2
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Varoujan Der Simonian, Chair 224-1000W
Levon Baladjanian, Vice-Chair 439-6601H
Mary Ekmalian, Secretary 1.310.291.3550C
Hagop Krioghlian, Treasurer 439-0865W Berj Apkarian 324-7847H
Richard Bedoian 264-7734H
Ara Jierian 436-0291H
Barbara Mortanian 431-6902H
Michael Sarabian 493-2900W
DELEGATES
Berj Apkarian 324-7847H
Levon Baladjanian 439-6601H
Varoujan Der Simonian 224-1000W
Hagop Krioghlian 439-0865W
Serpouhie Messerlian 298-0445H
Bill Sahatdjian 438-4233H
Mark Shirin 226-5318W
LADIES’ GUILD
Virginia Sarabian, Chair 486-1637 H
MEN’S SOCIETY
Richard Bedoian, Chair 264-7734H
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
Garo Poladian, Chair 237-8230W
ADMINISTRATION
Nazik Arisian, Secretary 486-1141W
Hagop Ohanessian, Office Assistant
Diana Shirin, Volunteer Coordinator
Tomas Santoyo, Custodian 355-0816C
CHOIR
Shoghig Papoyan Aladjian, 277-0888H
Director 304-0888C
Serpouhie Messerlian, Chair 298-0445H
ORGANIST
Naira Shahsouvarian 323-0457
SUNDAY SCHOOL
Sato Sanikian, Superintendent 486-0111
Leslie Antazo, Secretary 486-0111
YOUTH GROUP
Jason Davis 433-7066
WEDDING COORDINATOR
Lucille Gahvejian 431-4534H
Ս. ԵրրáրդութÇւն Հայաստանեայց Առաքելական
Մայր Եկեղեցի
Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Mother Church 2226 Ventura Street - Fresno, California 93721
Ðá·»õáñ ÐáíÇõ – Parish Priest ²ñÅ. î. ì³Ñ³Ý øÑÝÛ. Îáëï³Ý»³Ý - Fr. Vahan Gosdanian
E-mail: [email protected] (559) 492-3423 H (559) 260-6556 C
OFFICE HOURS: Monday-Friday 9:00AM-5:00PM
Church: (559) 486-1141 - FAX: (559) 486-1939
Sunday School (559) 486-0111
www.holytrinityfresno.org
Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America His Eminence Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate 818-248-7737
Executive Council Representative - Deacon Mark Shirin 559-265-4326
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4
PRELATE'S EASTER MESSAGE
GOLGOTHA TO RESURRECTION:
THE PATH TO GLORY
The Resurrection of Christ, the core of our Christian faith, stirs our hearts
and souls once again with the inspiring and heartening promise of hope; hope that
suffering will give way to triumph and glory. The Easter message is one of victory
and liberation; it is triumph of life over the bonds of sin and death, of good over the
dark forces of evil, of love over the destructive emotion of hate, and of truth and
righteousness over the thin veil of falsehood. The power and promise of the
Resurrection is ever-so consequential this year as we commemorate the 100th
anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.
The path from the Cross to the Crown, from Golgotha to the right hand of
the throne of God, was one of great suffering. Our Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God,
was rejected, persecuted, mocked, spat on, struck, and with a crown of thorns upon
His head, walked to Golgotha to be crucified. He was buried in a cave, laid in another
man’s tomb, as those who sought to put an end to His mission were deemed
victorious. His disciples were left distraught and defeated at the suffering their
beloved teacher had endured; the accusations and slander, betrayal and arrest,
condemnation and torture, and ultimately, His death on the Cross.
Behold, the veil of doubt was torn off and the trumpet of victory was blown
on Sunday morning when Christ rose from the dead, trampling down death by death,
and heralding the promise of everlasting life. Christ’s opponents had in vain tried to
silence Him and put an end to His ministry, for the adversity and suffering they
brought upon Him was the fulfillment of prophesy, “that the Son of Man must suffer
many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of
the law, and that he must be killed and after three days rise again” (Mark 8:31).
The disciples who bore witness to the glorious vision of the Risen Christ
took on a new life, one of revitalized faith and hope. Driven by the motivational
words of their teacher, “Be encouraged, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33),
they marched forward fearlessly, at the cost of their own lives, to illuminate the
world with the life-saving and life-giving message of the Resurrection. Their path
and mission was not an easy one. They endured persecution, torture, and death, but
the followers of Christ did not waver. Strengthened and comforted by the Lord’s
promise, that “He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live” (John
11:25), they became martyrs for the faith and were rewarded with the crown of
eternal blessedness.
The Armenian nation has walked the path of Christ for the centuries since
the illustrious disciples spread the Light of Christ to the Armenian people. We have
lived through the turmoil of countless occupations, exiled from our lands, our identity
and very existence threatened. Our path to an independent and Christian Armenia has
not been a smooth one. It has been paved with the sweat and tears and the suffering
and blood of our ancestors, from the fields of Avarayar to the Hamidian massacres,
Adana and Smyrna, Sumgait and Baku, to the borders of Artsakh today, and most
especially, the Armenian Genocide of 1915. The searing desert of Der Zor became
the Armenian Golgotha, and the Euphrates, the tomb of our people.
5
But as the enemies of Christ in vain attempted to put an end to His life and ministry,
so too did the enemies of the Armenian people in vain attempt to annihilate the
Armenian people. Armed with the indestructible faith and hope of the Resurrection,
the Armenian nation was reborn from the ashes of the Genocide. “Now thanks be to
God Who always leads us in triumph in Christ” (2 Cor inthians 2:14).
