Wednesday 6 April 2016

Volume 2, Issue 12 2 April 2016 Armenian Church News

Diocese of the Armenian Church of the United Kingdom an
In this issue:
Catholicos Condemns Aggression in Karabakh
Easter at St Yeghiche Church
Easter Message from His Holiness the Catholicos
Easter Luncheon
Easter Celebrated in our parishes:
Dublin
St Sarkis Manchester Cardiff

Anointing of Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian
Pan-Orthodox Vespers
Catholicos of All Armenians Condemns Azerbaijani Aggression

On 2nd April, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians made a statement condemning the aggressive military actions unleashed on 1st and 2nd April by the Azerbaijani armed forces on the contact line with Nagorno-Karabakh.
“We strongly condemn Azerbaijani offensive military actions along the border of Karabakh, directed also against settlements and peaceful civilians. We extend our prayers and support to the authorities and the people of Nagorno-Karabakh, the valiant commanders and soldiers of our armed forces. We urge them to resist the hostile attacks of the enemy against our homeland’s independence and security of our people with unshakable faith and irreducible courage.
Praying for the souls of the innocent victims and speedy recovery of wounded soldiers and civilians, His Holiness urged the international community, particularly the countries involved in the conflict resolution process, to condemn the Azerbaijan’s ongoing aggression against Nagorno- Karabakh, which undermines the stability of the region and conflict resolution efforts.
We express our solidarity with our armed forces and civilians and pray for their safety and a quick resolution to this conflict.
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Diocese of the Armenian Church of the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland
His Grace Bishop Hovakim Manukyan, Primate
Diocesan Office
Tel. 0208 127 8364 primatesoffice@ armenianchurch.co.uk

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Armenian Church News

Easter Sunday at St. Yeghiche Church
“He conquered death by His death
and granted life to us by His Resurrection”
(The Book of Hymns)
The path of prayer and repentance preceding Easter during Great Lent is concluded with Palm Sunday and Holy Week.
The seventh week of Great Lent, from Palm Sunday until Holy Easter, is called Holy Week. Each day of this week represents the last days of the earthly life of Our Saviour Jesus Christ. These days make us closer to Our Lord's Holy Resurrection.
Each day of this week, with its special meaning and ritualised rites, took place in St. Yeghiche Armenian Church.
Palm Sunday represents Our Saviour Jesus Christ's entrance into Jerusalem. The Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Rev. Fr Vram Ghazaryan. The opening of the curtains that takes place in the Church during the ceremony symbolises the opening of church doors (Drnbatsek). Palm Sunday biblical readings: Song. 1: 1-2: 3, Zech. 9: 9-15; Phil. 4: 4-7, Matt. 20: 29-21: 17.
Good Friday is the commemoration of Lord's Passion, Crucifixion and Burial. The curtains of the altar were closed in memory of this most solemn and sad day. The biblical readings of the day, John. 13: 16-18: 1, Luke. 22: 1-65, Mark. 14: 27-72, Matt. 26: 31-56, Matt. 26: 57-75, John. 18: 2-27, 18: 28-19: 16, Jer. 11: 18-12: 8; Isa. 52: 13-53: 12, Wis. 2: 1-22; Zech. 12: 8-14, A. Peter. 3: 17-20, Matt. 27: 57-61.
Holy Saturday is Easter Eve. Opening of the curtains marked the end of Great Lent and the service was conducted by Rev. Fr. Vram Ghazarian. Believers were conveying the Easter message to everyone.
On Easter Sunday, His Grace Bishop Hovakim Manukyan celebrated the Divine Liturgy in St. Yeghiche Church. He conveyed the Easter message of His Holiness Karekin II Catholicos of all Armenians (please see page 3). At the end His Grace Hovakim conveyed his Easter greetings to the congregation and announced: "Christ is Risen", "Blessed is the Resurrection of Christ."  page2image21864
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The Easter Message of His Holiness Karekin II page3image3056
MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS KAREKIN II
SUPREME PATRIARCH AND CATHOLICOS OF ALL ARMENIANS ON THE OCCASION OF THE GLORIOUS RESURRECTION
OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST
Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, March 27, 2016

