St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church

Transcription

1 St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church 158 Main Street, North Andover, MA Tel/Fax: (978) Rev. Fr. Stephan Baljian JULY DECEMBER 2013 Web:

2 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 2 of 24 A Publication of Board of Trustees: Christine Kourkounian, Chair Joe Almasian, Vice Chair Joanne Hidirsah, Treasurer Nancy Vartabedian, Corresponding Secretary Sylvia Mahlebjian, Recording Secretary John Saryan, Advisor Vartkes Hovsepian, Advisor Richard Shahtanian, Advisor John Dagdigian. Advisor Sossy Jeknavorian (Alternate) Church Bookkeeper: Olga Sarkisian NRA Delegates: John Kulungian Armen Jeknavorian Tom Vartabedian Ladies Guild: Sossy Jeknavorian Men s Club Armen Jeknavorian Family Night: Sossy Jeknavorian Avak Programs: Nancy Vartabedian Building Committee: Richard Shahtanian Sunday School / Armenian School: Sossy Jeknavorian Deacons: Avedis Garavanian Arek Kalaydjian John Saryan St. Gregory Armenian Choir Director/Organist: Apostolic Church Knarik Nerkararyan/Arsen Russian 158 Main Street Newsletter Committee: North Andover, MA Der Stephan Baljian (978) Christine Kourkounian, Temporary Editor Sossy Jeknavorian, Martha Hananian, Tom Vartabedian, Violet Dagdigian, Lisa Apovian. Web: saintgregory@saintgregory.org

3 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 3 of 24 MESSAGE FROM OUR PASTOR Blessed is anyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God! Luke 14:15 In this passage from the Gospel of St. Luke, Jesus tells the story of a presumably very wealthy man who wanted to throw a lavish and sumptuous banquet feast. In addition to all the preparations for the meal and décor that he most certainly made, he must have also paid much attention the guest list with much anticipation for the high society company he would enjoy as his social status dictated. However, when all the preparations were made for what was probably to be the party of the century and he sent his servant to go inform the upper crust invitees that now was the time to come, one by one they began to decline, finding different excuses to opt out of attending this promising event. This must have had a profound effect on the wealthy man, because what he did next not only defies logic, but shows a bold departure from what I m sure his original intent was. In fact, what he did was something that I m sure would be counterintuitive to all of us in this room when faced with this situation: he sent his servant into the village to gather up the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame the dregs of society at the time in order to come to his banquet and take the place of those insolent invitees who could not be bothered to grace him with their presence. When the servant returned, a motley crew of ragged, disabled beggars in tow, he informed his master that, although he had brought just about every dejected person in the nearby town, there was still room left in his vast banquet hall! The rich man then ordered that his servant go out even to the highways and byways of the countryside to gather up the poor wretches from there (those who could not even afford to beg in the city) to bring to his banquet. At the conclusion of this story, he reasserts his resolve that none of the original invitees will enjoy the party at his home. This parable has many implications, most obviously ones having to do with the coming age of God s heavenly kingdom and the great banquet feast that is being prepared there. As the person dining with Jesus proclaimed, Blessed is anyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God! But, I wanted to focus on other aspects of the story, that draw from the basic, human element of what is happening here, not the least of which is the willingness and desire of this person to see beyond the vicissitudes of his situation and to build a bridge to a group of people that was truly in need. This is why I said a little earlier that his action was probably counterintuitive to what most of us today would do. In all likelihood, what would happen with most folks, wounded pride and ego notwithstanding, is that they d cancel the event due to lack of interest and spend quite some time sulking in resentment about the social rejection of their peers. This indicates that the primary reason for wanting to host such an event would presumably be a self-serving desire for affirmation, acceptance or status on some level or another, with the true desire to serve others as a secondary purpose.

