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St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church
158 Main Street, North Andover, MA 01845 Tel/Fax: (978) 685-5038
Rev. Fr. Stephan Baljian
Summer 2013
Web: www.saintgregory.org E-mail: [email protected]
Page 2 of 24 AGHAVNI Summer 2013
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
Choir Director:
Knarik Nerkararyan
Newsletter Committee:
Christine Kourkounian , Temporary Editor
Sossy Jeknavorian, Martha Hananian, Tom Vartabedian,
Violet Dagdigian, Lisa Apovian.
A Publication of
St. Gregory Armenian
Apostolic Church
158 Main Street
North Andover, MA 01845
(978) 685-5038
Web: www.saintgregory.org E-mail: [email protected]
AGHAVNI Summer 2013 Page 3 of 24
PASTOR’S MESSAGE “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
We bless you from the house of the Lord.” Psalm
118:26
Dear Parishioners of St. Gregory Church,
The words of this Psalm verse foretell the
coming of a great Messiah, one who comes with the
authority and charge of God himself. It is the most
often used Old Testament prophecy in the Armenian
liturgy describing the advent of God’s anointed one –
or “Christ”- and reminds us that as the Father’s
emissary, the Son comes “in the name of the Lord,”
meaning in unity with the Father, worthy of the same
glory, enabled to act in His name and indeed even to
share the very name “Lord,” along with the Holy
Spirit. This blessed one who came in the name of the
Lord is Jesus of Nazareth, who revealed the very
name of God as “Father,” and who suffered the shame
of the cross, was raised in glory and ascended “to the
Father, from where he came.”
As Christians, we are also called to a blessed
fellowship in Christ’s name, as his ambassadors who
come into the world “in the name of the Lord,” in
order to continue his divine mission of the
regeneration of all Creation. We do this by being
good stewards of the legacy he left us – remembering
his sacrifice with thanksgiving in the Holy Eucharist,
praying for the salvation of the world and fasting in
mourning for its sinfulness, having compassion on the
needy and to preaching the Holy Gospel – less so in
words than in deeds.
Therefore, as dedicated believers in his name,
we greet all who genuinely come in that very name
with blessings, and we all look to the “house of the
Lord” (not the church building itself, but the Body of
Christ) for every kind of spiritual blessing and benefit
that is necessary for a righteous and pure life, the way
that God intends for all his children.
As your new pastor, I humbly come to you in
the name of Jesus our Lord and boldly proclaim him
blessed among his believers. I pray that his blessings
would be upon pastor and flock, as we share
abundantly in the ministry of the one Good Shepherd
of us all. By building up this “house of the Lord” in
our present age and predicament, may we be built into
an eternal house in the heavenly kingdom, where we
may give him unceasing praise unto all eternity!
I am grateful for this opportunity to serve as
you pastor, and I look forward to all the joys and the
sorrows that we will learn to live through together, all
the heights and depths we will aspire to scale and all
the challenges and respites we will attempt to face.
The Armenian Apostolic Church is a sacred treasury
of spirituality, equipping us with the tools of faith,
wisdom and holiness in order to accomplish those
things. By God’s grace, we will set out on our
journey together for the betterment of the North
Andover church community and the greater glory of
God, remaining steadfast to the Holy Tradition of the
Armenian Church and in service to the Armenian
Community in our area.
Yeretsgin Alice and I, along with our two
sons, Nishan and Hovhaness, look forward to joining
the St. Gregory Church family and getting to know
you all in the near future. Although we will be new to
the Merrimack Valley area, we do feel as though we
are coming “home” to Massachusetts, where we both
hail from. We have much optimism for the future of
this parish and we are grateful to be given the
opportunity to be a part of its yet-to-be-written
history!
Please know that we are always accessible to
all parishioners, and that you should never hesitate to
reach out to us should the need arise!
