentoring pastors in Armenia through spiritual retreats, seminars, training, interning and ‘upper room’ experiences. The Church, in general, still suffers from: 1) Lack of solid growth with anchored and supportive congregants. 2) Little progress toward financial independence. 3) Deficiency with respect to professional transparency and accountability 4) Falling behind in engaging its leadership in academic, theological and scholarly public appearance and exposure.
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More work needs to be done on the above concerns to bring the ECA closer to the dynamic entity hoped to perpetuate the Armenian Evangelical experience.
B.1.4. Avedisian School The Avedisian High School continues to excel in the field of education with 100% of 2019 graduates being enrolled in universities. The student body as well as the school budget are on the climb and efforts will continue to ensure that the Endowment Fund follows. The Executive Director/CEO participated in the 2019 graduation ceremonies. Benefactor Doreen Bilezikian was the keynote speaker with members of the Bilezikian Family in attendance. The latest conquest of the School was the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Cer- tificate awarded by the US Green Building Council in Washington DC. Being the first structure to receive the LEED Certificate in Armenia, the AHS was also awarded USGBC’s EARTH designation. The AMAA salutes the pioneering insight of a remarkable group of project owners and professionals who rose above cost and construction considerations to be good stewards of the creation in securing the LEED Certifica- tion and EARTH designation for the School. In teaching faculty and students to take good care of Armenia’s ecology, the AMAA Board and Administration toil to provide an environmentally sustainable Homeland for the enjoyment of generations to come. We are proud of the Avedisian School.
B.1.5. Construction By fiscal year end, the following construction projects were completed, are in planning or in progress. Most AMAA Construction projects in Armenia are being supervised and administered by Board Member Hratch Sarkis to whom I extend AMAA’s utmost gratitude. • SOUTH WEST DISTRICT NEW SANCTUARY - Study is still in progress to determine the feasibility and cost of building on the lot we now own and which falls on a city dirt road. • IJEVAN CENTER RENOVATION - Construction in progress • JANBAZIAN and ASKERAN KINDERGARTENS IN ARTSAKH - Both Kindergarten renovations in Artsakh were completed. The Askeran Kindergarten was named after the parents of benefactor Hagop Basmajian from Montreal, Canada. • GYUMRI PARSONAGE - One of the old Gyumri office apartments was renovated and converted to a parsonage for the new Gyumri Minister. • ABOVYAN STREET APARTMENT - AMAA owned Abovyan Street apartment was partially renovated. It housed two new pastoral candidates who will move to Beirut in September 2019. Our new AMAA Deputy Representative Aren Deyirmenjian will occupy the apartment after further renovations in Sep- tember 2019. • BEDROSIAN SHUSHI CAMP OFFICE and CE CENTER - Construction in progress. • EIGHT APARTMENTS IN BEDROSIAN CAMP ADJACENT COMPLEX - Funded by Dr. John and LindaKay Abdulian the last apartment in this eight-unit complex was acquired, securing total AMAA ownership. • STEPANAVAN ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDING - Construction in progress. • SISSIAN AMAA/HFA CENTER SECOND FLOOR RENOVATION - A joint venture between AMAA and Hope for Armenia. Renovation in progress.
B.1.6. Programs and Services in Armenia and Artsakh The AMAA is actively engaged in the following vital programs and services rendered in Armenia and Art- sakh, most of which are at levels of the previous year or have slightly grown. - EDUCATION – AVEDISIAN HIGH SCHOOL - MILK FUND - STITCHED WITH LOVE - ORPHAN and CHILD CARE - SHOGH DAY CENTERS - MEDICAL and DENTAL CARE – AYNILIAN CLINIC - ARTSAKH KINDERGARTENS - CHRISTMAS SHOE BOXES
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- CHRISTMAS JOY - CHRISTIAN EDUCATION - BORDER VILLAGE RENOVATION - PUBLICATIONS - THEATER - CHOIR - SUMMER CAMPS
B.2. Near East B.2.1. Syria
B.2.1.1. Emmanuel Church Roof The Emmanuel Church roof was totally rebuilt with major financial assistance by theAMAA. A special dedication worship service was held on December 2, 2018 on this occasion. More funds are designated for the Emmanuel Church, which are hoped to be transmitted upon the resolu- tion of the Sanctions hindrance.
B.2.1.2. General Conditions in Syria Despite the wrath of the US Sanctions (see A.18 above) and lack of AMAA funding in fiscal year 2018-2019, community life in Syria seems to be active and fervent. Relative safety and security continue to prevail in sections under the control of the Syrian government where church life is visibly blazing and attendance intense. Through the remarkable efforts of Rev. Harout Selimian, new resources have been secured through Euro- pean governmental and institutional channels which have more than alleviated the absence of AMAA assistance during the past fiscal year. A final political settlement however still seems to be away, as the forces who bred the crisis have failed to reach their goals. The AMAA continues its moral and material support of Syrian Armenians in Syria, Lebanon and Armenia where thousands of refugees are still struggling to settle.
