Retiring Haigazian University President, the Rev. Dr. John ...€¦ · market availed to us. Though we had started our mis-sion outreach with certain limits in mind, over-whelmed

Publication of the Armenian Missionary Association of AmericaAUG/SEPT/OCT 2002 - Vol. XXXVI No. 4 (ISSN 1097-0924)

The Rev. Jirair SogomianEditor

Retiring Haigazian University President, the Rev. Dr. John KhanjianWelcomes the New President, the Rev. Dr. Paul Haidostian

(see story on pages 10-11)

AMAA NEWS, AUG/SEPT/OCT 20022

AMAA NEWS - A publication of the Armenian Missionary Association of America, Inc., 31 West Century Road, Paramus, NJ 07652.Tel. (201) 265-2607; Fax (201) 265-6015; E-Mail: [email protected]; Website: http://www.amaainc.org

E D I T O R I A L M E S S A G E

“A Test of Our Stewardship”

Rev. Jirair M. Sogomian

These, indeed, are unusual times for us all! As we approach the first anniversary of that infamous 11th dayof September in the history of the United States of America, we share the lingering grief and pain of thefamilies and friends of those thousands of innocent victims who perished in such tragic circumstances.However, deeply aware of our shrinking world, often described as a global village, we also share the griefand pain of the least of God’s children around the world who are daily victimized by irrational andinhuman violence, and by the deeply encrusted human injustice and greed that hold our world hostage tounrighteousness and senseless suffering.

Needless to say, our world has been affected inmore than one way by the escalation of unbridled

hatred, boundless brutality and insatiable humangreed. The economic downturn in our country, causedby these and other conditions, has seriously affectednot only the pocketbooks of millions of people, buthas also seriously curtailed our ability to reach out toalleviate the painful needs of the hungry, homelessand the poor of our world.

For over a decade, experiencing the blessings of abull market and the resulting generosity of those whoshared their blessings, we expanded our mission toreach out to the crying needs of those who did notshare the superabundance of the resources a boomingmarket availed to us. Though we had started our mis-sion outreach with certain limits in mind, over-whelmed by human need, we far surpassed those quo-tas and goals initially intended, and our budget grewby leaps and bounds as we passed on the fruits ofGod’s generosity through the gifts, trusts and bequestsof humble or large donors.

The days and years of such abundance have nowtemporarily halted, and the lean years have overtakenus injecting their healthy realism into our incurableoptimism. These are times that remind us of God’sprovision of manna in the wilderness, which could

not be hoarded and stored up for the future. These aretimes that test the mettle of our faith, the genuinenessof our Christian stewardship, and the honesty of ourmotives in giving and sharing that others may sur-vive times harsher than we have ever experienced!These are times that call us to new standards of giv-ing that are truly sacrificial and self-denying. Theseare times that call us to relinquish anxiety about ourown economic security and to seek first God’s king-dom and righteousness.

For many years, the vast majority of us, with fewstellar exceptions, gave out of our abundance. Wegave, many quite generously, but from our leftoversand abundant taxable funds, justifiably reasoning thatour money can bring about greater good through chari-table organizations than government allocations andgrants. But now, we find ourselves in times whenour giving can make us feel that something is miss-ing from us, anointing our generosity with a spirit ofsacrifice and self-denial. Now is the time when Godtests our deepest motives and genuine intentions insharing blessings that God has entrusted to us for ashort while as stewards of God’s mercies. May thechallenge of our times be to us a hidden blessing tonurture our souls and to strengthen our resolve to beGod’s good and faithful stewards! G

AMAA NEWS, AUG/SEPT/OCT 2002 3

The Declaration of Independencesigned by the 56 members of the

United States of America composed ofthirteen states is not only fascinatingreading but also an inspirational one aswell. It was signed and founded on July2, 1776. The idea that July 4 was the datearose from a mistake in the first printedversion of the journals of the Congress.

"We hold these truths to be self-evi-dent, that all men are created equal, thatthey are endowed by their Creator withcertain unalienable Rights, that amongthese are Life, Liberty and the pursuitof Happiness," read the Declaration. Itadded, “That to secure these rights,Governments are instituted among Men,deriving their just powers from the con-sent of the governed……

"We therefore, the Representatives ofthe United States of America……do, inthe Name, and by authority of the goodpeople of these Colonies solemnly pub-lish and declare……And for the supportof this declaration. with firm reliance onthe protection of Divine Providence, wemutually pledge to each other ourLives, our Fortunes, and our sacredHonor."

These are profound and courageouswords, indeed.

The question that arose in my mindwas: "Did they keep their pledge?"

I had not realized that these 56 patri-ots had stayed faithful to their pledgethrough thick and thin. More throughthick. They knew that the penalty, whencaught, would be certain death.

My question was answered on read-ing an article that revealed the troublesand tortures they had suffered. I cannotvouch if one hundred percent of the ar-ticle is factually correct, but they ap-peared to be perfectly true to me.

"Five signers were captured by the

What Armenia Needs Most Today: True Patriots

by Rev. Dr. Giragos H. Chopourian

O P I N I O N

British as traitors and tortured beforethey died. Twelve had their houses ran-sacked and burned. Two lost their sonswho served in the Revolutionary Army.Another had two sons captured. Ninefought and died from wounds or hard-ships of the Revolutionary War. Theywere men of means and status: Lawyers(24), Merchants (11), Farmers and plan-tation owners (9). Carter Braxton ofVirginia saw his ships swept from theseas by the British. He sold his home,paid his debts and died in rags. ThomasMcKean served in the Congress with-out pay and was hounded by the Brit-ish. His possessions were taken andpoverty became his reward. ThomasNelson, Jr. saw his house made the head-quarters of British General Cornwallis.He urged Gen. Washington to open fireon his house and destroy it. Nelson diedbankrupt. Francis Lewis’ house wasdestroyed and his wife died within a fewmonths following her jailing. John Hartlived in forests and caves for more thana year. When he returned home, hefound his wife dead and his thirteenchildren gone. Shortly alter returninghome he died heartbroken. Robert Har-ris and Philip Livingston suffered simi-lar fates."

Great were the sacrifices of wealthy,highly educated and secure men for thesuccess of the American Revolution.They valued liberty above everythingelse. They were genuine patriots, de-voted and loyal to the cause of libertyand sacred life. The United State wasput on an unshakable foundation. Stand-ing tall and unwavering, to repeat, theyvowed in these words: "We mutuallypledge to each other our Lives, ourFortunes and our sacred Honor." Toooften most Americans take the libertiesand the selfless patriotism of courageous

men for granted.Now, in contrast, what do we hear and

read about the leadership of Armenia?The following kind of words appear inthe news media of the country: Amass-ing wealth, hiding wealth to avoid taxa-tion, corruption, political intriguing,bribing. How much of these are true, Ihave no clue, but I am reminded of thefamous old saying, "Where there’ssmoke, there’s fire." We do not hear orread about unselfishness, self-sacrificeor patriotic fervor by the governors ofArmenia: such as the members of Par-liament and the members of the Cabi-net.

"There is no royal road to Geometry,"as the saying goes. No secure and un-shakable foundation can be laid for anation without unselfish patriotism. Andwithout matching the patriotism of theFounders of the United States ofAmerica on behalf of the governors,such as the members of Parliament andthe Cabinet, not much good can takeplace, unless of course they would havethe courage and fortitude to pledge their"Lives, Fortunes and sacred Honor" forthe betterment of Armenia and the resto-ration of faith of the Armenian popula-tion in the Government. G


A R M E N I A

The 12-year old AMAA Armenia Summer Camp activities arean integral part of its Christian Education program. Every sum-

mer thousands of children participate in Summer and Day Campswhere they enjoy nutritious meals, participate in outdoor and in-door games, take part in Arts and Crafts activities, receive Biblicalinstruction, watch instructive, yet entertaining dramas and more.Most important though, these youngsters’ lives are changed as theyexperience God’s love and care. They experience the loving careof their camp counselors who spend much time listening, talking,playing and praying with them. At the end of the camp, many re-turn home with tears of joy and a determination to live in obedi-ence to God.

Most of the children that attend the camps are needy. Many comein old and worn-out clothes. Thanks to the generosity of friends inNorth America, AMAA was able to give shoes and clothing to manycampers. Overall, AMAA distributed over 900 pairs of sneakers andshoes, over 250 pairs of shorts, over 700 sweatshirts and T-Shirts.Over 1000 jeans were also received and will be distributed later.

During Summer 2002, three thousand four hundred needy chil-dren participated in AMAA Armenia camps that were held in threelocations: Camp Lori in Northern Armenia – 180 children partici-pated in each of the seven, one-week camp sessions; Camp Datevin Aghveran region (North-East of Yerevan) – 180 children partici-pated in each of the seven, one-week camp sessions; and CampKar-Kar in Stepanakert, Karabagh (Southern Region) – 180 chil-dren participated in each of five, one-week camp sessions.

The campers were divided into groups of nine. Each group wasled by a camp counselor who supervised his/her group 24 hours aday. The group slept in the same room, ate at the same table andtogether participated in all the activities.

The daily program consisted of morning exercises, group devo-tions, worship services, Bible lessons, three daily meals, arts &crafts, games and variety nights.

AMAA Summer camps reach out to children’s physical, emo-

AMAA Armenia Summer Camps 2002

by Harout Nercessian

(continued on the following page)


A R M E N I A

AMAA Introduces "Healing the Children" to Armenia

In January of 2001 AMAA Vice President,Mr. Robert Hekemian introduced AMAA

to Healing the Children (HTC), a kindredorganization dedicated to helping childrenaround the world, who also showed interestto help children in Armenia. Ever since thedevastating earthquake of 1988 in Armenia,AMAA has been involved in efforts to sup-port the orphaned and needy children inArmenia. Through its Orphan/Child Care,Summer Camp and Milk Fund programs,AMAA has saved the lives of thousands ofchildren in Armenia and has given themhope for the future. Along with its reliefaid, AMAA has also provided free medicaland dental care. AMAA’s medical clinic inYerevan today continues to serve the needsof hundreds of children in Armenia.

HTC is a national non-profit organizationdedicated to providing free medical care toneedy children around the world. The na-tionwide organization, which was foundedin 1979, has 13 active chapters. In 1981 theMidlantic Chapter was organized with itsheadquarters in Butler, New Jersey. It drawssupport from the states of New Jersey, Penn-sylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia andNorth Carolina. Since 1979, HTC has pro-vided medical care assistance to 63,000 chil-dren from 86 countries. HTC delivers itsservice through volunteer medical teamswho travel to developing nations. The teams

are comprisedof physicians,dentists, nursesand HTC staff.The care deliv-ered includesdental, pediatricplastic and re-c o n s t r u c t i v es u r g e r y ,opthamology,urology, oto-laryngology ando r t h o p e d i c s .Volunteer medi-cal profession-als donate theirservices, whichare provided free of charge to all childrenwith no discrimination of age and denomi-nation. One of the recent medical servicesof the HTC was the separation in Californiaof the Guatemalan twins conjoined at thehead.

With the same goal in their hearts, AMAAmade a formal overture to HTC for coop-eration in Armenia. Preliminary inquirieswere made with health officials in Armeniato verify the feasibility of this program inArmenia. The Arabkir Medical Center wasrecognized as a prospective facility to coor-dinate such assistance. The Center has ad-equate departments i.e. pediatric surgery,pediatric urology, pediatric nephrology, he-modialysis and intensive care units whichcould be utilized. The Center has made aformal request “to include a Pediatric Sur-geon who will perform shunting on patientswith extrahepatic portal hypertension. Theirproblem being very common in Armenia isstill unsolved. They are dying.” (Dr. AraBabloyan)

In June of 2002 a joint team from AMAAand HTC visited Armenia to make the nec-essary and final arrangements before themedical volunteer team arrives. Mrs. MaryJane Hekemian, Co-Chairperson of theAMAA Orphan/Child Care Committee(East Coast) and Mrs. Joan Blanco, Admin-istrative Representative of HTC Midlantic

Chapter had several meetings with Dr. AraBabloyan and returned to set the date ofOctober 24, 2002 for the volunteer medicalteam’s visit.

Medical supplies and needed equipmentwere shipped to Armenia in July. The trav-eling team will consist of 18-20 people in-cluding Board Certified surgeons, anesthe-siologists, OR nurses, RR nurses and admin-istrative staff. The team will stay for about10 days and will perform at least 100 sur-geries. The team will not only provide freeservice, they will also pay for their owntravel. AMAA will be responsible for theirstay in Armenia.

This unique cooperation and the vital hu-manitarian service is made possible thanksto the HTC, and its core of health care pro-fessionals who volunteer their time and re-sources, the volunteer members of both HTCand AMAA, and also thanks to the supportof caring individuals who give generouslyto support such humanitarian services.