Fr. Stephan Baljian, Pastor
Feast of the Assumption of the Holy Theotokos
August, 2013
Page 4 of 24 AGHAVNI Summer 2013
MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
We hope that everyone is enjoying the summer this
year – it certainly has gone by quickly and it was not
long ago where we were all together congratulating our
children at the commencement and hantess this past
May and saying farewell and best of luck and health to
Der Karekin as he begins his new mission at the
Western Prelacy.
Since Der Karekin’s departure we have been having
Morning Prayer services for the majority of Sundays.
It is clear that we have been blessed to have the
dedication of our deacons, Arek Kalaydjian, John
Saryan, and Avedis Garavanian who have helped us
continue our spiritual journey this summer. The
services helped provide the continuity that we needed
and we are grateful to them and thank them for their
unbridled enthusiasm and commitment to our church.
We also extend our thanks to His Grace Bishop
Anoushavan Tanielian and Der Vasken Bekiarian who
joined us on the few Sundays this summer when we
did have Badarak.
As was in past years, we were blessed to have had two
very successful events both in the month of June – the
Men’s Club sponsored Cigar Night, and the Ladies
Guild sponsored Food Fair. Both events were well
attended and have helped us maintain a level of
financial stability that is always helpful and necessary
for our church. In addition, both were opportunities for
fellowship with friends outside of our community that
is so important to us. Special thanks to the Men’s
Club and the Ladies Guild once again for doing such a
wonderful job.
It would be hard not to notice the changes that have
been going on at St. Gregory. In mid June, demolition
began for the classroom and office areas on the first
floor. This phase of the building project renovation is
expected to be completed in the late fall timeframe. Of
all phases, this, too, is one of the most exciting because
it provides us the opportunity to focus on establishing a
clean, safe, and comfortable environment for our
children as they learn about our Armenian Christian
faith. We are so very grateful for those parishioners
who have once again remained steadfast in committing
to the project financially during this phase.
Remember, any contribution is still worthwhile so
please consider donating to this phase of the project.
At this time, I would like to thank specifically Richard
Shahtanian and Joe Almasian and their entire
committee for getting this very important phase of the
project off the ground.
Perhaps the most exciting news that transpired this
spring was the confirmation from our Prelate, His
Eminence Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, that we
would be receiving a new pastor in the late summer
timeframe. On behalf of the Board of Trustees and our
entire community, I would like to extend a warm
welcome to Der Stephan Baljian, Yeretsgin Alice,
Nishan and Hovhaness. We are looking forward to
their arrival and particularly to Der Stephan’s
leadership and spiritual guidance. I hope you all take
the opportunity to welcome Der Stephan and his family
in your own special way when he arrives.
Der Stephan’s first Badarak at St. Gregory, by the
introduction of His Grace Bishop Anoushavan
Tanielian, will be on Sunday, August 25. A lunch
reception will follow the service. I encourage you all
to attend this very special Badarak as we celebrate his
arrival and welcome him and his entire family to our
community.
We look forward to this period of renewal in our
church and what better time than now to pray for our
future. Pray for our church family as we embark upon
a new journey with Der Stephan. Pray for our brothers
and sisters in Granite City, because we know all too
well the feeling of loss that occurs when a community
loses its pastor. Pray for Der Stephan, Yeretsgin Alice
and their family in that they get situated in our
community and feel welcomed and at home so he is in
the best place possible to provide us with his spiritual
guidance and leadership. Let us all be true partners
and walk with him as he begins his new mission here at
St. Gregory.
Lastly, let us always remember to give thanks to God
for all of the blessings bestowed upon us now and in
the future. Looking forward to seeing you all in
church!
Christine Kourkounian
Chairwoman, Board of Trustees
AGHAVNI Summer 2013 Page 5 of 24
A DIVINE HOMECOMING FOR REV. STEPHAN BALJIAN
By Tom Vartabedian
The affable cleric will be leaving his inaugural parish in
Granite City and heading east where he will pastor St.
Gregory Church of North Andover beginning in
September.
The parish he inherits from Rev. Karekin Bedourian is
about 30 miles north of Watertown where he was raised
and spiritually refined by his dad, Rev. Archpriest
Antranig Baljian, long-time pastor of St. Stephen’s
Church.