O Christ, you rose from the dead, Destroying the hell today. And through Your Resurrection You granted life to Your creatures (Hymn)
In the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen
Our Beloved Faithful in Armenia, Artsakh and in the Diaspora,
Today, on this joyous feast of Holy Easter, with the words of the hymnist we praise our Lord and Savior, who is risen from the dead, destroyed hell, and with His resurrection gave life to His creatures.
Christ’s resurrection shined onto the darkness of death the light of eternity, bestowing on mankind the blessedness of the heavenly kingdom, and the grace of a resurrected life on this earth and in the life to come. With Christ’s resurrection, a new creation, a new mankind, which is emancipated from sin and the curse of death, lives in the grace of God and is made worthy of eternal life. In accordance with the words of the apostle, “old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17). For the only begotten Son of God, our Lord and Savior, “who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:” (2 Timothy 1:10). The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the gospel of resurrection, the gospel of eternity, the gospel of life; through which comes to us the understanding of God’s boundless love, the Lord’s voice, that gives life to souls; and the truth of the resurrection of Christ.
Today, in front of the mystery of the Lord’s miraculous resurrection, the question naturally arises to what extent are we living the life that Christ has renewed for us, to what extent are we following the Savior’s words and commandments?What do we cherish in our lives? The gospel of resurrection, or wandering teachings and deceitful ideologies? Following the will of the Lord, or sinful, life-destroying paths? Accumulating treasures in
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heaven, or greedily aspiring for worldly gains? Spiritual freedom, or shameless unrestrained living? True righteousness and honesty or the “justice” Pilate sought? Do we choose Jesus, or Barabas, the bandit?
Alongside the unprecedented progress in science and education, we also witness in our days the destruction of traditional values, humanity’s moral decay and evidence of bankrupt spirituality. Yet, in the state of life’s modern conveniences, fast pace, and opportunities; people, even family members, are estranged from one another. In the midst of plentiful goodness, neither need, nor hardship is eliminated, but rather society becomes progressively polarized. While life has become easier through the advances of technology it has also facilitated new means of warfare and terrorism, which continuously shake the world, becoming a common threat against humanity.
In light of these realities, and at all times, it is imperative that we all realize and speak out about divine justice and atonement on this earth and in the life to come, which is imminent for every individual and nation. Indeed, Christ-given resurrection is not merely a gift, but also subject to judgment, as is written in the Gospels, “Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice. And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.” (John 5:28-29). The journey of resurrection and life is the rejection of everything that makes us slaves to sin, for: “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal
life(Romans 6:23). It is with this understanding that the Apostle emphasizes putting on the heavenly, “that mortality might be swallowed up of life” (2 Corinthians 5:4-5).
The life that swallows death, is a life of spiritual fullness, longing, and an effort to live in God; in mind, heart and the entire strength of soul; and, in accordance with the commandments of the Gospel which injects the strength of the resurrected life into the individuals and people who have put their trust in Christ.
The world filled with anxiety and turbulence as well as our own reality, which is likewise filled with worrisome difficulties and problems, can be transformed by a life of spiritual fullness granted by Christ, conquering mankind’s pains and tragedies, and establishing the foundation of security and happiness everywhere. Christ’s resurrection is an ever-resounding invitation for the world to rise from sin towards grace; so that all that spreads death and distraction may be swallowed by resurrection is the foundation and the reinfo page5image2592
which enlightens the hearts of humanity, grants consolation and hope to those mired in hardship, imparts strength and power to rise from the sufferings of “golgothas”, bestows courage and a brave spirit in just struggles, inspires dedication, and gives joy and elation to live and create.
This spirit and path are natural and characteristic for our people, our life, and history, and illuminate our present and future. Rising, facing difficulties undaunted, building a new life - our people testified to these through the re- establishment of our independent state, which will celebrate its twenty-fifth anniversary this year. In our efforts of strengthening our homeland, building and empowering our national life, as well as confronting the challenges before us today, dear beloved, we have the faith and light of Christ’s resurrection leading us. Hereupon, let us fill our lives with the love of our Lord, mutual support, and with the good news of God-pleasing labor.
Through the mystery of Easter, our souls shine with the grace of the resurrection that Christ has bestowed upon us, which is sealed on our lives when we live with faith and Christian values, for our dear ones, our people, our homeland, and our Holy Church.
In this Cathedral of the descent of the only-begotten Son, we pray and wish that every child of our nation accept with renewed faith the good news of the resurrection of Christ, and we as a nation with love towards Christ our Lord, may always proceed through our just and worthy deeds in the path of progress, having on our lips the everlasting praise: O Christ, you rose from the dead, Destroying the hell today. And through Your Resurrection You granted
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life to Your creatures. (Hymn)
With the joy of the Holy Resurrection of Christ in Our heart, we greet the incumbents of the hierarchical sees of our Apostolic Holy Church; His Holiness, Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia; the Armenian Patriarch of Jersualem, Archbishop Nurhan Manoogian; Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople, Archbishop Mesrop Mutafian; and to all the oath-bound clergy of our Church. We convey our greetings in the love of Christ to the heads of our Sister Churches, beseeching the Lord for His abundant grace to be poured from heaven upon their God-protected flocks.
With the good news of the resurrection we greet and bring our best wishes to the President of Armenia, His Excellency Serzh Sargsyan. We extend our greetings to President Bako Sahakyan of the Republic of Nagorno Karabakh; Armenia’s state officials, and the representatives of diplomatic missions accredited in Armenia. We bring our love and blessings to all our people, in Armenia and in the Diaspora.
On this day of Easter, filled with hope and grace, it is our plea that the graces of the risen Christ be widely spread all over the world and in our homeland, that peace reign everywhere, and humanity, raised out of the caverns of tragedies and sorrows and hardships, build its life with hope and faith, full of love, brotherhood and solidarity.
May the love of Our Lord Jesus Christ and the mercy of God remain with us and all, today and forever. Amen.
Christ is Risen from the dead. Blessed is the Resurrection of Christ.
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Primate's Office Ladies' Committee Hosts Easter Luncheon
 
