Publication of the Armenian Missionary Association of America NOV/DEC - Vol. XXXVII No. 6 (ISSN 1097-0924) E D I T O R I A L M E S S A G E O B I T U A R I E S
from 1964-1974, as Chief of Psychiatric Ser- with the money he bought three horses and vices of the City of Memphis Hospitals from loaded them with food and clothing. How- The AMAA Board of Directors and Joy to the World! 1963-1974. ever, the Turkish government officers confis- staff wish to extend their heartfelt “Joy to the world. The Lord is come. Let earth receive her King." Dr. Aivazian was a consultant for the cated their horses saying that instead they condolences to the families of the fol- Memphis Veterans Hospital from 1979-1989. would give them passage to Aleppo on a train. lowing deceased friends whose names Andrew Torigian He then opened a private practice. Among That same night they arrived in Aleppo. were submitted to us for publication in the AMAA News. t is that time of year when we eagerly prepare to celebrate the birth of our his many honors are numerous publications The government of Aleppo gave the in his name; American Psychiatric Associa- Gulesserians permission to reside in the city Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. For those of us who can celebrate this * Aivazian, Garabed I provided they would clean the garbage in tion Fellow; Past President of the Tennes- Memphis, TN wondrous event, it is a true blessing. see District Branch of the American Psychi- the streets. A few months later, they were We believers know that He is the one who said: “For I was hungry, and atric Association. ordered to buy two more carts and haul the * Avedisian, Armenouhi you fed me; I was thirsty, and you gave me water; I was a stranger, and you He leaves his wife of 65 years, Emma bodes lying in the streets to a cemetery. In Watertown, MA Aivazian; two daughters, Suzanne Cohan the meantime young persons like Dikran invited me into your house; I was naked, and you clothed me; sick and in * Babcock, Stanley and Lillian (Ron) Eades; four grandchildren, were being rounded up and sent to Deir Zor. prison, and you visited me.” W. Roxbury, MA Sara Cohan, Abigail Sanders Cohan, Mat- Dikran went into hiding, and Puzant, at the And when we hear the righteous ones ask, “Sir, when did we do all thew Eades, and Emily Eades Johnson; and age of 12, took charge of the removal of gar- * Baldadian, Flora these things?” The King will tell them, “When you did it to these my broth- one great-grandchild, Eliza Grace Sanders. bage and dead bodies from the streets. He FL did this for 3 1/2 years. ers, you were doing it to me!” Dr. Aivazian was a member of Second Pres- * Bedrosian, Elizabeth With these thoughts in mind, let us go forward to all our fellow men and byterian Church. When the French armies started occupy- ing the towns of Cilicia, Dikran decided that * Chalabian, Arshalous women and act with these precepts. The family requests that memorial dona- tions be sent to the Armenian Missionary they should return to Adana. He opened his Huntington Beach, CA Qristos 6nau ;u \a\tn;zau1 ];xi4 m;xi M;6 Au;tis! store there and started working. Business AMAA NEWS Association of America, Dr. and Mrs. Garo Haig, Alice Krisdos dzenav yev haydnetsav: tsezee, mezee Medz Avedis. was flourishing, but France decided to is a publication of Aivazian Endowment Fund, 31 West Cen- Dana Point, CA the Armenian Missionary Association of America, (Christ is born and is revealed: Good tidings to you and to us) tury Road, Paramus, New Jersey 07652. evacuate Cilicia. The Gulesserian family was 31 West Century Road, Paramus, NJ 07652. Funeral services were held on Wednes- able to board a French ship and disembark * Hassesian, Herald Tel. (201) 265-2607; Fax (201) 265-6015 day, November 10, 2004 at Memorial Park Fu- in Lebanon. Pasadena, CA E-Mail: [email protected]; Puzant started his formal education in Oc- neral Home.G * Khachigian, Elizabeth Website: www.amaa.org The Inspirational Corner tober 1922 at the Soorp Nishan elementary The AMAA is a Tax Exempt, not for profit organi- Visalia, CA THE WORK OF CHRISTMAS school in Beirut, and he continued his stud- zation under IRS Code Section 501(c)(3) ies at the American University. After receiv- Khatchikian, Lydia Andrew Torigian, Executive Director When the song of the angel is stilled, PUZANT GULESSERIAN ing his certificate from the University, he Montreal, Canada Dikran Youmshakian, Administrative Director Puzant Gulesser- joined his father to help him in his store. When the star in the sky is gone, Klijian, Barkev ian was born in Puzant was married in 1935 to Angel, the OFFICERS When the kings and princes are home, San Francisco, CA Adana in 1908 to daughter of Rev. & Mrs. Yenovk Hadidian. H. Steven Aharonian, M.D. President When the shepherds are back with their flock Dikran Gulesserian They had four children, Hrair, Hilda, Ike and * Markarian, Varkis John Cherkezian, Vice President The work of Christmas begins: Peter Kougasian, Esq., Vice President and Verkinia Noos- Sam. Cranston, RI to find the lost kajian. The Gules- Harry Dulgarian, Recording Secretary Puzant accepted responsibilities with great Messerlian, Barkev Gary Phillips, Recording Secretary to heal the broken, serian family was willingness. He was a member of the Church Beirut, Lebanon Eileen Chopourian Stephey, Recording Secretary to feed the hungry, blessed with four Council, Treasurer of the Church, and he be- Aram R. Minnetian, Treasurer to release the prisoner, more children, came the publisher of the Chanasser and * Motoian, Peter David Hekemian, Assistant Treasurer to rebuild the nations, Yulia, Moorad, Eliz Badanegan Artsakank periodicals. With a RI and Levon. Moorad and Eliz lost their lives group of Christian Endeavor members he EDITORIAL BOARD to bring peace among brothers, * Mooshoian, John at a very young age during the deportations founded the KCHAG summer camp in the Andrew Torigian, Editor to make music in the heart. Cranston, RI of the Armenians from Cilicia. mountains of Lebanon. For a number of years Louisa Janbazian, Associate Editor, Layout & Design (Author unknown) The Adana massacres happened when he served as the representative of the Arme- * Movsesian, Arthur Dikran Youmshakian, Advisor Puzant was 9 months old. It was fortunate nian Evangelical Community in the United Forest Hills, NY CHANGE OF ADDRESS that the Gulesserian family's home was in Board of the Azounieh hospital. * Reed, Virginia In order to keep our mailing list up to date, please Andrew Torigian Named thre Greek section, and when the mob at- When he and his wife moved to the United Hatboro, PA send all corrections, along with the old address tacked that quarter three times, the Greek States, he wanted to see the continuation of to: AMAA NEWS, 31 W. Century Rd., New Executive Director neighbors hid them, and they were miracu- the projects that he believed in, and he made * Salibian, Ara Paramus, NJ 07652 lously saved. However, Dikran Gulesserian's an endowment to the Armenian Missionary Thousands Oaks, CA E-mail: [email protected] At the December, 2004 meeting of the AMAA Board of Directors, Andy store was wrecked. Association for funding projects, such as Torigian was named as the new Executive Director of the Association. Prior * Soghanyemezian, Onnig PRINTING In 1915, during the Armenian genocide, the publication of Christian literature. Cranston, RI Printsolutions, Englewood, NJ (201) 567-9622 to this, he had served as the President for seven years, as Vice President when the Armenians were being deported Puzant Gulesserian's life is an example of for four years, as Treasurer for two years and as Personnel Committee from the tgowns and villages of Cilicia, The devotion and service to Christ and the COVER PICTURE Chairman for 17 years. He has been a board member since 1982. Gulesserian family and their neighbors de- Church. On October 11, 2004 the Heavenly * Memorials were designated for AMAA Board Members and Pastors after the cided to go in the direction of Aleppo.Dikran 85th Annual Worship Service Father has called him home as a good and AMAA sold his store to the governer of Adana, and faithful servant.G
2 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 15 A M A A A N N U A L M E E T I N G O B I T U A R I E S
LITIA >ACIK:AN-GOU|OUMY:AN Litia\i a5o[=akan wiyake au;li
4 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 13 O B I T U A R I E S A M A A A N N U A L M E E T I N G
REV. DR. HERALD A. G. HASSESSIAN and a "Certificate in Theology" from Boston moved to the Golden Sunny State. —By Rev. Dr. Vahan H. Tootikian Theological Institution. Mrs. Haig and her husband shared their AMAA Holds 85th Annual Meeting in Paramus, NJ A veteran Arme- Rev. Hassessian continued his service and dedication to community leadership. As they nian Evangelical education after his retirement serving as in- started their family and raised their children, Minister, prolific terim pastor of East Valley Congregational they remained active in both Armenian and writer and educator, Church in North Hollywood, CA, Immanuel American organizations thus gaining the the Rev. Dr. Herald Armenian Congregational Church of maximum advantages of biculturalism. he 85th annual meeting of the Armen- Avedis G. Hassess- Downey, CA and Armenian Evangelical Besides being an active participant in the Tian Missionary Association of America ian, went home to his Church of Sydney, Australia. During this time Armenian Evangelical churches of East and (AMAA) was held on Saturday, October 16, Heavenly Father, on he also enrolled in the doctor of ministry pro- West coasts, Alice Haig was involved in the 2004, at the AMAA’s headquarters in Nov. 29, 2004. gram at the Azusa Pacific University from Armenian Missionary Association of America Paramus, NJ. In attendance were over 90 The Rev. Dr. Her- where he achieved yet another doctorate (AMAA) first as a board member and later in people, representing Armenian Evangelical ald Avedis Hassessian, son of the late Rev. degree in 2002. 