Rev. Fr. Stephan Baljian
“Father Karekin and I were in the seminary together in
Antelias and enjoyed a close friendship over our young
religious careers,” said Fr. Stephan. “He helped me quite
a bit in my knowledge of Armenian. We have very
similar lifestyles with young children. It’s ironic that we
should be changing churches at the same time across
country.” Fr. Karekin is now pastor at Church of the
Forty Martyrs in Orange County, Calif. He had served
the North Andover and Merrimack Valley community
for three years.
The younger Baljian will be joined by his wife Alice, a
registered nurse, and two young children, Nishan and
Hovhaness (Hovig), ages 2 and 3 months. Families from
both sides will be greeting them with open arms upon his
arrival.
Fr. Baljian has pastored St Gregory the Illuminator
parish since 2008. During his tenure there, cultural and
educational events were conducted frequently.
The flip side is one heavily endowed with music and the
fine arts. Were it possible, he would conduct Holy
Badarak with one hand and play the organ with another.
His resume with the musical world compares favorably
with that of his priesthood. At a time when the Boston
Symphony welcomes new conductor Andris Nelsons, it
coincides with his appointment in North Andover. Both
are 34 years of age.
“I thought it might be an interesting parallel,” he quickly
notes. “I’m also looking forward to attending concerts at
the Methuen Memorial Music Hall with its world-
famous organ.” His dexterity on the organ is matched
by his voice. An experienced choral singer, he has
enjoyed singing with the Springfield (MA) Symphony
Chorus, UMass Chamber Choir, Madrigal Singers and
Five College Early Music Collegium, along with the
Boston Symphony Orchestra Tanglewood Festival
Chorus and Newton Choral Society. Between 2008-
2013 when he was in the Metro St. Louis area, Fr.
Stephan sang with the St. Louis Symphony Chorus.
Rev. Fr. Stephan Baljian, Yeretsgin Alice, Nishan (left),
Hovhaness (right)
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.
Page 6 of 24 AGHAVNI Summer 2013
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 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 1996. 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. 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 2003.
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.
Fr. Stephan is the youngest to ever graduate
from the Prelacy’s St. Gregory of Datev Institute where
he later 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 2012. 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.
AGHAVNI Summer 2013 Page 7 of 24
Page 8 of 24 AGHAVNI Summer 2013
CHURCH CHATTER Congratulations to Melanie Saryan, daughter of Dr.
John and Debra Saryan on her graduation from
Bentley University with a Bachelor of Science degree
in Marketing and Public Relations.
Congratulations to Dr. Diana (Saryan) Balekian,
daughter of Dr. John and Debra Saryan on her
graduation from her Pediatric Residency Program at
Mass General Hospital. Diana will start a Fellowship
in Allergy and Immunology at MGH in July.
Congratulations also to Diana's husband, Dr. Diran
Balekian who graduated from his General Practice
Residency Program in Dentistry at Tufts University
School of Dental Medicine. He will practice in
Arlington and Nashua, NH.
Congratulations to Antranig Kalaydjian, son of
Deacon Arek Kalaydjian and Lisa Loosigian on his
graduation from U Mass Medical School in
Worcester with the degree of M.D. he will do his first
year of residency in Internal Medicine at U Mass
Medical Center and continue his internship in
Anesthesiology at St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Boston.
Congratulations to Tim Kublbeck, son of Jane
Kublbeck on his graduation from Salem, NH High
School. Tim will be attending Nothern Essex College.
Congratulations to Greg Gregorian on his graduation
from West Point as Second Lieutenant, United States
Military Academy.
Congratulations to Armen Hovsepian and Anna
Shahtanian, recipients of the 2nd and 3rd place
awards in Jr. High level and Matt Kochakian 2nd
place award in the High School level in an essay
contest sponsored by the Armenian Genocide
Commemorative Committee of Merrimack
Valley.