Both AMAA and HTC will appreciateany kind of support which might help andexpand this and similar programs. If youare interested in volunteering your servicesor would like to make a donation in sup-port of this mission, please send your giftsor write to: AMAA/HTC Project, c/o 31West Century Road, Paramus, NJ07652. G

tional, social and spiritual needs. The campscannot meet all the needs. Yet, the Biblicalteaching accompanied by love and caregives them hope and gradually changes theirlives, values and thinking.

In addition, near eight thousand childrenparticipated in 70 Day Camps organizedthroughout Armenia and Karabagh.

AMAA Armenia Summer Camps are or-ganized by Harout Nercessian with the as-sistance of over 250 staff and volunteers.All AMAA Armenia ministries are led byRev. René Léonian.

AMAA summer programs brought manyblessings to thousands of children. G

(continued from previous page)

by Dikran Youmshakian

Mrs. Joan Blanco (left), Administrative Representative of HTCMidlantic Chapter assisting a medical team of doctors in a surgery.


A U S T R A L I A

In a special outreach event, the ArmenianEvangelical Church of Sydney, along

with the Armenian Missionary Associationof Australia, brought the Beirut-based Ar-menian Christian musical group, Nor Yerk,for a whirlwind 12-day tour.

This effort came about as a result of theleadership of the church’s pastor, the Rev.Krikor Youmoushakian, and the dedicatedwork of the one-year-old Australian AMAAaffiliate, which distinguished itself in theSydney Armenian community last yearwhen it sponsored the Australian tour ofAMAA-Armenia’s “Young Virtuosos”children’s ensemble. Then, as now, the pro-ceeds and special gifts resulting from theevent were designated for helping the poor-est of the poor, namely orphans in Armenia,through the AMAA.

“Nor Yerk,” in its tenth year of ministry,carried forth its dual mission: to share theGospel message in song to Armeniansworldwide, and to inspire a love for theirethnic heritage.

The series of concerts began on July 19thwith a benefit concert in Willoughby, orga-nized by the local Rotary and AGBU chap-ters. An appreciative audience composed ofArmenians and non-Armenians filled thehall to capacity, and with the Lord’s helpthe group performed a mix of Armenian andEnglish songs without their leader, the Rev.Nerses Balabanian. He joined the group forthe subsequent concerts, beginning the fol-lowing day.

A unique feature of Nor Yerk’s July tourto Australia was their leadership in a campfor 9th and 10th graders of the two Sydney-area Armenian high schools.

For the first time ever, the leaders of thetwo schools, the St. Gregory and Arshag &Sophie Galstaun schools, held a combinedannual school retreat, which they tradition-ally have at the beginning of each academicyear.

Along with the active consultation of theheads of the three denominations, Catholic,Apostolic and Evangelical, and the particu-lar input of Rev. Krikor Youmoushakian, this3-day event saw the seven members of Nor

Yerk not only givingevening concerts,but also presentingtalks on five differ-ent subjects.

Their topics, in-cluding dealing withpeer pressure, relat-ing to parents, theexperiences of youthin Karabagh, dis-cerning the mes-sages in popular mu-sic, making respon-sible sexual choices,and understandingthe love of Jesus,were warmly re-ceived by the groupof 80 students and adozen or so teachers.Nor Yerk also led theevening social ac-tivities and games,and many of themcommented that theyhad never had suchan interesting retreatbefore. Some of thestudents even con-fided, “Don’t tellthem, but we reallylike their music!”

Held at a churchconference center to-wards the Blue Mountain region north ofSydney, the conference gave a much-neededchallenge and encouragement to youth andadult alike. After this they flew to Melbournefor a Saturday evening concert.

Aside from these activities, Rev.Balabanian, Rev. Nishan Bakalian, andSevan Balabanian spoke at two Sunday wor-ship services and two women’s group meet-ings during their stay. To cap off all of theseevents, on their last night in Australia thegroup played a friendly and informal con-cert during the AMAA Benefit Concert inNorth Sydney. A broad spectrum of the Ar-menian community was present at this and

Sydney Church and AMA-Australia Host Nor Yerk

Rev. L. Nishan Bakalian

Members of Nor Yerk in Sydney, Australia: Rev. Nishan Bakalian,Hrag Karagoezian, Sevan Balabanian, Rev. Nerses Balabanian(leader), Houry Apartian, Garbis Deyirmenjian, Zakar Keshishian(above). Rev. Nishan Bakalian and Sevan Balabanian speak tostudents about “peers and parents” at a joint Armenian high schoolretreat outside Sydney.

all the previous events, and expressed theirenthusiasm and thanks for the high qualityprograms of traditional and contemporarymusic, spiritual and patriotic songs, touch-ing the hearts of listeners of every age. NorYerk, in turn, expressed its deepest appre-ciation to all those who worked so hard tobring them from Lebanon for this uniqueministry.

Aside from the aforementioned members,the group also includes Houry Apartian,Garbis Deyirmenjian, Hrag Karagoezian,and Zakar Keshishian. Except for two oftheir number, the members are involved in


75th Anniversary Worship Service of the São Paulo Church (above). Some of the mem-bers of the Women's Guild with Elbiz Baghdikian and Louisa Janbazian standing onthe right and pastor of the Church, Rev. Dimitri Constantinidis standing at the back.


B R A Z I L

The Armenian Evangelical Church of São Paulo Celebrates75 Years of Blessings

"Making the most of every opportunity...we wait for the blessed hope-- the gloriousappearing of our great God and Savior,Jesus Christ." (Ephesians 5:16/Titus 2:13)

This was the key verse chosen for the 75thanniversary celebrations of the found-

ing of the Armenian Evangelical CentralChurch of São Paulo, Brazil.

We praise and thank God for the blessedyears, for the toils and victories, for the pas-tors who carried the work of our Lord, forGod’s people and for the privilege of thisyear, when we are able to commemorate theexistence of this church for the past 75 years.The above verse reveals the expression ofthe heart of the author about making themost of every opportunity, because asChrist’s Church we need to make the mostof every opportunity and run the race toreach out to the Armenian people, as wellas to Brazilian, as we see a society full ofchallenges.

During the month of August, several spe-cial programs were held, and like the psalm-ist, we can say: “The Lord has done greatthings for us, and we are filled with joy.”(Psalm 126:3). Yes, we were happy for theWord preached by our own, as well as bythe invited pastors from abroad, and for themusical programs of various local churches,who enriched our worship services and ourpraise to God.

The 75th Anniversary Worship Servicewas held on Sunday morning, August 18,and we praised God for His many blessings.

We specially enjoyed the presence or ourdear Louisa Janbazian and her daughter Aniaccompanied by Elbiz Baghdikian (the co-

chair of AMAA’s Armenia Summer Campand Christmas Committee). On Wednes-day, August 21, the Women’s Guild of ourchurch hosted a special Afternoon Tea forthe ladies of the Armenian community ofSão Paulo. Around 100 ladies were present.Louisa presented a video about the AMAA’smission in Armenia and spoke speciallyabout the work amongst the children of Ar-menia, after which Mrs. Baghdikian spokeabout the activities of the AMAA’s SummerCamp and Christmas Committee. At the endof the program, donations were received to-wards the Christmas Joy Packages for thechildren of Armenia.

As part of the celebratory programs, a

by Amestui Darakjian*

playground was inaugurated in the patio ofour church, at which time our children hada festive afternoon of singing hymns andwatching a puppet show.

The 75th Anniversary Commemorativebanquet was held on Sunday, August 25, atwhich time the members and friends of ourchurch had a time of Christian fellowship.

We thank all those who supported andhelped us and all the invitees who broughttheir valued collaboration and participation.May the honor and glory be given to God. G

*The original of this text was in Portugueseand was translated into English by LouisaJanbazian.


other professions. Joining the group fromthe U.S. as sound and technical assistantswere Vahe Sarmazian and Datev Karjian.

The group has recently released a newrecording, its sixth, entitled, “I Will NotForget My Faith” (Havadkus chem.Morana). For more information about thegroup or its recordings, contact the AMAAoffice, or visit www.cacc-sf.org/noryerk G

8 AMAA NEWS, AUG/SEPT/OCT 2002

Journal of Journey to Beirut

W e took this trip primarily forHaigazian Trustee meetings held on

June 25th and 26th. Of interest to StephenPhilibosian Foundation (SPF) Trustees, wealso attended a delightful event, honoringoutgoing president, the Rev. Dr. JohnKhanjian, in the Mugar Gardens on a starrynight complete with full moon. Lively testi-monies complimented John for seven yearsof devotion and commitment. Focusing onthe major construction during his watch, atevening’s end John received a hard hat em-blazoned with “John the Builder”!. A threethousand dollar scholarship, bearing Dr.Khanjian’s name, will be awarded annuallyto a deserving student.

Meetings were full of lively discourse onHaigazian’s various programs including Dr.Arda Ekmekji’s division of Arts and Sci-ences. Dean Ekmekji was awarded the sta-tus of Associate Professor. Dr. Fadi Asrawi,Dean of the Business School has expandedhis department offering an M.A. in BusinessAdministration. Reports were given in thekey areas. Chaplain Reverend NishanBakalian shared the scope of his activitieson campus, as did Alan Kairouz on studentlife at Haigazian. Ailsa McClardy informedus of her role in Life-Long Learning andAdult Education Program. Loucia Isaac, P.R.Director gave an enthusiastic report on herimage-building activities.

As always, scholarship funds are criticalfor needy students. The economy continuesto be very poor although tourism is on theupswing, primarily due to Gulf citizens opt-ing for Lebanon instead of Europe in theseuncertain days.

A special event took place on June 26th

again in the beautiful Mugar Gardens. TheRev. Dr. Paul Haidostian, the President elect,was honored by the University and the Leba-nese community. American, Canadian, Rus-sian and Armenian Embassies were repre-sented as well as Lebanon’s ministries, presi-dential and Prime Minister’s deputies. Joeand I enjoyed conversing with the U.S. Di-rector of Culture in Lebanon. Debbie, aGeorgetown University graduate was aboutto leave for a 3-year tour of duty in Bul-

garia, she expressed herreluctance to leave cul-turally rich Beirut. Paulwas eloquent in Arabic,English and Armenian.

Thursday morningfound us around thebreakfast table with SonaNashian (former princi-pal of Central HighSchool), Esther Kilaghb-ian (wife of pastor Soghomon-AshrafiehChurch), Mrs. Ellen Sagherian (Director ofC.I./SPF scholarships in Lebanon) and herdaughter Pauline (Jinishian Fund Associate).We spoke of the great needs within the Ar-menian community. Ellen updated me on ourjoint mission in Lebanon - providing essen-tial scholarships for children who otherwisewould not enjoy an Evangelical education.Our funds do not cover their expenses -therefore some are obligated to attend na-tional sub-standard institutions. Ellen con-fided some facts about a family assisted inthe past; beset with physical, emotional andmonetary problems. This is but an exampleof similar situations in Lebanon.

Thanks to Rev. Megerditch Karagoezian,we toured a number of schools which havebeen refurbished by the Conte Foundation.Central High School has a fresh look. Goneare the gray walls. New and colorful paintsgive the interior and facade a fresh 1ook.Principal Sonia Sisslian proudly drew ourattention to the fresh library and new com-mon room enclosed on a former balcony.Improvements in the playground are plannedfor the future. A plaque noting Mr.Philibosian’s significant role in restorationsome 35 years ago seemed appropriate in-deed! Central High School employs 40teachers for grades K to 12 and 280 studentsare enrolled.

The Gertmenian School, established bysuccessful Hadjentzis 80 years ago and es-pecially close to the heart of Mr. Philibosianhas a bright new façade. Principal SahagDedeyan has shepherded the school of 400for over 30 years. It sits in the heart of NorHadjin - an enclave supported by my father

by Joyce Philibosian Stein

for many years.Driving through the crowded narrow

streets brought us to the Shamlian-TatigianSchool whose student body numbers 265with 31 teachers K to 11. This school wasin deplorable condition. Not only freshlypainted inside and out, dangerous electricalwiring has been updated and replaced.

The Trad school and Social Service Cen-ter boasts 108 students grades K -6. One cansee another plaque dedicated to StephenPhilibosian. Principal Vera Svajian is agraduate of Haigazian, as is Rita Lao, di-rector of the Social Service Center. Not onlyhas the building been completely repainted,but a seldom used bath converted into a well-utilized library.

I was told the recent refurbishment hasdispelled rumors that Evangelical schoolsare closing. In fact, it has turned the tide ofoptimism and more students are enrollingin our schools. Restoration funds have beenused at all Evangelical schools including thePhilibosian Evangelical College.

Our final evening was spent at the TorossianEvangelical School’s graduation, held in thelovely Amanos Church. Pastor NersesBalabanian offered introductory remarks,while Principal Seta Karagoezian’s messageto the 40 graduates reflected on memories ofthe past year, encouraging each to hold fast tohigh ideals. Keynote speaker was fromAntelias Holy See. He spoke of Evangelicalimpact on him spiritually. As a young orphan,“I was given the cold cup of water” by theEvangelicals. His was an inspiring message.