1990s as its first female Vice President. churches worldwide, AMAA mission com- and Mrs. Garabed A. Hassessian and grand- The Rev. Herald Hassessian will be remem- She played a decisive role in the founding mittees and AMAA affiliated organizations son of Der Matheos kahana of the Armenian bered as a fine Christian gentleman and a good of Charlotte and Elise Merdinian Armenian along with AMAA Board members and Apostolic Church, was born in Cilicia, Tur- Armenian minister, who lived well, laughed of- Evangelical School. As the chair of the board friends. A full program was highlighted by a key, in 1913. He received his elementary and ten, and loved much. He looked for the best in she played a pivotal role in the formative mission conference, Board of Directors meet- high school education at Armenian Evangeli- others, and gave his best in return. years of the school. ing, Annual Meeting, Banquet, Piano Recital cal schools in Beirut, Lebanon. He attended Dr. Hassessian is survived by a son, Alice Haig was also one of the moving and Sunday Worship Service with installa- College Evangélique and graduated in 1935. Garabed, and his wife Vickie, and two grand- forces of the Armenian Evangelical Social tion of officers. There were representatives From 1935 to 1941, he served as Dean of the children Amy and Jonathan, many nieces, Service Center. She was Vice-chair of the from Australia, France, Lebanon, Armenia Swiss Institute of Armenian Blind and Deaf. nephews relatives. In lieu of flowers, memo- Board in its early years. In the late 1970s and and Canada, as well as the United States. During World War II, he was a translator and rial gifts may be made to the AMAA Orphan early 1980s, she also served on the Board of The mission conference, which was held clerk in the British and French armies. Care Program. G Trustees of Haigazian University (then Col- on Friday, October 15 and attended by pas- AMAA President Mr. Andrew Torigian presiding the 85th Annual Meeting. In 1941, Avedis married Siranoush lege) in Beirut, Lebanon. tors and church representatives, featured Margos-ian, a registered nurse at the Ameri- Alice Haig was one of those exceptional Rev. Dr. Carnegie Calian, President of Pitts- Armenian women, the likes of whom have be- can University of Beirut. They led a very ALICE JERNAZIAN HAIG burgh Seminary. The theme was “The Ideal come increasingly rare in our circles. She happy life for 61 years, until the Lord called —by Rev. Dr. Vahan H. Tootikian Mission of the Ideal Church.” treated life as a thrilling challenge. She filled Yérétzkin Siran home on March 15, 2002. God Alice Jernazian The annual meeting on October 16 was her niche and accomplished her task, and left blessed this couple with two sons – Garabed Haig, the beloved attended by AMAA Board members, Arme- the world better than she found it. She never and Hrag. wife of Dr. Pierre nian Evangelical ministers, church repre- lacked the beauty of faith, nor failed in her He enrolled at the Near East School of The- Vahe Haig and the sentatives, chapter delegates, and world- expression of hope. She looked for the best in ology, where he was awarded a diploma in loving mother of wide mission partners. Current reports were others, and gave her best in return. Her life theology in 1947. Upon graduation, he be- Helen, Mari and given with updates on AMAA mission was an inspiration and her memory is a came a teacher at the First Armenian Evan- Ted Haig, joined fields. A measure of the scope of the AMAA benediction.G gelical High School and later principal of the her Lord on No- activities can be gleaned from the fact that Armenian Evangelical School in Trad, Leba- vember 17, 2004. more than 50 reports were heard from vari- non. Born on March GARABED H. AIVAZIAN ous committees, boards, district commit- In 1954, he came to the United States; and 13, 1919, in Edessa (Urfa), Turkey, Alice was Garabed H. Aivazian, 93, of Memphis died tees, and chapters from the 22 countries in was accepted by the Huntington College Theo- the first born of the late Rev. and Mrs. on Saturday, November 6, 2004. He was born which AMAA has presence and service. logical Seminary, where he received a master Ephraim and Marie Jenazian. She and her in Ankara, Turkey of Armenian parents. He The meeting heard from the AMAA repre- of divinity degree (Cum Laude) in 1955. family emigrated to the United States in 1923. was a graduate of the American University sentative in Armenia, the Rev. René Léonian, In 1956, he was ordained by the United With great love for multiple languages and of Beirut Medical School in Beirut, Lebanon. that in a broad range of activities, involving Installation of AMAA Board members. Church of Christ and served various Arme- culture, Alice was fluent in English, French Dr. Aivazian received a Rockefeller Fellow- both children and adults, the organization’s nian and non-Armenian Evangelical and Armenian. Also she was endowed with ship in Psychiatry in 1947 and spent one year efforts were increasing and expanding. Aharonian, M.D., Rafi Balabanian, D.D.S., tired Mrs. Rosy Maranjian, for her 22 years churches until his retirement: Armenian a special love for music, she learned to play at the University of Tennessee College of One of the high points of this year’s meet- Bryan Bedrosian, Nazareth Darakjian, M.D., of service to the AMAA, and to Mrs. Arpine Cilicia Congregational Church of Pasadena, the piano at an early age. Medicine. He returned to Beirut where he ing – as it is of every year’s meeting – was Elaine Kasparian, Harold Nahigian, Eileen Aynilian for the pioneering support that she CA; Armenian Evangelical Church of San Alice started her career on the East Coast served as a Psychiatrist at the Asfuriyeh the continuous growth and success of Chopourian Stephey, Ph.D., Carlos and her late husband, Nerses had given the Fernandino Valley, CA; Lanai Union Church as a high school teacher of English and French Hospital from 1948-1954. Haigazian University of Beirut, Lebanon, Taraktzian, Joe Zeronian, Ed.D. The elec- AMAA. in Hawaii, Armenian Congregational Church in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. She In 1954, he accepted a permanent position which will be marking its 50th anniversary tion was done through ballots mailed earlier Peter Kougasian, Esq., AMAA Vice Presi- of Martyrs' in Worcester, MA; Armenian then accepted a position with the Rexall Drug at the University of Tennessee College of next year. to active members. dent, presided over the program, whose key- Evangelical Church of Montreal and Arme- Company Headquarters in Boston. When the Medicine and was promoted to Professor in During the Annual Meeting the names of The two days were not all work, how- note speaker was AMAA Board member, Dr. nian Evangelical Church of New York. Dur- company transferred its headquarters to Los 1962. He served as Director of the Residency the newly elected AMAA Board members ever, as the AMAA treated itself to a ban- Ara Apelian. ing this period he continued to pursue new Angeles, California, Alice moved to the West training program in Psychiatry and as a Pro- were announced. For a term of three years of quet and a concert, after the final day’s Following the Banquet and Presentation academic goals. He received a theological Coast. Here she met her future husband Dr. fessor and Chairman of the Department of volunteer service (class of 2007) the follow- business. At the banquet, the organization program, there was a concert by the Beirut- doctorate from Trinity Theological Seminary Pierre Vahe Haig. Subsequently, her family Psychiatry at the University of Tennessee ing members were elected: H. Steven presented Recognition Awards to now-re- Cont'd on the following page
14 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 3 F A | : R H N B A V I N A M A A A N N U A L M E E T I N G
Mi# Wa.naq111 Presentation of Plaque to Mrs. Arpine Rosy Maranjian Honored For Her Aynilian at AMAA’s 85th Annual Banquet Service To The AMAA
Tigran :oum,aq;an inc ke f;t;uinq a57r;a\ k;anqi dhpq;roun mi=ozow ;u kam patouirakn;rou ne of the high- hild education and M;u manauand ;rb ke ls;nq4 jh i2nc ke patafi ou moun;tikn;rou mi=ozow4 a\s7r Olights of the 85th An- Cchild care programs a,.arfi cors ko[me4 afow ;u jo[ow ke l;zouinq! f;5a.7se4 f;5at;sile ;u nual Banquet of the Arme- have been the major fo- Pat;raxm4 afab;kcoujiun4 anapafowoujiun4 arka64 famazanze (injernhj) o@rqan irarou m7t ke b;r;n nian Missionary Associa- cus of the Armenian Mis- tnt;sakan tagnapn;r4 k;anqi s[oujiun4 krak4 mardik a,.arfi tarb;r ,r=ann;rhn! tion of America (AMAA) sionary Association of was to present a plaque to America (AMAA) as part 'ojorik4 =rf;[;[4 entan;kan ;u a5o[=apafakan Fa[ordakzouj;an a\s bolor mi=ozn;row4 Mrs. Arpine Aynilian and of its various support farz;r4 a\s bolore orqa@n 6anr ke yn,;n m;x nman dvba.tabar bambasanqn;re4 gh, lour;re ;u no\nisk her late husband, Nerses, projects. tkar mard arara6n;rou wra\! :u m;nq krnanq ,at spa5naliqn;rn al ,at arag ke tara6ouin ;u for their pioneering support The Child Education diurau g;ri da5nal m;r wa.;roun! Astou6o\ k*anfangstazn;n ou ke .5ow;n m;r mitq;re! M;nq of the work of the AMAA. Sponsorship Program fr;,take saka\n k*esh4 9Mi# wa.naq0111! ke wa.nanq4 ke tagnapinq ou ke mtafogouinq! President Andy for needy students in |isousi 6nnd;an f;t kapoua6 dhpq;rou Zaualin a\n h4 or m;nq bauarar ca'ow c;nq 7gta- Torigian, upon making the Middle East was es- enjazqin4 Astou6o\ 9Mi# wa.naq0 patouhre gonh gor6;r a\s bolor mi=ozn;re3 fa[ord;lou bari loure the presentation, re- tablished in the late ke ls;nq ;r;q angam Matjhosi ;u {oukasi a,.arfin! Astoua6 ir bolor mi=ozn;row a\d loure flected on the history of 1950’s and the Child au;tarann;roun mh=! m;xi touau4 oc mia\n margarhn;rou ;u fr;,takn;rou the two honorees recall- Sponsorship Program in A5a=ine ke gtn;nq Matjhos Au;tarani a5a=in mi=ozow4 a\l manauand ir Mia6in Ordiin3 |isous ing how their parents had Armenia immediately af- gl.oun ÊÈ-rd famarin mh=! 9|owsh'4 Dauiji ordi3 Qristosi mi=ozow! A\s paragan orqa@n imastaliz both survived the Arme- Mr. Andrew Torigian and Mrs. Arpine ter the devastating Mr. Dikran Youmshakian & Mrs. Rosy Aynilian. Maranjian. mi# wa.nar qowd a5n;l Mariame11104 k*esh Thro=e h m;xi famar4 jh m;nq o#c mia\n fa[ordakzakan nian Genocide and the earthquake in 1988. fr;,take |owsh'i4 or tagnapa6 hr entan;kan mi=ozn;row4 a\l na;u m;r k;anq;row tara6;lou Aynilians (Nerses) and Meghrigians (Arpine) had settled respec- These programs have changed the lives of thousands of chil- tively in Aleppo, Syria and in Beirut, Lebanon. Subsequently, when dren. Some of these children have now grown up to become dvouaroujiunn;row! An takauin Mariame orphs ;nq bari loure a,.arfin! Bauarar chr Nerses was a youngster, they moved to Beirut and coincidentally successful individuals, taking leadership roles in Armenian com- kin a5a6 chr ;u saka\n k*imanar4 jh Mariam ordi fr;,takn;roun b;rnow ls;li dar]n;l Astou6o\ Arpine and her parents moved to Paris. When Nerses was a teen- munities worldwide. me piti 6nanhr! A\s incph2s krnar endoun;li ellal patgame vo[owourdin! Anfrav;,t hr4 or |isous ager, he left school to help his father in the business since the Mrs. Rosy Maranjian has played a major role and has become an |owsh'i nman pafpano[akan mardou me famar! 