* * *
The entire St. Gregory community extends deepest
condolences to Debra Ozoonian and her family in the
passing of her mother Mrs. Sylvia Ozoonian.
The St. Gregory community also extends its deepest
condolences to Karen Aznoian and her entire family
in the passing of her father, Mr. Leonard Uzar.
* * *
Thank you to all for all of the get well wishes during
my recent illness.
Thank you, Nancy Vartabedian
* * *
The Ladies Guild members would like to express
their gratitude and thanks to all parishioners and
friends who donated their time and helped with the
Food Fair on June 22nd.
Thank You, The Ladies Guild Executive
LETTER FROM ONE OF OUR ORPHANS
Dear Sponsor,
My name is Tavit and I am from Sevan. I am attending the Medical School at the Yerevan State University. I
would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your benevolence and for sponsoring me. I wish you good
health and happiness and the best things in the world. I will always remember you and your good deeds.
Respectfully,
Tavit Movsisyan
AGHAVNI Summer 2013 Page 9 of 24
“A FRIENDSHIP THAT WILL NEVER VANISH IN SMOKE”
by Tom Vartabedian
If Greg Minasian is remembered for anything in his
afterlife, it would be the profitable and eclectic cigar
nights he organized for St. Gregory Church in his
Merrimack Valley community of North Andover.
He did this in the name of his good friend Rev. Vartan
Kassabian who pastored this church for six years
before joining the Lord in 2009.
No doubt when the two of them are reunited in the
hereafter, they’ll catch up on old news over a good
cigar and a glass of brandy. Except for God and
family, nothing relaxed the cleric more than a good
libration and a Cuban corona if he could get his hands
on one. He wasn’t fussy.
You could always count upon Der Vartan for a timely
sermon. He mesmerized the youth of his community
and endeared himself to the elderly. After 15 years of
service, he was just getting started in his vocation.
In his spirit, some 140 guests gathered at his former
church for the annual cigar extravaganza. Included in
the crowd were his Yeretskin Pauline and son Mgo, a
chip off his dad’s block.
Some years ago, with the renovation of a new
Jaffarian Hall, the church authorities decided to
dispense with Bingo. It wasn’t for the money or lack
of it. After 35 years, they decided it was time to call
one last game and so, the fund-raiser had run its
course.
So what would the church do for an alternative plan?
“Why not a cigar night?” proposed Minasian.
A what?” came the chorus of surprised trustees. “You
want to turn this brand new church hall into a cloud of
smoke. Perhaps we better bring back Bingo or look
into a Las Vegas night. Maybe a golf tourney would
be nice. Who smokes tobacco these days?”
In these days of exorbitant church finances, people are
looking for innovative ways to secure revenue. Dues
alone will not hack it, or the weekly collection plate.
Somehow, the annual budget needed some substitute
measures to account for a sudden $30,000 deficit.
The beloved Rev. Fr. Vartan Kassabian
and Greg Minasian
Minasian’s idea received as much attention as a puff
until they heard his plan. He would carry on in the
best memory of his friend, Der Vartan, and bring
people together for one night in an arena of fun and
frolic.
Let them smoke their cigars in the outside courtyard
which is named in the priest’s honor. Give them a
gourmet’s meal, open up the bar, and offer gifts for
both a live and silent auction. Build your stadium and
they will come.
Eat, drink and be merry. That’s the set formula here.
Get people to donate. Contact the Boston sports teams
and ask for memorabilia. Who wouldn’t pay top dollar
for an autographed Ted Williams photograph
swinging a bat? Or Larry Bird going high above the
net for a score?
A coveted Michael Jackson disc with his photo would
surely attract some fan. There may even be a tender
spot for a framed Disney caricature of Mickey &
friends. Even Al Pacino could fetch a good bid.
While second-guessing myself initially, I hopped
aboard the bandwagon. After seeing a capacity crowd
showing up year after year for these soirees, it didn’t
take much else to convince me. If it works once, don’t
kill it.