B.2.2. Lebanon
B.2.2.1. Haigazian University The Haigazian University Board of Trustees met in Los Angeles in early November 2018 and in Beirut in early June 2019. The University continues its journey of excellence in education, contributes to a healthy communal interaction and advances its Armenian Studies program and its Diaspora Research Center. The University, under the able leadership of President Rev. Dr. Paul Haidostian, continues to enjoy an es- teemed and honorable reputation within the Lebanese educational, Governmental, local Armenian community as well as in academic circles in Armenia and Artsakh. Dr. Hasmig Baran, Chair of the HU Board of Trustees, in coordination with the University administration diligently navigates the institution forward. Reflecting the wave of continued exodus, fierce competition and economic hardship, the number of Arme- nian students enrolling in the University is in a slow but constant decline. The outlook, following a general assess- ment of the geo-political future of the region, does not give much hope for the tide to be reversed. We should be mindful of the future of our communities and establishments in this volatile part of the world. HU remains the pride of the Armenian Evangelical global community with its vital role in preparing regional and international public leadership. The AMAA is determined to support and sustain this single Armenian educa- tional center of higher education in the Diaspora.
B.2.2.2. Armenian Evangelical Schools in Lebanon The Haigazian University experience, touched upon above, also applies to Armenian Evangelical Schools in Lebanon. As the community shrinks and social and economic hardship intensifies, enrollment in our schools drop and operating deficits rise, a phenomenon that has been the reality over so many years. To face the situation head on, a long overdue action of school consolidation finally was adopted and planned by the UAECNE Central Committee for the 2019-2020 academic year. Two Bourj Hamoud based schools, Shamlian Tatigian and Torosian schools, will
13 2018/19
merge effective the next academic year hoping to mitigate the financial and academic crisis the schools have been facing for a long time. AMAA salutes this effort and the new oversight on the school administration the UAECNE plans to create. The decision to merge necessitated urgent need for financial assistance, which was subsequently provided by the AMAA Board. The education provided to some 1,000 students is of utmost importance, which cannot be underestimated.
B.2.3. Turkey Despite its strategic and central location in the heart of the Near East, the Armenian Evangelical community in Turkey seems to be as far as the moon. I did not have the opportunity to be in Turkey during the fiscal year under review and neither has anyone from the UAECNE of which the church is part of. The AMAA continues to provide a degree of material support to the church but more interaction, coordination, encouragement and cooperation is needed. The Hrant Dink Middle School at the Gedik Pasa Church continues to serve the children of Armenian mi- grants who have taken employment refuge in Turkey. No update has been provided on the renovation and reconstruction plans of Camp Armen, led by a Com- munity Reconstruction Committee supervising the process, which were submitted to the Tuzla Municipality for ap- proval in the past fiscal year. Repeating my assessment of last year, the Armenian Protestant community and church in Turkey fall under the Union leadership of the UAECNE. Ties, connections and relationships between Istanbul and Beirut need to rise to a level consistent with expectations.
B.2.4. Australia The Armenian Missionary Association of Australia continues to remain vibrant and productive under the able leadership of its Executive Director, Rev. Dr. Krikor Youmshajekian. Relations though with the AEC of Sydney remain uneasy and need to be elevated to a level of mutual trust, cooperation and coordination. Executive and Corporate positions at AMA-Australia need to be separated to avoid any actual or perceived conflict of interest.
B.3. The Americas
B.3.1. AMAA Sundays AMAA Sundays are effective, essential and practical way of continued direct interaction between the AMAA and the AEUNA member churches in the Americas. In as much, as practical and thanks to efforts exerted by Dr. Nazareth Darakjian, Heather Ohaneson, Levon Filian, Rev. Mgrdich Melkonian, Harout Nercessian and the AMAA Executive Director/CEO we continued our tradi- tional visits to the AEUNA member churches to participate in AMAA Mission Sunday programs. We thank most AEUNA churches and Mission Committees for their support and partnership and sincerely call upon the rest to join us in our Mission and in support of its programs and services.
B.3.2. Change in the AEUNA Leadership Effective May 1, 2019, the AEUNA Moderator and Downey Church Pastor Rev. Vatche Ekmekjian, having moved to a Brotherhood church, resigned his post. Vice Moderator Rev. Jeremy Tovmasian assumed the duties of Moderator until the next AEUNA Biennial convention in 2020. Rev. Henrik Shahnazarian of UACC was assigned to act as Vice Moderator.
B.3.3. Joint Home Missions Committee - JHMC The Moderator, MTTU and Treasurer of the Union together with the President, Treasurer and the AMAA Ex- ecutive Director/CEO convene annually to review the Union needs. The JHMC of the AMAA and AEUNA met again in spring 2019 to review the budget request of the Union for ministerial needs in the Americas in the 2018-19 budget.