On Easter Sunday, following Divine Liturgy services at the Armenian churches, the faithful gathered at the Tara Copthorne Hotel, Kensington, for the Easter Luncheon to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord as a community united in faith. The luncheon was organised by the newly formed Ladies' Committee of the Primate's Office. Following the welcoming remarks, Dr Hratch Tchilingirian explained the meaning of the Easter Egg and what it represents. This was then followed by the faithful playing the traditional Armenian Easter egg fight. Even H.G. Bishop Hovakim Manukyan, Primate, got involved in the action by taking on the faithful.
After the buffet lunch was served traditional Armenian songs were sung, as well as traditional Armenian "shourch bar". A raffle was also held, with wonderful donated prizes up for grabs. H.G. Bishop Hovakim Manukyan would like to thank the Ladies' Committee of the Primate's Office for organising such a wonderful event, with special thanks to Sylva Yeghiazarian, Jeanine Gulvanessian and Karina Gevorgyan. Also, a special thank you to Hratch Thcilingirian and Shakeh Major Tchilingirian for providing the afternoon's entertainment.
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Parish Life
Easter Monday Divine Liturgy in Dublin Parish

On Easter Monday, 28th March, the Armenian Community in Dublin celebrated the joyous feast of Holy Resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. HG Bp Hovakim Manukyan, Primate, was the celebrant and over a hundred people gathered at the Methodist Church in Dundrum which permitted us to hold our Badarak there. In his sermon, following the distribution of Holy Communion, Bp Hovakim, assisted by subdeacon Hovik Hovhannisyan and deacon Kevork Malkhasian, reflected on the miracle of the resurrection, adding “Christ’s resurrection is our victory over death and the hope of resurrection of all our loved ones who passed away before us who are bonded by the faith of the gospel of Jesus Christ.”
During the service, children were occupied by the colouring of religious animations prepared by the Council members.
His Grace Bp Hovakim expressed his thanks and gratitude to the members of Dublin choir, deacon and Parish Council members for their help in making the Easter service a special one for the congregation.