Joe and I felt this trip was indeed a veryrewarding and enlightening one. We willalways have a heart for Lebanon. G

L E B A N O N

9AMAA NEWS, AUG/SEPT/OCT 2002

E D U C A T I O N

Name: Father Mashdots ChobanianPosition: Vice Director of Christian Education at the ArmenianCatholicosate of CiliciaMinistry: Celibate PriestSchool where scholarship was granted: Armenian EvangelicalTorosian School

“If anyone gives a cup of cold water toone of these little ones because he is mydisciple, he will certainly not lose his re-ward.” (Matt. 10.42)

For the “cup of cold water” I thank allmy sponsors who supported me financiallyand morally during the 13 years which Ispent at the Arm. Evang. Torosian School.During those years I received and enjoyedall the spiritual , mental and physical bless-ings the school offered. With its warm environment, my schoolbecame my second home, the teachers became my mental and spiri-tual parents, the students became my sisters and brothers, and thesponsors became God’s providing hand.

How can I not offer praise to God for all these? How can I notexpress my gratitude and thankfulness for these God-pleasing acts?How can I not pray for all those who wanted to share their piece ofbread and glass of water with others?

They did all this with the deep faith and conviction anchored onthe words of the Gospel: "When you give to the needy, do not letyour left hand know what your right hand is doing" (Matt. 6.3)

Lastly, I pray to God for all the sponsors, asking Him to enrichtheir lives with His unending grace and teach us.

“To see and use all opportunities,

Give without expecting in return,

Struggle without being hurt,

Work without seeking rest,

Serve without expecting reward,

Knowing that it is God’s will

which we are doing.

Amen.” (St. Parsegh Gesaratsi)

Name: Kathia KozmanPosition: Registered Nurse, Nursing Instructor, American Univer-sity of Beirut, Medical CenterMinistry: Leader of Junior Youth; Member of CE Youth Group atthe Emmanuel ChurchSchool where scholarship was granted: Armenian EvangelicalTorosian School

I wasn’t born a believer, or a junior youthgroup leader, or a youth group member,not even a competent registered nurse, uni-versity students’ instructor, or a NEST stu-dent. It all had a different beginning. Myhalf-Armenian father had to earn moneyenough to get his 4 children into schoolduring the troublesome years of war inLebanon. That wouldn’t have been possibleif it were not for the help of the dedicated sponsors of the AMAA .

Where could be the connection, you would ask? Look down.I was able to finish school, get to university, get to where I am now.

I was also blessed to be able to meet Jesus through my school’s youthprograms and make a commitment to live my life for God. And I’mable to say thank you to the right people, hopefully at the right time.

AMAA's Child Sponsorship Program in the Middle East

Below are two testimonies from past beneficiaries of the AMAA's Child Sponsorship Program in the Middle East, who are now activeleaders in their own communities. Since 1946 the AMAA, through its Child Sponsorship Program, has reached out to thousands ofArmenians in that region. The Child Sponsorship Program is geared to helping children of needy families to acquire an education in aChristian environment. Currently it reaches out to 800 children annually in 13 schools. Today, this program is more important than ever,as living costs have risen with inflation and unemployment has thrown most of the families into poverty. For more information or tobecome a sponsor to help an Armenian child in the Middle East get a proper education, please fill out the form below.

G Yes, I would like to become a sponsor of a childin the Middle East. Please sign me up as a sponsorof _____ child(ren) at $200.00 per child, per year.

G I am enclosing a one-time gift of $_______ tohelp the AMAA provide necessary assistance to theeducation of a needy child in the Middle East.

G Please send me more information about thisProgram.

Name: __________________________________

Address: _________________________________

_________________________________

(Make your tax-deductible check payable to AMAA, andmail to: 31 West Century Road, Paramus, NJ 07652


E D U C A T I O N

Loucia Seropian

Seventy-four students donned their capsand gowns to officially and formally

mark their graduation from Haigazian Uni-versity on Monday, July 2, 2002.

Over 1000 parents including faculty,friends and scholars attended the open-skyceremony, which was held at the First Ar-menian Evangelical Church grounds. The ceremony was under the patronage ofthe Lebanese Cultural Minister GhassanSalameh. In his speech, Salameh encouragedthe graduates to seek more than individualsuccess. He said they should “pay back thenation that embraced them, stand up to theseductions of emigration and work on de-veloping society.”

After the invocation, Haigazian Univer-sity President, the Rev. Dr. John Khanjian,welcomed and honored the graduates’ par-ents for succeeding in leading their chil-dren to this stage of their academic life,asking them to stand up for the applause ofthose present, in appreciation of their im-mense efforts.

Taking the podium was the keynotespeaker Haigazian Board member, Rev. Dr.Carnegie S. Calian. He remarked that, “intoday’s world, no one seems to know howto connect meaningfully, let alone put to-gether peace plans and stop bloodshed”, headded. Rev. Dr. Calian told the graduatesthat despite this, they need to forge on andreject “doing business as usual.” He alsosaid, “they would constantly encounternegative roadblocks, and asked the gradu-ates to not only take money into consider-ation, but take into account their social andnational obligations as well. And that theyshould continue to excel in their work andpersonal lives by using “uncommon sense”.“From Common Sense To UncommonSense” was the theme of the speech.

Also, during the ceremony and in regardto Dr. John Khanjian’s long record ofachievements as the President of Haigazian,the Haigazian Board of Trustees recognizedhis efforts and in appreciation he was grantedan honorary Doctorate in Humanities.The ceremony also included two speechesby the class 2002 valedictorians, Zela

Haigazian University Commencement 2002

Margossian (in English), Faculty of Arts andSciences and Alexan Hagopian (in Arabic)from the Faculty of Business Administra-tion and Economics.

Both valedictorians encouraged graduatesto pursue more than money as they left theacademic world at Haigazian, keeping faith

in their abilities and those of their nation,holding closely to the academic virtues, re-sponsibilities and ethics the University hastaught them at Haigazian.

The next day following the Commence-ment a number of the graduates came to theUniversity to return their caps and gowns.G

The Rev. Dr. Khanjian receiving his honorary Doctorate in Humanities from The Rev.Robert Sarkissian, Chairman of The Haigazian Board (above). The Rev. Dr. CarnegieS. Calian, the keynote speaker, addressing the graduates and the audiance at the gradu-ation ceremony.


E D U C A T I O N

Confirming the Rev. Dr. John Khanjian’scontribution to Lebanon’s trademark of

excellence of education, the Armenian Evan-gelical Churches in the Near East awardedDr. Khanjian with a warm reception held atthe Mugar Garden on July 24, 2002, to honorhim with Lebanese Presidential ranking.

Following the Lebanese national anthemthere was a word of welcome by the Chair-man of the Board, Rev. Robert Sarkissian, ashort introduction of the event, a bestowalof honor and award to Dr. John Khanjian.

Taking the platform was Rev. MegerditchKaragoezian, President of the Union of Ar-menian Evangelical Churches in the NearEast, who in his speech distinguished Dr.

H aigazian University’s Board ofTrustees held a cocktail reception on

Wednesday, June 26, 2002 at the Mugarcampus garden to welcome Haigazian’s newPresident, the Rev. Dr. Paul Haidostian.

The Rev. Dr. Khanjian and the Deans atHaigazian University were first to greet andreceive the invitees directing them to meetand congratulate the new President elect andthe Board of Trustees.

After the Lebanese National Anthem, Dr.Fadi Asraoui, Dean of Business Adminis-tration and Economics at Haigaizan Univer-sity, opened the ceremony by words of wel-come and attribution to Haigazian’s mile-stones and its contribution to the academicsector in Lebanon.

Following his words, was the speech ofthe Board President, Mr. Herair Mouradianlauding Dr. Haidostian for his academicknowledge and commitment to the valuesof Haigazian University. In his speech Mr.Mouradian highlighted Dr. Haidostian’s cre-dentials, saying: Dr. Haidostian is a gradu-ate of Haigazian University, formerlyHaigazian College, he holds a Masters De-gree in Divinity from the Near East Schoolof Theology, Lebanon, and a Doctorate De-gree in Pastoral Theology from PrincetonUniversity, New Jersey.

A Bestowal of Honor and Award

Khanjian’s highly renowned achievementsand rewarded him with the Union’s Silvermedal, a tribute to his contribution to theChurch.

Representing the President of the Leba-nese Republic was Youth and Sports Minis-ter Mr. Sebouh Hovnanian who, upon theappointment of the Lebanese PresidentEmile Lahoud, conferred Dr. Khanjian therank of Knight a contribution to higher edu-cation and academic endeavors among theyouth in Lebanon.

With hearts full of thanks and apprecia-tion Dr. Khanjian expressed words of grati-tude to those who have recognized his ac-complishments in the name of truth, free-

dom and service to Haigazian University, aunique institution which has served the com-munity in Lebanon for 48 years.

Present were, the Rev. Salim Sayhouni,President of the Supreme Evangelical Coun-cil in Syria and Lebanon, Armenian Ortho-dox Archbishop Kegham Khatcherian, Ar-menian Ambassador, Mr. Arek Hovanessian,and other religious figures representing theArmenian Evangelical community, Haigazianfaculty, staff, students and friends. G

Haigazian Board of Trustees Welcomes the Rev. Dr. Paul Haidostian

Today, Dr. Haidostian plays a role in lo-cal and worldwide academic and ecumeni-cal organizations. He is a Faculty memberand a lecturer in Applied and Practical The-ology at NEST and ranks several positionsin the Armenian Evangelical Institutions inthe Near East.

In attendance were representatives fromSchools, Universities, and spiritual figuresand leaders from all religious sects in Leba-non, both Christian and Muslim, Sports and

Youth Minister Sebouh Hovnanian, repre-senting President Emile Lahoud, as well asSouthern Lebanon Parliament MemberYassin Jaber, representing Speaker NabihBerri; and Beirut Armenian ParliamentMember Hagop Kassarjian, representingPrime Minister Rafik Hariri.

Many invitees signed the guest bookmarking the occasion with words of wel-come and support dedicated to the newPresident, Dr. Paul Haidostian. G

(l to r) The Rev. Megerditch and Mrs. Seta Karagoezian, the Rev. Dr. Paul and Mrs.Maral Haidostian, Mr. Herair and Mrs. Sirvart Mouradian, the Rev. Robert and Mrs.Terez Sarkissian.


E D U C A T I O N

Mr. Robert Hekemian, Jr., of SaddleRiver, NJ, reported that the Armenian

Missionary Association of America(AMAA) has awarded a total of $135,000in direct scholarship aid to 75 Armeniancollege and university students for the aca-demic year 2002-2003. In addition,$200,000 was provided to various institu-tions of higher learning and charitable or-ganizations for distribution as scholarshipgrants to needy and qualified Armenian uni-versity students.

Mr. Hekemian is the chairman of theAMAA Scholarship Committee, which allo-cates the awarding of the Association’s schol-arships in the form of grants to deserving stu-dents. Each applicant’s documents are re-viewed thoroughly by the eight-member com-mittee, taking into account such factors asacademic performance, financial need, char-acter references and leadership potential. Forthe 2002-2003 academic year, the Commit-tee reviewed a total of 106 applications.

Application for academic grants is opento all undergraduate students of Armenianextraction attending an accredited college oruniversity on a full-time basis. Applicationforms are available each year beginning inJanuary, upon a written request by the appli-cant. The deadline for requesting ScholarshipApplication forms is April 15 and the clos-ing date for applications is May 15 of eachyear. Once the applications are received, theyare processed by the AMAA staff and given

AMAA Grants $335,000 inScholarship Aid

to the Scholarship Committee. After review-ing and discussing each application in detail,the Scholarship Committee considers, in lightof how much scholarship money is available,which applicants merit financial aid and howmuch that aid should be.

Since its formation in the mid-1970’s, theAMAA’s Scholarship Program has providedover 2.8 million dollars in the form of grantsand loans to more than 3,500 students in theUnited States and Canada. The program wasformalized under the leadership of the lateDr. John Keuhnelian, who for many yearsfaithfully served as the chairman of theScholarship Committee. The baton was thenpassed on to Mr. Robert Hekemian, Sr., un-der whose chairmanship, the program grewin proportion to the income from the desig-nated endowment funds.

Upon Mr. Hekemian’s retirement from theCommittee, his son, Mr. Robert Hekemian,Jr. was appointed by the AMAA Board tochair the Committee. Mr. Robert Hekemian,Sr., who was a long-time member of theCommittee, continues to serve this programwith enthusiasm and dedication.