B.3.4. South America The AMAA Executive Director/CEO has not been able to visit the South American Armenian Evangelical churches in Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay. Although the AMAA continues to follow the status and supports the three ministries of Armenian Evangelical
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churches in South America it is imperative that the AMAA Executive Director/CEO personally visit our brothers in the South, encourage their ministries and closely inspect their needs. It is our hope and prayer that the integration of these three churches in the AEUNA will bring much needed revival, energy and support
B.3.5. North America The AMAA closely watches the state of our churches, pulpits and youth camps and is in direct contact with the AEUNA Minister to the Union (MTTU). MTTU Rev. Berdj Djambazian, Moderator Rev. Jeremy Tovmasian and the Executive Committee continue to meet in regular monthly sessions to address the challenges of the Union and actively engage in meeting them.
B.4. EURASIA Russia, and Georgia The following are observations and comments on our missions from a trip your Executive Director/CEO took at the end of May 2019 to Russia in Eurasia.
Faith This trip was an eye-opening experience in meeting the faithful in these two countries where, contrary to other Diaspora communities, a long and deeply rooted large Armenian population resides. Although Armenians were established in Russia since the 18th century or earlier, the collapse of the Soviet Union and the economic breakdown that followed in Armenia led hundreds of thousands more Armenians to seek employment in Russia. As for Georgia, there has always been a large indigenous Armenian population in a region where in the aftermath of the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917, Moscow imposed artificial borders between the repub- lics of Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan in the Caucasus. There is an amazing spirit of faith in the limited circles of our mission with whom we interacted. At the same time, the vast majority of the population is unchurched, thus creating a huge void that needs to be filled in with the spread of the Word of God. In that sense, Georgia and Russia need our attention where the field is ripe for natural expansion.
Heritage Both Russia and Georgia compose the largest and closest Armenian communities to the Homeland and yet assimilation and ethnic erosion are serious national challenges with dire consequences. The AMAA alone will not save these communities. However, every effort within the realm of our mission in support of the spiritual needs of our people will also solidify the national heritage. All indications are that the Georgian government continues to deliberately ignore the physical development of the Armenian enclave of Javakhk. The Executive Director/CEO intends to develop a gradual expansion of our presence and support in the region.
B.5. Europe Fellowship Pursuing a resolution taken at a conference of the Europe Fellowship representatives in Paris in June 2018 to reactivate and reenergize the Fellowship, Rev. Gilbert Levonian, the Fellowship President in coordination with the AMAA Executive Director/CEO, embarked on a mission trip to member countries during the fiscal year being reported. The purpose of the trip was to evaluate the status of the ministries in Turkey, Greece, Bulgaria, Germany, Holland and Belgium, encourage the faithful, inspire the leadership and investigate their needs. AMAA supports all the Europe Fellowship ministries and wishes them well in their plans of growth and ex- pansion for the glory of God, the dissemination of the Word of God and the preservation of our national identities.
C. CHALLENGES Our collective challenges in the sphere of the following areas continue, needs collective attention and serious con- sideration. -recruiting new spiritual church leadership -divisions and schism within the church -mobilization of the youth -communities at risk in the Near East, Eurasia and elsewhere Prayers, focus and action are all necessary.
15 2018/19
D. LETTERS AND MESSAGES A host of celebratory letters and/or messages of sympathy were addressed to churches, organizations, institutions, families and individuals marking various occasions.
E. GRATITUDE September 1, 2019 was the fifth anniversary of my employment at the AMAA in the service of God the Father. In the course of these five years, the most valuable prize I have been awarded is the spirit of gratitude to God that I have come to find not in the recipients of the goodness of the AMAA but in those who give from the heart directing all praise and gratitude to God Almighty. “Amen! Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to God for ever and ever. Amen!” Rev 7:11
I am humbled by all who have walked the journey with me realizing the goals of the Mission for yet another year. Thank you donors, Board and Committee members, volunteers and staff.