Dear faithful,
The Resurrection is our reality, our hope, our victory, and our path from
suffering to glory. Our history has proven that “If God is for us, who can be against
us? (Romans 8:31). Our mar tyrs put on the full armor of God and always
abided in Christ. They put aside self and shed their blood for the victory of
protecting and preserving our faith and identity. And now, a century after their great
sacrifice, they will be canonized into the sainthood for their martyrdom as a
profession of faith. They crossed the path from untold suffering to “the riches of the
glory of His inheritance” (Ephesians 1:18). “Blessed are those who are
persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of
heaven” (Matthew 5:10), blessed are our mar tyrs who will soon be our
intercessors before God.
One hundred long years have passed. We lost our best and brightest, our
most prominent intellectuals, clergy, writers, teachers, and professionals in all
fields. Millions of Armenians were not born as a result of the Genocide. But if
“tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character,
hope” (Romans 5:3-4), as wrote the Apostle Paul, then we are a nation of
extraordinary perseverance, character, and hope. From the early days of our history,
to Der Zor and beyond, we have suffered but not faltered. We have risen again and
again, and today, we have an independent homeland and ten million Armenians in
the world to attest to our triumph. Furthermore, we have made significant
contributions to the world with important innovations in various arenas including
medicine, science, technology, arts, and more. Inspired by the legacy of our
forefathers, the Armenian people will endure and will emerge victorious. As the
heirs of a resurrected nation, we will persevere in our path as we remember and
demand justice for our martyrs.
On this holiest of holy days, we extend our paternal love and blessings to
our clergy, councils, parishes, schools, committees, sister organizations, and faithful
parishioners, praying for the glory of the Risen Christ to fill us with a hope, joy, and
peace which comes from God alone. May the transformative and enlivening
message of the Resurrection continue to resonate throughout the hearts and souls of
each and every Armenian individually and throughout our nation collectively,
spurring us in our pursuit of truth and righteousness.
With faith, hope, patience, and with God and the truth on our side, our path
will lead us to glory and we will stand up to our opponents and forcefully proclaim;
“O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?”(1 Cor . 15:55)
CHRIST IS RISEN FROM THE DEAD
BLESSED IS THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST
Prayerfully,
Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian
Easter 2015 Prelate, Western United States
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Get Well Soon! The Pastor and the Board of Trustees wish to
express to all church members who are ill and not feeling well
(listed or not listed below), a speedy recovery.
Lalig Bayrakdarian Pat Bouloutian Khatchig Mihranian
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Message From the Board Varoujan Der Simonian, Chair
Our Treasure
On a Friday night in March, the Church social hall was packed for a community
fundraising event. Our catering group was serving one of their well-known dinners. I
was “recruited to be trained” for the possibility of a promotion in the future to help the
group when needed. The guests had a great time, admired our beautiful social hall,
had the opportunity to visit the courtyard and learn about our faith and culture. “We
did not know such a beautiful place exists in Downtown Fresno!” one of the visitors
told me.
After the event was over, members of the Men’s Society began to clean the hall and
prepare for Sunday coffee hour. It appeared to me that these guys were having more
fun at 11pm than when they were cooking and serving food few hours prior!
Next morning, Levon received the following note from their representative: “Thank
you so much for making our event so beautiful! We had so many compliments on the
delicious food! The evening was perfect.”
The next two weeks were more impressive to observe. Spearheaded by Susie
Parnagian, once again she and her team spent countless hours preparing for yet
another remarkable service to our church! “It is amazing how our community comes
together when our church calls for support,” said board member Ara Jierian after our
recent two day lunch delivery marathon when some 300 volunteers came together to
help our Church! My heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of you.
The following day, Men’s Society members prepared the social hall to serve our
Annual Pancake Breakfast. “Varoujan, should I call you when I get up in the
morning?” asked Marvin with a twinkle in his eyes, while washing one of the yalanchi
pans. Simultaneously, some Youth Group members were decorating the church with
palm fronds and the Vacation Bible School Committee was readying their display to
announce the upcoming summer program Weird Animals. Palm Sunday's Annual
Pancake Breakfast was enjoyed by Sunday School students as well as many others.
As my term in serving you on the Board of Trustees comes to a conclusion, I am
humbled by the dedication I have observed from our members to our church, which is
hard to surpass! It is evident to me that we are in unison in embracing Holy Trinity as
our collective Treasure! A testimony to the biblical verse: “For where your treasure
is, there will your heart be also.” Mathew 6:21 and Luke 12:34. Indeed, your hearts
and souls are in our church!
I have had the utmost satisfaction of being your servant. And, with outgoing board
members Richard Bedoian and Barbara Mortanian, I want to thank my colleagues and
everyone who has encouraged our efforts. Richard and Barbara join me with the
following words expressed by William Saroyan: “I did my best, and let me urge you
to do your best, too. Isn’t it the least we can do to one another?”
9
The New Courtyard is looking better every day!
Preparing Pancake Breakfast & Late Night Cleaning
10
Pictures From Food Deliveries
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ENGAGEMENT
BAPTISM
Congratulations to ANDREW MELKONIAN AND MEGAN
HOVANNISIAN who were engaged on Saturday, March 14,
2015 at Pardinis Banquet Hall. Father Vahan Gosdanian was
present to bless the rings. We also congratulate their parents
Kenny & Lisa Melkonian and John & Karen Hovannisian Jr,
grandparents Nan Melkonian, Avis & Diana Chilingerian, and
John & Vars Hovannisian Sr.
Congratulations to Der Vahan Gosdanian on the 22nd Year
Anniversary of his ordination into the priesthood. We also
congratulate Yeretzgin Sossy Gosdanian and daughter Rita-
Marie Gosdanian on this happy occasion. May God bless Der
Hayr & his family!
On Saturday, March 21, 2015 REAGAN
ELIZABETH SATTERBERG received the
Sacrament of Baptism. We congratulate her
parents Domenick & Lisa Satterberg. We also
congratulate Godparents Stephen & Michelle
Brown and grandparents Ann Satterberg, Jerry
& Valerie Satterberg, Marilynn & Joe Fazio.