Funds for the AMAA’s College Schol-arship Program is provided from the incomeof endowment funds established by individu-als and families concerned about the educa-tion of Armenian youth. There are currentlyabout 70 such AMAA endowment funds, themajor ones being the Hekemian Family Trustand the Stephen Philibosian Fund.

Other AMAA funds whose income pro-vided scholarships for this year’s recipientsare: John & Sona Abajian, John & MaryAbrahamian, Rev. Hovhannes Agnerian,Haigazoun & Angel Andonian, Dr. RobertNerses Armen, Aynilian Family, Vahan &Grace Azadian, Rev. Antranig Bedikian,Tavit & Sirvart Bogosian, Rev. Dr. Giragos& Yeprouhie Chopourian, Giragos M. &Helen T. Churukian, Arthur Dadian, Drs.Nazareth & Ani Darakjian, Dr. Haig RobertDarpinian & Berjouhie Timourian, Hagop &Esther Dohanian Family, Armine Ejdaharian/Bilezikjian, Dr. Meguerditch Ejdaharian, Rev.S.K. & G.T. Emurian, Ani Etoyan, Flora &Diane Galoostian, Charles MesrobGarabedian, Leon & Matilda Giridlian,Louise Googooian, Anne (Googooian)Halford, Angele Bedrossian Hancock,Khacher & Puzant Guzelimian, Martin HatchJr., Dr. Michael S. Hovenanian, Peter & SaraHovenanian, Paul & Arousiag Iskiyan,Martha D. Jedidian, George & ElizabethJerjisian, Karekin Kaboulian, Ohannes &Araxie Karamanoukian, Alice OdianKasparian, Kevork H. and Sirvart KassounyKavouksorian, John G. Kazanjian, MosesKeshishian & Victoria Hadidian, Dr. JohnKeuhnelian, Lucy Kezlarian/Philipian, Rev.& Mrs. Dikran & Yester Koundakjian &Haroutune & Salihe Berejiklian, AraxieKouyoumdjian Poladian, Hrant, Dolores andRoseanne Krikorian, Serje & Ann Krikorian,Prof. Lootfi Levonian, Yervant & VirginiaLevonian, Samuel & Victoria Magzanian,Rahel & Osanna Makanian, Edward & HelenMardigian, Albert, Henry & JamesMouradian, Leon Mouradian, Murad &Yevkin Muradian, Raymond & MarieNahigian, George & Alice Philibosian,Altoon & Sarah Saprichian, Dickran & FloraSarkisian, Krikor & Anna Sermabeikian,Berjouhi Sherene, Diran Simpadian, Edward& Hovnan Tashian, Telfeyan EvangelicalFund, Ezras & Nellie Tellalian, Dr. Jirayr &Louise Tezel, Rev. Edward S. Tovmassian,and several small funds with incomes lessthan $250.

Many former scholarship recipients nowsupport this program by establishing endow-ment funds of their own or making dona-tions to this program.

The needs remain great. We urge ourmembers and friends to remember this pro-gram and contribute to it. If you want to help,please fill out the coupon of contribution.G

Yes, I will support AMAA's Scholarship Program.

G I will establish an Endowment Fund. Please send me details.

G I will contribute $________ to this program.

Name _______________________________________________

Address _______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

(Please make your tax deductible checks payable to the AMAA ScholarshipProgram and mail to 31 W. Century Road, Paramus, NJ 07652)

!!!!!


E D U C A T I O N

by Rev. Dr. Giragos Chopourian

A Wholesome and Pleasant Surprise After More Than a Quarter Century

After eighteen years of service to theAMAA and fifteen years of retirement,

for a total of 33 years, I received a letter onJune 17, 2002 loaded with oodles of inspir-ing surprises.

The letter reached me at a time when Iwas having second thoughts about theAMAA Scholarship Program that the Boardinstituted early in 1972. I did not verbalizeor write about my concern to the Board. Itwas rather a “retirement contemplation”when there is much time to dream. My con-cern was stimulated by my remembrance ofa letter that reached the Board years backwhen the writer said, “What business doesthe Board have in providing scholarships?”At the time I was convinced it was the busi-ness of the AMAA to help educate Arme-nian youth because it is the best capital foryouth to have, especially those who weremostly emigrants or children of emigrants.On top of that I learned that the student loansthe Association had granted were not allbeing returned. These second thoughts wererepelled because of the June 17 letter fromDr. Vahe Apelian.

“This may come as a surprise,” wroteVahe Apelian. “A few days ago I was goingover some family records when I cameacross two letters I had kept all these years.One of them is a letter you wrote to Mariein 1977 congratulating her on her gradua-tion from Concordia College with a BA inHistory. The other is signed by the late Dr.Keuhnelian.... who also would have beenpleased to know that AMAA’s financial as-sistance was put to good use.”

I am tempted to quote those letters to makethe point that AMAA’s small contributionhas gone a long, long way:

“Dear Marie: Mrs. Chopourian and I readwith pleasure and pride the June/July/Augustissue of The Herald. It is our privilege andjoy to congratulate you on your graduationfrom Concordia College with a B.A. in His-tory. We also wish to extend our very bestwishes on your marriage to Vahe on June 4th.We add our genuine prayers for the fulfill-ment of your “dreams” and future plans.Commit yourself unto the Lord and He will

direct your path.”(June 24, 1977)

“Dear Miss Hosep-ian: The ScholarshipCommittee of theArmenian Mission-ary Association ofAmerica has care-fully reviewed yourrequest for financialassistance towardsyour academic train-ing. The Committeefelt it could tenderyou assistance in themanner stated at thefoot of this letter(The amount was$250 in value). Wewish you well inyour studies and lookforward to the timewhen you too willfind happiness inhelping others.” (Emphasis mine) Signed:John G Keuhnelian, M.D., Chairman, Schol-arship Committee.” (March 1, 1976)

I had a brief twinge of ‘shame’ on read-ing that the financial assistance was a verymeager amount. But on reflection that thecontribution was made twenty-six years ago,I realized that had the money been invested,it would have grown at least four times.

Marie Hosepian, now Mrs. Apelian, andhusband Vahe, celebrated their twenty fifthanniversary of their wedding. Their twosons, Daniel and David, are moving in thesame academic direction as their parentshave done. David is a third year Pharmacystudent and Daniel has finished his secondhigh school year.

But the AMAA scholarship recipient hasdone amazingly well. To her ConcordiaCollege degree she has added a BS and Mas-ter degrees in Adult Nurse Practitioner pro-gram from the NJ College of Medicine andDentistry; has passed her certifications;taught at Wright University School of Nurs-ing in Dayton, Ohio; and now works as partof the outpatient clinic staff at the Veterans

Administrative Hospital. On top of all that,she did the ultimate. In gratefulness to heradopted country, she joined the reservistcorps as First Lieutenant. In recognition ofher hard work, she was commissioned asCaptain and then as Major. I can visualizehow proud the Apelian family must havebeen when sons Daniel and David pinnedthe well-deserved insignias for Major on her.1 would have loved to be there!

I believe it was important to tell this storyof a family who were appreciative of thesmall favor rendered to Marie. They havealso stood by the AMAA as members andhave established an endowment fund inhonor of Vahe’s mother, Zevart Apelian,who has retired after 45 years of uninter-rupted teaching.

My reservations on the Scholarship Programof the AMAA have been ‘buried.’ I was re-minded of the ten lepers Jesus healed and onlyone returned. And I became more convincedthat even one out of ten or even one out of ahundred loyal recipients makes a difference.And who knows how many more Mariesthere may be that we don’t know about! G

Marie and Vahé Apelian with their two sons, Daniel (standing)and David, and Marie's mother, Mrs. Alice Hosepian.


P U B L I C A T I O N S

Reviewed by Robert Hekemian, Jr.

New Publication - "Rev. Movses B. Janbazian - Man Of Vision With A Mission"

I recall a late afternoon at the AMAAheadquarters in August of 2000 when

Reverend Movses asked me into his officeto chat for a "short while." A few hourslater our discussion, which included theAMAA, the Middle East and Armenia, drewto a close with few conclusions and manyquestions. As always, a "chat" with Rever-end Movses was stimulating and thoughtprovoking.

Please permit me, henceforth, to refer tothe Reverend as I often did…Movses.

During our conversation Movses read aletter of encouragement he had written to ayoung Evangelical Minister. I commentedthat his writings should be memorialized inan inspirational volume. "Perhaps oneday…" he said, and shortly thereafter wewalked to my car. A spectacular sunset, tak-ing its place in the western sky, cast a redand orange glow on the two of us. We couldnot help but admire its incredible beauty."Go in peace, brother Robert," he said. Atthat moment, I wanted to share the admira-tion this wonderful person had inspired meto feel. Unable to articulate the profoundeffect, I kept these feelings within. On thatbeautiful summer evening, we parted for thelast time.

Months after his passing, while ponder-ing our brief discussion about preserving hiswritings, I came to a conclusion: "perhapsone day," in all probability, would neveroccur, and it may never have without thepersistent efforts of Movses' devoted wife,Louisa.

About a year ago Louisa asked me whatI thought about assembling some of Movses'writings into a book. Needless to say, I waselated with her idea and encouraged her tomove ahead. Her dedication, commitmentand love for her husband have resulted inthis very special edition.

These writings are Movses' thoughts onreal life, formulated on the basis, and in thecontext, of Christianity. Christmas and Eas-ter are expressed, not as the familiar storieswe all know, but rather as messages thattouch our lives as Christians. He lived ac-cording to what he preached and what hewrote, always showing us how to love andbe compassionate.

Many people have told me stories ofevents in their lives which were influencedby Movses. Some were significant. Reliefprograms reaching out to thousands ofpeople, building churches and schools, andspreading of the Gospel through educationof children are but a few. It is the smallerstories I have been told so often that bringto light the essence of this great Christianman. One such tale tells of a day in whichMovses visited a group of volunteers in awarehouse, packing boxes of clothes, foodand water for the children who fell victimto the Armenian Earthquake. Upon enter-ing the room, Movses said little and walkedaround quietly. After some time of silence,he spoke these words twice, proclaimingsoftly, "Pack the boxes with love." Thosesimple words carried the volunteers throughtheir mission.

Another story tells of Movses during a visitat a home for the elderly in Beirut, Lebanon.Observing a group of women filled withpain, despair and loneliness, he opened hisarms and gathered them in an embrace. Asone witness observed, they smiled and criedas he called each one "Mayrig" (Mother).In that moment, the pain, anguish and suf-fering seemed to disappear as if they hadbeen uplifted by the Holy Spirit. My mother,who witnessed this, told me it was one ofthe most moving experiences in her life.

When in Movses' presence we were withsomeone very special; we are privileged tohave spent cherished moments with him.During important discussions he might takeus by the arm or place his hand on our shoul-ders as if to reach out and guide us. His ad-vice was always to our benefit. Indeed, wemiss his wisdom, guidance and counsel. Hetouched our hearts and helped shape manyof our lives. Movses reached out to us. Heshowed us God's way through his life andhis obedience to the Heavenly Vision.

There is no doubt that Movses' writingsexemplify who he was, his beliefs and whathe still represents. We are privileged to havethis important collection from this very spe-cial man: a lasting memory that helps guideus in our quest to understand our place withGod. In a speech entitled "Being Obedientto the Heavenly Vision", Movses explains

that, "Heavenly Vi-sions are like theHand of God. Theylast as long as theheavens." He statesthat God's messageto the Apostle Paulwas "…simple andclear...":

Repent and turn from your sinful ways.Come to God by accepting Jesus Christas Lord and Savior and live a life andperform the kind of deeds that will showyou are a Christian.Movses refers to a passage from Proverbs,

"Where there is no vision the people per-ish" (29:18). From this he asks "Do wehave any vision for our families, churchesand nation?" Movses concludes that theanswer is one of divine promise.

Many people have raised the question:What would Movses have said about theevents of September 11, 2001? I don't pos-sess the qualifications which would permitme to speak for him; however, I believe inhis speech entitled "The Glorious PowerWithin Us," Movses provides us with anaccurate assessment of how he would haveviewed such an event. Movses quotes theApostle Paul:

"We are pressed on every side by troublesbut not crushed and broken. We are per-plexed because we do not know whythings happen as they do, but we do notgive up and quit. We are hunted downbut God never abandons us. We getknocked down, but we get up again andkeep going." (2 Corinthians. 4:8-10, 14).Movses concludes, "And as long as we

live in Jesus and walk with Him closely, thesame God who raised Him from the deadwill empower us to triumph over all the evilforces that cause us despair in the course ofour strivings for peace and justice." Onceagain Movses reminds us that we are ableto find peace through the Heavenly Vision,even during events such as this. As long aswe live through an acceptance of JesusChrist, no evil is powerful enough to sepa-rate us from the love of God.

Movses loved Armenia and Armenians.(continued on the following page)



The Rev. Dr. Vahan H. Tootikian’s latest (24th) book entitled Highlights of

Armenian Christendom is one of the mostexhaustive studies that I have ever read onthis subject.