4 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 4 of 24 This is why the sudden, radical change in this man s action is so striking. It is assumed particularly because of his presumed wealthiness that this man would have been no different as regards his motives for planning such a banquet. The rejection of his hospitality by his peers must have weighed very heavily on his whole psyche, compelling him to radically alter his whole approach and to suddenly realize perhaps in an epiphany that there could be so much more satisfaction and joy in serving others instead of his own self interests. Herein lies just one of the many lessons to take away from this passage, and this especially around the holiday season, or the preparation for the feasts of Christmas and Theophany in just a few weeks. In today s day and age we hear mixed messages about the true meaning of the Christmas season. On the one hand, we are imbued with a cultural orientation toward outpourings of good will and cheer toward our fellow man during the season. Yet on the other, we are bombarded with messages that the true reason for the season is an intense commercial consumerism. On the one hand, that same cultural orientation points us toward at least SOME spiritual component of the holiday festivities. Yet on the other, evil forces have been trying in earnest to rid Christmas and the entire holiday season of any religious significance at all, both in the public forum and in the lives of the American public. This shouldn t be a surprise; and we should have learned by now not to pay any attention to those cultural impulses. Rather, as always, we should look to the words of the Holy Gospel to find the comfort of knowing the truth in an age of almost universal deceit. The truth is that: 1. Each of us, no matter what physical or spiritual state, social status or standing with the Deity have an open invitation to the greatest banquet of all, which sees the attendees feasting on the life-giving body and blood of Jesus Christ in the present age and in the next unto eternity. 2. We can choose to be those guests who when invited to this greatest of events, in their conceit and vain perceptions of reality, decide to make excuses for their absence, missing out on something essentially good and vivifying. 3. That in Christ we see a host extraordinaire, whose genuine and unselfish goal is to furnish the banquet hall for the joy and salvation of those of us in the ditches and gutters, out on the highways and byways of life, and this not for his own glorification, but for that of his heavenly Father. All this imagery that we have conjured up should remind us of how we must conduct ourselves this holiday season, when we are invited to attend dinners and parties, and invite families, friends and coworkers to our own events. We must be bold and selfless in our outreach to others, grateful and exuberant to those who have reached out to us and most importantly we must remember that our ultimate goal is to attend that gigantic and endless Christmas Party the feast that awaits us in God s kingdom in the life to come. Blessed is anyone who will eat bread in that Kingdom! Fr. Stephan Baljian, Pastor

5 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 5 of 24 MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES We are amidst the most joyous time of the year, the Christmas season the celebration of the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We hope you are taking the time to connect with family and friends and reflect what the true meaning is of this blessed season. The season also allows us to reflect back on the past year, while also looking forward to the future with great hope for ourselves, and our community at large. Since our last publishing of the Aghavni, we began the busy fall season. First and foremost, we were blessed to welcome Der Stephan, Yeretsgin Alice, and their family to the St. Gregory community. Der Stephan is reaching out to our community, conducting Bible studies, getting to know our children and providing us with his spiritual guidance. Der Stephan s first service at St. Gregory was held on Sunday, August 25 with His Grace Anoushavan Tanielian presiding over the Badarak and the welcome luncheon. A few weeks later, on September 15, the annual picnic was held on the church grounds. Although we did not join with St. Michael s this year, it was a very successful day for us as the picnic attracted many outside of our community. Special thanks to co-chairs Armen Jeknavorian and John Arzigian for pulling together and leading such a wonderful, committed, and hardworking team who got the job done. We held our annual Fall Fair this year Saturday, October 26 as well as the Men s Club Monday Night Football evening, on November 16. We have resumed our Avak luncheons and also have had our annual Thanksgiving Family Night where over 150 people were in attendance! Lastly, we are participating in the House of Hope drive to help the needy. As always, thank you to both the Ladies Guild and the Men s Club for carrying out these key events that unite our community and provide us with financial stability that we need year round. A Town Hall Forum was held on Sunday, October 13 after Badarak. Some of the key points conveyed were status on initiatives from the Raise Your Voices survey as well status on our Four Pillar Goals Spiritual Growth, Uniting the Community, Growth, and Financial Stability. If you did not have the opportunity to attend and would like to see the presentation, feel free to let a Trustee know. St. Gregory also participated in a Public Relations Seminar held on November 14 at St. Stephen s church in Watertown. This seminar began through a resolution proposed by our very own Tom Vartabedian at the last NRA. The purpose of the program is to actively work on new ways to promote our Armenian churches using today s media sources. We look forward to hearing the recommendations and plans from this seminar. Lastly, the year ends on a fantastic note with the completion of the first floor renovation. We should be so proud as this has been a major accomplishment for our community. On behalf of Der Stephan and the Board of Trustees, I would like to thank the Building Committee led by Richard Shahtanian and Joe Almasian for their leadership, dedication and commitment to this project. A special thank you to also to all of the donors who gave so generously once again to this project so that their children, grandchildren and future generations could benefit from clean and safe learning environment. The completion of this phase represents the best in all of us. Several years ago, we took a leap into the unknown by moving forward with the entire renovation project. It may have seemed insurmountable, out of reach, and difficult for our small community on so many levels. However, today we see something different as we move yet another step closer. Now we see how great things such as this are attainable, if only we have faith. We had faith in something larger than ourselves and it manifested itself in our continued commitment and dedication to the project. This is what we should all remember as the year closes and carry with us as we look forward to the year ahead. In closing, best wishes to all of our parishioners this Christmas season and also for a very happy, healthy New Year. May the blessings and the renewed faith from this Christmas season remain in our hearts today and always. Christine Kourkounian, Chair, Board of Trustees