Sincere and heartfelt gratitude to all. Respectfully submitted, Zaven Khanjian, Executive Director/CEO
KCHAG - Christian Endeavor Summer Camp - Monteverdi (Beit Meri), Lebanon Lebanon 16 Treasurer’s Report 2018/19
It was my honor and privilege to serve as the Treasurer of the Armenian Missionary Association of America, Inc. (AMAA). The audited year-end financial results (Pages 71-91) show that the revenues from contributions, bequests and investments totaled $12.5 million in fiscal year ending July 31, 2019, down from $22.1 million from the year before. The operating expenses over the same period were $11.6 million, resulting in an increase in net assets of nearly $1.0 million. At year end, the market value of AMAA net assets was $185.8 million. The investment income, excluding rental income of $5.7 million, consists of dividends and interests plus capital gains on the securities portfolio. It was down from $14.1 million, the year before, reflecting more challenging market conditions. This primarily accounts for the year-over-year decline in the total revenue. The rental income accounted for an additional $1 million.I The revenue from contributions and bequests was $5.2 million, down from $6.0 million the year before. The AMAA spending on all evangelical programs including education, relief, assistance to churches and missions, leadership development and theological training continued unabated in over 20 countries. This year’s spending for opera- tions, $11.6 million, includes the following: • $3.2 million for relief efforts in Armenia and the Middle East; • $1.8 million on education, including child education centers in Armenia, Avedisian School in Yerevan, scholar- ships for students in the United States, and a grant for consolidating Torosian School with Shamlian Tatigian in Bourj Hammoud, Lebanon; • $1.4 million for Haigazian University in Beirut, Lebanon; and, • $2.0 million for assistance to churches and missions, summer camps, leadership development programs and theological training, and on publications. The total disbursements on capital projects totaled $391,000 in the fiscal year and include spending for the con- struction of the Stepanavan Administrative building ($271,000) to be completed in 2020. This year’s financial statements were once again audited by the independent Certified Public Accounting firm of SAX LLP. The independent auditor’s comments and financial statements are included in the Annual Report (Pages 71-91). I encourage each member to review these statements, and direct your questions either to me or to Nerses Rastguelenian, the AMAA Controller. I am grateful to Dr. Michael Voskian, the Chairman and all the other members of the Investment Committee for their diligence and hard work. Most importantly, I thank God for the AMAA supporters whose generosity and volunteerism are the foundation of the organization. Their talents and dedication enables the AMAA to carry out its holy mission and vital services around the world. Respectfully Submitted, Nurhan Helvacian, Ph.D., Treasurer
Evangelical Church of Armenia in Vanadzor 17 2018/19 Director of Finance’s Report
I am excited about the information you are holding in your hands. It is a proof that God is faithful and His promises are as sure as the sunrise. This Annual Report celebrates what God has done over the past year as well as looks to the future with hearts full of ex- pectation. As we close the books for the year, we look at the lives changed, needs met, and vision fulfilled. What you will read in the rest of this Annual Report is a record of how God has blessed us financially, and how we have sought to be good stewards of those finances. Also, as you look through the information in this Report, it is so much more than numbers and pictures. It is a testimony of all that God has done. It represents individuals, families and communities. Yes, there are a lot of numbers. But every number has a name, everyI name has a story, and every story matters to God. We also want you to know that this Report is a “Thank you!” to all of you. God makes provision through His people. Thank you for your generosity, faithfulness and commitment to the vision God has laid out for the AMAA. On behalf of our Staff it is an honor to be family with you and to serve together for God’s Kingdom. “So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.” I Corinthians 15:58 Serving Him together with you, Respectfully Submitted, Nerses Rastguelenian, Acting Director of Finance
Children of a family in Vazashen, a boarder village in Armenia. AMAA assisted the family to secure a safer house in the18 village. AMAA at a Glance 2018/19
The Armenian Missionary Association of America, Inc. (AMAA) is committed to excellence in all it does, because we work for our Lord. This is made possible through the grace of God, who provided people the will to sacrifice their time and financial resources. With God’s blessing and direction, we have become a strong, effective organization, understanding and reaching our communities around the world with Christian service relevant to our times.
AMAA has at heart the religious cultivation, spiritual growth and development of the Armenian people, enabling them to stand firmly in their Christian faith and to devote themselves to Christian mission expressed throughT the church, education and relief efforts. Therefore, the AMAA acts as an Armenian Evangelical missionary organization within the family of the Armenian Evangelical Church and the universal church of Jesus Christ.
AMAA was founded in 1918 in Worcester, MA and incorporated as a non-profit, charitable organization in 1920 in the State of New York. The AMAA is tax-exempt under Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3).
AMAA’s purpose is to serve the physical and spiritual needs of people everywhere, both at home and around the world. To fulfill this worldwide mission, the AMAA maintains a range of educational, evangelistic, relief, social service, health care, church and child care ministries in 24 countries.
AMAA is governed by an elected Board of Directors composed of 27 unpaid members and has many other volunteers serving on its various committees. The AMAA also cooperates with many Armenian and non-Armenian organizations worldwide in accomplishing its mission. We appreciate all the time, talent, and effort put forth by these individuals and organizations allowing us to accomplish all that is necessary.