Reagan is the great-granddaughter of the late
John & Dorothy Shamshoian. We congratulate
baby Reagan Elizabeth on reaching this
spiritual milestone.
SAVE THE DATE:
Family Night
Sunday, April 26, 2015
5:30 pm Church Social Hall
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IF YOU KNOW A HIGH SCHOOL OR COLLEGE
GRADUATE OF ARMENIAN DESCENT…
PLEASE CONTACT THE CHURCH OFFICE AT 559-486-1141
SO THAT WE MAY JOYFULLY INVITE HIM/HER TO BE OUR GUEST AT THE 16th ANNUAL
GRADUATE LUNCHEON
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Joseph Castro President of Fresno State University
Master of Ceremonies: Connor Esraelian
SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015, AT 1:00 P.M. The gathering will take place in the
Holy Trinity Social Hall, located on the corner of Ventura and “M” Street
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Saturday School News By: Nazik Arisian
On Saturday, March 7, 2015, the 2nd and 3rd level classes of the ARS Sophia
Chapter Saturday Armenian School held at the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic
Church, supervised by teachers Sosse and Haverj, Teacher Assistant Lisa,
Principal Nazik, went on a field trip to see and observe the Statue of David of
Sassoon located at the corner of M and Tulare Streets in Fresno, California. The
weather was “iffy” with a promise of rain; however, when the group started their
walk down “M” street, the weather couldn’t be nicer.
It was a wonderful way to affirm the study of “Sassountsi David” by the students.
The students observed many symbols that Artist Varaz Samuelian had placed on
the statue and discussed their meanings, relating to being Armenian. After taking
some pictures and videos, everyone got back to school in time for dismissal.
This is an example of many wonderful things that are taught in the school.
Classes are held every Saturday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. We encourage all
(ages 4 and up) who are interested in learning how to speak, read, and write
Armenian, while learning anything and everything else Armenian, please call
Nazik Arisian for more information at 559-974-3089.
The school will mark the end of the year with a Program (hantes) on Thursday,
May 21 at 6:00 pm in the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church social hall.
Please encourage us with your attendance. Admission is free.
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FUNERAL/GRAVESIDE SERVICES
Funeral Services were held for MARY J. NOROIAN on
Wednesday, March 18, 2015. Interment was held at Masis Ararat
Cemetery. Our sincere condolences to her son Steven Noroian,
nephews Bob, Chuck, and David Casparian.
Graveside Services were held for BABY LEO ARAKELIAN on
Saturday, March 14, 2015. Interment was held at Masis Ararat
Cemetery. Our sincere condolences to parents Armond & Araks
Arakelian.
Funeral Services were held for SALAH HILMI on
Thursday, March 5, 2015. Interment was held at Masis
Ararat Cemetery. Our sincere condolences to his wife
Victoria Arteen and his son Azad Hilmi.
Our sincere condolences to the Ailanjian family on the passing of
their father JOHN “JOHNNIE” AILANJIAN.
Our sincere condolences to the Maroot and Diebert families on
the passing of husband and father CHARLES JON MAROOT.
Our sincere condolences to PIERRE & ANGEL
BARDIZBANIAN on the passing of Pierre’s nephew JOSEPH
HABOUSH, who recently passed away in Beirut, Lebanon.
Our sincere condolences to Diane Poladian Melikian, Marian
Habib, and the Melikian family on the passing of Marian’s
son-in-law RODNEY BRUCE MELIKIAN.
May God Bless Their Souls.
Pierre and Angel Bardizbanian appreciate the kindness shown to
them by Der Vahan Gosdanian and Der Hrant Serabian upon the
passing of their nephew Joseph Haboush in Beirut, Lebanon.
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HOKEHANKIST
will be said for
APRIL 12
HARRY BASMAJIAN on the 1st year of his passing, as requested by his
wife Elizabeth Basmajian and Family. ALTAR FLOWERS ARE
DONATED IN HIS MEMORY.
RAFFIE A. HAROOTIAN on the 1st year of passing, who was from
Bakersfield, as requested by his wife Mary C. Harootian.
APRIL 19
MARY NOROIAN on the 40 days of her passing, as requested by her
son Steven Noroian, and her nephews Bob, Chuck, and David Casparian
and their Families. ALTAR FLOWERS ARE DONATED IN HER
MEMORY.
ROSE ASLANIAN on the 10th year of her passing and HARRY
ASLANIAN on the 8th year of his passing, as requested by their children
Janelle Avedisian & Family, Joan Azarian & Family, and Tom Aslanian.
ALTAR FLOWERS ARE DONATED IN THEIR MEMORY.
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Hye’d Out News
Hello Everyone,
As you read this, Holy Week is upon us. This is our most
important Christian Holiday. Our Savior, Jesus, goes to the cross and
dies an excruciating and horrible death so that our sins may be forgiven
and we may commune with the One that created us. The Easter story is
such an amazing story as we see how the attitudes of the people change
so quickly from Palm Sunday to Good Friday. Everything that Jesus
goes through, all the pain and suffering; He went through all of it because
of how much He loved you and me.
Our Youth group is finishing up the Book of Acts. We have a
few young people graduating this year. This year’s seniors are an
amazing bunch of people. I am very proud of them and what they have
done for our group. They are getting their college acceptance letters in
the mail and I am hoping that we get to keep some of them in Fresno!
Last week we were able to see what the money we raised for Rafael
Asiryan did. The money we raised was used to build steps for him to go
up and down at his house. The previous steps did not seem solid nor
safe. We are glad that we could help and we thank you for your support
in this cause as well.