6 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 6 of 24 MEMORIES OF A CHRISTMAS PAST By Tom Vartabedian Growing up, Christmas was always cheerful, yet frugal. When I was 10, I prayed hard for snow and it came on Christmas Eve after dark. I scratched a hole in the frost that had gathered on the window and peered out at the white silence. The streetlights were iridescent halos and the rooftops across the street seemingly had ermine wraps. Some of the flakes clung to the window like lace placemats. I enjoyed the smell of the boughs on the tree. The colors of the ornaments caught the light in the morning and sent spangled kisses across the room with rainbow colors. The kitchen was hot and busy before and after church. My father used a swift whetstone on the carving knife. He stood at the dining room table anxious to slice diagonally into the shiny brown skin of a turkey. Our family gathered inside a modest 6-room tenement and prayer performed an important role as Christians. My mother was Catholic and my father Protestant. Jesus held no distinction. Snow continued to fall on this day. I looked at that new Flexible Flyer and wanted to test it on the hill. Father had other intentions. The sled could wait until the dishes were done. Cups and saucers always came first. I washed. My brother Edward dried. We didn t have a dishwasher to perform the task and chores were mandatory, even on Christmas Day. Finally, I got permission. My very first automobile didn t compare to a new sled and the way it maneuvered down that hill under a full moon. My mother appeared on the porch to call us home. Just a little while longer, pleez, I relied. Mom was a softer touch than dad. I had a pocket full of hard striped candy and shared some with my friends. We talked about Christmas and how good it felt. Butch Donahue had real fleeced-lined gloves and he let us try them on. The wind stopped and the black branches of the trees kept the snow well contained. We understood Christmas better than anybody because we were kids without a care in the world. Our cheeks were red, our eyes glistened, and we wiped our noses on the back of our mittens. The following day there was some excitement because the neighborhood priest had found a baseball glove in the manger by the main altar. Everybody denied knowing anything about it. Then a poor kid from the projects with little else to claim admitted his act of charity. He said he put the glove by the crèche because he figured Santa forgot to give the infant Christ child anything. It was his only present and he had gotten it free from a firehouse. I heard the story and got mad at myself. I remember shedding a tear that year because I knew then that I really knew nothing about Christmas. As I look about me in my advanced years, I only wish that we could revisit those days when times were simple and people were more frugal. There were no big lottery games and technology didn t manipulate our lifestyle. The world was fair and everyone appeared honest as we pursued our dreams in a tinsel-coated world. We believed in the power of love, a kind word, truth, justice, imagination and making men in the snow. For one brief moment, I d love to hand over my credit card bills, 401K statements, insurance forms and shopping lists that appear endless.

7 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 7 of 24 Take the doctor s bills and the gossip, the illness and loss of loved ones. Bury all the bad news for one brief day and put a moratorium to crime and punishment. Let s finally end this terrible war in the Middle East and live in a world where peace and harmony work hand-in-hand. Carry me back to yesteryear when a small transistor radio only needed batteries and was far more entertaining than crashing computers and outrageous video games. Above all, let s put Christ back into Christmas and honor the day for what it was intended. If you re looking for the perfect gift, try this. Human kindness costs nothing and goes the furthest. MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

8 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 8 of 24 MESSAGE FROM THE BUILDING COMMITTEE Dear Parishioners: As of this day, the renovation of our church s first floor is nearing completion. Presently, the Building Committee is planning for the move-in as well as the purchasing of various furniture and furnishings. The following is an abbreviated list of the first floor renovations: 1. Pastor s office; 2. conference room; 3. classrooms; 4. bathrooms; 5. kitchenette area; 6. Pastor s changing room; 7. Deacon and Choir changing room; 8. electrical system; and 9. various supply and electronic storage areas. Absent any unforeseen matters, the first floor renovation will be on budget (approximately $150,000). Similar to the other phases of this project, the improvements made to this first floor are not only aesthetic, but also logistical and structural. Thanks to the generosity and support of many donors inside and outside of our congregation, both large and small, our parish has been blessed with renovations totaling over $1,500,000 throughout the last 6 years without incurring any debt. The only work that now remains for this committee is the completion of a handicap lift and steeple. We have been fundraising for the last 9 years from a base of only approximately 100 members. Although our parish has been confronted with various hurdles during this time, we have come together and completed the critical work required to ensure our Church s structural viability for future generations. The Building Committee is comprised of 16 members, all of whom have worked very hard together over the last 9 years to beautify and improve our Church. Without their dedication and strong Christian faith, our renovations would not have been possible. However, your Building Committee realizes that the future of St. Gregory will not be measured by its accomplishments, but rather by the spiritual strength of each and every one of its parishioners. In other words, the work of the Building Committee and the beautification of our Church means very little without the faithful: walking through its doors, reaching out to those that are ill or confined, bringing their children to Sunday School, supporting its projects that benefit the less fortunate, and living a life guided by our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Let s all be mindful of this fact and be thankful for our Church s many Blessings, as well as continue working together to make St. Gregory the spiritual home of many. In closing, the committee again thanks each of you for your generosity and support for this project. In addition, I would like to personally thank the committee members for their steadfast commitment to serving our Church in this capacity throughout the last 9 years. Their work has not been easy in many ways. I know the awkwardness and difficulty they experience in asking each of you for money, but I am sure now looking back we can all agree that their work and the sacrifices of all our dedicated parishioners have been well worth it. Sincerely, Richard Shahtanian, Chairman- Building Committee