Page 10 of 24 AGHAVNI Summer 2013
What became most obvious was the camaraderie that
surfaced with each encore. Even more conspicuous
were the memories being shared for the affable priest
who left his community all too prematurely.
With Minasian cultivating the seed of fertility here,
others joined along. A dynamic committee was
formed that left no stone unturned. Women began to
show, not the smoking sort. Those who didn’t take
their cigars outdoors were giving them to the
relatively few smokers.
I’m one of those who can no long indulge. For 40
years, I smoked a pipe until my cardiologist read me
the riot act. When I mumbled something about “an
occasional cigar,” he was relentless.
“You’re a heart patient,” he told me. “Nothing. Go to
one of those old confectionary stores and maybe you
can find a cigar made from bubble gum. Have a good
time pretending.”
Like the others, you don’t need a cigar to join this
club. Only a little esprit de corps.
Minasian was in his element this evening. He got a
little sentimental over an introduction he made about
his priestly sidekick. No doubt, the inimitable Der
Vartan was smiling down upon his flock. A little
fortification helped matters.
Greg Minasian’s tribute to his late friend will always
burn slowly and evenly --- like a good cigar.
SCENES FROM CIGAR NIGHT 2013
AGHAVNI Summer 2013 Page 11 of 24
SCENES FROM FOOD FAIR 2013
SCENES FROM COMMENCEMENT & HANTESS 2013
Page 12 of 24 AGHAVNI Summer 2013
CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2013
Sunday August 25 First Badarak Der Stephan Baljian 10:00 AM
His Grace Anoushavan Srpazan
Presiding over Badarak
Sunday Sept. 8 Church Picnic 12:30 - 5:30 PM
Friday Sept. 27 Family Night 6:00 PM
Thursday Oct. 3 Avak Luncheon & program 12:00 PM
Tuesday Oct. 8 Men's Club Dinner 6:00 PM
Sunday Oct. 13 Town Hall Forum Following Services
Saturday Oct. 26 Fall Fair 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday Nov. 6 Food Tasting Event 6:30 PM
Thursday Nov. 7 Avak Luncheon and Program 12:00 PM
Tuesday Nov. 12 Men's Club Dinner 6:00 PM
Friday Nov. 22 Family Night Thanksgiving Dinner 6:00 PM
Thursday Dec. 5 Avak Luncheon & Program 12:00 PM
Tuesday Dec. 10 Men's Club Dinner 6:00 PM
Sunday Dec. 22 Christmas Pageant & Party 12:00 - 2:00 pm
SPECIAL NOTE FROM OUR LADIES GUILD
WE NEED YOU!
The Fall Festival is fast approaching and we need your help!
If you would like to chair one of the Committees, please call Sossy
@ (978) 256 - 2538 or Email [email protected]
Pastry Table Armenian kitchen Kitchen Raffles + Wheel
Serving Line Publicity Set up & clean up White Elephant
As always, we welcome all of your new ideas!
The Ladies Guild
AGHAVNI Summer 2013 Page 13 of 24
To all our returning and new
Armenian and Sunday school families!
A Warm welcome!
We hope you have had an enjoyable and fun summer so far. During this time the Armenian and Sunday
school staff have been getting ready for the start of the 2013-2014 school year. Please note that there will
be an Open House held on Sunday, September 15th, starting at 10:30 a.m. to register for class. Information
will be given out at this time on plans for the upcoming school year as well as an opportunity for students to
meet their teachers. There will be light refreshments served and no formal classes that day.
The first official day of Sunday and Armenian School will be Sunday, September 22nd. Armenian school
begins at 10:00 a.m. and Sunday school begins at 10:45 am.
Enjoy the rest of your summer and we look forward to seeing you on September 15th.