The mission and service ministry of the AMAA is made possible through the Grace of God and by the gifts of individuals, churches, and other organizations committed to fulfilling the Great Commission – “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to all creation.” Mark 16:15
AMAA Armenia Internship 2019
19 2018/19 AMAA Serving the Needs of our
DURING THE FISCAL YEAR 2018-2019, WITH YOUR GENEROUS AND CHEERFUL CONTRIBUTIONS, THE FOLLOWING MINISTRIES WERE SUPPORTED BY THE AMAA THROUGHOUT THE WORLD
ARMENIA BRAZIL • Relief to families • Support the Armenian Evangelical Church of São Paulo • Sponsorship of 1,800 children & families • Distribution of Christian literature • Sponsorship of the elderly • Scholarships to College students • Health Care Center in Yerevan and Spitak • Relief to families • Dental Clinic in Vanadzor • Support for various development projects BULGARIA • Avedisian School operations in Yerevan • Support the Armenian Evangelical Churches • Scholarships to College & University students • Support Children and Youth Summer Camps • Operate Camp Sheen-Shoghig in Hankavan • Relief to families • Christian Education Programs in 33 locations • Distribution of Christian literature • Distribution of Infant Formula to needy babies • Distribution of over 1,500 knitted hats and blankets to CANADA needy infants and children • Support the Armenian Evangelical Church of • Christmas Programs and distribution of gifts to over Cambridge 10,000 children • Scholarships to College students • Publication and distribution of Bibles and Christian • Distribution of Christian literature literature • Relief to Syrian-Armenian refugees • Operation of the three “Shogh” after-school educational day centers CYPRUS • Tutorial programs in all AMAA Centers • Distribution of Christian literature • Support for the ministries of the Union of the Evangelical Churches and its 22-member churches and EGYPT fellowships • Support the Armenian Evangelical Church of Alexandria • Provide assistance to help Syrian-Armenian refugees • Distribution of Christian literature settle in Armenia FRANCE ABKHAZIA • Support Christian Camps • Support the ministry of the Armenian Evangelical Church • Financial aid to Panpere publication • Distribution of Christian literature • Support the general Ministries of the Armenian Evangelical Union of France ARGENTINA • Distribution of Christian literature • Relief to families and elderly people • Relief to retired teachers and pastors • Distribution of Bibles & devotional literature • Support the Armenian Evangelical Fellowship of Europe • Church and camp building renovations ARTSAKH • Relief to 200 orphans and needy children GEORGIA • Operate Camp Bedrosian in Shushi • Support the ministry of three Armenian Evangelical • Operation of the two “Shogh” after-school educational Churches day centers • Funding of Summer Youth Camp • Support Christian Education Programs for children and youth • Distribution of Infant Formula to needy babies • Operation of four Kindergartens • Distribution of Christian literature
AUSTRALIA • Distribution of Christian literature
BELGIUM • Support the Armenian Evangelical Church • Subsidize the salaries of ministers and Christian workers • Distribution of Christian literature Yeprem and Zabel Basmajian KG - Askeran, Artsakh 20 Communities Around the World 2018/19
• Relief to families • Distribution of Christian literature
GERMANY • Support the ministry in Eppingen, Kehl and Stuttgart • Distribution of Christian literature
GREECE • Support the ministries of two churches in Athens and Thessaloniki • Distribution of Christian literature
HOLLAND • Support missionary work in Armenian Communities • Distribution of Christian literature
IRAN* • Support the ministry of three local churches • Distribution of Christian literature Camp Arev - Frazier Park, CA • Support Arevik Youth Center IRAQ • Support social and relief services • Support the ministry of the Armenian Evangelical • Actively participate in Syria Armenian Relief Fund Church of Baghdad • Sustenance assistance to the Syrian-Armenians
LEBANON TURKEY • Support Haigazian University • Distribution of Christian literature • Support four High Schools • Support local Armenian Evangelical Churches • Support the Centers for the Armenian Handicapped • Support Daily Vacation Bible Schools UNITED STATES • Support Christian Endeavor Youth Camp (KCHAG) • Financial aid to Armenian Evangelical Churches & • Support the Armenian Evangelical Social Service Center Fellowships • Subsidize the salaries of pastors • Financial aid to Merdinian Armenian Evangelical & • Support youth ministries Sahag-Mesrob Schools • Relief to families • Financial aid to Theological students and interns • Relief to Syrian Armenian refugees in Lebanon • Financial aid to Ararat Home • Financial aid to Camp Arev and Camp Arevelk RUSSIA • Financial aid to the AEUNA’s Youth Ministry • Support the ministries of the Armenian Evangelical • Financial aid to AEUNA’s publication Churches of Moscow and Sochi • Scholarships to College and University students • Distribution of Christian literature • Organize Literary Contests • Distribution of Christian literature SYRIA* • Support four Elementary Schools and two Secondary URUGUAY Schools • Financial assistance to the local church • Financial aid to Daily Vacation Bible Schools • Relief provisions to families • Financial aid to churches • Distribution of Christian literature • Relief provision to retired teachers • Financial aid to the Association for the Armenian Blind OTHER COUNTRIES • Financial aid to the Armenian Old Age Home of Aleppo • Emergency relief aid for victims of natural disasters • Subsidize the salaries of pastors • Support new ministries in other countries • Support the medical and dental clinics of Christ’s Church in Aleppo * Financial assistance to Syria and Iran has been suspended since Fall 2018, in consideration of US sanctions regulations. AMAA has requested interpretive guidance from Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control (OFAC) concerning its Syria and Iran related activities and is awaiting a response. AMAA continues to support Syrian Armenian refuges in Lebanon and Armenia and hopes to be able to resume assistance to Syria and Iran as soon as clearance is received from OFAC.