The book consists of 27 chapters and 470pages, and is published by the ArmenianEvangelical World Council and the Arme-nian Heritage Committee.

This example of scholarship that coversthe first century to the present exemplifiesresearch at its best. Beyond this, it employsthe most important aspect of scholarship,which is objectivity.

Dr. Tootikian’s text provides us with abreath of fresh air. Above this, it gives usperspective as we examine our religious ex-periences in our 1700 plus years with ourLord as a People.

Among the examples of this monumentalwork’s contribution to Armenian Christian-ity is the reference to the beginnings of theArmenian people in receiving the Gospeland actively promulgating the “good news”.

Indeed, two of Christ’s own Apostles,Taddeus and Bartholomew, were respon-sible for bringing the message of our Lordto the Armenian nation.

Much care is taken by the author to es-tablish and authenticate the role of theseapostles and early church fathers. The list-

Rev. Dr. Tootikian’s Commendable Book On Armenian Christendom

Reviewed by Dr. Robert Kachadourian

ing of the patriarchs is especially helpful togive a background for the introductory ren-der to the subject.

As the writer weaves the study of theevents of Armenia’s conversion to Chris-tianity in 301 A. D, the armed struggleagainst the Persians for religious libertyfrom 451-484, the difficulties with the Byz-antine Church, Arab conquerors, SeljukTurks, Mongols in the 12th century and ul-timately the Ottoman invasions culminat-ing with the conquering of Constantinople(Istanbul) in 1453, we are kept abreast bynot only historical facts but the whole storyitself.

From the Highlights of ArmenianChristendom, we cannot only glean an un-derstanding of who we were and are but areoffered an insight as to who we could pos-sibly become, as one reads more of thisscholarly work; it gives the reader the feel-ing that one is a participant in this livinghistory. Often the story is woven with therevealing motives of those who have led usnow for over seventeen centuries.

As we move from 1453-1915 the stage isset for the most significant and tragic eventof modern Armenian history. The genocideof this race by Ottoman Turkey is docu-mented by the role of the church.

One objective, indeed, perhaps the most

important one of theHighlights of Arme-nian Christendom isto inform others inChristendom notonly of our high-lights, but of ourstory in general. Wemust reach out to oth-ers wherever and whenever possible. Thistext affords us that opportunity like no otherwork thus far.

Finally, The Highlights of ArmenianChristendom,by Dr. Tootikian, gives us some-thing more important than many publisheditems give us. That is it allows us the opportu-nity to have honest dialog among ourselvesabout our past with hope for the future.

A breath of fresh air? Yes, The Highlightsof Armenian Christendom is that and muchmore. It is an honest examination of Arme-nian Christianity with truth as its foundation.

Any reader would welcome that. This readerdid and looks forward to even more from theauthor. I recommend this book that tells it likeit is, in a readable and scholarly approach. Thatis a rare and welcome combination.

The book may be ordered through: Ar-menian Heritage Committee, P.O. Box531, Southfield, MI 48037. The Price:$35.00 Postage and handling $3.00. G

When he talked of the "Armenian home-land," his enthusiasm was boundless and hislove for her suffering people unequaled. Agreat deal of his time was spent cultivatingChristianity in Armenia, and he enjoyed thisimmensely. Despite Armenia's tremendousneeds, Movses also recognized that as Chris-tians we have an obligation which extendsfar beyond this small country. Movsesclearly states in his visionary essay entitled"Beyond the 80th Anniversary Milestone",that God's "redeeming work" must be aimedat the "entire creation." Incredibly, Movsesreferences his beloved AMAA in this con-text and points out, "…the AMAA can existand serve as a Christian missionary agencywhen its programs reach out not only toArmenians but also to all peoples." Movses

(continued from previous page) emphasizes that it is "…high time for theAMAA to come out of its traditionalArmenian Parochialism, and developand support such projects that servenon-Armenians as well." Once againMovses demonstrates, by example, his faith-fulness to the Heavenly Vision which de-mands that we, as Christians, follow Jesus'words "Go ye to the uttermost parts of theworld and preach the Gospel to every cre-ation." (These sentiments are further ech-oed in Movses' sermon on missions entitled"Missions: Our Reason For Being.")

Movses still has his hands on our shoul-ders and is pointing the way. When review-ing the sermons one can almost hear hisvoice echoing the words. I encourage youto enjoy these beautiful writings, not all atonce, but one or two at a time. Although

Movses' messages are simple and pure; eachimparts a message of significance.

Movses, in life and now through his writ-ings, calls us to a challenge, leading us in acharge to become a part of that HeavenlyVision. Will we rise to embrace that chal-lenge? He has shown us how this will in-variably change our lives. In life he inspiredus to do more. He encouraged us to lookinward by asking ourselves what could wedo as Christians to make a difference forothers, to reach out to others, to give to oth-ers. Movses was a teacher, indeed, whotaught us by the way he lived his life. Hisshining example followed the footsteps ofthe greatest Teacher.

These writings are a true testament toMovses' life and the wonderful friend I willalways remember.G



AMAA BOOK SERVICE PROGRAM(DISCOUNTED PRICES)

ARMENIA - PORTRAITS OF SURVIVAL - Photographs by JerryBerndt - Introduction by Donald E. Miller, (An album of photo-graphs) pb. No. 240 ................................................. $10.00ARMENIAN CHRISTIANITY, by Aharon Sapsezian, The Faith ofa Nation.143 pp., pb, No. 252 .................................. $10.00ARMENIAN EVANGELICAL CHURCH 2000 – Compiled and Ed-ited by Rev. Movses B. Janbazian, An album illustrating anddescribing each organized Armenian Evangelical Church inthe Armenian Evangelical world family in 18 countries (over300 pictures). It also includes a directory of Armenian Evan-gelical ministers worldwide. 125 pp., hc, No. 292..... $20.00ARMENIAN EVANGELICAL REFORMATION - by G. H. Chopourian,hc. No. 050 ................................................................. $5.75ARMENIAN NEEDLELACE AND EMBROIDERY, by Alice OdianKasparian, A photographic collection of more than 100 price-less specimens, plus step-by-step instructions for making twodozen easy needlelace patterns and diagrams for sophisti-cated Marash embroidery, 127 pp, hc. No. 120 ........ $12.00THE BENEFITS AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE ARMENIAN EVAN-GELICAL CHURCH TO THE ARMENIAN NATIONS - On the 1700thAnniversary of the Proclamation of Christianity as Armenia’sState Religion (In English and in Armenian) - by Rev. Dr. VahanTootikian, 190 pp., hc. No. 295 ................................. $15.00

TAPES & CDsAMAA’S “YOUNG VIRTUOSOS” OF ARMENIA - North Ameri-can Concert Tour 2000 (CD), Musical Ensemble of 6 talentedchildren - ages 9-14 (violins, cello, flute & Piano) - Armenianand international classical music, No. 293 ............... $10.00BACK TO ARMENIA - Samuel Yervinian (violin) and ArmenAharonian (Piano), (CD), No. 298 ........................... $15.00GARODK - Stepan Sarafian (Violin) and Armen Aharonian (Pi-ano), (CD), No. 299 ................................................. $15.00NAYINK HISOUSI # 1 & 2, and Hayrenapaghts - by Rev.Barkev Apartian, No. 211 ($10 each if sold separetely)1 Setof 3 tapes ................................................................. $25.00NOR YERK - TZENDZATZEK DEROTCHMOV (Rejoice in the Lord)#3 (CD). No. 208d, .................................................. $12.00NOR YERK - TARTZIR AZKES HAY (Return to me myArmenian People) #4 (CD). No. 208f, ............. $12.00NOR YERK YERKETZEK DEROTCH (2 CDs) Nos. 208bI, 208cI,each CD .................................................................. $12.00NOR YERK YERKETZEK DEROTCH (6 Tapes) Nos. 208b, 208c,208g, 208e, 208h, 208i, each tape ............................. $8.00SERPAZAN YERGER - Sacred Music Chorale (tape) Conductedby Dr. John Merjanian. No.193 ................................... $8.00YEREVAN WOMEN'S CHOIR OF ARMENIA, (CD) No. 207a... $15.00

BOOK ORDER FORMPlease forward Book(s) {List by catalogue No.(s)}

____________________________________ for a

total of $___________ plus $_____________ for post-

age and handing. In the U.S. add $4.00 for first copyand $2.00 for each additional book. In Canada addUS$6.00 for first copy and add $3.00 for each additionalbook (order books by catalogue numbers).

Name __________________________________

Address _________________________________

City ___________________________________

State ___________ Zip ____________________

Enclosed is my check for $ ________________

(Make checks payable to AMAA - Canada: Payable in U.S.dollars - Prices subject to change)

ARMENIAN BIBLESOLD & NEW TESTAMENT (hc - extra large) No. 13k ..... $15.00THE 1700TH ANNIVERSARY ARMENIAN REFERENCE BIBLE (hcgreen - extra large) No. 13n ...................................... $20.00SERPAZAN BADMUTIUN, (Children’s Bible) No. 155b ......$10.00ARMENIAN NEW TESTAMENT ON TAPES (The Four Gospels -Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) - No. 195 ............... $20.00

THE CULTURAL CONTRIBUTIONS OF PROTESTANTISM TO THE

ARMENIAN NATION AND NOTABLE ARMENIAN WOMEN OF HIS-TORY - by Yeghia S. Kassouny, 61 pp, pb. No. 175 .... $3.00THE GOLDEN AGE IN THE FIFTH CENTURY, by Rev. A.A.Bedikian, 128 pp, pb. No. 8 ........................................ $2.00INTRODUCTION TO NEW TESTAMENT (in Armenian), by JerairBizdikian, 347 pp., pb, No. 272 ............................... $10.00KARA KRIKOR HAROUTUNIAN OR A GUILELESS LIFE - by B.B.Ajemian, 58 pp., pb. No. 174 ...................................... $3.00MUSA DAGH, by Rev. Dikran Antreassian, Escape of MusaDagh or the banishment of Zeitoun and Suedia’s revolt.74 pp., pb. No. 234 .................................................... $7.00OUR ARMENIAN CHRISTIAN HERITAGE - by G. H. Chopourian,pb. No. 050a ............................................................... $3.00YOLJULUK - by W. N. Chambers, 125 pp, pb. No. 182 . $5.00

!!!!!


N E W S & N O T E S

The Armenian Missionary Associationof America (AMAA) Summer Camp/

Christmas Committee’s gala Benefit Recital, fea-turing the gifted young violist from Armenia,Gor Hovhannisyan, and the world-renownedpianist, Gary Kirkpatrick, took place on Sunday,May 5, 2002 at 4:00 PM at the Armenian Pres-byterian Church of Paramus, New Jersey, at 140Forest Avenue,

Mrs. Lucy Janjigian, Committee Chairperson,spoke eloquently of the ardent task undertakenby the Summer Camp/Christmas Committee ofthe AMAA in their quest to provide assistanceto many children of Armenia and Karabagh. Rev.Robert Swanson, interim minister of the church,offered an opening prayer. AMAA President,Andrew Torigian expressed his gratitude to thecommittee members, as well as to the sponsors and the guests whocame to support the Recital. Mrs. Ani Chalemian, Recital chairper-son, introduced the artists.

Gor Hovhannisyan, was born in Yerevan in 1975. His early stud-ies began in Moscow and Yerevan. His talents were soon discov-ered when he won many regional competitions. This led to studiesat the well-known Komitas Conservatory in Yerevan. His teachersthere included Suren Hachnazarian and Aleksander Kosemian, bothmembers of the Komitas String Quartet. During summers he playedat music festivals in Germany and at the Carl Flesch Academy inBaden-Baden. He also had the opportunity to study with the world-renowned violist, Kim Kashkashian and W. Strehle in Berlin.

In 1998 he began studies at the Hochschule fur Music HannsEisler in Berlin with the well-known violist, Carol Rodland. Therehe participated in chamber music festivals as a member of the Ar-menian Quartet. He also had opportunities to perform with orches-tra, make recordings for Bavarian radio, NDR, ZDF, andDeutschland Radio. He also performed as solo violist with the RIASJugendorchester.

Currently the young violist is studying with Professor CarolRodland at Arizona State University, working towards a Ph.D. inmusic performance.

The internationally acclaimed pianist, Gary Kirkpatrick, partneredwith Mr. Hovhannisyan for this recital. Mr. Kirkpatrick is recog-nized throughout the world as one of America’s foremost soloists,chamber musicians, and teachers. Originally from Kansas, he gradu-ated with high honors from the Eastman School of Music and theAcademy of Music in Vienna. After claiming top prizes at pianocompetitions in Vienna and Spain, he made his New York debut atCarnegie Recital Hall to high critical acclaim. The New York Timespraised his “high caliber performance and musicianship.”