9 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 9 of 24 Fr. Stephan Baljian greets Merrimack Valley parish By Tom Vartabedian Rev. Stephan Baljian was installed as new pastor of St. Gregory Church of Merrimack Valley August 25 by His Grace Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian, vicar general of the Eastern Prelacy, in what proved a delightful homecoming for the young priest. On hand to witness the celebration were members of his family, including his wife, Yeretskin Alice; his two children, Nishan and Hovhaness, his mom, Yeretskin Cheryl Arpineh, and sister Nayiri. His dad, Rev. Archbishop Antranig Baljian, attended to business as usual, celebrating his service at St. Stephen's Church in Watertown. "My father's spirit is with me today," said the new priest. "My new church is very familiar to me. I've had an association with each and every one of the pastors who have preceded me here. In some cases, I've attended their ordinations which solidified my ambition to become a priest." "As we embark upon a new journey here in Merrimack Valley, may we travel new inroads and meet new challenges together," he added. "We are grateful to be part of its yet-to-be-written future." Bishop Tanielian reached out to the new pastor, who spent the past five years following his ordination at a similarly-named church in Granite City, Ill., after spending his childhood in Indian Orchard. A passion for singing and the organ will be much to his advantage, aside from his deep spiritual values. "Ever since he was a child, I sensed a religious devotion in his life," confirmed Bishop Anoushavan. "Patience is a gift and it's very obvious with this servant of God. Perhaps someday there will be a third generation in his family to enter the priesthood." After settling his family in North Andover, Fr. Baljian celebrated his first service September 1 and prepared to greet hundreds of attendees at a church picnic September 8 on the church grounds. Between when he was in the Metro St. Louis area, Fr. Stephan sang with the St. Louis Symphony Chorus. Being an avid fan of classical music and opera, he owns a collection of more than 2,000 compact discs, including many rare ones. He also enjoys history and geography and has a passion for culinary and visual arts. He married the former Alice Tchobanian in 2007, a graduate of Northeastern University, Boston, who actively pursues her vocation. Fr. Stephan is excited to be reunited with his parents. His mother's family has roots in Merrimack Valley. She is the granddaughter of Megerdich Donoian and the niece of Ara and Eva Donoian. "We look forward to welcoming Father Stephan and his wonderful family to our community," said Christine Kourkounian, chairwoman, Board of Trustees. "We look forward to his spiritual guidance and the relationships he will forge and grow within our community and beyond. This is a time for great hope and renewal for our church as we move forward in building upon our future." Fr. Stephan was born in Indian Orchard in 1979, the youngest child of Archpriest and Mrs. Antranig Baljian. At the age of 6, young Nishan began serving by his father's side at the holy altar of St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church. He was ordained there by the late Archbishop Mesrob Ashjian, first to the minor orders and later to the Holy Deaconate in After graduating from high school in 1997, he matriculated to UMass/Amherst where he studied voice with noted tenor Jon Humphrey and music competition with Robert Stern. He graduated in 2001 with a Bachelor of Music Degree in Theory and Composition. That summer, Deacon Nishan formally requested candidacy for the Holy Priesthood within the Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America and was accepted by His Grace Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan.