Our College and Career Group will be planning out the rest of its
year soon. We are currently going through the book of Genesis. If you
or anyone you know is in college or Post College we meet Friday Nights
from 6:30-8:30. We have time to catch up on what is going on in our
lives, Bible Study and sometimes dinner afterwards. We would love to
add you to our group.
We would like to invite you to our annual Mother’s Day
Luncheon. This year Mother’s Day will be on May 10th. This is our
annual fundraiser and we love and thank you for your support in advance.
May you have a blessed month and remember to think about the meaning
of Easter not just during Holy Week, but all year long.
In His Service,
Jason Davis
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The Holy Trinity Youth Group Invites You
To Our Annual Mother’s Day Luncheon
Sunday May 10, 2015 1:00 PM
Cost $15
Speaker: Arakel Arisian
For more information please contact the Church Office
at (559) 486-1141 or Jason Davis (559) 433-7066 or at
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Spotlight on Sunday school By: Barbara Mortanian
This month’s spotlight on Sunday
school will focus on Lara
Simonian. Born in Jerusalem, Israel in
1972 Lara and her family immigrated
to Fresno, California in 1979 when she
was 7-years of age. A graduate of
Roosevelt High School in Fresno,
California she was the first person in
her family to go on to college and to
get a double Bachelor’s degree in
English and Philosophy from California
State University of Fresno.
After earning her undergraduate degree, Lara married her former
husband and moved to Dallas, Texas to earn a J.D. from Southern
Methodist University’s School of Law. After graduating Summa Cum
Laude, she spent 13 years in Dallas, practicing Employment Law and
enjoying life as a Texan, until the birth of her twin boys, Dominic and
Alexander Simonian. After her sons’ birth, mother and sons decided
to return to Fresno to be closer to grandparents, other family, and their
Armenian community. In the early 1990s, Lara volunteered to be a
Sunday school teacher for the elementary-level classes, but then had
to stop when she left Fresno to attend law school in Dallas. Upon her
return home in the mid-2000s, however, she found herself drawn to
the church once again. God apparently wanted her "back in the
saddle," and before she knew it, she was once again a permanent
feature in our Sunday school program. What began as a substitute
position for a couple of teachers, soon turned into a full-time position
as the 7th and 8th grade teacher. Lara has great rapport with her
students and is an enthusiastic teacher bringing an electric charge to
motivate and challenge her class. Lara says that the 7th and 8th grade
students are an amazing group. They are still young and innocent,
eager for knowledge, but at the same time, they are becoming young
adults with conflicts, questions, and new issues.
According to Lara, the emerging teens are a unique and challenging
age group to work with; being flexible and creative is vital for her
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weekly sessions. Many of her discussions and lessons branch off in
many different levels - all of which provide some value and benefit
for these amazing, young adults.
Lara’s twin boys, who are now 10-years old as of this month, keep
her extremely busy and happy with her life. Being a mother is by far
the most important and challenging job that she has ever had (and
that includes dealing with some crazy lawyers and some horrible
high-school jobs!). Raising intelligent, kind, Godly, and good-hearted
boys is her top priority. Lara tries to be very involved in her sons’
school, activities, and home life. Lara enjoys everything from
cooking, watching Shakespeare in the park, attending Monster Truck
shows, riding scooters in the park, and many other activities with
Dominic and Alexander with which God blesses their lives. Having
good values that come from God, family, and our Armenian heritage
is the center the life she is building for herself and her sons’
lives. Most importantly, she tries to be conscious of how blessed we
are to live in America while remembering to appreciate even the
littlest things that come our way. Gratitude is a daily exercise for the
Simonian trio and it includes being grateful that they are a very active
part of the community at Holy Trinity Church.
With the blessing of His Eminence
Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate
Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church
Guest Priest
Very. Rev. Boghos Tinkjian
Will celebrate the Holy Badarak and offer the Sermon
On
Sunday, April 19, 2015 At 10:00 am
Holy Trinity Church Board of Trustees
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Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday
1
5
Easter Sunday
Morning Service
9:00 am
Badarak 10:00 am
No Sunday School
No Hye’d Out
6
7 Ladies’ Guild 5:45 pm
Bible Study 7:00 pm at
the home of
Charlie & Siroun
Vanoyan
Basketball 6:00pm
Bible Study 8:00 pm
8
Men’s Society
6:30 pm
12 Morning Service 9:00
Badarak 10:00 am
(Birthday
Blessing Prayer)
Sunday School 10:30 am
Hye’d Out 5:30 pm
13
14
Bible Study7:00 pm at
the home of
Hagop & Silva
Arikian
Basketball 6:00 pm
Bible Study 8:00 pm
15
19 Morning Service 9:00
Guest Priest
Badarak 10:00 am
Sunday School 10:30
(Wedding
Anniversary Prayer)
Hye’d Out 5:30 pm
20 21
Bible Study 7:00 pm at
the home of
Aram & Elo
Zanontian
Basketball 6:00 pm
Bible Study 8:00 pm
22
26 English Morning
Service 9:15 am
Badarak 10:00 am
Sunday School 10:30 am
Family Night 5:30 pm
27
28
Bible Study 7:00 pm at
the home of Der Hayr
& Yeretzgin
Gosdanian
Basketball 6:00pm
Bible Study 8:00 pm
29
April 2015
21
Thursday Friday Saturday
2
No Bible Study
Morning Service 9:00 am
Divine Liturgy 10:00 am
Washing of the
Feet 6:00 pm
Khavaroom 7:00 pm
3 No
Bible Study
Evening Service 7:00 pm
Order of Entombment
& Procession 7:30 pm
4 No Armenian School
Easter Eve Service 4:00 pm
Reading of the Scriptures
4:30 pm
Easter Eve Badarak 5:00 pm
Easter Eve Dinner 7:00 pm
9
Bible Study 10:00 am
(English)
Youth Basketball
7:15 pm
10
Bible Study 11:00 am
(Armenian)
11
Armenian School 10:00 am
16 Bible Study 10:00 am
(English)
Youth Basketball
7:15 pm
17 Bible Study 11:00 am
(Armenian)
18
Armenian School 10:00 am
23 Bible Study 10:00 am
(English)
Requiem Service
Ararat Cemetery
5:00 pm
Unveiling of Genocide
Monument, Fresno State
7:30 pm
24 OFFICE CLOSED
Armenian Genocide
Commemoration
Flag Raising 9:00 am
St. Paul Church 7:00 pm
25 Armenian School 10:00 am
Pre– Philharmonic Concert
Dinner 5:00 pm Church
Social Hall
Philharmonic Concert 7:30 pm
Saroyan Theater
30 Bible Study 10:00 am
(English)
Youth Basketball
7:15 pm
Deadline for
“Voice” submission
April 2015
22
IN-LIEU OF FLOWERS DONATIONS
Are made in Memory of...