As pianist with the renowned Verdehr Trio he has recorded tenalbums. Mr. Kirkpatrick has been invited as guest artist and teacher

at many of the world’s leading conservatories. He has been on thefaculty of the University of Kansas, and is currently Professor ofPiano at the William Paterson University of New Jersey. His recenttours included concerts and master classes in Estonia, Austria, Spain,Greece, Cyprus, Japan and the United States. This season markshis debut as pianist with the newly formed Halcyon Trio with whomhe will tour the United States and Europe.

The Recital Program included selections from Darius, Milhaud,Johannes Brahms, Max Reger, Franz Schubert, E. Bagdassarianand Komitas. A standing ovation completed their performance withthe selection of “Groong.”

After acknowledgements by Mrs. Janjigian a reception followed,at which time guests were able to meet the artists and enjoy thesumptuous buffet.

Over $20,000 was raised at this fundraiser to benefit SummerCamps in Armenia.G

Armenia Summer Camp and Christmas Committee’sSpring Benefit Recital a Huge Success


The Orphan Care Committee of the Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA) most recently was the recipi-

ent of a donation of $22,000 from a newly married couple. Dr. andMrs. Arto and Fimi Haddadian had requested that their friends andrelatives make donations in lieu of wedding gifts for the orphanchildren of Armenia. They had decided to share their happy occa-sion with the children in the orphanages by making this substantialdonation. They said: “We have everything we need. God has blessedus in many different ways. We want to share our happiness with thechildren who are deprived of many privileges.”

The money that was donated by the friends and relatives of theHaddadians will be used in several orphanages that the AMAAsupports. It will be used to buy food supplies for their daily needs,clothing, personal hygiene, and vitamins and school supplies. Thechildren will also enjoy special programs during the summer aswell as Christmas and Easter holidays. During the summer months,the children will attend summer camps where they will enjoy physi-

This year’s Armenian Evangelical Church conference was heldon Saturday, August 3. The venue was the Edith Rankin United

Church situated on the shoreline of Lake Ontario, on Collins Bay. Thisarea is well known for its correctional institutions. Praise God, weworship Him who sets the prisoner free! A total of some 95 churchmembers from Montreal, Cambridge and Toronto were able to attend.

The morning program, ably led by pastors Mher Katchigian(Montreal), Hovhannes Sarmazian (Cambridge), and YessayiSarmazian (Toronto), centered on the current form of the SundayService. The main points brought forward by the speakers werethat the Service should always revolve around the reading andpreaching of the word of God. Praising the Lord is another veryimportant element in the Service. Since we believers have receivedsuch a wonderful salvation, and the gift of eternal life through thefinished work of Christ on the Cross, it is both our duty and our joyto praise Him.

An open discussion followed the morning program. It was sug-gested that the responsive reading could be led by a lay person, toinvolve more people in public worship. Some members thoughtthat it would be a good thing to learn some new hymns, perhapsone a month. For this purpose, a time could be set, say ten minutesbefore the start of Sunday worship, for the learning and practice ofnew hymns under the direction of someone with musical expertise.

At lunch time, the Church members moved downstairs to thechurch hall where they were served lahmajoon, hommos,babaghanouj and salad. After lunch, there was a two-hour break,during which some people went to stroll around Kingston, whileothers sat, enjoying Christian fellowship under the cool shade ofthe trees on the shoreline of the lake.

During the afternoon session, in the time allotted to general in-put, it was suggested that too much time was taken up with thereading of the notices by the pastor, and that lay persons in chargeof events and activities could do this duty. Someone proposed that,for a three-month trial period, the notices should not be read out inChurch at all, but printed and placed on the desk at the entrance,where they might be perused by anyone interested.

Discussion now turned to the problem of ensuring the continua-tion of the young people in the Church when they are too old toattend the various young people’s groups. One of the main prob-lems in this regard, was the language. It was pointed out that, un-like other Armenian Evangelical congregations, especially in theUnited States, most of the adult worshipers in our area are comfort-able with the Armenian language, since most of them have immi-grated from the Middle East not too long ago. Although the factwas acknowledged that a significant number of young Armeniansare growing up without a good knowledge of their mother tongue,it was felt to be too early to think of having the Service conductedin English. It was noted that we already have electronic translationfor the few visitors who need it.

Some further suggestions regarding the continuity problem, in-cluded the encouraging of young people to lead the Service, get-ting them to read the notices relating to their own activities, andreading the Scriptures assigned by the pastor.

Armenian Evangelical Churches of Canada Conference At Kingston

The day’s agenda was concluded by Holy Communion, a solemnact of obedience to the behest of our Lord, Jesus Christ, which bringsa special joy to the heart of the true believer. Then, after the singing ofHayr Mehr, the Kingston conference was concluded for another year.G

Donation in Lieu of Wedding Gifts


N E W S & N O T E S

Dr. & Mrs. Arto and Fimi Haddadian with Michael Agbabian whoinformed them about the AMAA Orphan Child Care Program.


On Sunday, August 25th, Friends of the AMAA - PeninsulaChapter, held a Mediterranean Luncheon for 130 guests in

Halajian Hall at Calvary Armenian Congregational Church in SanFrancisco. The featured presentation was given by Helen Sagherian.A PowerPoint presentation was prepared by Mrs. Sevan Balabanian(who was unable to be present) on the current status of ArmenianSchools in Lebanon and Syria. In addition, the attendees enjoyed abeautiful selection of Armenian and spiritual songs preformed bythe talented Calvary Church Male Quartet.

The guests were treated to a delicious lunch, which was lovinglyprepared by the AMAA committee members (pictured above). Themenu included homemade Shawerma, authentic Fool Moudammis,and sweet, cheesy Mammunia. In addition, several guests reviewedletters written by Armenian children from Lebanon and signed upto sponsor these children in their education. The AMAA - Penin-sula Chapter is committed in their efforts to raise money to help inthe education of children in Armenian Evangelical schools in theMiddle East. Their next function is a Christmas Luncheon and Bou-tique on December 6th, 2002. G

The committee members: (front row l to r) Arpi Haleblian, Mar-garet Watson, Seta Yenikomshian, Anayis Adrouny, MarieGalustian; (second row l to r) Lara Khoury, Elizabeth Yeghyayan,Shake Gulesserian, Kris Gulesserian, Nora Balabanian.

The AMAA-Peninsula Chapter Holds aMediterranean Luncheon to BenefitChildren of Armenian Evangelical Schoolsin the Middle East

Led by the AMAA President, Andy Torigian, the Armenian Evangelical leadership in the Near East met with His Holi-

ness Catholicos Aram I at his summer residence in Bikfaya, Leba-non. The Armenian community in Lebanon and Syria, along withmany of the indigenous people, are served by several joint projectsthat are sponsored and maintained by the Apostolate and theEvangelicals. The cooperation between the two has been a majorbenefit to the local and nearby countries regardless of race, reli-gion or political beliefs. The services provided for the most partare without charge to the indigent Armenians.G

Armenian Evangelicals Meet WithHis Holiness Catholicos Aram I

(l to r) Rev. Dr. John Khanjian, Mr. Andrew Torigian, His Holi-ness Catholicos Aram I, Rev. Megerdich Karagoezian and Rev.Dr. Manuel Jinbachian.

cal activities, arts and crafts, hiking, and special musical programsand Bible stories.

The orphan children in Armenia are not only the victims of the1988 earthquake but also of the Karabagh war where their fathersor mothers never returned home. More recently, many of the fa-thers have left home to find employment outside of Armenia, andthey too have not returned for reasons unknown.

The AMAA Orphan Care Committee appreciates the generousgesture of Dr. and Mrs. Haddadian and persons like them who brightenthe lives of the orphans of Armenia and give them joy and hope.

If you would like to get involved in the AMAA Orphan Care Projectplease call: 310 476 5306 (Los Angeles); 760 568 3920 (Indian Wells)or 201 265 2607 (AMMA headquarters at Paramus, NJ). G


N E W S & N O T E S

CHRISTMAS IN OCTOBERThe AMAA's Armenia Summer Camp and Chritmas Com-mittee will hold its Second Annual "A Christmas in Oc-tober" luncheon to benefit Christmas Joy Packages forthe children of Armenia and Karabagh, on Thursday,October 24, at 11:30 a.m. at Englewood Women's Club,Englewood, NJ. Each Christmas Joy Package will costabout $5.00 . If you are unable to be with us on October 24th, youmay wish to make a donaition in lieu of gift packagesand send it to the AMAA. Your donation will bring muchjoy into the lives of thousands of Armenian orphans andneedy children.For more information, please call LouisaJanbazian at the AMAA Office (201) 265-2607.

I am unable to attend the "Christmas in October" eventfor children in Armenia. Enclosed is my donation ofUS $ _____ for _____ Christmas Joy Packages.

Name _______________________________________

Address _______________________________________

_______________________________________

(Make your checks to AMAA, earmarked for Christmas JoyPackages and mail to 31 W. Century Road, Paramus, NJ 07652)

!!!!!


F A | : R H N B A V I N

Lo\s ke t;snh 9W;r1 Mowshs P1 Yanpax;an3T;silqi ou A5aq;louj;an Marde0 Girqe

Gra.7s;z3 W;r1 Parg;u N1 Taragy;an

Fa\ Au;taranakan grakanoujiune ,at vlat gtnoua6 h k;nsagrouj;an marxin mh=! C;nq kar6;r or asorpatya5e arvanauor an];rou cgo\oujiunn h fa\au;taranakan fama\n qin mh=! Ardar;u fa\au;taranakann;r ir;nz jiuin f;t fam;mata64 ,atacqa5ou mtauorakann;r4 >7sqin qaroxicn;r4 enk;ra\in6a5a\ouj;an nouiroua6 an];r4 ou axga\in gor6icn;rtoua6 ;n fa\ vo[owourdin! Dvba.tabar4 k;nsagrakans;5e fa\ au;taranakan grakanouj;an mh= ,at4 ;uf;t;uo[akan m,ako[n;r ch oun;za6! Endfanraphsbauararoua6 ;nq parb;raj;rj;rou mh= droua6patafakan k;nsagroujiunn;row! W;r=;rs lo\sen6a\ou;zau girq me3 m;r w;j;ran gricn;rhn W;r1 Dokt1Wafan Joujik;ani ko[mh oroun mh= n;rka\azoua6 hinw;r=in khs daroun Am;rika\i Miaz;al Nafangn;rounmh= 6a5a\a64 ou a\vm 6a5a\o[ fog;uor fowiun;rouk;nsagroujiunn;re! Bar]r7rhn gnafat;low fand;r]\i,;al fatorin patmakan ;u a5arka\akan arvhqefa\ au;taranakan patmagrouj;an4 o u m;r;k;[;zin;roun famar4 phtq h endounil jh anonq fama57tdimastou;rn;r ;n! Ir au;li qan tarin;rou patmouj;anenjazqin fa\ au;taranakan grakanoujiune faxiu jh\a=o[a6 h fanrouj;an framzn;l ;rkotasn;ak mek;nsagrakan fatorn;r oronq ;[a6 ;n au;li anfatakanna.a];5noujiunn;r4 qan jh ;k;[;zakan kam fama\nqa\infratarakoujiunn;r! K3arvh or w;rin marminn;re nkatioun;nan a\s paragan ;u fanrouj;an n;rka\azn;n fa\au;taranakan a\n bolor dhmq;re oronq baza5ik6a5a\oujiunn;r matouza6 ;n o #c mia \n fa\au;taranakan fama\nqin4 fapa na;u endfanourfa\ouj;an!Bar;\i,atak W;r1 Dokt1 Mowshs Yanpax;ani

nouiroua6 a\s fatore fam;st =anq men h a\sou[[ouj;amb4 a\n gitakzouj;amb jh anor k;anqn oua\vmhakan patgamn;re oc mia\n piti farstazn;nfa\ au;taranakan grakanoujiune4 fapa m;6axd;zoujiun piti oun;nan au;taranakan n;rka\ ougaliq s;roundn;roun wra\!Fa\ Au;taranakan <arvoume ;rkna\in t;silqi ou

a5aq;louj;an argasiqn h3 76oua64 x7raza64 ouardiunauoroua6 Sourb Fogiin n;rgor6oujiunow!Ardar;u a5anz Sourb Fogiin \a\tnab;ra6 ;rkna\int;silqin4 kar;li ch mta6;l a5aq;louj;an masin4 oumanaua#nd3 anfnaxand ellal anor! Afa jh inco2u Fa\Au;taranakan <arvoume ou :k;[;zin anemb5n;li3ces;lou famar anf;j;j3 ke nkatouin m;r axgakizn;rhnomanz ko[mh! Lauago\n paraga\in3 anonq ke famarouinfog;uor4 saka\n4 oc-anfrav;,t p;ryanq me fa\vo[owourdin k;anqin mh=!Mowshs Yanpax;ani k;anqn ou 6a5a\oujiunn;re

kougan 'ast;lou jh Qristosi :k;[;zin safmanoua6

ch fog;uor p;ryanq me da5nalou4 o#c al patmakankojo[ me! Qristos ir :k;[;zin kanc;z m;5n;lou4 ouir mafouan gnow k;anq talou m;[auor ou j,oua5mardkouj;an! :k;[;zin4 ir Tiro= phs4 kancoua6 chspasauoroujiun endoun;lou4 fapa spasauoroujiunen;lou4 9ou ir k;anqe ,at;rou famar 'rkanq talou0!Afa a#\s h or ke =ana\ zo\z tal Mowshsi k;anqinnouiroua6 a\s fatore! A\s paraga\in4 aproua6tarin;rou jiue ch or k3arv;uorh an] me4 ima# MowshsYanpax;ane4 fapa ir;n ,norfoua6 t;silqingitakzoujiune4 ;u ir fauatarim fnaxandoujiune a\dt;silqin3 minc;u i maf! Mowshsin k;anqe ;u a\s fatorinmh= par'akoua6 ir patgamn;re endoun;lou ;nq ibr;uzolaran4 na;u \ou,arar3 Fa\ Au;taranakan :k;[;ziin,norfoua6 ;rkna\in t;silqin ou a5aq;louj;an!Astoua6 xarmanali k;rp;row ke gor6h axg;rou ;u