10 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 10 of 24 In October of that year, he left for Antelias, Lebanon, where he spent the next two academic years at the Theological Seminary of the Great House of Cilicia. He graduated from the Seminary in Conjointly with his studies, he served part-time as Pastoral Assistant at Sts. Vartanantz Church in Ridgefield, NJ, and later held the same post at St. Stephen's Church in Watertown. As part of his training, he successfully completed a summer-long internship in Clinical Pastoral Education at New England Baptist Hospital and is certified in Hospital Chaplaincy. He has also contributed to the area of Armenian Literary Scholarship. joined the teaching staff. He has always held a fond association with AYF Camp Haiastan, serving as Resident Chaplain, Associate Chaplain and Armenian Studies instructor. During his pastorate in Granite City, a major beautification project for the church sanctuary was undertaken in The small yet vibrant parish achieved growth in membership and stability in average attendance and participation under his direction. He looks to inculcate similar values to his new church. Fr. Stephan is the youngest to ever graduate from the Prelacy's St. Gregory of Datev Institute where he later

11 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 11 of 24 Sunday/Armenian School Corner Sunday and Armenian School resumed this year on Sunday, September 22. Over 40 students are registered this year and it was great to see everyone back and a few new faces! The students and teachers have been having class in the hall and with the new first floor renovation near complete, they will be moving back to their new classroom space sometime during the beginning of the year! The children have been busy already this year with the cirriculum, a bowling trip and with the upcoming Christmas pageant and luncheon on Sunday, December 22. Enjoy the following pictures of our children!

12 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 12 of 24 St. Gregory Church takes lead in New England Prelacy Seminar by Tom Vartabedian St. Gregory Church took the lead role in organizing and implementing a Public Relations Seminar for New England Churches attached to the Armenian Prelacy's Eastern Region. Thirty-two delegates attended from five of the seven New England churches. Representing St. Gregory Church were John and Violet Dagdigian, together with Der Stephan Baljian. The proposal originated at the National Representative Assembly this year, introduced by long-time journalist and church member Tom Vartabedian in an effort to foster greater exposure among our churches in outside media sources such as television and newspaper. Much emphasis was paid to social media circles in this age of computer technology and the Internet. Joining Tom at the speaker's platform were Stephen Kurkjian, 3-time Pulitizer Prize winning journalist from The Boston Globe, and Nanore Barsoumian, assistant editor, The Armenian Weekly. Story ideas for each church community were hashed out, along with recommendations on how to penetrate different media sources. More ideas emanated from cluster groups which were formed. The forum proved informative with strong social values emanating throughout the day. Special thanks to St. Stephen's Church for hosting the event in Watertown, along with the Ladies Guild for supplying a delectable lunch. Other seminars are being anticipated for the Mid-West and Mid-Atlantic Regions. Speakers at New England Prelacy Seminar were from left, Nanore Barsoumian, assistant editor, Armenian Weekly; Tom Vartabedian, St. Gregory NRA delegate and facilitator, and Stephen Kurkjian,3-time Pulitzer Prize winner from The Boston Globe. Clergy attendees Rev. Fr. Archpriest Aram Stepanian, Rev. Fr. Archpriest Antranig Baljian, and Rev. Fr. Stephan Baljian. St. Gregory attendees on far left are Tom Vartabedian and John & Violet Dagdigian