Those who attended the Centennial Celebration Banquet received a
beautifully crafted ornament illustrating our Church Sanctuary, as a
souvenir. It was so well received that we have placed an additional
order. These items are available for purchase and pickup at the
church office. Each ornament will cost $12 and can be used as a
keepsake, to decorate your gift boxes and or your Christmas trees.
KAY KARNIG CLOUD
David & Linda Hovannisian
Olga Beers
Fanucchi Family
Esther Nalchajian
Robert & Melissa Sahatjian
BOB KEVORKIAN (Sunday School)
David & Linda Hovannisian
CHARLES JON MAROOT
MARY J. NOROIAN
Jane Alchian
Ruby Baladjanian
Richard Bedoian
Roger & Susan Byrd
Kenneth & Robyn Esraelian
Jack & Lucille Gahvejian
Aram & Barbara Garabedian
Dale Garabedian
Ladies’ Guild
Vars & David Gaston
Louise Hagopian
Mary Hokokian
Marian Hovannisian
Gladys Jamgotchian
John R. Manasselian
Laura Poston
Marshall & Helen Torigian
Ron & Rhonda Walterman
ATTENTION:
The Sunday school is selling “All Around Town” coupons. Each
book is $20. If anyone is interesting in purchasing a book, contact
the Sunday school office either Sato Sanikian or Leslie Antazo. You
may purchase them on Sundays in the Sunday School office. Thank
you for your support.
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Are made in Memory of...
HOKEHANKIST DONATIONS
VAHE KHATCHIGIAN Rita Khatchigian & Family
KACHICHIAN FAMILY Varoujan Kachichian
ARMAN NORADIAN, MARTY MINASIAN, VARTKAS MINASIAN Rosemary Minasian
TAVIT SAHAGIAN Edward & Roseann Saliba
PETER & ANNA SOLAKIAN Patricia Bouloutian
VICKY KASSIS Manoushag Diarian Der Hayr Vahan & Yeretzgin Sossy Gosdanian
RAFFIE A. HAROOTIAN Mary C. Harootian
SIMON & MARIAM MIHRANIAN
CHARLOTTE ASADOORIAN Alan & Michelle Asadoorian
HAIRABED & AGHAVNI, ROUPEN ASADOURIAN
HRANT & AROUSIAG KARAKESHISHIAN Der Hayr Vahan & Yeretzgin Sossy Gosdanian
MESROB DER SIMONIAN Der Simonian Family
Dr. Berj & Nelly Kalamkarian
Katchig & Maggie Mihranian
Mary Mihranian
Vahe & Naira Mihranian
KHEDERIAN FAMILY Bedros & Silva Khederian
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GENERAL Nazik Arisian (In honor of Der Vahan Gosdanian’s 22nd year ordination)
Bryan & Pamela Arakelian & Family (In memory of Pat Ourlian)
Carlotta Bedrosian
Aram & June Darmanian
Gary & Denva Kazarian (In honor of the 50th Wedding Anniversary of
Marshall & Helen Torigian)
Dr. Stephen & Judy Krikorian
Hagop Ohanessian (General Donation)
Hagop Ohanessian (In honor of Der Vahan Gosdanian’s 22nd year ordination)
David & Patti Sarabian (In honor of the 50th Wedding Anniversary of
Marshall & Helen Torigian)
Virginia Sarabian (In honor of the 50th Wedding Anniversary of
Marshall & Helen Torigian)
Tuesday Evening Bible Study (In honor of Der Vahan Gosdanian’s
22nd year ordination, Social Service) Douglas & Emily Yavanian
HOKEHANKIST DONATIONS
Thomas & Janice Fowler
Mary Harootian
Robert & Jackie Manselian
George & Rose Margosian
John & Mary Megerdichian
Dr. Randy & Kathy Shahbazian
Dr. Ara Topouzkhanian
Charlie & Siroun Vanoyan
VOICE
Easter Eughakin donations will be in the May issue of the Voice
KEVORK TAVITIAN Nerses Abouloboulian Hagop & Lousin Damirjian
Sarkis & Azniv Sakaian
KALOUST & TAKOUHI TERZIAN & JANSEZIAN &
BOYADJIAN FAMILIES Hagop & Shake Kelejian
ASTVADZADOOR TUFENKCHI Hamo & Seita Mihranian
Hagop Paklarian would like to thank all those who visited, called,
and sent him flowers and cards. He also thanks the Board of
Trustees, the office, the Men’s Society, and the Ladies’ Guild for
the flower bouquets, and a special thanks to Berj Apkarian,
Katchig Mihranian, and Harout Bedrosian.
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Vacation Bible School: Weird Animals
is coming June 28-July 2
The Vacation Bible School Committee would
like to share with you our Wish List. If you
would like to help defray some of the costs
we would appreciate your donations for . . .