;k;[;zin;rou k;anqin mh=! An \armar vamanakin3\armar an];r k3entrh4 anonz t;silq ke ,norfh4 na;uke x7raznh xanonq orphsxi fnaxandouj;amb4 ;ufamb;rouj;amb gor6adr;n ir;nz ,norfoua6 t;silqe!Krnanq anw;rapaf7rhn es;l jh m;r axgin mh=3endfanraphs4 ou Fa\ Au;taranakan Fama\nqi ou:k;[;zii k;anqin mh= masnauoraphs4 nman7rinak an]me ;[au Mowshs! M;r fa\ vo[owourdin w;r=in qa5orddarou patmoujiune ;[au w;riwa\roumn;row l;zounvamanaka,r=an me! Fa\astane4 incphs na;us'iu5qafa\oujiune3 ;njarkou;zan `ixiqakan4qa[aqakan4 enk;ra\in4 ;u fog;uor znzoumn;rou! Fa\vo[owourdin f;t4 o u fa \ vo[owourdow3 Fa \Au;taranakan Fama\nqn al ir ;k;[;zin;row4 ou\atkaphs Am;rika\i Fa\ Au;tarancakan Enk;-rakzoujiunow gtan ir;nq xir;nq anna.enjaz ou6a\ra\;[7rhn wtangauor ;u spa5naliz marta-frauhrn;rou dimaz! Ibr;u fa\ au;taranakann;r4 m;nq6a5a\;lou hinq m;r fa\r;niqin ;u axgin jh# fa\7rhn4jh al au;tarani fogiow!Ibr;u Fa\ Au;tarancakan Enk;rakzouj;an Waric

Tn7rhn4 na;u a\n 7r;rou Na.agafe Fama,.arfa\inFa\ Au;taranakan :k;[;zin;rou >orfourdin3 Mowshsliowin ardarazouz ir wra\ droua6 \o\s;re! T;silqnou a5aq;loujiune dar]an ir k;anqin xo\g b;u;5n;re4ou klan;zin na;u ir entaniqe! Fa\astan a,.arfeou.tat;[ii w;ra6ou;zau ir;n famar! An mhk ko[mhngor6akzakan s;rt kap;r fastat;z fa\r;niqa[aqakan ;u kr7nakan [;kawarn;rou f;t4 isk miusko[mhn3 jak;z 7tar ba\z fa\ashr ;k;[;zakanfastatoujiunn;rou d5n;re4 apafow;low tnt;sakan;u fog;uor-baro\akan 7gnoujiun! An cwaran;zau=atagow;lou ir fa\ axga\in4 qristonhakan ;u

(,arounakoujiune \a=ord h=in wra\)


The AMAA Board of Directors and staff wish to extend theirheartfelt condolences to the families of the following deceasedfriends whose names were submitted to us for publication inthe AMAA News.

Ourbaj ÊÎ April4 ÊÈÈÊ-in4 ;r;ko\man vame Ï1ÈÈ-int;[i oun;zau Fa\ Au;taranakan B;jhl ;k;[;zii

9Qristonhakan Dastiarakouj;an K;dron0in bazmanfandisoujiune4 nouiroua63 W;r1 Parg;u A5aq;lAbard;ani \i,atakin! };5narke ke wa\;lhr M;r]a-uor Ar;u;lqi Fa\ Au;taranakan :k;[;zin;rou Miou-j;an Na.agaf3 W;r1 Mkrtic Garakh7x;ani fowa-nauoroujiune4 n;rka\ouj;amb W;r1 Vira\r So[om;ani3Gor6adir Tn7rhne Am;rika\i Fa\ Au;tarancakanEnk;rakzouj;an4 W;r1 Au;tis Po\nhr;ani3 Fama\n-qap;te Sourio\ Fa\ Au;taranakan Fama\nqin4 Nar;k1̂ Wardap;t Alhmhx;ani4 Waric Qartou[are mi=-

;k;[;zakan \arab;roujiunn;rou4 incphs na;uFa\kakan bar;sirakan4 krjakan ;u m,akouja\inmio ujiunn;ro u o u fastatoujiunn;ro un;rka\azouzicn;rou ;u fo6 baxmouj;an!Fandisoujiune sksau W;r1 Mkrtic Garak7x;ani .7s-

qow! An ,;,t;z4 jh Qristonhakan Dastiarakouj;ana\s k;drone ,at \atouk anoun me ke krh ;rkou imast-n;row! A5a=ine a\n h4 or a\s k;drone QristonhakanDastiarakouj;an K;dron h! :rkrorde3 or ke krhDastiaraki me anoune3 W;r1 Parg;u A5aq;l Abard;an4or ;[a6 h a\s ;k;[;ziin xauake4 6a5an4 ;u ;jh phtqh es;l3 a\s ;k;[;ziin dastiarake! W;rapatou;linma[j;z ;u a[7j;z4 or iuraqanciur anfat or a\sk;drone ke mtnh4 a5ije oun;na\ fandip;lou Thr |isousQristosi k;ndani >7sqin!>7sq a5in na;u W;r1 Vira\r So[om;an4 Nar;k 1̂

Fa\ Au;taranakan B;jhl :k;[;zii QristonhakanDastiarakouj;an K;droni Bazoume

Wrd1 Alhmhx;an4 Thr Komitas Wrd1 Tata[l;an ;u W;r1|aroujiun Shlim;an! W;r1 Shlim;an \atouk ,norfa-kalouj;an .7sq ou[[;z N1S1&1T1T1 Aram A1 Kajo[ikosin4ir zouzab;ra6 m;6 v;stin famar4 nouir;low fog;uorgrakanouj;an ambo[=akan ,arqe 9W;r1 Parg;u A5aq;lAbard;an0i anounin nouiroua6 gradaranin4 ;u Fa\Au;taranakan B;jhl :k;[;zii xauak3 Tiar Kar7So[omon;anin (Sitni4 Australia)4 oroun katara6i,.anakan nouiratououj;an ,norfiu4 QristonhakanDastiarakouj;an K;dronin srafe kafauorou;zau ;uanouanakocou;zau 9Kar7-Araqsi So[omon;an sraf0!G

* Djirdjirian, MichaelWappingers, NY

* Fakhjian, JackTustin, CA

* Giridlian, VenusAltadena, CAKoligian, DeranKanarian, ShavarshManhattan Beach, CAMarks, IrwinClovis, CASimsirian, AnahitFt. Washington, NY

* Yeghiayan, Lucy

* Abajian, HenryAltadena, CAArchanian, BedrosWatervliet, NY

* Bedrosian, TedSan Francisco, CABoolghoorjian, BarkevVan Nuys, CAByfield, JennyChakmakjian, SarahHollywood, CA

* Cherekjian, AraxNyack, NY

* Memorials were designated for AMAA.

W;r1 Mkrtic Garakh7x;an ke ktrh bazman vapauhne!

au;taranakan skxbounqn;re3 qa[aqakan4 jh kr7nakani,.anauorn;rou n;rka\ouj;an! An ,ounc ou fogi4 ;u iw;r=o\ ariun touau ir staza6 ;rkna\in t;silqeparx;lou4 ;u xa\n gor6i w;ra6;lou yamboun wra\! A5anzwaran;lou kar;li h es;l jh W;r1 Dokt1 MowshsYanpax;an4 A\nyari a\d wa[;mi giu[azi patanin4dar]au Fa\ Au;taranakan Fama\nqi ou :k;[;ziid;pane ambo[= fa\a,.arfi mh=! Qani or an ir staza6;rkna\in t;sil qin anfnaxand cgtnou;zau4 oua5aq;louj;anz dimaz cenkrk;zau!Afa a#\s h or enj;rzo[e piti gtnh a\s fatore

kaxmo[ wka\aranin ;u patgamn;roun mh=! Ou takauin4enj;rzo[e piti cfandipi a\s girqin mh= mia\n MowshsYanpax;ani me4 fapa anor t;silq wstafo[4 ;u xa\ngor6adr;lou famar o\v4 ;u fnxandouj;an fogi ,norfo[Sourb Fogiin! A#\s h afa girqin martafrauhre fa\au;taranakan nor s;roundin4 our .namqow ;ugourgouranqow mhkt;[oua6 ;n Astou6o\ a\s 6a5a\inpatgamn;re4 ya5;re4 ou ir masin kataroua6 wka-\oujiunn;re3 katar;low ;ra.tauor a,.atanq me!G

(Na.ord h=hn ,arounakoua6)


O B I T U A R I E S

Dr. Haroutune NazarianDr. Haroutune

Nazarian was bornin Aintab in 1907,to Hagop Nazarianand Rahel Karama-nougian

Dr. Nazarian’slife was one ofmany challenges. He witnessed thetragedy that befell his people during WorldWar I. He witnessed the deportaion of his fam-ily to Deir Zor, from where he miraculouslysurvived and returned home.

In 1917, at the age of ten, Haroutune beganattending a school. In 1918, with the involve-ment of British troops, survivors of the DerZor deportation returned to what remained ofAintab. In 1923, the Nazarians relocated inAleppo, where Haroutune resumed his educa-tion at the Armenian Evangelical School, ex-celling in his studies. At the same time heworked as a dental assistant, helping his fam-ily survive in their new home. He attendedAleppo College from 1926 to 1929; movingon to Kessab to practice dentistry in Kessab. After two years in Kessab, Haroutune resumedhis education, attending the American Univer-sity of Beirut, where he formally studied theprofession he had been practicing: dentistry.

1937 marked the opening of a landmark inAleppo: Dr. Nazarian’s dental office and labo-ratory. For 54 years, it served the community.After office hours, countless church and othermeetings were held in his “clinic.”

In 1950, Dr.Nazarian wed the lovely nurse,Vehanoush Berejiklian of Beirut. Hence, hecreated another facet in his life withVehanoush. He became the father of four chil-dren, devoting his heart and soul to his family.

Dr. Nazarian was actively involved in theArmenian Evangelical Union in Syria, serv-ing as a pillar of the Armenian EvangelicalMartyrs' Church (Nahadagatz) in Aleppo.

In 1990, Dr. Nazarian settled in San Jose,California to enjoy his retirement days withhis children and grandchildren.

In the end, Haroutune could look back on alifetime of achievement, including active rolesin prestigious organizations: a few of whichinclude the Armenian Evangelical Union, theInternational College of Dentistry, the AleppoDental Association, AGBU, the HowardKaraguezian Foundation, Aleppo CollegeBoard of Managers, the Armenian Red Cross,and so forth. However, Haroutune’s LifetimeAchievement Award would be for the love heprovided to his wife and children, and eventu-

ally, seven grandchildren, and for passing onhis love for life and church. For these, wehonor him and his memory.

Dr. Nazarian is survived by his wife,Vehanoush, of San Jose, daughters, PerlaKotoyan, of Glendale, Alidz Nazarian andNora Balabanian of San Jose, and son, HagopNazarian, of San Jose, as well as, six grand-children.

Funeral services were held in San Jose. Amemorial, celebrating Dr. Nazarian’s exem-plary life, took place at Calvary ArmenianCongregational Church in San Francisco. Itwas an opportunity to reflect on personalmemories of Dr. Nazarian’s blessed life.G

Dr. John NalbandianDr. John Nalbandian, 69, of Fourth Street,

Boston, formerly of Cranston, a professor andresearcher, died unexpectedly on March 27 inMassachusetts General Hospital, Boston. Hewas the husband of Carolyn (Tatten)Nalbandian; they had been married for 32years.