13 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 13 of 24 ARMENIAN TIME IS RUNNING LATE by Tom Vartabedian Question: What time is it when it s Armenian time? Answer: Well past the hour of punctuality. As a conscientious Armenian, I like to be on time. I like to see events begin on time. As a journalist, I ve always been raised in a punctual world by the clock. This business about hurry up and wait may fit well with the military but not in my world. With some of us, the trouble with being prompt is that nobody s there to appreciate it. There s another drawback. Those who don t keep proper time look at me as if I were some sort of oddball. They think I never have anything to do. If I show up for a 10 o clock Badarak, I m in close company with the Der Hayr, one or two deacons and a soloist. One benefit, if you re a people watcher, is getting to see all those who straggle into church at odd times. Another is finding a parking place close to the door. I can t for the life of me figure why anyone would come traipsing through the door 10 minutes before the service ends. And because I love to punch a clock, I waste a lot of time waiting for others to arrive. For that reason, I have a wife who hates to be the first one there. No sense in getting there on time, she ll maintain. No one else will be there. At church, you can always count your blessings. If you have none to count, you can always count the lights in a chandelier or better yet, read the bible. Of course, it doesn t help when the service goes two hours and people get restless. You might catch them having a coffee on religious time. At parties, early arrivals can enjoy first helpings at the onion dip and get a jump on the other appetizers. As a patron of promptness, you can always be the first to leave because you were the first to arrive, especially if the evening is a bore. I m willing to bet that in most Armenian homes, there is usually one spouse who maintains a prompt attitude and another who enjoys being fashionably late. How did this trend start, you may ask? I have no idea but I can tell you my grandmother spoke of Armenian time with a snicker. She often told me my grandfather would be late for his own funeral. As to my parents, dad was a stickler for punctuality while mom was the dallying sort. I certainly inherited his genes and usually end up having an anxiety attack whenever we re to step out for the evening. I ve been known to inform my other half that the concert is slated to begin at 7:30, when in actuality it was 8 o clock. That way, I could breathe a sigh of relief knowing we d be 15 minutes early as opposed to 15 minutes late. I ve even taken the liberty to secretly move the clocks back a half hour to erase any doubt of a last-minute frenzy. We re running late, I ll proclaim. Let s get moving. Goodness, where did the time go all of a sudden? she ll gasp. I ll only be a minute. Make that another half hour Armenian time. Both my sons are punctual to an extreme. I cannot say the same for a daughter who, I m afraid, has lost all concept of time. She has written every sequel to Armenian time. Better late than never, is her favorite adage. Don t get me stressed out. I believe it s a case of how we manage our time. If we take an hour to read the Sunday paper over a lumberjack s breakfast and manicure our nails, there s no way the average Armenian can make a 10 o clock Badarak, unless they get up at 5 a.m. The last four Armenian events I ve attended were late in starting. Had you attended the Kohar Symphony concert Nov. 3, you would have gotten my drift. People were taking their seats well after the start which was delayed 15 minutes for that very reason to get people seated in time. Perhaps we can take a lesson from American time. It waits for no man Armenian or not. Try being 15 minutes late for an attorney. The clock is usually running and doesn t hesitate when there s a fee involved. After all is said and done, Armenian punctually is a virtue especially if you want to avoid meeting people. We may be late on occasion but at least we re reliable. And it usually gets you an apology.

14 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 14 of 24 Saint Gregory Armenian Church of Merrimack Valley Men s Club 158 Main St. North Andover, MA The Men s Club of St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church of North Andover is pleased to announce it is now accepting applications for the David M. Brundage-Hector A. Bizios Scholarship Fund. This scholarship, which is open to Armenian students from Massachusetts and New Hampshire, is a worthy tribute to these men who were long time members and supporters of Saint Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church serving the on the Board of Trustees and Men s Club for countless years. Applicants must be of Armenian- American descent and have completed at least one year of college at an accredited school. Deadline for application is January 31, Two $ scholarships will be awarded. Those wishing an application are asked to write to the Scholarship Committee of St. Gregory Church, 158 Main St., North Andover, MA or their request to armenj@comcast.net. Respectfully, Armen Jeknavorian Men s Club Chairman St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church of Merrimack Valley PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD ON THIS WONDERFUL PROGRAM FROM THE MEN S CLUB. GOOD LUCK TO ALL OF THE APPLICANTS!

15 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 15 of 24 SCENES FROM FALL FAIR AVAK LUNCHEONS The Avak luncheons resumed in October this fall after the summer break, and we were able to have three wonderful sessions. A special thank you to Nancy and Tom Vartabedian, our Avak Program leaders who coordinate interesting speakers for us as well as always a delicious lunch. Thank you to all who help out and support this great program! Vartus Varadian demonstrates her Chinese brush painting Fighting Cancer Through Chinese Art Dr. Edward Khantzian, clinical professor of psychiatry speaks about his first trip to Armenia during an international symposium Mary Barooshian displays her collection of clothesline artwork she has collected over the years