21 2018/19 AMAA Ministries
The Mission of the Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA) remains focused on improving the quality of life by providing assistance in the following areas:
▪ Churches and Missions ▪ Education ▪ Evangelism and Discipleship ▪ Humanitarian Relief Programs
On-going fundraising and program implementation from the AMAA Board, Executive Director/CEO and staff both in the United States and Armenia made great efforts to implement and participate in the following projects and programs during the fiscal year:
AMAA Centennial Campaign
Kicked off in 2016, “Faithful to Our Legacy, Embracing the Future” has been the central theme for the Centennial Capital Campaign. Fund-raising toward a $20 million goal to increase scope and impact has been ongoing and will last through the end of 2019. At the October 2019 AMAA Annual Banquet, Executive Director/CEO Zaven Khanjian stated in his speech: “God has called on the AMAA to face the spiritual and humanitarian challenges of our people and assume a leadership role. We have collectively and positively answered the call. And, through your righteous giving, you continue to make it happen. You are an integral part of the legacy of Love, Faith and Service. As our eyes look up at the Great Commission of ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation’ Mark 16:15, the march goes on. AMAA remains committed to the vision of embracing a future of changed lives for thousands of people.”
Churches and Missions
Sunday School - Armenian Evang’l Church of Moscow Armenian Evang’l Emmanuel Church - Aleppo, Syria The AMAA was established through the vision of Armenian Evangelical Churches in the United States for missions and they became the mainstay of support for its programs. Today, with so much turmoil and dislocation, the opportunity is there to reach so many with the hope of our faith. The AMAA continues to support 120 Armenian Evangelical Churches and Fellowships around the world where the Gospel is preached.
22 AMAA Ministries 2018/19
Evangelism and Discipleship Teach, preach, and be a witness to all nations — this is Evangelism. It was the vital command that Jesus gave to His disciples. The AMAA has faithfully followed Christ’s instruction and supports Evangelistic programs which include: Bible Study groups, Child Evangelism, Summer Camps, Daily Vacation Bible Schools, missionary outreaches, and distribution of Bibles and Christian literature. The AMAA has also instituted many training programs for pastors in Armenia to better equip them in reaching people with the Gospel. Through these programs and outreach, not only has the AMAA changed the lives of thousands of people, but it has also inspired hope for future generations. Bringing people DVBS at the Armenian Evangelical Bethel Church the Good News of eternal life in Christ is the Aleppo, Syria best and most important part of all that the AMAA does.
Humanitarian Relief Meeting the needs of the impoverished is a command of the Lord, as we read in Matthew 25, especially with respect to caring for those whose conditions are most destitute. The AMAA accepts this command very seriously and has provided relief aid and humanitarian services to thousands of people around the world, including those affected by wars or natural disasters. Together with the support of its members, friends and partner organizations, the AMAA provides food for the hungry, shelter to the homeless, medical care for the sick, care for the children and elderly and love to those who are desperate and hopeless. Thousands of needy children and their families are sponsored. Social service offices provide support and medical clinics have improved the health of many families. These services were rendered not only in response to the needs, but also in response to God’s calling. AMAA — caring for the least of our brothers and sisters in Christ since 1918. Assisting children of needy families in Armenia 23 2018/19 AMAA Ministries
Education Access to a quality education is one of the most important asset which can be provided to an individual. Armenian Evangelicals have long been pioneers in establishing exceptional schools and colleges. Education is not only key to improving lives of those we serve, it preserves our proud heritage, teaches our language and prepares tomorrow’s leaders of our society. The AMAA currently supports 28 Armenian Evangelical Schools and Educational Institutions in Armenia, the Middle East and North America. Over 1,000 needy students receive annual tuition-aid. The Khoren and Shooshanig Avedisian School in Yerevan, Armenia is entirely funded by the AMAA, while Haigazian University in Beirut, Lebanon, the only institution of higher education in the Armenian Diaspora, receives funding from the AMAA. Each year, approximately 150 college students in the United States and Armenia receive scholarships, making it possible for them to receive a higher education. The AMAA has also seen rapid growth within our educational SHOGH Day Centers. The mission of the five SHOGH Centers, found in Yerevan, Vanadzor, Gyumri, Askeran and Shushi, is to help vulnerable children enjoy learning, improve their academics, acquire life skills, and grow into productive and fulfilled citizens. Through the help of the AMAA, our young generation is prepared to meet the challenges as they become successful clergymen, teachers, businessmen and businesswomen, diplomats, lawyers, social workers and professionals, and as they grow not only economically, but morally and spiritually.