After the Badarak Service, Dublin Parish Council members, in assistance with the Ladies Committee presented a lavish traditional Armenian Easter feast, which included fish, cooked greens, Easter pilaf with dried fruit, raisins, lavash and not to forget the red wine & the Garmeer havgeed “red egg” (lovingly prepared by Dr. Paul Manook). Before the eggs were eaten and according to
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tradition, children and adults had an enjoyable egg fight, cracking the egg of the opponent.
Despite his tight schedule and while on his way to Dublin Airport, Bp Hovakim was able to visit and give communion to our sick and needy in hospital, as well as conducting a house blessing which had been arranged by the Parish Council. Irish Armenians say to Bp Hovakim a very big thank you for being with us at Easter.
 
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Parish Life
Easter Sunday at St. Sarkis Church

Քրիստոս հարիավ ի մեռելոց; Օրհնյալ է հարությունը Քրիստոսի
Kristos Haryav Y merelots; Orneyal Eh Haroutioun Kristosi
On Sunday, 27th March, the Easter Divine Liturgy was celebrated by the Very Reverend Father Besag Hatabian to a packed St. Sarkis Church. The congregation included children, parents, grandparents and great grandparents, enriching the importance of the message of the Passion of Christ.
During the Divine Liturgy Father Besag read an Epistle from His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Catholicos of All Armenians from Etchmiadzin proclaiming that Christ has risen and conveyed his prayers and his blessings for the welfare of all his flock wherever they may be in all the countries of the world.
The St. Sarkis choir sang beautifully under the conducting skills and soprano soloist Mariana Asatryan with guest maestro Krikor Najarian singing the solo "Amen Hayr Sourp" and the choir master of St. Sarkis Church Kristina Arakelyan playing the organ and also singing solos.
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The Divine Liturgy was followed by an Easter lunch celebration at the Copthorne Tara Hotel that was organised by the Primate's Office Ladies Committee which was very successfully attended.
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Parish Life
Lent and Holy Week at the Holy Trinity Church in Manchester
The oldest Armenian Church in Northern Europe
During Lent, we held two “Khaghaghagan Jamergutiun” services on consecutive Fridays, which were conducted by our deacons and altar servers. After the services we all joined deacon Artur in his new unique “Artur’s Cafe”, intending it to become a new tradition where everyone takes their own meal and Artur serves tea or coffee to the congregation.
Holy week was a very busy week and we started with Palm Sunday where Deacon Artur had decorated the altar with 2 palms forming an arch over the top. The small palm crosses had been pre-prepared and were shared out to the congregation who had enjoyed Badarak followed by the Trnpatseq service conducted by Father Nerses.
On Maundy Thursday we were delighted to welcome Father Nerses again, who conducted the “Feet Washing” service in the evening. The service was also attended by Father Ian and other guests (from the USA!) from St Chrysostom a
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neighbouring sister church. We had a good attendance of “disciples” of all ages from a small baby to the middle aged. After a short break Father Nerses together with deacons Tatto, Artur and Zareh conducted the Khavaroom service where the congregation sat solemnly and listened to readings from the Gospels.
On Good Friday we said prayers for the Lord Jesus as we conducted the Burial service. There is a longstanding tradition in Manchester where Miss Diana Doudian both donates and then lavishly decorates Jesus’ “tomb” with seasonal flowers and heathers before the Burial Service and this year was no exception.
Easter Sunday was a joyous affair with more that 150 people filling our humble church. People travelled hundreds of miles, from Scotland, Yorkshire as well as the Northwest all to celebrate Christ’s resurrection. Badarak was conducted by Father Nerses along with our new trainee deacons, Vicken and Zareh, who sang proudly on the altar. We even had a new junior member join the choir, 6 year old Nareg who sang “Amen” beautifully.
The Easter Service was followed by a delicious meal (provided by the Armenian Taverna Restaurant) in the Church Basement, which had been festively decorated by the Ladies Association with Easter bunnies and ornamental eggs etc. It has truly been an international Holy Week in Manchester this Easter. (Ara Couligian)
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Parish Life
Easter Sunday Divine Liturgy in Cardiff Parish
concerning the 1.5m Armenians who have not found closure. It was a moving and meaningful service with just one month left to the 24th April.
The Armenian Community this year wished to contribute to the Easter celebrations and provided the refreshments in the hall after the service; consisting of Chorek, Ghatta, and other pastries as well as Painted Eggs which were blessed after the Eucharist. The pastries and the traditional breaking of eggs was well received and somewhat of a revelation to the Welsh congregation of all ages! Before leaving, as is traditional in Christ Church, Canon Patrick distributed ‘Hand Made Butterflies’ & chocolate eggs.
The programme illustrated is entirely the work of Canon Patrick. Our thanks to Canon Patrick for a meaningful and wonderful Easter Service.
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It has become traditional for the Cardiff community to spend Easter in the far west of the parish at Christ Church in Carmarthen. Canon Patrick as always welcomed us as only he can. During the service prayers were said for the Martyrs of the Armenian Genocide as well as the plight of the Christians in the Middle East today.