T-Shirts-Banners-Craft Supplies
Stage & Set Decorations - Snacks - Prizes
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PASS IT ON… Submitted by: Krista Parnagian
Carl’s Garden
Carl was a quiet man. He didn’t talk much. He would always greet you
with a big smile and a firm handshake. Even after living in our neighborhood for
over fifty years, no one could really say they knew him very well. Before his
retirement, he took the bus to work every morning. The lone sight of him walking
down the street often worried us. He had a slight limp from a bullet wound
received in WWII. Watching him, we worried he may not make it through our
changing uptown neighborhood with its ever-increasing random violence, gangs,
and drug activity. When he saw the flyer at our local church asking for volunteers
for caring for the gardens behind the minister’s residence, he responded in his
characteristically unassuming manner. Without fanfare, he just signed up.
One afternoon, Carl was finishing his watering for the day when three
gang members approached him. Ignoring their attempt to intimidate him, he
simply asked, “Would you like a drink from the hose?” The tallest and toughest
looking one said, “Yeah, sure,” with a malevolent little smile. As Carl offered the
hose to him, the other two grabbed Carl’s arm, throwing him down. They stole his
retirement watch and his wallet, and then fled. Carl tried to get himself up, but he
had been thrown down on his bad leg. He lay there trying to gather himself as the
minister came running to help him. When asked if he was okay Carl just shook his
head and said, “Just some punk kids. I hope they’ll wise up some day.” He
adjusted the nozzle and started to water again. “I’ve got to finish my watering. It’s
been very dry lately,” Carl said. A few weeks later the three returned. Their threat
remained unchallenged as Carl, again, offered them a drink from his hose. This
time they wrenched the hose from his hand and drenched him head to foot in the
icy water. Then they sauntered off down the street throwing catcalls and curses.
Carl just watched them. Then he turned toward the warmth giving sun, picked up
his hose, and went on with his watering.
The summer was quickly fading into fall. Carl was doing some tilling
when he was startled by the sudden approach of someone behind him. As he
stumbled and fell into some branches, Carl turned to see the tall leader of his
summer tormentors reaching down for him. “Don’t worry old man. I’m not going
to hurt you this time.” The young man spoke softly, still offering the tattooed and
scarred hand to Carl. He helped Carl get up and pulled out a crumpled bag from
his pocket. “Here’s your stuff back. Even the money in your wallet.” the man
explained. “I don’t understand, why would you help me now?” Carl asked.
Seeming embarrassed and ill at ease he said, “I learned something from you. I ran
with that gang and hurt people like you. But every time we came and did
something to you, instead of yelling and fighting back, you tried to give us a drink.
You didn’t hate us for hating you. You kept showing love against our hate.” He
paused for a moment, not knowing what more there was to say. “That bag is my
way of saying thanks for straightening me out, I guess.” And with that, he walked
off down the street.
He died one cold day after Christmas that winter. Many people attended
his funeral in spite of the weather. The minister noticed a tall young man that he
didn’t know sitting quietly in a distant corner of the church. He spoke of Carl’s
garden as a lesson in life.
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He said, “Do your best and make your garden as beautiful as you can. We will never
forget Carl and his garden. The following spring another flyer went up for someone
to care for Carl’s garden. It went unnoticed until one day someone came to the
minister’s office door. There was a pair of scarred and tattooed hands holding the
flyer. “I believe this is my job, if you’ll have me,” the young man said. The minister
recognized him as the same young man who had returned the stolen watch and wallet
to Carl. He knew that Carl’s kindness had turned this man’s life around. As the
minister handed him the keys to the garden shed, he said, “Yes, go take care of Carl’s
garden and honor him.” The man went to work and, over the next several years, he
tended the flowers and vegetables just as Carl had done.
During that time, he went to college, got married, and became a prominent
member of the community. But he never forgot his promise to Carl’s memory and
kept the garden as beautiful as he thought Carl would have kept it. One day he
approached the minister and told him that he couldn’t care for the garden any longer.
He explained with a shy and happy smile, “My wife just had a baby boy last night,
and she’s bringing him home on Saturday.” “Well congratulations!” said the
minister, as he was handed the garden shed keys. “That’s wonderful! What’s the
baby’s name?” “Carl,” he replied.
Author Unknown
Message: Trouble comes no matter what. How you respond to it is what makes
the difference. You may bring others closer to God without even realizing it. “Even
in darkness light dawns for the upright. They will have no fear of bad news; their
hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.” Psalm 112:4-7.
CENTRAL VALLEY’S GENOCIDE MOMUMENT
TO BE UNVEILED AT FRESNO STATE ON APRIL 23
The Armenian Genocide Centennial—Fresno Committee invites the
entire community to attend the historic unveiling of a monument
dedicated to the victims and survivors of the Armenian Genocide.
The event will take place at 7:30 pm on the Maple Mall (near the
Satellite Student Union) at Fresno State. Free parking will be
available in Lots P5 and P6 near the Peters Business Building.
Handicapped parking is available as well in the same lots. Overflow
parking will be available for free in the SaveMart Center parking lot.
Shuttles will also be available. For more details on the event, visit the
AGC—Fresno website at www.agcfresno.org.
Please note that on Sunday, April 12
coffee hour will be in the courtyard!
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Duo-Piano & Soprano In remembrance of the Armenian Genocide
Naira Shahsouvarian & Maria Amirkhanian
Anahit Nersessian, Soprano
Sunday, May 31, 2015 at 6:00 pm
Fresno State Concert Hall
Tickets: $20 per person; students $8
Journey to Infinity
The Rebirth of a Nation
An evening of poetry, literature & music
with local artists depicting the Armenian journey
Thursday, May 28, 2015 at 7:00 pm
Holy Trinity Church Courtyard, 2226 Ventura Street
Free Admission — Reception to Follow
The Cry of the Tormented Composition of over 300 accounts of atrocities,
deportation, and murder of Armenians between 1915-1917.