6nhr msourin mh=4 .onarf k;anq me aprhr a,.arfi depression had slowed things down considerably. Arpine, in her integral part of AMAA, helping such programs become a success. :rkrorde ke kardanq {oukas Au;tarani wra\4 6a5a\hr ;u sorw;znhr ouri,n;roun ;u w;r=aphs pre-teen years with her family, transferred to the United States. Both For over twenty years as a member of the AMAA staff, Rosy has a5a=in gl.oun ËÈrd famarin mh=4 our fr;,take ir k;anqe tar ouri,n;rou famar! M;xmh al had similar tragedies in their life when Nerses’ younger brother died managed these programs, treating the children like the children of k*esh Mariami1 9Mi# wa.nar4 Mariam4 orowf;t;u k*aknkaloui no\ne en;l! of typhoid fever in Beirut and Arpine’s father died because of the her own and the donors and sponsors as her friends and partners. ,norfq gtar Astou6o\ qow0! Mariam sarsa'a6 hr4 A\s7r qic c;n entan;kan4 qa[aqakan ;u deterioration of his health while he was in a Turkish prison. As time Rosy Maranjian joined the AMAA in 1980 as the person in charge jh i2nc piti ellar ir wiyake enk;rouj;an mh=! An bnouj;nakan tagnapn;re! :u m;nq ;rb;mn wa.ow ;u went on, things got better for both of them. of the child support programs. These programs became part of her takauin amousnaza6 chr4 ;u saka\n githr4 jh \[i ;rb;mn bambasanqow m7t;nalou 'o.arhn4 phtq h Arpine attended Columbia University and then the Julliard School life as she showed great affection to them. hr! Manauand an ke wa.nar ir n,ana6hn3 |owsh'hn4 ls;li dar]n;nq Thro= patouhre4 es;low1 9Mi# wa.naq4 of Music. Nerses, in turn, having built up the business was now Rosy was very respected in the office, not only with her work jh i2nc piti ellar anor andradar]e! orowf;t;u afa ;s m;6 oura.ouj;an au;tis kou making frequent trips to the United States. On one of his visits to but with her affection and care towards her colleagues as well, :u w;r=aphs4 ;rrord angam ellalow4 a\s patouhre tam0 ({oukas Ê1 ÉÈ)! the United States, through mutual friends, the two were introduced and specially the younger ones. She gave them motherly care and in 1948 they were married in New York City at Riverside Cathe- and became a role model of dedication and service to the kou ga\ fowiun;roun1 9Mi# wa.naq4 orowf;t;u afa# |isous a\s ir ;rkrauor a5aq;louj;an enjazqin4 dral and returned to live in Beirut. After their first son, Vahram, was AMAA. ;s m;6 oura.ouj;an au;tis kou tam ];xi4 or ambo[= \o\s ;u qa=oujiun touau manauand tkarn;roun4 born, they moved to New York City to get a better life for their family. Along with the child care programs, Rosy Maranjian also handled vo[owourdin piti ella\0 ({oukas Ê1 ÉÈ)! Fowiun;re xrkoua6n;roun4 ant;soua6n;roun4 anthr ;u an7ji In 1956, they moved to Tenafly, New Jersey. the scholarship applications of college students. Through AMAA’s da,t;roun wra\ ellalow lour k*oun;na\in ar7r;a\ ;[o[n;roun! "o.anak anonzmh ;r;s dar]n;lou4 |isous Arpine and Nerses were extremely active in the New York Evan- Scholarship Program, thousands of youth were able to have an anzoudar];rhn ;u manauand anonq b;rnh b;ran ke dpau anonz k;anq;roun ;u w;rzouz xir;nq4 maqr;z4 gelical Church. Nerses served as moderator and was on the Board opportunity to receive a higher education. Here also Rosy’s in- tara6hin lour;re ir;nz ,r=aka\qin ;u 9ambo[= bv,k;z4 k;rakr;z ;u kar;kzouj;amb \o\s touau of Trustees. Nerses was also active with the AMAA and served for volvement was more personal, as she cared for each student follow- vo[owourdin0! Fowiun;re ir;nq al ke tagnaphin apaga\i famar! many years on their Investment Committee and was a member of ing with them through the application process. a\d 7r;rou dhpq;rhn ;u mtafog hin na;u Frhastani Fa\ Au;tarancakan Enk;rakzoujiune4 f;t;u;low AMAA’s Board of Directors. Arpine was Chairman of the New York Rosy was born in Alexandria, Egypt, into a devout evangelical kazouj;amb! |isousi 7rinakin4 ir gor6ow ou a,.atanqow kar;k- Evangelical Church’s musical programs and was involved in pre- family. After finishing school, she became a teacher at Haigazian * * * zouj;an ];5q k*;rkarh ta5ap;aln;roun! :u saka\n senting concerts for the church. College, a secondary school in Alexandria. While a teacher, she Askh ÊÈÈÈ tarin;r a5a=4 ;jh cka\in fa[or- phtq ouni na;u ];r masnakzouj;an! Nerses and Arpine were pioneers in their support in building the improved her English and shorthand-typing skills and was hired as dakzouj;an mi=ozn;r4 a\s7r orqa@n diurin h Thro= b;ra6 Bari Loure ambo[= vo[owourdin first AMAA Medical Center next to the AMAA Headquarters in a secretary by the Ford Motor Co. in Alexandria. fa[ordakzil a,.arfi or;uh ankiune gtnouo[ famar h! :u m;nq partakanoujiun ouninq xa\n Yerevan. It is now staffed with a full-time doctor, a nurse, a dentist, After her marriage to George Maranjian, she spent a number of a pharmacist and a psychologist. years in Saudi Arabia, where her husband was employed, and an];rou f;t ;u mhk rophi mh= t;[;ak paf;l xir;nq 'o.anz;lou ouri,n;roun! Ard4 a\s .orfourdow h4 or But the greatest legacy they have given us thus far is that they raised two daughters. The family then returned to the USA and ar7r;a\ anzoudar];rhn! angam me ;us ke bazakanc;nq1- 9Mi# Wa.naq04 qanxi have raised their four children with the call of serving others. Vahram settled in NJ. :jh fin vamanak lour;r ke tara6ouhin fowiun;rou Qristos 6nau ;u \a\tn;zau111! Cont'd on the following page Cont'd on the following page
12 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 G AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 5 A M A A A N N U A L M E E T I N G B O O K S A N D M U S I C A V A I L A B L E
Pianist Zela Margossian Plays at BOOKS ARMENIAN BIBLES ARMENIAN CHRISTIANITY, by Aharon Sapsezian, The Faith of a Na- OLD & NEW TESTAMENT (hc - extra large) No. 13k, ...... $15.00 AMAA's Annual Meeting Concert tion.143 pp., pb, No. 252 ...... $10.00 THE 1700TH ANNIVERSARY A RMENIAN R EFERENCE BIBLE (hc green - , by Lawrence K. Cone, Armenian ARMENIAN C HURCH ARCHITECTURE extra large) No. 13n, ...... $20.00 By Ohannes Salibian* church architecture as it is exemplified in stone monuments built throughout the ages, 159 pp., hc. No. 50b ...... $20.00 ARMENIAN NEW TESTAMENT ON TAPES (The Four Gospels - Mat- n Saturday, October 16, 2004 I left Boston for Paramus, New thew, Mark, Luke and John) No. 195, ...... $20.00 , by Hagop & Marilyn Arshagouni, 52 Jersey, to attend Zela Margossian’s piano concert, her first in ARMENIAN HISTORY TIMELINE O pp., hc, No. 289 ...... $15.00 SERPAZAN BADMUTIUN, (Children’s Bible) No. 155b ...... $10.00 the U.S. The concert was organized by the Armenian Missionary NEW ARARAT EASTERN ARMENIAN NEW TESTAMENT (Soft-Cover, Association of America (AMAA). ARMENIAN N EEDLELACE AND E MROIDERY, by Alice Odian Kasparian, A photographic collection of more than 100 priceless specimens No. 13l ...... $10.00 On the way, I was thinking about 1975, the year I decided to leave (a third in color), plus step-by-step instructions for making two Lebanon with no intention of ever returning – the year the Lebanese dozen easy needlelace patterns and diagrams for sophisticated CDs & TAPES Civil War flared. Among the catastrophic consequences of that Marash embroidery, 127 pp, hc. No. 120 ...... $15.00 ALL TIME ARMENIAN FAVORITES, 3 CDs - per- mindless war was the negative mark it left on an entire generation THE BENEFITS AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE ARMENIAN EVANGELICAL formed by KOHAR Symphony Orchestra & that had received its higher education in the country itself as well as applause, Alexander Haroutunian’s “The Dance of Sassun.” CHURCH TO THE ARMENIAN N ATION (in English & Armenian), by Rev. Dr. Choir of Gyumri, Armenia and recorded live abroad. Armed with new ideas, that generation was eager to im- Zela satisfied completely the expectations of the American-Arme- Vahan Tootikian, 190 pp, hc, No. 295 ...... $20.00 in concert - with112 page booklet, including prove the feudal mind-set that dominated the country. Our energy nian community, and the enthusiastic audience expressed pride and song lyrics: both in Armenian and transliter- THE BURNING TIGRIS, by Peter Balakian, 475 pp, hc, No. 306 .... $26.95 and passion was soon to be squashed, and for almost a quarter of a satisfaction. Zela offered a refined yet strong interpretation of works ated, No 311...... $35.00 BLESSINGS IN BITTER CUPS, by Rev. Giragos H. Chopourian, Ph.D., century, Lebanon was to lose an important collective force. from different schools and musical eras. A VIOLA RECITAL - Brahms, Schubert, Gomidas, Bagdasarian, Zela Margossian is the child of that bitter period. She is a gradu- I believe that musical culture develops and endures through those Tragic, yet triumphant story of a small clan of successful working class Armenians, living in Turkey, just prior to the outbreak of World Milhaud, Reger - by Gor Hovhannisyan, Viola and Gary Kirkpatrick, ate of Armenian Evangelical Schools and Haigazian University (both individuals who disregard obstacles and persist despite all kinds of War I, 250 pp, hc. No. 305 ...... $20.00 Piano. Recorded live, No. 301 ...... $15.00 supported by AMAA). She is a young artist whose progress I have deprivations, who explore and find that which can fill their hungered AMAA’S “YOUNG VIRTUOSOS” OF ARMENIA - North American Con- CLAWS OF THE CRAB: GEORGIA AND ARMENIA IN CRISIS, by Stephen followed closely. On Saturday, I was convinced of Zela’s immense spirits. I am convinced that Zela is such an unrelenting artist, who cert Tour 2000 (CD), Musical Ensemble of 6 talented children - Brook, 354 pp., hc. No. 237 ...... $25.00 will power and the wisdom of her decision to pursue her piano will attract the attention of interested organizations and individuals. ages 9-14 (violins, cello, flute & Piano) - Armenian and interna- studies at the Komitas State Conservatory of Yerevan, Armenia, I am sure that demanding and discriminating audiences will appreci- CONVERSATIONS WITH C ONTEMPORARY ARMENIAN ARTISTS, by Jackie tional classical music, No. 293 ...... $10.00 Abramian, 190 pp., pb, No. 258 ...... $7.00 where she has the opportunity to study with the best musicians and ate Zela’s search for new musical paths because Zela is endowed GARODK - Stepan Sarafian (Violin) and Armen Aharonian (Piano), scholars. I was deeply satisfied by the unqualified care, which she with the ability to condense time and seek those standards that are FAMOUS EVENTS AND PEOPLE IN THE ARMENIAN CHRISTIAN HISTORY, (CD), No. 299 ...... $15.00 had received at that great Armenian institution. Zela’s performance the hallmark of an international artist. The phenomenon of a blos- (in Armenian), by Rev. Dr. Vahan Tootikian, 320 pp, hc, No. 302 .... $30.00 NAYINK HISOUSI #1 & 2, AND HAYREPAGHTS by Rev. Barkev Apartian - was characterized by meticulous interpretation and deep musicality, soming pianist is gratifying and promising indeed! The AMAA IN OTHER WORDS, by Rev. Peter B. Doghramji, Ph.D., Selected Na\inq |isousi - M;n;rgn;r3 W;r1 Parg;u Abard;an qualities which her teacher in Yerevan, Vili Sarkissian, has incul- should be praised for offering Zela to display her talent to an Ameri- Sermons and Meditations, 391 pp, hc, No. 310 ...... $20.00 - Ë ]a\n;rixn;r4 fate $ÉÈ1ÈÈ - ;r;qe miasin $ÊÍ1ÈÈ - cated in his young student, and under whose supervision the pro- can-Armenian Audience.G THE HERITAGE OF ARMENIAN LITERATURE, VOLUME I, FROM T HE ORAL No. 211 ($10 each if sold separately) Set of 3 tapes .... $25.00 gram for the evening was developed: Bach, Scarlatti, Schubert, TRADITION TO THE GOLDEN AGE, 388 PP., HC. NO. 288 ...... $35.00 NOR YERK #4 & # 6 (in Armenian - CD), NOR :RG Jiu Ì ;u Liszt, Debussy, and Scriabin in the first part, and Komitas, *Dr. Ohannes Salibian, a musician/composer, is a graduate of REV. DR. MOVSES B. JANBAZIAN - MAN O F VISION WITH A MISSION, jiu Î - No. 208f & 208ii ...... Each $15.00 Khatchaturian, and Papajanian in the second part, and after loud Komitas State Conservatory of Yerevan, Armenia. Depicts the life and excerpts from the works of Rev. Janbazian, the NOR YERK #1-6 (in Armenian - Tape), NOR :RG Jiu É-Ê past Executive Director of the AMAA. 278 pp., hc. No.304 - Com- (]a\n;rix)4 Nos. 208b, 208c, 208g, 208 e, 208h, 208i . each $8.00 plimentary ...... a donation may be sent.