ST. Gregory Town Hall Forum
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Immediately following divine liturgy
Join us for an
informational update and
question and answer session
Sponsored by Der Stephan Baljian and
the Board of Trustees
Page 14 of 24 AGHAVNI Summer 2013
LUCY DAGHLIAN PERSONIFIES ARMENIAN MOTHER
By Tom Vartabedian
Washington, DC --- In this year of the Armenian
mother as proposed by the Armenian Apostolic
Church, one individual stood out among the rest
during the National Representative Assembly (NRA)
Convention held during the week of May 12 in our
nation’s capitol.
Throughout her life as a devout Yeretskin, Lucy
Daghlian served her church and beloved Der Arshag
with uncompromising loyalty. She brought five
children into the world --- all of them college-educated
and ethnic strong. She cultivated the world around her
with passion.
In every regard, Yeretskin Lucy not only fit the mold,
she broke it.
At the NRA banquet, she was toasted as Woman of the
Year before a crowd of some 300 guests which filled
the hall at Soorp Khatch Church in nearby Bethesda,
MD.
The well-guarded secret was finally revealed when
Lucy observed her grandsons scurrying about the
premises. “Odd that they might be here,” she thought.
A very touching introduction was rendered by the
honoree’s son, John, himself a member of the
Prelacy’s Executive Council and ordained deacon,
aside from his years as a trustee at St. Stephen’s
Church, Watertown.
“Everything we’ve ever accomplished in life can be
traced back to our parents,” said John Daghlian. “Our
mother kept us all together with her spirit and strong
devotion to God.”
Anyone who knows Lucy Daghlian can attest to her
role as matriarch and church Yeretskin. Well into their
marriage with a family living in Beirut, she was met
with the news one day that her mechanic-wise husband
had chosen a life of God. Little did she ever realize at
the time that such a venerable service would cover five
decades of deep-rooted conviction.
Yeretskin Lucy Daghlian is surrounded by family members after
presentation by His Grace Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan.
“There was a shortage of priests,” Lucy recalled. “I
was surprised but not totally amazed by his decision. I
could see the happiness in his eyes.”
Every trial and tribulation of priesthood was exercised
as a tandem, along with every joy and celebration.
A stickler for high education, she and Der Hayr
weathered many a storm in putting their children
through Merrimack College --- the same school where
Der Arshag also secured a degree while pasturing St.
Gregory Church.
The Daghlians never left North Andover, even after
Der Arshag’s pastorship there ended after 15 years.
She was there another 20 years as her husband
maintained a dutiful role as “traveling priest.” One
Sunday, Worcester. Another Sunday, Waukegan.
Airports became a way of life for them. Whenever
possible, she would accompany her husband to a
distant church. Der Arshag wound up serving 19
different congregations for the Eastern Prelacy as far
south as Florida and as far west as Illinois and
Wisconsin.
AGHAVNI Summer 2013 Page 15 of 24
Airport food was a fry cry from the delicious
Armenian cuisine Lucy would prepare each day for
her family. Her sanctuary at home has served as a
haven with its abundant horticulture and the many
feathered friends and other wildlife at their beckoning
call.
These days, it’s not only her own children that bring
her pride and joy, but seven grandchildren as well.
Both John and Nora (Sarajian) became civil engineers.
Houry is a doctor of pharmacy and NRA delegate from
St. Stephen’s. Sonia works as an ICU nurse. A fourth
daughter Aida Chareth died in 2000 after working as a
technical writer.
In accepting her award from Archbishop Oshagan
Choloyan, you could cut the emotion with a knife as
the crowd rose in applause.
Yeretskin Lucy looked over her grateful audience with
a gleam in her eye. “It’s all about God and family,”
she said. “I’ve been blessed with the greatest gifts of
all.”
A token of appreciation was also paid to Mary
Garabadian for her active support in the church, along
with the youth who played a prominent role.