Preface by late journalist Roger Tatarian.
Panel spanning three generations:
Mary Alan Hewson - Alex Mckinsey
Garo Khatchigian, MD
Thursday, May 21, 2015 at 7:00 pm UC Merced Center, 550 E. Shaw Ave.
Free Admission — Reception to Follow
Presents...
*For more information, call 559.224.1000 or visit www.armof.org*
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–2015
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DAILY BIBLE READING
APRIL–
1. Great Wednesday Morning: Mark 14:1-11 Evening:
Genesis 18:1-19:30; Proverbs 1:10-19; Zechariah 11:11-14;
Matthew 26:3-16
2. Great Thursday Morning: John 12:27-43 Office of Penitents:
Isaiah 60:20-22; Ezekiel 36:24-31; Hebrews 10:19-31;
Luke 7:36-50 Holy Eucharist: Genesis 22:1-18; Isaiah 61:1-7;
Acts 1:15-26; Mark 14:1-26; 1 Corinthians 11:23-32;
Matthew 26:17-30 Washing of the Feet: Exodus 30:17-21;
1 Kings 7:38-40; 2 Chronicles 4:2-6; Isaiah 44:2-6;
1 Corinthians 10:1-4; 1 John 4:7-21; John 13:1-11; John 13:12-15
3. Great Friday Passion: John 13:16-18:1; Luke 22:1-65;
Mark 14:27-72; Matthew 26:31-56; Matthew 26:47-75; John 18:2-27;
John 18:28-19:16 Crucifixion: Zechariah 11:11-14;
Galatians 6:14-18; Isaiah 3:9-15; Philippians 2:5-11;
Isaiah 50:4-9; Romans 5:6-11; Amos 8:9-12;
1 Corinthians 1:18-31; Isaiah 52:13-53:12; Hebrews 2:11-18;
Matthew 27:1-56; Isaiah 63:1-6; Hebrews 9:11-28;
Mark 15:1-41; Jeremiah 11:18-12:8; Hebrews 10:19-31;
Luke 22:66-23:49; Zechariah 14:5-11; 1 Timothy 6:13-16;
John 19:17-37 Burial: Jeremiah 11:18-12:8; Isaiah 52:13-53:12;
Wisdom 2:1-22; Zechariah 12:8-14; 1 Peter 3:17-20; Matthew 27:57-61
4. Great Saturday—Easter Eve Morning: Matthew 27:62-66
Easter Eve: Genesis 1:1-3:24; Genesis 22:1-18; Exodus12:1-24;
Jonah 1:1-4:11; Exodus 13:24-15:21; Isaiah 60:1-13; Job 38:1-28;
Joshua 1:1-9; 2 Kings 2:1-22; Jeremiah 31:31-34; Ezekiel 37:1-14;
Daniel 3:1-90. Divine Liturgy: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11; Matthew 28:1-20.
5. Easter Acts 1:15-26; Mark 16:2-8
Evening Gospels: Luke 24:13-36; John 20:1-18; John 5:24-30;
John 19:31-37; John 20:19-25
6. Acts 2:22-41; Luke 24:1-12 Evening Gospels: Luke 24:1-12;
Mark 16:2-8; Luke 24:1-12
7. Acts 2:42-3:21; Luke 24:13-35
Evening Gospels: Luke 24:1-12; Luke 24:13-35
Readings for the Annunciation of the Holy Mother of God: Song of
Songs 1:1-11; Proverbs 11:30-12:4; Isaiah 52:7-10;
Zechariah 2:10-13; Malachi 3:1-2; 2 Corinthians 6:16-7:1; Luke 1:26-38
8. Acts 3:22-4:12; James 1:1-12; Luke 24:36-40
Evening Gospels: Luke 24:13-35; Luke 24:36-40
9. Acts 4:13-31; James 1:13-27; Matthew 5:1-12
Evening Gospels: Luke 24:36-40; Matthew 5:1-12
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10. Acts 4:32-5:11; James 2:1-13; John 21:1-14
Evening Gospels: Matthew 5:1-12; John 21:1-14
11. Beheading of St. John the Baptist
Proverbs 8:4-11; Isaiah 40:3-8; Malachi 4:4-6; Acts 13:26-33;
Mark 6:14-29
Acts 5:12-33; James 2:14-26; John 21:15-25
12. New Sunday
1) Luke 4:14-30; 2) Acts 5:31-6:7; James 3:1-12; John 1:1-17;
3) John 21:5-25; Matthew 27:50-61; 4) John 20:26-31
13. 1) Luke 4:31-41; 2) Acts 6:8-7:29; James 3:13-4:6; John 1:18-28;
3) Matthew 4:12-25; 4) Mark 1:14-20
14. 1) Luke 4:42-5:11; 2) Acts 7:30-8:2; James 4:7-17; John 1:29-34;
3) Matthew 5:1-16; 4) Mark 1:21-34
15. 1) Luke 5:12-16; 2) Acts 8:3-13; James 5:1-11; John 1:35-42;
3) Matthew 5:17-48 4) Mark 1:35-45
16. 1) Luke 5:17-26; 2) Acts 8:14-25; James 5:12-20; John 1:43-51;
3) Matthew 6:1-21; 4) Mark 2:1-12
17. 1) Luke 5:27-39; 2) Acts 8:26-40; 1 Peter 1:1-12; John 2:1-11;
3) Matthew 6:22-34; 4) Mark 2:13-22
18. 1) Luke 6:1-11; 2) Acts 9:1-22; 1 Peter 1:13-25; John 2:12-22;
3) Matthew 7:1-8:17;4) Mark 2:23-3:5
19. Green Sunday 1) Luke 6:12-45; 2) Acts 9:23-31;
1 Peter 2:1-10; John 2:23-3:12; 3) Matthew 8:18-9:8 4) Mark 3:6-12
20. 1) Luke 7:1-10; 2) Acts 9:32-43; 1 Peter 2:11-17; John 3:13-21;
3) Matthew 9:9-17; 4) Mark 3:13-19
21. 1) Luke 7:11-35; 2) Acts 10:1-23; 1 Peter 2:18-25; John 3:22-36;
3) Matthew 9:18-26; 4) Mark 3:20-30
22. 1) Luke 7:36-50; 2) Acts 10:24-48; 1 Peter 3:1-9; John 4:1-23;
3) Matthew 9:27-34; 4) Mark 3:31-35
23. 1) Luke 8:1-21; 2) Acts 11:1-26; 1 Peter 3:10-22; John 4:24-42;
3) Matthew 9:35-10:15; 4) Mark 4:1-9
24. Commemoration of the Martyrs of 1915