16 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 16 of 24 DONATIONS Easter Donations - $930 Apovian, James and Ann Arabian, Ralph Arakelian, John and Elizabeth Azarian, Harry and Rose Basmajian, Eliza Bedrosian, John and Margaret Bizios, Armena Boloian, Michael and Chake Deeran, Dorothy Demoorjian, Paul and Beverly DerApkarian, Sandra Dulgarian, Stephen and Angele Foley, Lawrence and Mary Goshdigian, Gabriel Hananian, Martha Heliotis, Louis and Suzanne Hovanasian, Henry and Susan Jeknavorian, Armen and Sossy Jeknavorian, John Kitabjian, Araxie Kourkounian, Armen and Christine Madoian, Elizabeth Mahlebjian, Steve and Sylvia Nersesian, Antoinette, L. Nicolosi, Louis and Pamela Sarkisian, Olga Sarkisian, Sarkis and Rita Saryan, John and Debra Sasso, Enrico and Rosalie Shrestinian, Ara and Ginny Soghigian, Karekin and Rose Marie Tateosian, Lydia Tomaselli, Jeannine and Jill Thomassian Memory of Thomassian and Gharazian Families Vartabedian, Tom and Nancy Voskian, Michael and Thelma Picnic Donations $1,285 Arakelian, John and Elizabeth Azarian, Harry and Rose Aznoian, Marlene Barberian, Arthur Bedrosian, John and Margaret Deeran, Dorothy Demoorjian, Paul and Beverly Dulgarian, Stepan and Angele Durgerian,John and Carole Fantazian, James, H. Garavanian, Marie Hekimian, Frank and Barbara Hovanasian, Henry and Susan Hovanasian, Charlene Hovsepian, Vartkes and Nina Jamgochian, Charles Jeknavorian, Armen and Sossy Kassabian, Pauline Keshian, James and Elaine Kitabjian, Araxie Kizirian, Rosalie Koobatian, Rose Kopoyan, Todd and Lara Madoian, Elizabeth Mahlebjian, Steve and Sylvia Migridichian, Steve and Debbie Nicolosi, Louis and Pamela Palanjian, Alice Pellicio,Albert and Rose Marie Saryan, John and Debra Tomaselli, Jeannine & Jill Thomassian Zanca, Joseph and Nancy Donations Shrestinian, Ara and Ginny Memory of Stephen Shrestinian Shrestinian, David and Simone Memory of Stephen Shrestinian Jeknavorian, Armen and Sossy Memory of Jenie Scandura Memory of Leonard Uzar Azarian, Harry and Rose Jeknavorian, Armen and Sossy Kourkounian, Armen and Christine Sarkisian, Olga Janjigian, Joyce Kitabjian, Araxie

17 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 17 of 24 DONATIONS (continued) Feast of Soorp Khatch Markarian,Haig Minnetyan, Levon and Catherine Patenaude, Gail Sarkisian, Sarkis Head Stone Cleaning Atamian, Alice Basmajian, Alice Bogosian, Armen DerApkarian, Sharke Hananian, Martha Sasso, Rosalie Newsletter Donations Alexanian, Harry Asadourian, Ralph and Alice Azarian, Harry and Rose Kitabjian, Araxie Sarkisian, Sarkis and Rita Sunday School Donation Jamgochian, Charles THANK YOU TO ALL WHO HAVE DONATED THIS YEAR AND SUPPORTED OUR BELOVED ST. GREGORY CHURCH! YOUR GENEROSITY IS GREATLY APPRECIATED!

18 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 18 of 24 CHURCH CHATTER Congratulations to Der Hayr, Yeretsgin, Nishan and all of their extended family on the baptism of their son Hovhaness! May God bless him always. The community of St. Gregory Church extends deepest condolences to Andrea Frounjian and her family in the passing of her mother. *** Congratulations to Brett Duffy, recipient of the scholarship from the Armenian American Veterans of Lowell. *** The Ladies Guild members would like to express their gratitude and thanks to all parishioners and friends who donated toward the purchase of the leg of lamb, other miscellaneous items and helped with the Fall Fair. Thank You, The Ladies Guild Executive LETTERS FROM OUR ORPHANS Dear Sponsor, My name is Karig Boghosian. I was born on April 24th, 1997 in the village of Ashnag. I attend the Kevork Chavoosh Middle school and I am in 10th grade. I have the desire to become a policeman. In my spare time I like to play football. I like sports very much. I have a mother, sister, 2 brothers and grandparents. My father passed away when I was very young. My sister is married, my younger brother attends the same school and my older brother is in the service. My mother works at the school and my grandparents receive pension. Love, Karig Boghosian Dear Sponsor, I am so happy to write to you. I am in 12th grade and when I graduate I will continue my education at a higher educational institution to become an accountant. We are looking forward to the Holidays and the New Year. I believe in miracles and ask God to protect you and my family. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Please remember me and wish me well when you celebrate New Year's Eve because you play a great role in my life and make it possible for my dreams to come true. Thank you for helping me and making possible to have a happy future. Love, Lilit Movsissian

19 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 19 of 24 Church picnic attracts spirited crowd By Tom Vartabedian Generations poured onto the church grounds and took over the parking lot at neighboring St. Michael s Church Sept. 8 in what could rightfully be billed as a picnic for the ages. Young and old turned out for the celebration under ideal skies to greet newly-arrived pastor Der Stephan Baljian and applaud a rousing performance by the Siroun Dance Ensemble. The food line never diminished. Neither did the spirit for that matter. If people weren t eating, they were dancing or enjoying one another s company. The Patriots opener was also being viewed inside Jaffarian Hall for football fans. Although this was an opportunity for you to meet me, it also acted in reverse, said Der Stephan. It also introduced me to the community --- one that I m sure I ll embrace. We re already feeling at home here. The Siroun dancers, dressed in colorful red costumes, kicked up a storm. Among the children were the Almasian sisters and Anna Shahtanian, Sunday Schoolers at our church. Co-chairing the picnic were Armen Jeknavorian and John Arzigian, who took over the reins from Vartkes Hovsepian following a decade of service. The picnic committee must be applauded for leaving no stone unturned. Arzigian and his fellow musicians kept the music flowing through the afternoon. Other clergy attending were former pastor Rev.Gomidas Baghsarian; Rev. Archpriest Antranig Baljian, Der Stephan s dad, and Rev. Archpriest Aram Stepanian, whose granddaughter also performed with Siroun.