SCENES FROM NRA 2013
Page 16 of 24 AGHAVNI Summer 2013
DONATIONS
Easter Donations
Afarian, Khatcher and Mary Ann
Almasian, Joe and Kim
Apovian, James and Ann
Apovian, Selma
Arakelian, John and Elizabeth
Avedisian, Carole
Azarian, Harry and Rose
Aznoian, Marlene
Bebirian, Helen
Bebirian, Michael and Elaine
Bedrosian, John and Mrgaret
Bizios, Armena
Boghosian, Doris
Bogosian, Mary and Zaven
Bogosian, Paul and Kathy
Boloian, Michael and Chake'
Brundage, Theresa
Dagdigian, Joe and Lisa
Dargoonian, Garabed
Deeran, Dorothy
Demoorjian, Paul and Beverly
Der Apkarian, Aram
Der Apkarian, Sharke
Dulgarian, Stephen and Angele'
Fantazian, James
Foley, Mary
Goshdigian, Gabriel and Theresa
Gostanian, Richard and Kathryn Veselic
Gregorian, Felix and Candace
Guzelian, Charles and Karen
Hagopian, Randall and Dara
Hagopian, Armen
Hananian, Martha
Hazavartian, Michael
Hekimian, Frank and Barbara
Heliotis, Louis and Suzanne
Hidirsah, Armand and Joanne
Hovanasian, Henry and Susan
Hovsepian, Vartkes and Nina
Jeknavorian, Armen and Sossy
Jeknavorian, John and Karen Jeknavorian
Johnson, Gregory and Mary Lou
Karibian, Julien and Claire
Kassabian, Pauline
Keshian, James and Elaine
Khanbegian, Peter and Jean
Kitabjian, Araxie
Kochakian, Charles and Elizabeth
Kochakian, Robert and Susan
Koobatian, Rose
Kopoyan, Todd and Lara
Kourkounian, Armen and Christine
Krikorian, Ida
Kulungian, John and Susan
Madoian, Elizabeth
Mahlebjian, Steve and Sylvia
Movsesian, Alexander and Diane
Narzakian, Rose
Nazarian, Stephen, A.
Nicolosi, Louis and Pamela
Ohannessian, Emmanuel and Seta
Ovian, Diana and Karnig
Palanjian, Nellie and Marion
Pellicio, Albert and Rose Marie
Sarkisian, Olga
Sarkisian, Sarkes and Rita
Saryan, John and Debra
Sasso, Enrico and Rosalie
Shahtanian, Richard and Karen
Shrestinian, Ara and Ginny
Soghigian, Karekin and Rose Marie
Stevens, Charla
Strong, William and Cheryl
Tateosian, Lydia
Thomassian, J. Marie
Thomaseli, Jeannine
Vartabedian, Tom and Nancy
Voskian, Michael and Thelma
Donations
Demoorjian, Paul and Beverly - Altar Flowers
Arzigian, John - In Memory of Margaret Barber
Antonitis, Richard, Diane, Melanie
Alison, Rich, Riley and Alana Carr - In Memory of
Lucille Guzelian
Kalousdian, Michele - In Memory of Peter
Kalousdian
AGHAVNI Summer 2013 Page 17 of 24
St. Gregory Q2 Financials - April - June 2013 Apr 2013 May 2013 Jun 2013 Total
Contributions Income
Altar Flowers Donations $0 $25 $0 $25
Avak Luncheon $184 $185 $0 $369
Baptisms $300 $200 $0 $500
General Donations $100 $545 $100 $745
Holiday Donations $0 $0 $0 $0
Holiday Donation-Easter 2013 $360 $0 $0 $360
Total Holiday Donations $360 $0 $0 $360
Weekly Church Plate $1,254 $1,398 $494 $3,146
Special Plate Collections $14 $300 $0 $314
Total Weekly Church Plate $1,268 $1,698 $494 $3,460
Weekly Door & Church Candles $112 $111 $98 $321
Weekly Requiem Service $600 $1,460 $150 $2,210
Total Contributions Income $2,924 $4,224 $842 $7,990
Hall Rental $0 $350 $700 $1,050
Membership/Stewardship $0 $0 $0 $0
Membership Stewardship -2013 $3,950 $1,260 $4,875 $10,085
Total Membership/Stewardship $3,950 $1,260 $4,875 $10,085
Miscellaneous Income $265 $150 $0 $415
Newsletter $0 $0 $0 $0
Newsletter-Ads $700 $0 $25 $725
Total Newsletter $700 $0 $25 $725
Schools(Armenian & Sunday) $0 $478 $0 $478
Sunday School Orphan Fund $41 $15 $0 $56
Total Schools (Armenian & Sunday)
$41 $493 $0 $534
Total Q2 Income $7,880 $6,477 $6,442 $20,799
Total Q2 Expenses $15,500 $11,173 $4,549 $31,222
Q2 Net Income/Loss -$7,619 -$4,696 $1,893 -$10,423
Page 18 of 24 AGHAVNI Summer 2013
ARZIGIAN PITCHES A HAND FOR HIS CHURCH
By Tom Vartabedian
When it comes to helping his church, John Arzigian is
taking a giant step forward --- with a power washer.