Cont'd from previous page - Mrs. Aynilian honored..... Cont'd from previous page - Mrs. Maranjian honored..... "SERPAZAN YERKER” Sacred Music Chorale, (tape in Armenian), con-
VIEWS ON GOOD NEWS, 365 Inspiring Daily Devotions for Christian ducted by Dr. John Merjanian, Srbaxan :rg;r - >mbawar3 is a member of the Board of Directors of the AMAA. He is the Chair- When Rosy’s second daughter went away to college and her Living, by Asien Surmeian, pb., No. 309 ...... $20.00 T7qj1 Yan M;ryan;an (]a\n;rix) No. 193 ...... $10.00 D man of the Board of Trustees of the Armenian Presbyterian Church husband was away on business, Rev. Dr. Giragos Chopourian, the THE INDISPENSABLE HERITAGE by Rev. Barkev N. Darakjian - (APC) in Paramus, and prior to that he was the Sunday School Super- Executive Director of the AMAA at the time, approached Rosy and AN"O>ARIN:LI VA%ANGOUJIUNE3 F;[inak3 W;r1 BOOK ORDER FORM intendent for ten years. His wife, Lucienne, who helped during his asked if she would consider working for the AMAA. Rosy, who had Parg;u N1 Taragy;an4 Dasa.7soujiunn;r Fa\ Au;taranakan term as Sunday School Superintendent, serves as Co-Chair of the 6 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 11 M I S S I O N S A E W C Kathy Dadukian's Gifts Will Bring Joy to Children In Armenia AEWC Holds Biennial Meeting in Paramus, New Jersey Vahan Tootikian hildren in Armenia would hardly notice Christmas come and he Biennial meeting of the Armenian Cgo if it were not for the efforts of many caring individuals in TEvangelical World Council (AEWC) was North America. Kathy Dadukian is one of the many sponsors who held on October 14, 2004, in Paramus, New take joy in buying gifts and packaging them in beautiful Christmas Jersey. In attendance were the following rep- wrap for shipment to Armenia. This year Mrs. Dadukian prepared 32 resentatives of the seven constituent Church such packages. She smiled while she wrote the ages of the children Unions and organizations: Rev. Megerdich on each package. She knew that children in Armenia would smile Karagoezian of the Union of the Armenian too. That is what Christmas is all about. Christ came to share God’s Evangelical Churches in the Near East; Rev. love with us and we have to share that joy with others. Gilbert Léonian and Rev. Joel Mikaelian of Every year, thanks to the AMAA Summer Camp/Christmas Com- the Armenian Evangelical Union of France; mittee and to supporters like Kathy, the AMAA organizes Christ- Rev. Bernard Guekguezian and Rev. Joseph mas parties in different locations in Armenia and distributes “Christ- Matossian of the Armenian Evangelical mas Joy Packages” to orphans and needy children. You can do the Union of North America; Rev. René Léonian same and participate in this program. You will then feel the real joy of the Evangelical Union of Armenia and The Armenian Evangelical World Council. of this Holy Season. G Eurasia; Mr. Andrew Torigian and Badveli Dikran Youmshakian of the Armenian Mis- ties but also collectively and cooperatively sionary Association to add to their Bylaws a sionary Association of America; Mrs. Joyce with other Armenian denominations. The clause to include the name of AEWC’s Ex- Philibosian Stein of Stephen Philibosian goals of these observances should be not ecutive Director as Ex-Officio member. Children's Summer Camp in Bulgaria Foundation; Rev. Vahan H. Tootikian, the Ex- only to acquaint the new generation of Ar- 8. To organize an all-Armenian Evangelical ecutive Director of AEWC. menians and non-Armenians about the geno- missions (evangelistic) conference in Arme- The representatives and the Executive cide, but also to bring to the attention of nia in the summer of 2005. he 9th Annual Children's Summer Camp of the Armenian Evan- their age group - Worship service, Bible Study, arts & crafts, sing- Committee members of AEWC presented world bodies, such as the United Nations 9. To support the Evangelist Berj Attarian of Ger- Tgelical Churches of Bulgaria took place from August 9-21, 2004 at ing, social events, outdoor physical exercises and sport activities. their annual reports as well as brought up, and United European parliament the civil many in his new mission, and ask the AMAA to the Yarevetz Summer Resort. 65 children from Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna The children took great delight in the excursions to the nearby his- discussed several items for deliberation and rights violations of Turkey, the Turkish de- financially assist this pioneering mission. and Russe participated in this year's camp. The Chief Director of the torical sites and other scenic locations of the area. made specific resolutions. Under Old Busi- nial of the genocide, and Turkey’s contin- 10. To recommend to the leadership of the Camp was Brother Sarkis Hovhannessian assisted by Brother Yari The last day of the camp, the children presented a special pro- ness, matters ranging from the status of the ued perpetration of “the white genocide.” It Evangelical Church of Armenia to continue Kouyoumdjian, Sister Elizabeth Khacikian and Vahan Keheyan from gram of songs, recitations and skits as well as an exhibition of their Armenian Evangelical Baptist Union to was further resolved that the Council write its dialogue and cooperation with the Arme- Sofia, Sister Mannig Kouyoumdjian, Brother Hrant Keshishian and art work. Special symbolic achievement awards were given to those preparation of uniform Christian Education to the European Union affirming the fact that nian Baptism Churches, and report to the Ex- Mannik Khachikian from Plovdiv, Brother Nerses Gedigian from Russe, who were most active and best behaved during the camp. curriculum, from recruitment of pastoral can- in order for Turkey to qualify entry into the ecutive Committee in the Oct. 2005 meeting. and Brother Kalousd Demirdjian and Sister Anahid Ouzounian from The camp was a blessing and time of special enjoyment to all didates to the 2004 pilgrimage to Armenia European Union it must uphold international 11. To hold the meeting of AEWC’s Execu- Varna. Dr. H. Pachadjian was the camp doctor. children, many of whom were from immigrant families. were reviewed, evaluated and several rec- values of human rights, cease to occupy tive Committee on October 14, 2005, in As in the past, the children were divided into three groups - 6-10 As in the past, this year's children's summer camp in Bulgaria ommendations were made. Cyprus, lift its blockade of Armenia, grant Fresno, California. years old, 11-14 years old and 15-16 years old. was made possible by the AMAA's financial and moral Under new business, more than a dozen equal rights to its minority citizens and ac- 12. To express the Council’s gratitude to its Each day the children followed a special program according to support.G of issues were acted upon, and the follow- knowledge the Armenian genocide. Executive Director for his dedicated services ing resolutions were made: 3. To accept Treasurer Albert Momjian’s fi- on behalf of the AEWC. 1. To review the present status of, and make nancial report with thanks. 13. To extend the Council’s appreciation to future plans for, the Armenian Evangelical 4. To plan and organize a worldwide Arme- the AMAA for playing host for the Biennial archives. Although considerable work was nian Evangelical rally to be held in Yérévan, meeting of the AEWC. done in the past year in terms of sorting and Armenia, in 2006, on the 160th anniversary of 14. Elections for 2005-2007 were held; the categorizing the existing items, much needs the founding of the Armenian Evangelical newly-elected Executive Committee consists to be done. It was resolved that some se- Church. of the following: Rev. Joel Mikaelian – Presi- lected books need to be sent to the Evan- 5. To commission the Rev. Vahan H. Tootikian dent; Rev. Bernard Guekguezian – Vice Presi- gelical Academy of Armenia. to write a book on the “Pioneer Armenian dent; Rev. Megerdich Karaguezian – Secre- 2. Plans for the 90th Anniversary Obser- Evangelical Clergymen in America from 1880- tary; Mr. Albert Momjian – Treasurer; and vances of the Armenian Genocide were dis- 1950. Rev. Vahan H. Tootikian – Executive Director. cussed. It was resolved that worldwide Ar- 6. To celebrate “The Armenian Evangelical The advisors are: Rev. Gilbert Léonian, Rev. menian Evangelical observances be held in Day” in 2005 on one of the four Sundays in Joseph Matossian, Rev. Haroutune Selimian, April of 2005. It was further resolved that the month of June. Rev. René Léonian, Badveli Dikran this milestone be commemorated not only 7. To recommend to the five constituent Youmoushakian, Mr. Andrew Troigian and by individual or regional church communi- Unions of AEWC and the Armenian Mis- Mrs. Joyce Stein.G 10 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 7 A R M E N I A M I S S I O N S NKR President Arkady Ghoukasian Visits AMAA Headquarters Youth Summer Activities in Syria s part of his tour in the United States, At AMAA Head- uring the year 2004, the youth work among the youth of the AMr. Arkady Ghoukasian, President of quarters, Mr. DArmenian Evangelical Churches in Aleppo was done through the Nagorno Karabagh Republic (NKR) vis- Ghoukasian met different types of activities. The joint worship services were one ited the headquarters of the Armenian Mis- with AMAA Presi- of these activities. They were organized to celebrate Christmas, sionary Association of America. The presi- dent, Mr. Andy Easter and some of the Armenian national commemorative dates dent was accompanied by Mr. Vartan Torigian, Adminis- such as ‘’Vartanantz", "April 24-Armenian Memorial Day" and Parseghian, the NKR representative in Wash- trative Director, "Tarkmantchatz’’- Armenian Cultural Day. The Summer Camps were ington D.C. and Ms. Naira Melkoumian, Ex- Dikran Youmshak- one of the vital activities to strengthen the spiritual and the na- ecutive Director of the Armenia Fund in Ar- shakian and the tional identities of the youth. During the summer, three camps menia. Ms. Melkoumian was the former NKR staff. were organized to reach out to the children, the junior high and the Foreign Minister. Mr. Ghoukasian youth of the churches. The Guest speakers for the camps were Though the main objective of NKR expressed his ap- Mrs. Lana Ekmekjian (Children) Mrs. Maral Deirmenjian (Junior President’s visit was to support the Telethon preciation for the High) and Rev. Nerses Balabanian (Youth). Special care was given of November 21 and to raise support for the humanitarian sup- (l to r) Mr. Dikran Youmshakian, Ms. Naira Melkoumian, President Arkady to the activities of the youth group of Kessab, its regions and Children playing during DVBS. Ghoukasian, Mr. Andrew Torigian and Mr. Vartan Parseghian. North-South Highway of Karabagh, this was port provided to the Latakia. Pastor Vatche Ekmekjian paid monthly visits to Latakia, a good opportunity for him personally to Republic through the AMAA. Specifically America was both honored and encouraged where the youth, headed by Rev. Hagop Sarkissian gather for vidual reach out. We believe that as humans we are called to bring meet with heads of organizations and ac- he appreciated the support provided to chil- with this visit and assured the President that worship service and Bible studies. The work among the joint Jun- in our limited efforts in ministry and make space to Gods incredible knowledge and create more awareness for dren of needy families to Kindergartens and it will do its utmost to continue with its mis- ior High group was done in full scale. The activities of the group potential and grace to strengthen the youth and keep them firm urgent needs in his young but progressing Camps. sion and service ministry in our homeland aimed to bring the Gospel into the lives of the teenagers and en- and steady in their spiritual lives. republic. The Armenian Missionary Association of and Karabagh.G courage them to celebrate their youth within the life of the wider The Armenian Missionary Association of America is a major church. Special attention was given for individual needs and indi- supporter of all Youth Summer Activities in Syria. G AMAA Representatives Attend UN General Assembly Dirk Jan Groot, Director of Dorcas Aid Visits the AMAA " rmenia is ready to compromise and xpressing his "extreme satisfaction that the association A collaborate with neighbors who are Ewith the Armenian Missionary Association of America ready to join us in making history, not re- (AMAA) has gone so well," Dorcas Aid Director, Dirk Jan Groot writing it…” stated Mr. Vartan Oskanian, was particularly complimentary about "all the open accountability Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, dur- that takes place where all transactions are transparent to all con- ing his address to the United Nations 59th cerned." General Assembly in New York, on Wednes- The statement was made following a visit to the AMAA head- day, September 29,2004. Three