Laura NigolianLaura Nigolian,

78, went to be withthe Lord after astroke and a shortillness at ModestoMemorial Hospital.She was born in SanFrancisco on Febru-ary 1, 1924. Shewas the granddaughter of the late Badveli VartavarAlexandrian of Marzevan, and grand daugh-ter in law of the late Mr. Vramchabou Kibarian,of Paris, France. She was the daughter ofGarabed and Araxie Nazarian. Her twinbrother Laurence Nazarian died a few yearsback. She is survived by her husband of 52years, Charles Nigolian; daughter Roxanne;son in law Guy; grand children, Lauren, Eric,Christine; three nephews in Los Angeles; theNazarian brothers; two nephews in Paris,France; the Kazandjian Brothers; and her cous-ins, the Kibarians. A grave-side service wasconducted on May 7, 2002 at Acacia Memo-rial Park by Rev. James Renke from the Or-chard Baptist Church, and Deacon ThomasMaggiti from St. Paul Episcopal Church. Bothclergy were friends of our family. Living inSacramento, she was involved with St. Jamesthe Armenian Church, the Daughters of Vartanand the Triple X Armenian Organization.G

Nevart C. GulezianMrs. Nevart C. Gulezian, a woman of keen

intelligence and a generous heart, died on May16, 2002 in Philadelphia, after a period of de-clining health.

Born Nevart Chatalbash 95 years ago in thefar-off town of Kharpert, Turkey, Nevart wasa teenager when her family fled the area for anew beginning in America.

Nevart was the wife of the late Dr. CharlesE. Gulezian, a teacher and research scientist.They had a son, Dr. Ronald Gulezian, a statis-tical consultant, lecturer and author. Ronaldand his wife, Anna reside in Ardmore, Penn-sylvania. Other survivors are a granddaugh-ter, Lee, and her husband, Terry Crane and twogreat-grandchildren, Kate Lyn and Patrick.

Before Nevart married, she worked as a re-search technician at Lankenau Hospital inPhiladelphia. Her experience there took placein the 1930’s, when cancer was the emergingtarget for scientific inquiry and study. She

Born in Providence on November 27, 1932,a son of the late Martin and Anna(Haroutunian) Nalbandian, he had lived inCranston before moving to Boston, and thenin Farmington, Connecticut, from whence hereturned to Boston three years ago.

A cum laude graduate of both Brown Uni-versity in 1954 and Harvard University in1958, he also had studied for two years at theUniversity of Strasbourg, in France, where hecompleted electron microscopic studies ofbone.

Dr. Nalbandian was a professor and re-searcher in the field of academic dentistry. Hehad served as chairman of the Operative Den-tistry Department at Harvard University andas a member of the Harvard faculty until 1969,when he accepted a position at the Universityof Connecticut.

He served as a professor of periodontologyat Uconn from 1969 until his retirement, whenhe was named a professor emeritus. He alsohelped develop the university’s health center,in Farmington, Connecticut, into a nationallyrecognized facility.

He enjoyed gardening and loved animals.Besides his wife, he leaves a stepson, David

Allen of Dorchester, Boston; a brother, JackNalbandian of Warwick; a sister, SarahMouradjian of Cranston; and several niecesand nephews.

A memorial service was held on April 26 at2 p.m. in Harvard Memorial Church, HarvardYard, Cambridge, MA.G


O B I T U A R I E S

James RenjilianJames Renjilian,long an active andvibrant member ofthe Armenian com-munity, died onMay 21, 2002 inG e r m a n t o w n ,Maryland of com-plications from astroke. He was 64.

Born a refugee in Athens, Greece on De-cember 17, 1937, Jim emigrated to the UnitedStates with his mother, Verjin GiragossianRenjilian, in 1939. His father, the Rev. MihranRenjilian, had come to the U.S. some monthsearlier with Jim’s older siblings Armen andAnne.

Reunited in the U.S., the Renjilians livedfirst in Washington, D.C. but eventually settledin Troy, N.Y. where Rev. Renjilian led theUnited Armenian Calvary Church. There, Jimattended Troy High School and RensselaerPolytechnic Institute.

After serving as an intelligence officer inthe Army, Jim attended George WashingtonUniversity law school. Following a brief stintwith General Electric in the Boston area, Jimworked as an attorney at the United StatesPatent Office in Washington, D.C. He re-mained with the Federal government through-out his career, serving at the Securities and

Exchange Commission, the Federal HomeLoan Bank Board, and the Department of En-ergy.

Jim’s life is warmly remembered by familyand friends for four overarching themes: hisdevotion to family; his commitment to com-munity; his pride in his Armenian heritage; andhis dedication to his Christian faith. He wasalso known to many as a particularly avid col-lector of toy soldiers, having amassed hundredsof figures that he displayed prominently in hishome. Finally, he enjoyed a reputation as akeen and passionate observer of political af-fairs.

Jim’s many community and civic interestsincluded serving as an elder of SouthminsterPresbyterian Church and, later, Rockville(Md.) Presbyterian Church. He was also anactive adult troop leader in the Boy Scouts ofAmerica. In addition, Jim played a prominentrole in the Armenian Assembly, where he wasespecially focused on achieving official rec-ognition from the United States governmentof the Armenian Genocide.

Funeral services were held at Rockville Pres-byterian Church, Rockwville, MD on Friday,May 24, 2002 followed by the interment atRock Creek Cemetery in Washington D.C.Memorial contributions were made to theAMAA.

Jim is survived by his sister, Anne Kalfayan,of Marco Island, FL; his brother ArmenRenjilian of Albany, N.Y.; his son ChristopherRenjilian of Potomac, MD; his daughter JuliaLuther of North Bethesda, MD; and his sonTimothy Renjilian of Atlanta, GA. He alsoleaves behind three granddaughters whom hedearly adored.

Additional information about JamesRenjilian can be found on the Internet atwww.lifefiles.com.G

became part of a pioneer group of earnest,young researchers assembled by the noted pa-thologist, the late Dr. Stanley Reimann, to ex-amine and catalog tissue samples for abnor-mal cellular activity.

Dr. Reimann’s visionary leadership wascritical for the advancement of this early forayinto cancer research promoted by the gener-ous aid of Rodman Wanamaker. By 1949, thisgroundbreaking endeavor led to the highly re-garded Institute for Cancer Research, a totallyindependent research center in Fox Chase out-side Philadelphia.

After her husband’s death in 1954, Nevartwas employed by the School of Dentistry ofTemple University where she was a respectedfigure in the Histology Department until herretirement after 20 years of loyal service.

To honor her pioneering spirit and dedica-tion to her profession, a fitting memorial willbe placed in North Truro, Massachusetts, nearthe site of a primitive summer research labo-ratory where Nevart developed life-longfriendships with members of the ResearchTeam.G

Marie IlanjianMarie Ilanjian (néeKahkejian, a.k.a.Buchakjian) wasborn on January 1,1924 in Beirut,Lebanon. She wasthe first-born ofGarabed andBeatrice Kahkejian,second-generationmembers of the Armenian Evangelical Com-munity of Aintab (Cilicia). She loved her par-ents deeply, and had exemplary care for hersiblings - Alice, Armenia (predeceased),Anahid and Shakeh.

She was a graduate of the Armenian Evan-gelical College (1942), the Beirut College forWomen and the Near East School of Theol-ogy (1948). For over a lustrum, she was theoffice secretary of the Armenian ChristianEndeavor Union in Lebanon, serving under thethen Executive Secretary of the Christian En-deavor Union, the late Rev. Puzant Kalfayan.She distinguished herself as a highly efficient,diligent and faithful worker. In 1949 she wasmarried to a fellow seminary graduate, ZenasIlanjian. They were blessed with five children- Hratch, Grace, Vartan, Betty and Garo, andeight grandchildren. Throughout the span offifty three years, she proved to be a dedicatedspouse, a staunch supporter and a faithful part-ner to her husband in whatever responsibilitythey were entrusted with. Most importantly,she was faithful to Jesus Christ, her Lord andSavior. No wordly allurement or enticement,riches, ornaments or pleasures of life coulddeviate her from her commitment to the Lord.She was faithful to the Armenian Evangelicallegacy, without any shadow of bigotry. She wastrue to the Armenian heritage and was an avidreader of Armenian books.

The war that broke out in 1975 in Lebanon,forced them to seek other possiblities for service.In 1976, after surviving the initial perils of mount-ing hostilities, the Ilanjian family, by the graceof God was established in New York. Togetherthey served the Armenian Evangelical Churchof New York and six other American Congrega-tional churches in New York State.

The years of retirement were a mixed bless-ing. Family fellowship, the rejuvenating im-pact of the presence of grandchildren, the vis-its of colleagues, friends, and kindred mindswere exceptional sources of inspiration andenriched livings. Yet the relenting or cessationof the organized ministry of yesterday gener-ated traumatic waves in the soul. The incur-sion of physical ailments into what was a ro-bust constitution played further havoc with theGod-given edifice that eventually succumbedto devastation to signal the imminent momentwhen she would be prepared to meet her Cre-ator.

In all these vicissitudes of life, MarieIlanjian remained unshakable. On Sunday,June 9, 2002, after all medical services wereexhaustively rendered, on this day of rest, shewas called into the eternal hall of rest andheavenly bliss.

Funeral services for Marie Ilanjian were heldon Wednesday, June 12, at the Armenian Pres-byterian Church of Paramus, NJ. Donations inlieu of flowers were sent to the AMAA.G

Armenian Missionary Association of America31 West Century RoadParamus, NJ 07652

Non-Profit Org.U.S. PostagePAIDParamus, NJPermit No. 55

OFFICIAL COFFICIAL COFFICIAL COFFICIAL COFFICIAL CALL TO THE ALL TO THE ALL TO THE ALL TO THE ALL TO THE 83 rdrdrdrdrd ANNUANNUANNUANNUANNUAL MEETINGAL MEETINGAL MEETINGAL MEETINGAL MEETINGOF THEOF THEOF THEOF THEOF THE

ARMENIAN MISSIONARARMENIAN MISSIONARARMENIAN MISSIONARARMENIAN MISSIONARARMENIAN MISSIONARY ASSOCIAY ASSOCIAY ASSOCIAY ASSOCIAY ASSOCIATION OF AMERICTION OF AMERICTION OF AMERICTION OF AMERICTION OF AMERICAAAAAThe Eighty Third Annual Meeting of the Armenian Missionary Association of America, Inc. (AMAA), will be held onSaturday, October 19, 2002, at 10:00 a.m. at the AMAA Headquarters, 31 West Century Road, Paramus, NJ.All members of the AMAA are invited to attend the meeting to:

I. Consider and approve the reports of the Officers, Executive Director, Committees,Chapters, and Affiliated Boards of the Association for fiscal 2001-2002;

II. Consider and approve the financial reports for fiscal 2001-2002;III. Announce the results of the elected eight Board members to replace those whose terms have expired;IV. Elect four members to the Nominating Committee;V. Elect an Auditor;VI. Consider and approve the Association's budget for fiscal 2002-2003;VII. Consider and act upon any other business that may legitimately come before the membership.

PRPRPRPRPROGRAM OF THE OGRAM OF THE OGRAM OF THE OGRAM OF THE OGRAM OF THE 83 rdrdrdrdrd ANNUANNUANNUANNUANNUAL MEETING AAL MEETING AAL MEETING AAL MEETING AAL MEETING ACTIVITIESCTIVITIESCTIVITIESCTIVITIESCTIVITIESThursday, October 17Thursday, October 17Thursday, October 17Thursday, October 17Thursday, October 17

9:30 a.m. .......... Armenian Evangelical World Council Meeting

Friday, October 18Friday, October 18Friday, October 18Friday, October 18Friday, October 18 9:30 a.m. .......... Celebration of 75th Anniversary of Panpere and Introduction of 1700th Anniversary

Western Armenian Reference Bible and "Bible Reader" Software 2:00 p.m. .......... AMAA Mission Goals and Evaluation 7:00 p.m. .......... Board of Directors' Meeting

Saturday, October 19Saturday, October 19Saturday, October 19Saturday, October 19Saturday, October 19 9:30 a.m. .......... 83RD Annual Meeting 2:00 p.m. .......... Board of Directors' Meeting

7:00 p.m. ........... AMAA Banquet and Artistic Program

Sunday, October 20Sunday, October 20Sunday, October 20Sunday, October 20Sunday, October 2011:00 a.m. .......... Annual Meeting Worship Service

As members of the AMAA world-wide family, we look forward to this annual gathering to renew our ties of fellow-ship as Armenian Evangelical churches and communities, and to strengthen our common mission around theworld. With joy we eagerly anticipate your presence and participation.

Documents

Retiring Haigazian University President, the Rev. Dr. John ...€¦ · market availed to us. Though we had started our mis-sion outreach with certain limits in mind, over-whelmed