Christ Church is the only church to say the Lords prayer in three languages of Welsh, English and Armenian. Canon Patrick's Sermon illustrated how the resurrection of Christ prevented the closure that would have been expected had he died. He also drew a parallel
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The Final Anointing and Burial Service of Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian
The Final Anointing and Burial service of Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian took place on Wednesday, March 23, at St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral in New York. The Divine Liturgy started 11 am, the celebrant was Bp Abgar Hovakimyan, Primate of the Armenian Diocese of Canada. Over 20 clergymen were present, representing different parishes of the Eastern Diosese. There were also many lay people. The Diocese of Great Britain and Ireland was presented by Rev. Shnork Bagdassarian, Pastor of St Sarkis Armenian Church in London.
Before the Kiss of Pease Archbishop Kajak Barsamian, Primate of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church in America administered the The Final Anointing ceremony with Holy Muron. Bishop Abgar read the Pontifical message from His Holiness Karekin II, Katholicos of All Armenians. Rev. Simeon Odabashian read the Letter of Condolence from His Beatitude Patriarch Ignatius Aphrem II Patriarch of Antioch of the Syrian Orthodox Church. Fr Shnork Bagdassarian delivered His Grace Bishop Hovakim Manukyan’s message stating that His Eminence was an exemplary clergyman who kept lit the torch of faith in the British Isles as a Primate and a spiritual father for nearly two decades, earning the love of thousands of faithful. The seeds of faith that Archbishop Yeghishe had sown in our churches have given abundant harvest that will remind upage17image1880
Prophet Elisha and Yeghishe Srpazan and stated that His Eminence was an exemplary clergyman and a true servant of God.
Interment took place at Ferncliff Cemetery in Hartsdale, NY, presided over by Archbishop Kajak, after which there was a hokejash at the nearby St. Gregory the Enlightener Armenian Church. During Hokejash Fr Simeon Odabashian read many letters of condolences, some of which were from London, including letters from Rev. Fr Nereses Nersesian and Mr Asadour Guzelian. Fr Shnork spoke again and shared some of his happy and joyous memoires with Yeghishe Srpazan, beautiful stories which demonstrated the true character of His Grace, his humility, sense of responsibility, his dedication, love and commitment to the Church and people.
“I am grateful to His Grace Bp Hovakim for asking me to go to New York to represent our Diocese and the community at the funeral of our beloved Yeghishe Srpazan. Yeghishe Srpazan was like a father to me and an inspiration in my pastoral ministry”, said Fr Shnork after his return.
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Please follow the link to see the last anointing of the late Archbishop:
http://livestream.com/ArmenianChurchEasternDiocese/events/5042249
Please follow the link to see a tribute to the late Archbishop:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNBUzX-pMNc
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Pan-Orthodox Vespers in Russian Orthodox Cathedral
The annual Pan-Orthodox Vespers was celebrated this year at the Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Dormition of the Mother of God and All Saints, Kensington, London on the Sunday of Orthodoxy, March 20th at 6.00 pm. The main Celebrant was Archbishop Elisey of Sourozh, the head of the Russian Ortodox Church in the UK. Most of the UK Orthodox Churches were represented, such as the Greeks, Serbs, Georgian, Romanian, Bulgarian and others. High ranking clergy included Archbishop Gregorios of Thyateira and Great Britain, Archbishop Silouan of the British Isles and Ireland, Archbishop Elisey of Sourozh, and other hierarchs. The cathedral was packed with worshippers. Rev. Fathers Vram Ghazaryan and Shnork Bagdassarian represented the Armenian Apostolic Church. At the end of the long service there was a reception for the clergy and the honourable guests.
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To view the latest videos from Holy Week please follow these links:
Palm Sunday: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M70YrmRu4q8
Washing of the Feet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ingntENVcs
Holy Thursday: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ulnR9wDkjQ
Good Friday: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53RQFIIBmVM
Holy Saturday: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GhDJ8SuNcLY
Easter Sunday: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MUYmfDLUakA&feature=youtu.be
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Pilgrimage to the Holy Land
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6th 14th June 2016
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A unique opportunity to explore the Holy Land and the legacy of the Armenian Church in Jerusalem
Armenians have made pilgrimages to the Holy Land since the 5th century. It is a unique opportunity for every Christian man and woman to have a spiritual journey and retreat. On 9th June, the pilgrims will participate in the Divine Liturgy on the occasion of the Feast of Ascension of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ (Old Julian Calendar).
For the Armenian pilgrims it has another added value because apart from visiting Holy Places they will visit the Armenian quarter and St. James Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem to get acquainted with the legacy of the Armenian fathers in Jerusalem.
The group will be led by the Primate, Bishop Hovakim Manukyan. Special guides will facilitate the visits. The group will stay five days in Jerusalem at the Christmas Hotel, two nights in Tiberias at the Boutique Hotel and one night in Tel Aviv at the Deborah Hotel.
Cost: £1600(singleroom)