representa- quarters, where the Dorcas director was accompanied by his asso- tives from AMAA - Robert Hekemian, Jr., ciate, Rev. Paul Visky, from Hungary. At the headquarters, they Peter Kougasian, Esq. and Dikran met with AMAA's President Andy Torigian and administrative Youmshakian joined a group of invitees to director, Dikran Youmshakian. participate in the Assembly. The invitation The purpose of the visit was to review the various programs was extended by Mr. Armen Martirossyan, that jointly take place in Armenia. Armenia’s UN Ambassador. Mr. Oskanian’s Located in Holland, Dorcas Aid sponsors 250 orphan child-care speech was strong and very effective. After families. It supports the Talin Kindergarten, and annually it ships his address, Mr. Oskanian met with the Ar- ten containers of parcels, backpacks and clothing. Dorcas also menian guests and shared with them his prints and distributes children's literature in Armenia. views on the current issues in Armenia and In addition, Dorcas encourages development projects, such as specially those dealing with the Karabagh potato farming, where they teach the latest techniques and meth- (l to r) Mr. Dikran Youmshakian, Dirk Jan Groot, Director of Dorcas Aid, Mr. conflict. In his remarks, Mr. Oskanian noted ods to enable the farmer to be more productive and also to help Andrew Torigian and Rev. Paul Visky. the importance of the Armenian Diaspora and create some jobs for the local people. Following the meeting, Andy Torigian said, "We look forward to expressed appreciation for the support pro- AMAA Representatives and other guests pictured with Mr. Vartan Oskanian, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Dorcas aid and the AMAA have been involved in this joint- continuing this wonderful relationship that benefits our homeland vided to the homeland.G Armenia (3rd from left) and US & UN Armenian Ambassadors. mission project for the last ten years. and its people.G 8 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 9 A R M E N I A M I S S I O N S NKR President Arkady Ghoukasian Visits AMAA Headquarters Youth Summer Activities in Syria s part of his tour in the United States, At AMAA Head- uring the year 2004, the youth work among the youth of the AMr. Arkady Ghoukasian, President of quarters, Mr. DArmenian Evangelical Churches in Aleppo was done through the Nagorno Karabagh Republic (NKR) vis- Ghoukasian met different types of activities. The joint worship services were one ited the headquarters of the Armenian Mis- with AMAA Presi- of these activities. They were organized to celebrate Christmas, sionary Association of America. The presi- dent, Mr. Andy Easter and some of the Armenian national commemorative dates dent was accompanied by Mr. Vartan Torigian, Adminis- such as ‘’Vartanantz", "April 24-Armenian Memorial Day" and Parseghian, the NKR representative in Wash- trative Director, "Tarkmantchatz’’- Armenian Cultural Day. The Summer Camps were ington D.C. and Ms. Naira Melkoumian, Ex- Dikran Youmshak- one of the vital activities to strengthen the spiritual and the na- ecutive Director of the Armenia Fund in Ar- shakian and the tional identities of the youth. During the summer, three camps menia. Ms. Melkoumian was the former NKR staff. were organized to reach out to the children, the junior high and the Foreign Minister. Mr. Ghoukasian youth of the churches. The Guest speakers for the camps were Though the main objective of NKR expressed his ap- Mrs. Lana Ekmekjian (Children) Mrs. Maral Deirmenjian (Junior President’s visit was to support the Telethon preciation for the High) and Rev. Nerses Balabanian (Youth). Special care was given of November 21 and to raise support for the humanitarian sup- (l to r) Mr. Dikran Youmshakian, Ms. Naira Melkoumian, President Arkady to the activities of the youth group of Kessab, its regions and Children playing during DVBS. Ghoukasian, Mr. Andrew Torigian and Mr. Vartan Parseghian. North-South Highway of Karabagh, this was port provided to the Latakia. Pastor Vatche Ekmekjian paid monthly visits to Latakia, a good opportunity for him personally to Republic through the AMAA. Specifically America was both honored and encouraged where the youth, headed by Rev. Hagop Sarkissian gather for vidual reach out. We believe that as humans we are called to bring meet with heads of organizations and ac- he appreciated the support provided to chil- with this visit and assured the President that worship service and Bible studies. The work among the joint Jun- in our limited efforts in ministry and make space to Gods incredible knowledge and create more awareness for dren of needy families to Kindergartens and it will do its utmost to continue with its mis- ior High group was done in full scale. The activities of the group potential and grace to strengthen the youth and keep them firm urgent needs in his young but progressing Camps. sion and service ministry in our homeland aimed to bring the Gospel into the lives of the teenagers and en- and steady in their spiritual lives. republic. The Armenian Missionary Association of and Karabagh.G courage them to celebrate their youth within the life of the wider The Armenian Missionary Association of America is a major church. Special attention was given for individual needs and indi- supporter of all Youth Summer Activities in Syria. G AMAA Representatives Attend UN General Assembly Dirk Jan Groot, Director of Dorcas Aid Visits the AMAA " rmenia is ready to compromise and xpressing his "extreme satisfaction that the association A collaborate with neighbors who are Ewith the Armenian Missionary Association of America ready to join us in making history, not re- (AMAA) has gone so well," Dorcas Aid Director, Dirk Jan Groot writing it…” stated Mr. Vartan Oskanian, was particularly complimentary about "all the open accountability Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, dur- that takes place where all transactions are transparent to all con- ing his address to the United Nations 59th cerned." General Assembly in New York, on Wednes- The statement was made following a visit to the AMAA head- day, September 29,2004. Three representa- quarters, where the Dorcas director was accompanied by his asso- tives from AMAA - Robert Hekemian, Jr., ciate, Rev. Paul Visky, from Hungary. At the headquarters, they Peter Kougasian, Esq. and Dikran met with AMAA's President Andy Torigian and administrative Youmshakian joined a group of invitees to director, Dikran Youmshakian. participate in the Assembly. The invitation The purpose of the visit was to review the various programs was extended by Mr. Armen Martirossyan, that jointly take place in Armenia. Armenia’s UN Ambassador. Mr. Oskanian’s Located in Holland, Dorcas Aid sponsors 250 orphan child-care speech was strong and very effective. After families. It supports the Talin Kindergarten, and annually it ships his address, Mr. Oskanian met with the Ar- ten containers of parcels, backpacks and clothing. Dorcas also menian guests and shared with them his prints and distributes children's literature in Armenia. views on the current issues in Armenia and In addition, Dorcas encourages development projects, such as specially those dealing with the Karabagh potato farming, where they teach the latest techniques and meth- (l to r) Mr. Dikran Youmshakian, Dirk Jan Groot, Director of Dorcas Aid, Mr. conflict. In his remarks, Mr. Oskanian noted ods to enable the farmer to be more productive and also to help Andrew Torigian and Rev. Paul Visky. the importance of the Armenian Diaspora and create some jobs for the local people. Following the meeting, Andy Torigian said, "We look forward to expressed appreciation for the support pro- AMAA Representatives and other guests pictured with Mr. Vartan Oskanian, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Dorcas aid and the AMAA have been involved in this joint- continuing this wonderful relationship that benefits our homeland vided to the homeland.G Armenia (3rd from left) and US & UN Armenian Ambassadors. mission project for the last ten years. and its people.G 8 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 9 M I S S I O N S A E W C Kathy Dadukian's Gifts Will Bring Joy to Children In Armenia AEWC Holds Biennial Meeting in Paramus, New Jersey Vahan Tootikian hildren in Armenia would hardly notice Christmas come and he Biennial meeting of the Armenian Cgo if it were not for the efforts of many caring individuals in TEvangelical World Council (AEWC) was North America. Kathy Dadukian is one of the many sponsors who held on October 14, 2004, in Paramus, New take joy in buying gifts and packaging them in beautiful Christmas Jersey. In attendance were the following rep- wrap for shipment to Armenia. This year Mrs. Dadukian prepared 32 resentatives of the seven constituent Church such packages. She smiled while she wrote the ages of the children Unions and organizations: Rev. Megerdich on each package. She knew that children in Armenia would smile Karagoezian of the Union of the Armenian too. That is what Christmas is all about. Christ came to share God’s Evangelical Churches in the Near East; Rev. love with us and we have to share that joy with others. Gilbert Léonian and Rev. Joel Mikaelian of Every year, thanks to the AMAA Summer Camp/Christmas Com- the Armenian Evangelical Union of France; mittee and to supporters like Kathy, the AMAA organizes Christ- Rev. Bernard Guekguezian and Rev. Joseph mas parties in different locations in Armenia and distributes “Christ- Matossian of the Armenian Evangelical mas Joy Packages” to orphans and needy children. You can do the Union of North America; Rev. René Léonian same and participate in this program. You will then feel the real joy of the Evangelical Union of Armenia and The Armenian Evangelical World Council. of this Holy Season. G Eurasia; Mr. Andrew Torigian and Badveli Dikran Youmshakian of the Armenian Mis- ties but also collectively and cooperatively sionary Association to add to their Bylaws a sionary Association of America; Mrs. Joyce with other Armenian denominations. The clause to include the name of AEWC’s Ex- Philibosian Stein of Stephen Philibosian goals of these observances should be not ecutive Director as Ex-Officio member. Children's Summer Camp in Bulgaria Foundation; Rev. Vahan H. Tootikian, the Ex- only to acquaint the new generation of Ar- 8. To organize an all-Armenian Evangelical ecutive Director of AEWC. menians and non-Armenians about the geno- missions (evangelistic) conference in Arme- The representatives and the Executive cide, but also to bring to the attention of nia in the summer of 2005. he 9th Annual Children's Summer Camp of the Armenian Evan- their age group - Worship service, Bible Study, arts & crafts, sing- Committee members of AEWC presented world bodies, such as the United Nations 9. To support the Evangelist Berj Attarian of Ger- Tgelical Churches of Bulgaria took place from August 9-21, 2004 at ing, social events, outdoor physical exercises and sport activities. their annual reports as well as brought up, and United European parliament the civil many in his new mission, and ask the AMAA to the Yarevetz Summer Resort. 65 children from Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna The children took great delight in the excursions to the nearby his- discussed several items for deliberation and rights violations of Turkey, the Turkish de- financially assist this pioneering mission. and Russe participated in this year's camp. The Chief Director of the torical sites and other scenic locations of the area. made specific resolutions. Under Old Busi- nial of the genocide, and Turkey’s contin- 10. To recommend to the leadership of the Camp was Brother Sarkis Hovhannessian assisted by Brother Yari The last day of the camp, the children presented a special pro- ness, matters ranging from the status of the ued perpetration of “the white genocide.” It Evangelical Church of Armenia to continue Kouyoumdjian, Sister Elizabeth Khacikian and Vahan Keheyan from gram of songs, recitations and skits as well as an exhibition of their Armenian Evangelical Baptist Union to was further resolved that the Council write its dialogue and cooperation with the Arme- Sofia, Sister Mannig Kouyoumdjian, Brother Hrant Keshishian and art work. Special symbolic achievement awards were given to those preparation of uniform Christian Education to the European Union affirming the fact that nian Baptism Churches, and report to the Ex- Mannik Khachikian from Plovdiv, Brother Nerses Gedigian from Russe, who were most active and best behaved during the camp. curriculum, from recruitment of pastoral can- in order for Turkey to qualify entry into the ecutive Committee in the Oct. 2005 meeting. and Brother Kalousd Demirdjian and Sister Anahid Ouzounian from The camp was a blessing and time of special enjoyment to all didates to the 2004 pilgrimage to Armenia European Union it must uphold international 11. To hold the meeting of AEWC’s Execu- Varna. Dr. H. Pachadjian was the camp doctor. children, many of whom were from immigrant families. were reviewed, evaluated and several rec- values of human rights, cease to occupy tive Committee on October 14, 2005, in As in the past, the children were divided into three groups - 6-10 As in the past, this year's children's summer camp in Bulgaria ommendations were made. Cyprus, lift its blockade of Armenia, grant Fresno, California. years old, 11-14 years old and 15-16 years old. was made possible by the AMAA's financial and moral Under new business, more than a dozen equal rights to its minority citizens and ac- 12. To express the Council’s gratitude to its Each day the children followed a special program according to support.G of issues were acted upon, and the follow- knowledge the Armenian genocide. Executive Director for his dedicated services ing resolutions were made: 3. To accept Treasurer Albert Momjian’s fi- on behalf of the AEWC. 1. To review the present status of, and make nancial report with thanks. 