Bible Day at the C & E Merdinian Armenian Evangelical Haigazian University Class of 2019 - Beirut, Lebanon School - Sherman Oaks, CA
24 Financial Reports 2018/19
Report of Management
Management is responsible for the accompanying consolidated financial statements, related notes thereto, and all other financial information presented herein. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In management’s opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly the orga- nization’s financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. In addition, information and repre- sentations included in the organization’s Annual Report are consistent with the financial statements.
The organization maintains a system of internal accounting policies, procedures, and controls in- tended to provide reasonable assurance at appropriate costs, given the inherent limitations of all internal control systems, that transactions are executed in accordance with organization authoriza- tion, are properly recorded and reported in the financial statements, and that assets are adequately safeguarded. The organization’s independent accountants continually evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of this system of internal accounting policies, procedures, and controls to the extent required under generally accepted auditing standards. Management takes the appropriate actions to correct deficiencies as they are identified.
The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors is composed solely of non-employee members and is responsible for overseeing and monitoring the quality of the organization’s accounting and control practices. The Audit Committee meets throughout the year with management and the independent accountants to discuss audit activities, internal controls, and financial reporting matters. The Audit Committee reports its activities to the Board of Directors. The independent accountants have unre- stricted access to the Audit Committee, without the presence of management.
Zaven Khanjian Executive Director/CEO
25 2018/19
Armenian Missionary Association Of America Operating And Capital Budgets For Fiscal Years Ending July 31, 2020 And 2019
Operating Budget Budget Budget 2019-20 2018-2019 Fluctuation Operating Revenue: Anticipated Contributions $ 3,200,000 $ 3,182,050 $ 17,950 Appropriation From Investment Income 6,281,083 6,134,114 146,969 Total operating Revenue 9,481,083 9,316,164 164,919
Operating Expenses: Education 2,390,937 2,252,764 138,173 Armenia Relief 2,760,359 2,632,226 128,133 Other Relief 441,562 441,909 (347) Evangelism 441,233 451,846 (10,613) Church & Missions 1,119,960 1,101,090 18,870 Leadership Develop. & Theol. Training 92,000 84,000 8,000 Publications/ Book Service 195,000 182,500 12,500 Administration/ Support Services 1,745,607 1,743,093 2,514 Auxiliary Activities 365,000 585,000 (220,000) Total Operating Expenses 9,551,658 9,474,428 77,230
Net Surplus/(Deficit) W/O Depreciation (70,575) (158,264) 87,689
Capital Budget 2019-2020 2018-2019 Total Project Budget Amount Budget Amount Budget* Vanatzor Shogh Center Purchase Of New Building $ 200,000 $ 200,000 Vanatzor Center Central Heating System 35,938 35,938 Vanatzor Clinic Parsonage Renovation 26,946 26,946 Shiragamout Construction Of Three Rooms 5,313 5,313 Shiragamout Water Drainage System 10,625 10,625 Ijevan Center Sanctuary Renovation 61,342 61,342 Ijevan Center Sanctuary Furniture 13,868 13,868 Shoghik Hankavan Camp Reconstruction (a) 311,489 311,489 Shoghik Hankavan Camp Dining Room (a) 22,170 22,170 Hankavan Renovation Of Cabanas 5,319 5,319 Shushi Bedrosian Camp Landscaping 20,234 20,234 Shushi Bedrosian Camp Hot Water For Children's Dorm 4,995 4,995 Shushi Bedrosian Camp Auditorium Heating System 3,333 3,333 Shushi Bedrosian Camp Stair Rails Near Auditorium 2,160 2,160
26 2018/19
Shushi Shogh Expansion 159,043 159,043 Askeran Windows 4,792 4,792 Abovyan Apartment Central Heating System 2,660 2,660 Nigol Duman Clinic Renovation 18,438 18,438 Yerevan Aynilian Clinic Renovation 7,948 7,948 Gyumri Church and Center 200,000 200,000 South West District Church Construction 100,000 100,000 Ijevan Center Renovation 50,625 75,000 90,894 Camp Hankavan Dining Hall 400,000 400,000 Jambazian Kindergarten Renovation 20,000 20,000 Gyumri Parsonage Renovation 17,000 17,000 Abovyan Street Home Renovation 12,000 12,000 Shushi Camp 98,568 95,000 154,638 Stepanavan Administrative Building 370,053 500,000 822,340 Sisian Center Renovation 22,000 22,000 Paramus Headquarters Renovation 75,000 75,000 75,000 Church Renovations (Executive Director Discretion) 75,000 75,000 Total 1,510,859 1,591,000 2,905,485
(a) Project subject to raising funds
* Total project budget may be comprised of several years and may not reflect the total of the two years shown.