£1350 (shared room)
Includes: accommodation, return flights from London Heathrow to Tel Aviv Airport (including airport taxes and fuel charges), Armenian/English speaking guide services, deluxe coach with free WIFI, entrance fees for tourist attractions on itinerary, half board basis (two meals daily), and farewell dinner.
For more information, please contact: primatesoffice@armenianchurch.co.uk
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Diocese of Tavush
One Community, One School

The objectives of creating Sunday Schools on bordering areas are:
  •   organise and coordinate spiritual education in Tavush
  •   to underline the scientific, moral and spiritual aspects of religious education in the curriculum of the schools
  •   to make the region of Tavush a unique centre of education
  •   to see strengthen the practising of Christianity
    Between 2016-2019 we are planning to create around 70 schools in the region of Tavush
    Each school will cost around 2000 USD
    Any child living in the bordering region has a right to spiritual education. The borders are in good hands if we have people there living according Christian values
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When I grow up I will become like Serbazan
Little Nelli is a member of the Church Youth Organisation of Noyemberyan City
Strengthening Christianity on the borders creates a stronger nation
 
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Upcoming Events

DIOCESAN PROGRAMMES
Forthcoming Events in April, May, June and July 2016
Bible Studies
Every Thursday, at St. Sarkis Church Gulbenkian Hall led by the Primate and the clergy of the Diocese
Next dates: April 14th, 21st
Bible Studies are an important part of the church’s ministry as they provide opportunities for the faithful and those who are interested and curious to have a deeper understanding of Christianity and to ask questions about their faith, beliefs and concerns. During Bible studies we make observations (what do passages in the Bible say?), provide interpretation (what do they mean?) and ask how applicable these passages are to our lives today. Open to everyone.
Feast of Annunciation
Thursday, 7th April at 6:30pm in St. Sarkis Church
The Annunciation commemorates the tidings which the Angel Gabriel brought to Mary. It is part of the fulfilment of the Messianic prophecy and plan, and the most important event in Mary's life. According to Luke (1:26), the Annunciation occurred "in the sixth month" of Elizabeth's pregnancy with John the Baptist. Armenian Christians celebrate this feast on April 6th, as it is related to the date of celebrating the Nativity.
6:30 pm Prayer at St. Sarkis Church
7:00 pm -
Movie for youth: “Maria Gioretti” and discussion at Gulbenkian Hall. A true story, Maria’s life was brief but intense. Working with her family in the fields of feudal Italy, her lifelong friendship with a boy in her village changed when he lost his path. However, Maria’s intense faith allowed for a transformation of hatred into love, and provided a way back for him through forgiveness and redemption.
House Blessings
9th - 10th April
Easter basket delivery by ACYF to elderly and house blessings by priests
Birmingham Parish
Divine Liturgy in Birmingham
Sunday, 10th April, 1:00pm
Divine Liturgy at the Mission Parish of Birmingham (St John’s Church, Stratford Road, Birmingham, B11 4EA)
Solemn Divine Liturgy in Remembrance of the Genocide
Sunday, 24th April, St. Yeghiche Church