13. To extend the Council’s appreciation to future plans for, the Armenian Evangelical 4. To plan and organize a worldwide Arme- the AMAA for playing host for the Biennial archives. Although considerable work was nian Evangelical rally to be held in Yérévan, meeting of the AEWC. done in the past year in terms of sorting and Armenia, in 2006, on the 160th anniversary of 14. Elections for 2005-2007 were held; the categorizing the existing items, much needs the founding of the Armenian Evangelical newly-elected Executive Committee consists to be done. It was resolved that some se- Church. of the following: Rev. Joel Mikaelian – Presi- lected books need to be sent to the Evan- 5. To commission the Rev. Vahan H. Tootikian dent; Rev. Bernard Guekguezian – Vice Presi- gelical Academy of Armenia. to write a book on the “Pioneer Armenian dent; Rev. Megerdich Karaguezian – Secre- 2. Plans for the 90th Anniversary Obser- Evangelical Clergymen in America from 1880- tary; Mr. Albert Momjian – Treasurer; and vances of the Armenian Genocide were dis- 1950. Rev. Vahan H. Tootikian – Executive Director. cussed. It was resolved that worldwide Ar- 6. To celebrate “The Armenian Evangelical The advisors are: Rev. Gilbert Léonian, Rev. menian Evangelical observances be held in Day” in 2005 on one of the four Sundays in Joseph Matossian, Rev. Haroutune Selimian, April of 2005. It was further resolved that the month of June. Rev. René Léonian, Badveli Dikran this milestone be commemorated not only 7. To recommend to the five constituent Youmoushakian, Mr. Andrew Troigian and by individual or regional church communi- Unions of AEWC and the Armenian Mis- Mrs. Joyce Stein.G 10 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 7 A M A A A N N U A L M E E T I N G B O O K S A N D M U S I C A V A I L A B L E Pianist Zela Margossian Plays at BOOKS ARMENIAN BIBLES ARMENIAN CHRISTIANITY, by Aharon Sapsezian, The Faith of a Na- OLD & NEW TESTAMENT (hc - extra large) No. 13k, ...... $15.00 AMAA's Annual Meeting Concert tion.143 pp., pb, No. 252 ...... $10.00 THE 1700TH ANNIVERSARY A RMENIAN R EFERENCE BIBLE (hc green - , by Lawrence K. Cone, Armenian ARMENIAN C HURCH ARCHITECTURE extra large) No. 13n, ...... $20.00 By Ohannes Salibian* church architecture as it is exemplified in stone monuments built throughout the ages, 159 pp., hc. No. 50b ...... $20.00 ARMENIAN NEW TESTAMENT ON TAPES (The Four Gospels - Mat- n Saturday, October 16, 2004 I left Boston for Paramus, New thew, Mark, Luke and John) No. 195, ...... $20.00 , by Hagop & Marilyn Arshagouni, 52 Jersey, to attend Zela Margossian’s piano concert, her first in ARMENIAN HISTORY TIMELINE O pp., hc, No. 289 ...... $15.00 SERPAZAN BADMUTIUN, (Children’s Bible) No. 155b ...... $10.00 the U.S. The concert was organized by the Armenian Missionary NEW ARARAT EASTERN ARMENIAN NEW TESTAMENT (Soft-Cover, Association of America (AMAA). ARMENIAN N EEDLELACE AND E MROIDERY, by Alice Odian Kasparian, A photographic collection of more than 100 priceless specimens No. 13l ...... $10.00 On the way, I was thinking about 1975, the year I decided to leave (a third in color), plus step-by-step instructions for making two Lebanon with no intention of ever returning – the year the Lebanese dozen easy needlelace patterns and diagrams for sophisticated CDs & TAPES Civil War flared. Among the catastrophic consequences of that Marash embroidery, 127 pp, hc. No. 120 ...... $15.00 ALL TIME ARMENIAN FAVORITES, 3 CDs - per- mindless war was the negative mark it left on an entire generation THE BENEFITS AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE ARMENIAN EVANGELICAL formed by KOHAR Symphony Orchestra & that had received its higher education in the country itself as well as applause, Alexander Haroutunian’s “The Dance of Sassun.” CHURCH TO THE ARMENIAN N ATION (in English & Armenian), by Rev. Dr. Choir of Gyumri, Armenia and recorded live abroad. Armed with new ideas, that generation was eager to im- Zela satisfied completely the expectations of the American-Arme- Vahan Tootikian, 190 pp, hc, No. 295 ...... $20.00 in concert - with112 page booklet, including prove the feudal mind-set that dominated the country. Our energy nian community, and the enthusiastic audience expressed pride and song lyrics: both in Armenian and transliter- THE BURNING TIGRIS, by Peter Balakian, 475 pp, hc, No. 306 .... $26.95 and passion was soon to be squashed, and for almost a quarter of a satisfaction. Zela offered a refined yet strong interpretation of works ated, No 311...... $35.00 BLESSINGS IN BITTER CUPS, by Rev. Giragos H. Chopourian, Ph.D., century, Lebanon was to lose an important collective force. from different schools and musical eras. A VIOLA RECITAL - Brahms, Schubert, Gomidas, Bagdasarian, Zela Margossian is the child of that bitter period. She is a gradu- I believe that musical culture develops and endures through those Tragic, yet triumphant story of a small clan of successful working class Armenians, living in Turkey, just prior to the outbreak of World Milhaud, Reger - by Gor Hovhannisyan, Viola and Gary Kirkpatrick, ate of Armenian Evangelical Schools and Haigazian University (both individuals who disregard obstacles and persist despite all kinds of War I, 250 pp, hc. No. 305 ...... $20.00 Piano. Recorded live, No. 301 ...... $15.00 supported by AMAA). She is a young artist whose progress I have deprivations, who explore and find that which can fill their hungered AMAA’S “YOUNG VIRTUOSOS” OF ARMENIA - North American Con- CLAWS OF THE CRAB: GEORGIA AND ARMENIA IN CRISIS, by Stephen followed closely. On Saturday, I was convinced of Zela’s immense spirits. I am convinced that Zela is such an unrelenting artist, who cert Tour 2000 (CD), Musical Ensemble of 6 talented children - Brook, 354 pp., hc. No. 237 ...... $25.00 will power and the wisdom of her decision to pursue her piano will attract the attention of interested organizations and individuals. ages 9-14 (violins, cello, flute & Piano) - Armenian and interna- studies at the Komitas State Conservatory of Yerevan, Armenia, I am sure that demanding and discriminating audiences will appreci- CONVERSATIONS WITH C ONTEMPORARY ARMENIAN ARTISTS, by Jackie tional classical music, No. 293 ...... $10.00 Abramian, 190 pp., pb, No. 258 ...... $7.00 where she has the opportunity to study with the best musicians and ate Zela’s search for new musical paths because Zela is endowed GARODK - Stepan Sarafian (Violin) and Armen Aharonian (Piano), scholars. I was deeply satisfied by the unqualified care, which she with the ability to condense time and seek those standards that are FAMOUS EVENTS AND PEOPLE IN THE ARMENIAN CHRISTIAN HISTORY, (CD), No. 299 ...... $15.00 had received at that great Armenian institution. Zela’s performance the hallmark of an international artist. The phenomenon of a blos- (in Armenian), by Rev. Dr. Vahan Tootikian, 320 pp, hc, No. 302 .... $30.00 NAYINK HISOUSI #1 & 2, AND HAYREPAGHTS by Rev. Barkev Apartian - was characterized by meticulous interpretation and deep musicality, soming pianist is gratifying and promising indeed! The AMAA IN OTHER WORDS, by Rev. Peter B. Doghramji, Ph.D., Selected Na\inq |isousi - M;n;rgn;r3 W;r1 Parg;u Abard;an qualities which her teacher in Yerevan, Vili Sarkissian, has incul- should be praised for offering Zela to display her talent to an Ameri- Sermons and Meditations, 391 pp, hc, No. 310 ...... $20.00 - Ë ]a\n;rixn;r4 fate $ÉÈ1ÈÈ - ;r;qe miasin $ÊÍ1ÈÈ - cated in his young student, and under whose supervision the pro- can-Armenian Audience.G THE HERITAGE OF ARMENIAN LITERATURE, VOLUME I, FROM T HE ORAL No. 211 ($10 each if sold separately) Set of 3 tapes .... $25.00 gram for the evening was developed: Bach, Scarlatti, Schubert, TRADITION TO THE GOLDEN AGE, 388 PP., HC. NO. 288 ...... $35.00 NOR YERK #4 & # 6 (in Armenian - CD), NOR :RG Jiu Ì ;u Liszt, Debussy, and Scriabin in the first part, and Komitas, *Dr. Ohannes Salibian, a musician/composer, is a graduate of REV. DR. MOVSES B. JANBAZIAN - MAN O F VISION WITH A MISSION, jiu Î - No. 208f & 208ii ...... Each $15.00 Khatchaturian, and Papajanian in the second part, and after loud Komitas State Conservatory of Yerevan, Armenia. Depicts the life and excerpts from the works of Rev. Janbazian, the NOR YERK #1-6 (in Armenian - Tape), NOR :RG Jiu É-Ê past Executive Director of the AMAA. 278 pp., hc. No.304 - Com- (]a\n;rix)4 Nos. 208b, 208c, 208g, 208 e, 208h, 208i . each $8.00 plimentary ...... a donation may be sent. Cont'd from previous page - Mrs. Aynilian honored..... Cont'd from previous page - Mrs. Maranjian honored..... "SERPAZAN YERKER” Sacred Music Chorale, (tape in Armenian), con- VIEWS ON GOOD NEWS, 365 Inspiring Daily Devotions for Christian ducted by Dr. John Merjanian, Srbaxan :rg;r - >mbawar3 is a member of the Board of Directors of the AMAA. He is the Chair- When Rosy’s second daughter went away to college and her Living, by Asien Surmeian, pb., No. 309 ...... $20.00 T7qj1 Yan M;ryan;an (]a\n;rix) No. 193 ...... $10.00 D man of the Board of Trustees of the Armenian Presbyterian Church husband was away on business, Rev. Dr. Giragos Chopourian, the THE INDISPENSABLE HERITAGE by Rev. Barkev N. Darakjian - (APC) in Paramus, and prior to that he was the Sunday School Super- Executive Director of the AMAA at the time, approached Rosy and AN"O>ARIN:LI VA%ANGOUJIUNE3 F;[inak3 W;r1 BOOK ORDER FORM intendent for ten years. His wife, Lucienne, who helped during his asked if she would consider working for the AMAA. Rosy, who had Parg;u N1 Taragy;an4 Dasa.7soujiunn;r Fa\ Au;taranakan term as Sunday School Superintendent, serves as Co-Chair of the 6 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 11 F A | : R H N B A V I N A M A A A N N U A L M E E T I N G Mi# Wa.naq111 Presentation of Plaque to Mrs. Arpine Rosy Maranjian Honored For Her Aynilian at AMAA’s 85th Annual Banquet Service To The AMAA Tigran :oum,aq;an inc ke f;t;uinq a57r;a\ k;anqi dhpq;roun mi=ozow ;u kam patouirakn;rou ne of the high- hild education and M;u manauand ;rb ke ls;nq4 jh i2nc ke patafi ou moun;tikn;rou mi=ozow4 a\s7r Olights of the 85th An- Cchild care programs a,.arfi cors ko[me4 afow ;u jo[ow ke l;zouinq! f;5a.7se4 f;5at;sile ;u nual Banquet of the Arme- have been the major fo- Pat;raxm4 afab;kcoujiun4 anapafowoujiun4 arka64 famazanze (injernhj) o@rqan irarou m7t ke b;r;n nian Missionary Associa- cus of the Armenian Mis- tnt;sakan tagnapn;r4 k;anqi s[oujiun4 krak4 mardik a,.arfi tarb;r ,r=ann;rhn! tion of America (AMAA) sionary Association of was to present a plaque to America (AMAA) as part 'ojorik4 =rf;[;[4 entan;kan ;u a5o[=apafakan Fa[ordakzouj;an a\s bolor mi=ozn;row4 Mrs. Arpine Aynilian and of its various support farz;r4 a\s bolore orqa@n 6anr ke yn,;n m;x nman dvba.tabar bambasanqn;re4 gh, lour;re ;u no\nisk her late husband, Nerses, projects. tkar mard arara6n;rou wra\! :u m;nq krnanq ,at spa5naliqn;rn al ,at arag ke tara6ouin ;u for their pioneering support The Child Education diurau g;ri da5nal m;r wa.;roun! Astou6o\ k*anfangstazn;n ou ke .5ow;n m;r mitq;re! M;nq of the work of the AMAA. Sponsorship Program fr;,take saka\n k*esh4 9Mi# wa.naq0111! ke wa.nanq4 ke tagnapinq ou ke mtafogouinq! President Andy for needy students in |isousi 6nnd;an f;t kapoua6 dhpq;rou Zaualin a\n h4 or m;nq bauarar ca'ow c;nq 7gta- Torigian, upon making the Middle East was es- enjazqin4 Astou6o\ 9Mi# wa.naq0 patouhre gonh gor6;r a\s bolor mi=ozn;re3 fa[ord;lou bari loure the presentation, re- tablished in the late ke ls;nq ;r;q angam Matjhosi ;u {oukasi a,.arfin! Astoua6 ir bolor mi=ozn;row a\d loure flected on the history of 1950’s and the Child au;tarann;roun mh=! m;xi touau4 oc mia\n margarhn;rou ;u fr;,takn;rou the two honorees recall- Sponsorship Program in A5a=ine ke gtn;nq Matjhos Au;tarani a5a=in mi=ozow4 a\l manauand ir Mia6in Ordiin3 |isous ing how their parents had Armenia immediately af- gl.oun ÊÈ-rd famarin mh=! 