1) Luke 8:22-56; 2) Acts 11:27-12:24; 1 Peter 4:1-11; John 4:43-54;
3) Matthew 10:16-42; 4) Mark 4:10-20
25. 1) Luke 9:1-17; 2) Acts 12:25-13:15; 1 Peter 4:12-19; John 5:1-18;
3) Matthew 11:1-24; 4) Mark 4:21-25
26. Red Sunday
1) Luke 9:18-36; 2) Acts 13:16-43; 1 Peter 5:1-14; John 5:19-30;
3) Matthew 11:25-30; 4) Mark 4:26-34
27. 1) Luke 9:37-50; 2) Acts 13:44-14:6; 2 Peter 1:1-11; John 5:31-47;
3) Matthew 12:1-21;4) Mark 4:35-5:20
28. 1) Luke 9:51-62; 2) Acts 14:7-17; 2 Peter 1:12-19; John 6:1-14;
3) Matthew 12:22-37;4) Mark 5:21-34
29. 1) Luke 10:1-24; 2) Acts 14:18-27; 2 Peter 1:20-2:8; John 6:15-21;
3) Matthew 12:38-50; 4) Mark 5:35-43
30. 1) Luke 10:25-42; 2) Acts 15:1-29; 2 Peter 2:9-22; John 6:22-38; 3)
Matthew 13:1-23; 4) Mark 6:1-6
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OUTREACH COMMITTEE
Holy Trinity Connect
Holy Trinity Connect is a free resource now available to help connect
church members high school and above with other community members
offering employment, internship, and volunteering opportunities. If you
are seeking a job or community service experience, we recommend you
register for Holy Trinity Connect to learn about openings within our
church community.
We ask that businesses, organizations, and families consider listing job,
internship, and community service opportunities with our service to assist
in connecting with candidates from our church.
To register for, or list on Holy Trinity Connect, please call Harry
Buchaklian at 559-355-6196 or email Andrew Esguerra at
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PASTOR’S BIBLE STUDY
ARS Manti Committee is taking orders
Please call Barbara Mortanian at 559-284-8478 for inquiries.
Please, use your S.H.A.R.E.S. cards.
This is a wonderful way to help the church financially.
You can use your card at Save Mart
or Food Max. If you need a card,
please contact the church office at 559-486-1141.
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR APRIL 4:
Easter Eve Service 4:00 pm, Badarak 5:00 pm, Easter Eve Dinner 7:00 pm.
APRIL 7:
5:45 pm Ladies’ Guild Dinner Meeting.
APRIL 8:
7:30 pm Armenian Genocide in Film: Theoretical and Comparative
Perspectives, Part III lecture by Kazan vising Professor Dr. Myrna Douzjian.
Fresno State University Business Center Alice Peters Business Auditorium
Room 191. Free Admission.
APRIL 9, 17, 18 & 19:
7:30 pm on 4/9, 4/17, & 4/18; 2:00 pm on 4/19 Nine Armenians, A play by
Leslie Ayvazian dedicated to the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide, Fresno
Art Museum Bonner Auditorium Directed by Fred Bologna. Ticket $18 and $15
for Fresno Art Museum members. For tickets call 559-435-4478.
APRIL 19:
8:00 am ARS Sophia Chapter 19th “Show Me the Finish Line Fun Run. For
information call Nazik at 559-974-3089.
APRIL 23:
5:00 pm Requiem Service Ararat Cemetery 1925 W. Belmont, Fresno.
APRIL 23:
7:30 pm Unveiling of the Genocide Monument in the evening at the CSU Fresno
campus.
APRIL 24: 9:00 am Annual Flag raising to take place at Fresno City Hall, organized by the
ANCA Central California.
APRIL 24: 7:00 pm Annual traditional community commemoration of the Armenian
Genocide at St. Paul Armenian Church. For a list of all the commemorative
events taking place in the community, visit www.agcfresno.org.
APRIL 24: 19:15 or 7:15 pm World Moment of Silence and Tolling of Bells and Chimes.
For more information visit www.agcfresno.org.
APRIL 25:
5:00 pm Fresno Philharmonic concert dinner at Holy Trinity Church. Meet
Fresno Philharmonic performers and Fresno Master Chorale Choir members-
tickets $20 each RSVP by Monday April 20, 2015. Call the church 486-1141.
7:30 pm Witness and Rebirth Fresno pays tribute in remembrance of the
Victims of the Armenian Genocide at the Saroyan Theater. For tickets call
261-0600.
MAY 21:
7:00 pm UC Center "Cry of the Tormented" Presentation of a book in English
language composed of more than 300 "letters from home" written by Armenians
who faced atrocities, starvation, deportation, murder, and annihilation.
MAY 31:
6:00 pm at the Fresno State Concert Hall A Duo-Piano performance by Naira
Shahsouvarian, Maria Amirkhanian, & soprano Anahit Nersessian, will pay
tribute the victims of the Armenian genocide.