Solemn Divine Liturgy will be celebrated on the day of the Armenian Genocide. It will be followed by the consecration of the icon dedicated to the Holy Martyrs of
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the Genocide.
Cardiff Parish
Genocide Remembrance Day
Sunday, 24th April at 11.00am
We will be asking the children to light 9 Candles for the 9th Anniversary of the memorial.
Armenian Liturgical Hymns
Saturday, 7th May at 6pm in Pembroke College, Oxford
Oxford Armenian Choir presents the musical tradition from an ancient church, from the 10th century to the present day
(please see advert for details)

Divine Liturgy and Special Memorial Service for Archbishop Gizirian
Sunday, 15th May, St. Yeghiche Church
Divine Liturgy and special Hogehangist service in memory of the late Archbishop Yeghiche Gizirian, the service will be followed by Hogejash and remembrance event. The time will be advertised soon. For more details, please, contact the Primate’s Office
Cardiff Parish
Armenian Church Service at Ararat Church
Saturday, 21st May at 10.30am
Pilgrimage to the Holy Land
6 14th June
(please see advert for details)
Armenian Street Festival
Sunday, 17th July, 12pm-7pm
Iverna Gardens, London W8 6TP
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Editorial:
The main objective of the diocesan e-newsletter is to serve and reach out to Armenians throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland. The community members and organisations are welcome to send their announcements for the e-newsletter, including information not only about public events but also about important family events such as christening, matrimony or passing away.

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Worship Services in the Armenian Churches
Services are held in the Armenian Churches in London every Sunday starting at 11:00 am. In Manchester, there is a service on the 1st Sunday of the month. For further details, please contact the parish nearest to you:
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Holy Trinity Armenian Church
229 Upper Brook Street Manchester, M13 0FY
Tel: 0161 273 1074
www.armenianchurchmanchester.org/
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St. Sarkis Church
Iverna Gardens Kensington, London, W8 6TP Tel: 020 7937 0152 http://www.stsarkisparish.co.uk
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St. Yeghiche Cathedral
13b Cranley Gardens Kensington, London SW7 3BB Tel: 020 7373 8133 http://www.styeghiche.org.uk/
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Other Parishes of our Diocese:
Cardiff - Tel: + 44 771 279 2304, +44 2920779248. john@jagproperties.co.uk
Dublin - Tel: +44 2891 863559. http://www.armenians.ie/
Birmingham – Tel: +44 121 675 1469. St John’s Church, Stratford Road, Birmingham, B11 4EA Oxford - Tel: +44 7810 490242. armenian.society@studentsclub.ox.ac.uk
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We invite those who have questions or wish to gain deeper understanding of the faith, moral discernment, teachings and traditions of the Armenian Church to contact the Office of the Diocese of the Armenian Church in United Kingdom and Ireland:
The Primate’s Office
c/o The Armenian Vicarage
Iverna Gardens
London, W8 6TP
or email:
primatesoffice@armenianchurch.co.uk
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Editorial Committee:
His Grace Bishop Hovakim Manukyan, Primate
Garen Arevian
Lena Boghossian
Hovik Hovhannisyan Aznive Simon
Gagik Stepan-Sarkissian Sossi Yerissian 


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