9|owsh'4 Dauiji ordi3 Qristosi mi=ozow! A\s paragan orqa@n imastaliz both survived the Arme- Mr. Andrew Torigian and Mrs. Arpine ter the devastating Mr. Dikran Youmshakian & Mrs. Rosy Aynilian. Maranjian. mi# wa.nar qowd a5n;l Mariame11104 k*esh Thro=e h m;xi famar4 jh m;nq o#c mia\n fa[ordakzakan nian Genocide and the earthquake in 1988. fr;,take |owsh'i4 or tagnapa6 hr entan;kan mi=ozn;row4 a\l na;u m;r k;anq;row tara6;lou Aynilians (Nerses) and Meghrigians (Arpine) had settled respec- These programs have changed the lives of thousands of chil- tively in Aleppo, Syria and in Beirut, Lebanon. Subsequently, when dren. Some of these children have now grown up to become dvouaroujiunn;row! An takauin Mariame orphs ;nq bari loure a,.arfin! Bauarar chr Nerses was a youngster, they moved to Beirut and coincidentally successful individuals, taking leadership roles in Armenian com- kin a5a6 chr ;u saka\n k*imanar4 jh Mariam ordi fr;,takn;roun b;rnow ls;li dar]n;l Astou6o\ Arpine and her parents moved to Paris. When Nerses was a teen- munities worldwide. me piti 6nanhr! A\s incph2s krnar endoun;li ellal patgame vo[owourdin! Anfrav;,t hr4 or |isous ager, he left school to help his father in the business since the Mrs. Rosy Maranjian has played a major role and has become an |owsh'i nman pafpano[akan mardou me famar! 6nhr msourin mh=4 .onarf k;anq me aprhr a,.arfi depression had slowed things down considerably. Arpine, in her integral part of AMAA, helping such programs become a success. :rkrorde ke kardanq {oukas Au;tarani wra\4 6a5a\hr ;u sorw;znhr ouri,n;roun ;u w;r=aphs pre-teen years with her family, transferred to the United States. Both For over twenty years as a member of the AMAA staff, Rosy has a5a=in gl.oun ËÈrd famarin mh=4 our fr;,take ir k;anqe tar ouri,n;rou famar! M;xmh al had similar tragedies in their life when Nerses’ younger brother died managed these programs, treating the children like the children of k*esh Mariami1 9Mi# wa.nar4 Mariam4 orowf;t;u k*aknkaloui no\ne en;l! of typhoid fever in Beirut and Arpine’s father died because of the her own and the donors and sponsors as her friends and partners. ,norfq gtar Astou6o\ qow0! Mariam sarsa'a6 hr4 A\s7r qic c;n entan;kan4 qa[aqakan ;u deterioration of his health while he was in a Turkish prison. As time Rosy Maranjian joined the AMAA in 1980 as the person in charge jh i2nc piti ellar ir wiyake enk;rouj;an mh=! An bnouj;nakan tagnapn;re! :u m;nq ;rb;mn wa.ow ;u went on, things got better for both of them. of the child support programs. These programs became part of her takauin amousnaza6 chr4 ;u saka\n githr4 jh \[i ;rb;mn bambasanqow m7t;nalou 'o.arhn4 phtq h Arpine attended Columbia University and then the Julliard School life as she showed great affection to them. hr! Manauand an ke wa.nar ir n,ana6hn3 |owsh'hn4 ls;li dar]n;nq Thro= patouhre4 es;low1 9Mi# wa.naq4 of Music. Nerses, in turn, having built up the business was now Rosy was very respected in the office, not only with her work jh i2nc piti ellar anor andradar]e! orowf;t;u afa ;s m;6 oura.ouj;an au;tis kou making frequent trips to the United States. On one of his visits to but with her affection and care towards her colleagues as well, :u w;r=aphs4 ;rrord angam ellalow4 a\s patouhre tam0 ({oukas Ê1 ÉÈ)! the United States, through mutual friends, the two were introduced and specially the younger ones. She gave them motherly care and in 1948 they were married in New York City at Riverside Cathe- and became a role model of dedication and service to the kou ga\ fowiun;roun1 9Mi# wa.naq4 orowf;t;u afa# |isous a\s ir ;rkrauor a5aq;louj;an enjazqin4 dral and returned to live in Beirut. After their first son, Vahram, was AMAA. ;s m;6 oura.ouj;an au;tis kou tam ];xi4 or ambo[= \o\s ;u qa=oujiun touau manauand tkarn;roun4 born, they moved to New York City to get a better life for their family. Along with the child care programs, Rosy Maranjian also handled vo[owourdin piti ella\0 ({oukas Ê1 ÉÈ)! Fowiun;re xrkoua6n;roun4 ant;soua6n;roun4 anthr ;u an7ji In 1956, they moved to Tenafly, New Jersey. the scholarship applications of college students. Through AMAA’s da,t;roun wra\ ellalow lour k*oun;na\in ar7r;a\ ;[o[n;roun! "o.anak anonzmh ;r;s dar]n;lou4 |isous Arpine and Nerses were extremely active in the New York Evan- Scholarship Program, thousands of youth were able to have an anzoudar];rhn ;u manauand anonq b;rnh b;ran ke dpau anonz k;anq;roun ;u w;rzouz xir;nq4 maqr;z4 gelical Church. Nerses served as moderator and was on the Board opportunity to receive a higher education. Here also Rosy’s in- tara6hin lour;re ir;nz ,r=aka\qin ;u 9ambo[= bv,k;z4 k;rakr;z ;u kar;kzouj;amb \o\s touau of Trustees. Nerses was also active with the AMAA and served for volvement was more personal, as she cared for each student follow- vo[owourdin0! Fowiun;re ir;nq al ke tagnaphin apaga\i famar! many years on their Investment Committee and was a member of ing with them through the application process. a\d 7r;rou dhpq;rhn ;u mtafog hin na;u Frhastani Fa\ Au;tarancakan Enk;rakzoujiune4 f;t;u;low AMAA’s Board of Directors. Arpine was Chairman of the New York Rosy was born in Alexandria, Egypt, into a devout evangelical kazouj;amb! |isousi 7rinakin4 ir gor6ow ou a,.atanqow kar;k- Evangelical Church’s musical programs and was involved in pre- family. After finishing school, she became a teacher at Haigazian * * * zouj;an ];5q k*;rkarh ta5ap;aln;roun! :u saka\n senting concerts for the church. College, a secondary school in Alexandria. While a teacher, she Askh ÊÈÈÈ tarin;r a5a=4 ;jh cka\in fa[or- phtq ouni na;u ];r masnakzouj;an! Nerses and Arpine were pioneers in their support in building the improved her English and shorthand-typing skills and was hired as dakzouj;an mi=ozn;r4 a\s7r orqa@n diurin h Thro= b;ra6 Bari Loure ambo[= vo[owourdin first AMAA Medical Center next to the AMAA Headquarters in a secretary by the Ford Motor Co. in Alexandria. fa[ordakzil a,.arfi or;uh ankiune gtnouo[ famar h! :u m;nq partakanoujiun ouninq xa\n Yerevan. It is now staffed with a full-time doctor, a nurse, a dentist, After her marriage to George Maranjian, she spent a number of a pharmacist and a psychologist. years in Saudi Arabia, where her husband was employed, and an];rou f;t ;u mhk rophi mh= t;[;ak paf;l xir;nq 'o.anz;lou ouri,n;roun! Ard4 a\s .orfourdow h4 or But the greatest legacy they have given us thus far is that they raised two daughters. The family then returned to the USA and ar7r;a\ anzoudar];rhn! angam me ;us ke bazakanc;nq1- 9Mi# Wa.naq04 qanxi have raised their four children with the call of serving others. Vahram settled in NJ. :jh fin vamanak lour;r ke tara6ouhin fowiun;rou Qristos 6nau ;u \a\tn;zau111! Cont'd on the following page Cont'd on the following page 12 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 G AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 5 A M A A A N N U A L M E E T I N G O B I T U A R I E S LITIA >ACIK:AN-GOU|OUMY:AN Litia\i a5o[=akan wiyake au;li 4 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 13 O B I T U A R I E S A M A A A N N U A L M E E T I N G REV. DR. HERALD A. G. HASSESSIAN and a "Certificate in Theology" from Boston moved to the Golden Sunny State. —By Rev. Dr. Vahan H. Tootikian Theological Institution. Mrs. Haig and her husband shared their AMAA Holds 85th Annual Meeting in Paramus, NJ A veteran Arme- Rev. Hassessian continued his service and dedication to community leadership. As they nian Evangelical education after his retirement serving as in- started their family and raised their children, Minister, prolific terim pastor of East Valley Congregational they remained active in both Armenian and writer and educator, Church in North Hollywood, CA, Immanuel American organizations thus gaining the the Rev. Dr. Herald Armenian Congregational Church of maximum advantages of biculturalism. he 85th annual meeting of the Armen- Avedis G. Hassess- Downey, CA and Armenian Evangelical Besides being an active participant in the Tian Missionary Association of America ian, went home to his Church of Sydney, Australia. During this time Armenian Evangelical churches of East and (AMAA) was held on Saturday, October 16, Heavenly Father, on he also enrolled in the doctor of ministry pro- West coasts, Alice Haig was involved in the 2004, at the AMAA’s headquarters in Nov. 29, 2004. gram at the Azusa Pacific University from Armenian Missionary Association of America Paramus, NJ. In attendance were over 90 The Rev. Dr. Her- where he achieved yet another doctorate (AMAA) first as a board member and later in people, representing Armenian Evangelical ald Avedis Hassessian, son of the late Rev. degree in 2002. 1990s as its first female Vice President. churches worldwide, AMAA mission com- and Mrs. Garabed A. Hassessian and grand- The Rev. Herald Hassessian will be remem- She played a decisive role in the founding mittees and AMAA affiliated organizations son of Der Matheos kahana of the Armenian bered as a fine Christian gentleman and a good of Charlotte and Elise Merdinian Armenian along with AMAA Board members and Apostolic Church, was born in Cilicia, Tur- Armenian minister, who lived well, laughed of- Evangelical School. As the chair of the board friends. A full program was highlighted by a key, in 1913. He received his elementary and ten, and loved much. He looked for the best in she played a pivotal role in the formative mission conference, Board of Directors meet- high school education at Armenian Evangeli- others, and gave his best in return. years of the school. ing, Annual Meeting, Banquet, Piano Recital cal schools in Beirut, Lebanon. He attended Dr. Hassessian is survived by a son, Alice Haig was also one of the moving and Sunday Worship Service with installa- College Evangélique and graduated in 1935. Garabed, and his wife Vickie, and two grand- forces of the Armenian Evangelical Social tion of officers. There were representatives From 1935 to 1941, he served as Dean of the children Amy and Jonathan, many nieces, Service Center. She was Vice-chair of the from Australia, France, Lebanon, Armenia Swiss Institute of Armenian Blind and Deaf. nephews relatives. In lieu of flowers, memo- Board in its early years. In the late 1970s and and Canada, as well as the United States. During World War II, he was a translator and rial gifts may be made to the AMAA Orphan early 1980s, she also served on the Board of The mission conference, which was held clerk in the British and French armies. Care Program. G Trustees of Haigazian University (then Col- on Friday, October 15 and attended by pas- AMAA President Mr. Andrew Torigian presiding the 85th Annual Meeting. In 1941, Avedis married Siranoush lege) in Beirut, Lebanon. tors and church representatives, featured Margos-ian, a registered nurse at the Ameri- Alice Haig was one of those exceptional Rev. Dr. Carnegie Calian, President of Pitts- Armenian women, the likes of whom have be- can University of Beirut. They led a very ALICE JERNAZIAN HAIG burgh Seminary. The theme was “The Ideal come increasingly rare in our circles. She happy life for 61 years, until the Lord called —by Rev. Dr. Vahan H. Tootikian Mission of the Ideal Church.” treated life as a thrilling challenge. She filled Yérétzkin Siran home on March 15, 2002. God Alice Jernazian The annual meeting on October 16 was her niche and accomplished her task, and left blessed this couple with two sons – Garabed Haig, the beloved attended by AMAA Board members, Arme- the world better than she found it. She never and Hrag. wife of Dr. Pierre nian Evangelical ministers, church repre- lacked the beauty of faith, nor failed in her He enrolled at the Near East School of The- Vahe Haig and the sentatives, chapter delegates, and world- expression of hope. She looked for the best in ology, where he was awarded a diploma in loving mother of wide mission partners. Current reports were others, and gave her best in return. Her life theology in 1947. Upon graduation, he be- Helen, Mari and given with updates on AMAA mission was an inspiration and her memory is a came a teacher at the First Armenian Evan- Ted Haig, joined fields. A measure of the scope of the AMAA benediction.G gelical High School and later principal of the her Lord on No- activities can be gleaned from the fact that Armenian Evangelical School in Trad, Leba- vember 17, 2004. more than 50 reports were heard from vari- non. Born on March GARABED H. AIVAZIAN ous committees, boards, district commit- In 1954, he came to the United States; and 13, 1919, in Edessa (Urfa), Turkey, Alice was Garabed H. Aivazian, 93, of Memphis died tees, and chapters from the 22 countries in was accepted by the Huntington College Theo- the first born of the late Rev. and Mrs. on Saturday, November 6, 2004. He was born which AMAA has presence and service. logical Seminary, where he received a master Ephraim and Marie Jenazian. She and her in Ankara, Turkey of Armenian parents. He