20 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 20 of 24 ST. GREGORY CALENDAR OF EVENTS Sunday Dec. 22 Christmas Pageant, Luncheon & Party 12:00 PM Tuesday Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Carols 6:00 PM Thursday Jan. 2 Avak Luncheon and program 12:00 PM Sunday Jan. 5 Morning Prayer 10:00 AM Sunday Jan. 5 Armenian Christmas Eve Service 6:00 PM Monday Jan. 6 Armenian Christmas Service 10:00 AM Lunch Following Church Service Tuesday Jan. 14 Men s Club Dinner 6:00 PM Friday Jan. 24 Family Night 6:00 PM Thursday Feb. 6 Avak Luncheon & Program 12:00 PM Tuesday Feb. 11 Men s Club Dinner 6:00 PM Sunday Feb. 9 General Meeting 1:00 PM Sunday Feb. 23 Church Anniversary 1:00 PM Mark your calendars for these upcoming dates!

21 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 21 of 24 ST. GREGORY ARMENIAN APOSTOLIC CHURCH of MERRIMACK VALLEY 158 Main Street, North Andover, Ma Phone: Fax stgregory@saintgregory.org Website: MEMORIAL GARDEN PATIO ENGRAVED BRICK ORDER FORM Applicant s Name: Address: City,StateCode: Daytime Telephone: ( ) Evening Telephone: ( ) Address: Number of Bricks: X $100 each = Total amount enclosed $ Check # enclosed Credit Card type & acct. number: Exp. (mm/yy) Please print clearly, using capital letters or numbers. Armenian lettering is not available. Do not center letters on a line; this will be done in the engraving process. Engraving can be used to recognize a person, family name or special occasion Maximum 17 letters and numbers per line, and maximum 3 lines per brick. (20 letters per line can be done special order for a small additional fee) For additional brick orders please print additional forms or photocopy this form. Bricks will be randomly placed in the Patio Memorial area. Make checks out to St. Gregory Armenian Church.. CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION: Greg Minasian (gminasian@verizon.net) St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church of Merrimack Valley 158 Main Street, North Andover, MA (978) Jaffarian Hall Rental Fee Schedule St. Gregory Church Members $ (Includes Kitchen and Cleanup) Church Parishioners Non-Members $ (Includes Kitchen and Cleanup) Regular Rental Rate $450.00* *Add for Cleanup (if required) $ *Add for Kitchen (if requested) $ Memorial Garden Patio: Includes setting up tables, chairs, tents, electric - $ For more information, contact Greg Minasian, gminasian@verizon.net

22 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 22 of 24

23 AGHAVNI July - December 2013 Page 23 of 24 A & M Appliances 44 Main Street North Andover, MA amappliance@verizon.net Owner: Wayne Borden

24 St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church of Merrimack Valley 158 Main Street North Andover, Massachusetts, NON - PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID ANDOVER, MA PERMIT # 11 VISITORS ARE WELCOME TO WORSHIP WITH US AT ST. GREGORY ARMENIAN APOSTOLIC CHURCH OF MERRIMACK VALLEY 158 Main Street North Andover, MA DIVINE LITURGY BEGINS AT 10:00 AM Directions to St. Gregory Church From SOUTH: Route 495 NORTH to Exit 43 Mass. Avenue, North Andover. At the end of the ramp take a RIGHT onto Mass. Ave and continue to first light. Take a sharp LEFT onto Waverly Road. Continue past first STOP sign to the second STOP sign and take a RIGHT onto Main Street. The church is located at the fork in the road just past the Sovereign and Bank of America banks. From NORTH: Route 495 SOUTH to Exit Merrimack St., Mass. Ave. Follow ramp staying to the RIGHT. Take Exit 44 Merrimack St., Sutton St. At the end of the ramp, take LEFT onto Sutton St., continue over railroad tracks and take a RIGHT at the light onto Main St. The church is located at the fork in the road just past the Sovereign and Bank of America banks. Web: saintgregory@saintgregory.org