27
2018/19
Independent Auditor's Report
Board of Directors Armenian Missionary Association of America, Inc.
Report on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying financialIndependent statements Auditor's of Armenian Report Missionary Association of America, which comprise statements of financial position as of July 31, 2019 and 2018, and the related statements ofBoard activities of Directors and changes in net assets and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes to theArmenian financial Missionary statements. Association of America, Inc.
Management’sReport on the Financial Responsibility Statements for the Financial Statements
ManagementWe have audited is responsible the accompanying for the financialpreparation statements and fair of presentation Armenian Missionary of these Associationfinancial statements of America, in accordancewhich comprise with statements accounting of principles financial generallyposition as accepted of July 31, in the2019 United and 2018, States and of theAmerica; related this statements includes theof activities design, andimplementation, changes in net and assets maintenance and cash offlows internal for the control years relevantthen ended, to the and preparation the related notesand fair to presentationthe financial statements.of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements Auditor’s Responsibility Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in Ouraccordance responsibility with accounting is to express principles an opinion generally on acceptedthese financial in the Unitedstatements States based of America; on our this audits. includes We conductedthe design, our implementation, audits in accordance and maintenance with auditing of standardsinternal control generally relevant accepted to the in thepreparation United Statesand fair of America.presentation Those of financial standards statements require that that we are plan free and from perform material the misstatement,audits to obtain whether reasonable due toassurance fraud or abouterror. whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.
Auditor’sAn audit involves Responsibility performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessmentOur responsibility of the isrisks to expressof material an misstatementopinion on these of the financial financial statements statements, based whether on dueour audits.to fraud We or error.conducted In making our audits those in riskaccordance assessments, with auditing the auditor standards considers generally internal accepted control inrelevant the United to the States entity’s of preparationAmerica. Those and fair standards presentation require of thatthe financialwe plan statementsand perform in the order audits to design to obtain audit reasonable procedures assurance that are appropriateabout whether in thethe circumstances,financial statements but not are for free the of purpose material of misstatement. expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating theAn auditappropriateness involves performing of accounting procedures policies to obtain used auditand evidencethe reasonableness about the amounts of significant and disclosures accounting in esthetimates financial made statements. by management, The procedures as well selected as evaluating depend theon overallthe auditor’s presentation judgment, of includingthe financial the statements.assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s Wepreparation believe thatand thefair auditpresentation evidence of wethe havefinancial obtained statements is sufficient in order and to appropriate design audit to procedures provide a basis that arefor ourappropriate audit opinion. in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating Opinionthe appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial Instatements. our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Armenian Missionary Association of America as of July 31, 2019 and 2018, and the resultsWe believe of its that operations the audit andevidence its cash we haveflows obtainedfor the yearsis sufficient then endedand appropriate in accordance to provide with accountinga basis for principlesour audit opinion. generally accepted in the United States of America.
Opinion
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Armenian Missionary Association of America as of July 31, 2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
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Board of Directors Armenian Missionary Association of America, Inc. Page 2 2018/19
Emphasis of Matter Board of Directors AsArmenian discussed Missionary in note Association 2, during fiscal of America, year ended Inc. July 31, 2019, the Organization adopted Accounting StandardsPage 2 Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-14, Not-for-Profit Entities (Topic 958): Presentation of Not-for Profit Entities. Our opinion is not modified with respect to that matter. Emphasis of Matter
As discussed in note 2, during fiscal year ended July 31, 2019, the Organization adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-14, Not-for-Profit Entities (Topic 958): Presentation of Not-for Profit Entities.Clifton, New Our Jersey opinion is not modified with respect to that matter. October 3, 2019
Clifton, New Jersey October 3, 2019
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2018/19
Armenian Missionary Association of America, Inc. Statements of Financial Position The Armenian Missionary As of July 31, 2019 and 2018 Association of America (AMAA) emphasizes full ASSETS 2019 2018 financial disclosure, accountability and Cash $ 571,835 $ 317,934 Pledges receivable, less allowance for doubtful pledges careful stewardship. of $214,946 in 2019 and 2018 (Note 3) 896,057 1,654,810 Loans and mortgages receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $350,500 in 2019 and 2018 (Note 6) 1,445,419 1,492,266 Other receivables and prepaid expenses 313,398 572,366
Total Cash, Receivables and Prepaid Expenses 3,226,709 4,037,376
Investments: (Note 4) Cash equivalents 23,251,126 20,910,779 NET ASSETS Corporate stocks 102,713,237 102,724,423 Bonds and notes 5,787,657 7,032,893 OF THE AMAA Real estate 29,292,499 29,292,499 Total Investments 161,044,519 159,960,594