The meeting heard from the AMAA repre- of divinity degree (Cum Laude) in 1955. family emigrated to the United States in 1923. was a graduate of the American University sentative in Armenia, the Rev. René Léonian, In 1956, he was ordained by the United With great love for multiple languages and of Beirut Medical School in Beirut, Lebanon. that in a broad range of activities, involving Installation of AMAA Board members. Church of Christ and served various Arme- culture, Alice was fluent in English, French Dr. Aivazian received a Rockefeller Fellow- both children and adults, the organization’s nian and non-Armenian Evangelical and Armenian. Also she was endowed with ship in Psychiatry in 1947 and spent one year efforts were increasing and expanding. Aharonian, M.D., Rafi Balabanian, D.D.S., tired Mrs. Rosy Maranjian, for her 22 years churches until his retirement: Armenian a special love for music, she learned to play at the University of Tennessee College of One of the high points of this year’s meet- Bryan Bedrosian, Nazareth Darakjian, M.D., of service to the AMAA, and to Mrs. Arpine Cilicia Congregational Church of Pasadena, the piano at an early age. Medicine. He returned to Beirut where he ing – as it is of every year’s meeting – was Elaine Kasparian, Harold Nahigian, Eileen Aynilian for the pioneering support that she CA; Armenian Evangelical Church of San Alice started her career on the East Coast served as a Psychiatrist at the Asfuriyeh the continuous growth and success of Chopourian Stephey, Ph.D., Carlos and her late husband, Nerses had given the Fernandino Valley, CA; Lanai Union Church as a high school teacher of English and French Hospital from 1948-1954. Haigazian University of Beirut, Lebanon, Taraktzian, Joe Zeronian, Ed.D. The elec- AMAA. in Hawaii, Armenian Congregational Church in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. She In 1954, he accepted a permanent position which will be marking its 50th anniversary tion was done through ballots mailed earlier Peter Kougasian, Esq., AMAA Vice Presi- of Martyrs' in Worcester, MA; Armenian then accepted a position with the Rexall Drug at the University of Tennessee College of next year. to active members. dent, presided over the program, whose key- Evangelical Church of Montreal and Arme- Company Headquarters in Boston. When the Medicine and was promoted to Professor in During the Annual Meeting the names of The two days were not all work, how- note speaker was AMAA Board member, Dr. nian Evangelical Church of New York. Dur- company transferred its headquarters to Los 1962. He served as Director of the Residency the newly elected AMAA Board members ever, as the AMAA treated itself to a ban- Ara Apelian. ing this period he continued to pursue new Angeles, California, Alice moved to the West training program in Psychiatry and as a Pro- were announced. For a term of three years of quet and a concert, after the final day’s Following the Banquet and Presentation academic goals. He received a theological Coast. Here she met her future husband Dr. fessor and Chairman of the Department of volunteer service (class of 2007) the follow- business. At the banquet, the organization program, there was a concert by the Beirut- doctorate from Trinity Theological Seminary Pierre Vahe Haig. Subsequently, her family Psychiatry at the University of Tennessee ing members were elected: H. Steven presented Recognition Awards to now-re- Cont'd on the following page 14 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 3 E D I T O R I A L M E S S A G E O B I T U A R I E S from 1964-1974, as Chief of Psychiatric Ser- with the money he bought three horses and vices of the City of Memphis Hospitals from loaded them with food and clothing. How- The AMAA Board of Directors and Joy to the World! 1963-1974. ever, the Turkish government officers confis- staff wish to extend their heartfelt “Joy to the world. The Lord is come. Let earth receive her King." Dr. Aivazian was a consultant for the cated their horses saying that instead they condolences to the families of the fol- Memphis Veterans Hospital from 1979-1989. would give them passage to Aleppo on a train. lowing deceased friends whose names Andrew Torigian He then opened a private practice. Among That same night they arrived in Aleppo. were submitted to us for publication in the AMAA News. t is that time of year when we eagerly prepare to celebrate the birth of our his many honors are numerous publications The government of Aleppo gave the in his name; American Psychiatric Associa- Gulesserians permission to reside in the city Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. For those of us who can celebrate this * Aivazian, Garabed I provided they would clean the garbage in tion Fellow; Past President of the Tennes- Memphis, TN wondrous event, it is a true blessing. see District Branch of the American Psychi- the streets. A few months later, they were We believers know that He is the one who said: “For I was hungry, and atric Association. ordered to buy two more carts and haul the * Avedisian, Armenouhi you fed me; I was thirsty, and you gave me water; I was a stranger, and you He leaves his wife of 65 years, Emma bodes lying in the streets to a cemetery. In Watertown, MA Aivazian; two daughters, Suzanne Cohan the meantime young persons like Dikran invited me into your house; I was naked, and you clothed me; sick and in * Babcock, Stanley and Lillian (Ron) Eades; four grandchildren, were being rounded up and sent to Deir Zor. prison, and you visited me.” W. Roxbury, MA Sara Cohan, Abigail Sanders Cohan, Mat- Dikran went into hiding, and Puzant, at the And when we hear the righteous ones ask, “Sir, when did we do all thew Eades, and Emily Eades Johnson; and age of 12, took charge of the removal of gar- * Baldadian, Flora these things?” The King will tell them, “When you did it to these my broth- one great-grandchild, Eliza Grace Sanders. bage and dead bodies from the streets. He FL did this for 3 1/2 years. ers, you were doing it to me!” Dr. Aivazian was a member of Second Pres- * Bedrosian, Elizabeth With these thoughts in mind, let us go forward to all our fellow men and byterian Church. When the French armies started occupy- ing the towns of Cilicia, Dikran decided that * Chalabian, Arshalous women and act with these precepts. The family requests that memorial dona- tions be sent to the Armenian Missionary they should return to Adana. He opened his Huntington Beach, CA Qristos 6nau ;u \a\tn;zau1 ];xi4 m;xi M;6 Au;tis! store there and started working. Business AMAA NEWS Association of America, Dr. and Mrs. Garo Haig, Alice Krisdos dzenav yev haydnetsav: tsezee, mezee Medz Avedis. was flourishing, but France decided to is a publication of Aivazian Endowment Fund, 31 West Cen- Dana Point, CA the Armenian Missionary Association of America, (Christ is born and is revealed: Good tidings to you and to us) tury Road, Paramus, New Jersey 07652. evacuate Cilicia. The Gulesserian family was 31 West Century Road, Paramus, NJ 07652. Funeral services were held on Wednes- able to board a French ship and disembark * Hassesian, Herald Tel. (201) 265-2607; Fax (201) 265-6015 day, November 10, 2004 at Memorial Park Fu- in Lebanon. Pasadena, CA E-Mail: [email protected]; Puzant started his formal education in Oc- neral Home.G * Khachigian, Elizabeth Website: www.amaa.org The Inspirational Corner tober 1922 at the Soorp Nishan elementary The AMAA is a Tax Exempt, not for profit organi- Visalia, CA THE WORK OF CHRISTMAS school in Beirut, and he continued his stud- zation under IRS Code Section 501(c)(3) ies at the American University. After receiv- Khatchikian, Lydia Andrew Torigian, Executive Director When the song of the angel is stilled, PUZANT GULESSERIAN ing his certificate from the University, he Montreal, Canada Dikran Youmshakian, Administrative Director Puzant Gulesser- joined his father to help him in his store. When the star in the sky is gone, Klijian, Barkev ian was born in Puzant was married in 1935 to Angel, the OFFICERS When the kings and princes are home, San Francisco, CA Adana in 1908 to daughter of Rev. & Mrs. Yenovk Hadidian. H. Steven Aharonian, M.D. President When the shepherds are back with their flock Dikran Gulesserian They had four children, Hrair, Hilda, Ike and * Markarian, Varkis John Cherkezian, Vice President The work of Christmas begins: Peter Kougasian, Esq., Vice President and Verkinia Noos- Sam. Cranston, RI to find the lost kajian. The Gules- Harry Dulgarian, Recording Secretary Puzant accepted responsibilities with great Messerlian, Barkev Gary Phillips, Recording Secretary to heal the broken, serian family was willingness. He was a member of the Church Beirut, Lebanon Eileen Chopourian Stephey, Recording Secretary to feed the hungry, blessed with four Council, Treasurer of the Church, and he be- Aram R. Minnetian, Treasurer to release the prisoner, more children, came the publisher of the Chanasser and * Motoian, Peter David Hekemian, Assistant Treasurer to rebuild the nations, Yulia, Moorad, Eliz Badanegan Artsakank periodicals. With a RI and Levon. Moorad and Eliz lost their lives group of Christian Endeavor members he EDITORIAL BOARD to bring peace among brothers, * Mooshoian, John at a very young age during the deportations founded the KCHAG summer camp in the Andrew Torigian, Editor to make music in the heart. Cranston, RI of the Armenians from Cilicia. mountains of Lebanon. For a number of years Louisa Janbazian, Associate Editor, Layout & Design (Author unknown) The Adana massacres happened when he served as the representative of the Arme- * Movsesian, Arthur Dikran Youmshakian, Advisor Puzant was 9 months old. It was fortunate nian Evangelical Community in the United Forest Hills, NY CHANGE OF ADDRESS that the Gulesserian family's home was in Board of the Azounieh hospital. * Reed, Virginia In order to keep our mailing list up to date, please Andrew Torigian Named thre Greek section, and when the mob at- When he and his wife moved to the United Hatboro, PA send all corrections, along with the old address tacked that quarter three times, the Greek States, he wanted to see the continuation of to: AMAA NEWS, 31 W. Century Rd., New Executive Director neighbors hid them, and they were miracu- the projects that he believed in, and he made * Salibian, Ara Paramus, NJ 07652 lously saved. However, Dikran Gulesserian's an endowment to the Armenian Missionary Thousands Oaks, CA E-mail: [email protected] At the December, 2004 meeting of the AMAA Board of Directors, Andy store was wrecked. Association for funding projects, such as Torigian was named as the new Executive Director of the Association. Prior * Soghanyemezian, Onnig PRINTING In 1915, during the Armenian genocide, the publication of Christian literature. Cranston, RI Printsolutions, Englewood, NJ (201) 567-9622 to this, he had served as the President for seven years, as Vice President when the Armenians were being deported Puzant Gulesserian's life is an example of for four years, as Treasurer for two years and as Personnel Committee from the tgowns and villages of Cilicia, The devotion and service to Christ and the COVER PICTURE Chairman for 17 years. He has been a board member since 1982. Gulesserian family and their neighbors de- Church. On October 11, 2004 the Heavenly * Memorials were designated for AMAA Board Members and Pastors after the cided to go in the direction of Aleppo.Dikran 85th Annual Worship Service Father has called him home as a good and AMAA sold his store to the governer of Adana, and faithful servant.G 2 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 AMAA NEWS, NOV/DEC 2004 15 Armenian Children’s Milk Fund 15 Years of Caring for Armenia’s Most Vulnerable Since 1989, the Armenian Children's Milk Fund’s (ACMF) sustaining nutritional program has given thousands of Armenian children a healthy start in life. ACMF’s accomplishments are made possible by the hard work of its volunteers, and by the generous support of its donors. ACMF works with local health officials in Armenia and Karabagh to identify needy families, and distributes Isomil infant formula to eligible children in six cities in the region. Every month, ACMF feeds approximately 600 children who Milena, born on October 6, 2003 in Yerevan would otherwise not receive proper nutrition. The Armenian Children’s Milk Fund is making a difference. But we need your help to continue. Please use the form below to send your donation to this worthy cause. Thank you for making a difference! D I would like to help the Armenian Children's Milk Fund to continue it's nutritional program. Enclosed is my donation of $ ------. Name ------ Address ------ (Please make your tax-deductible checks payable to AMAA, earmarked for ACMF, and mail to 31 W. Century Rd. Paramus, NJ 07652) Armenian Missionary Association of America Non-Profit Org. 31 West Century Road U.S. Postage Paramus, NJ 07652 PAID Paramus, NJ Permit No. 55