Over the past few months, Arzigian has made the
rounds from one cemetery to another, power-washing
headstones that have long stood the test of time.
Thus far, the count is up to 18 with others lined up
through the fall. All proceeds earned from his mission
have gone directly to St. Gregory Church, resulting in
hundreds of dollars.
“I realize that I’m probably going to be the last one in
my family to be cleaning and responsible for our
headstones,” said Arzigian. “My sister Diane (a former
Sunday School teacher here) and I go a couple times a
year to clean, clear and then plant new flowers at the
cemetery.”
Last year Arzigian noticed a significant build-up of
Lichens on a few of them. The headstones looked dirty
with grass and other dirt-type stains. In some cases, the
names and dates were illegible.
He did some checking on cleaning instructions, called
the cemeteries for permission and thus began his
venture. No chemicals were ever used and the results
were amazing. Arzigian approached the trustees with
the idea of asking parishioners if they would like to
have this service performed --- and the idea caught on.
Three different days took him to as many cemeteries,
resulting in 18 beautifully-cleaned headstones.
With the money raised going to the church, Arzigian
felt it was a “win-win” situation. The next headstones
will be cleaned in October and those wishing to
participate may call him at (603) 560-3826. By doing
so, you’ll also be helping the church.
Says trustee Vartkes Hovsepian, “John’s a warm-
hearted soul who performed God’s work. It’s very
inspiring to see people like this step forward to
perform a valuable service in time of need. He
volunteered his time, equipment and bare hands to the
loved ones of our community and I find that
commendable.”
When the need went out for someone to chair the
picnic committee, Arzigian stepped forward once
again with Armen Jeknavorian. The two have replaced
Hovsepian, who held the post for over a decade. The
picnic will take place Sunday, Sept. 8, on our church
grounds.
Arzigian, a popular musician, is also chairing a
committee planning a unity dance Oct. 19 at Michael’s
Function Hall in Haverhill, joined by parishioners
from different parishes. Proceeds from this affair will
benefit all Armenian churches in Merrimack Valley,
including our own.
Various musicians throughout New England will be
singing and playing the night away in what will be a 6-
hour gig. Middle-Eastern food will also be served.
Arzigian visited with church pastors and trustees in
gaining their confidence toward the project.
“Music has brought me closer to my brothers and
sisters,” he says. “It’s given me a greater appreciation
of the arts. Now I’m using this medium to bring our
people together.”
AGHAVNI Summer 2013 Page 19 of 24
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AGHAVNI Summer 2013 Page 23 of 24
A & M Appliances 44 Main Street
North Andover, MA 01845
Owner: Wayne Borden
NON - PROFIT
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
ANDOVER, MA
PERMIT # 11
St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church
of Merrimack Valley
158 Main Street
North Andover, Massachusetts, 01845
ST. GREGORY ARMENIAN APOSTOLIC CHURCH
OF MERRIMACK VALLEY
158 Main Street North Andover, MA
DIVINE LITURGY BEGINS AT 10:00 AM
VISITORS ARE WELCOME
TO WORSHIP WITH US AT
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 44-43 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: www.saintgregory.org E-mail:[email protected]