Journal Entries

April 26, 2009 | April 24, 2009 | April 18, 2009 | April 14, 2009 | April 10, 2009 | April 6, 2009 | March 27, 2009 | March 26, 2009 | March 19, 2009 | March 13, 2009 | March 9, 2009 | March 4, 2009

Photo Galleries

April 26, 2009 | April 24, 2009 | April 18, 2009 | April 14, 2009 | April 10, 2009 | April 6, 2009 | March 27, 2009 | March 26, 2009 | March 18, 2009 | Hayortyats Youth Centers | Opening Gallery

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April 24: Martyrs Day - 2009

Dear Friends,

A day does not pass when I do not look towards Mount Ararat and dream of being able to hike around it's base. (I doubt I'd ever have the stamina to get very high because of the pressure of the high altitude). It's, of course, the dream of every true Armenian to connect with the ancestral homeland that was lost because of one of the greatest attrocities ever committed against humanity.

In 1965, the fiftieth anniversary of the Armenian Genocide,  the first monument to the 1.5 million martyrs was erected on the grounds of the monastery of Holy Etchmiadzin (just to the north of the cathedral). Two years later the impressive memorial overlooking the city of Yerevan was constructed. The complex is known as "Dzidzernagapert" or "Fortress of the Swallows." Since the sixties the citizens of Armenia have solemnly observed April 24 as a day of remembrance - "Sukadon."  (Since Independence it is a governmental-public holiday).

Being in Armenia at this time is extremely moving and is truly a deep soulful day of reflection. Throughout the day TV stations broadcast live coverage of the countless visitors to the Martys Monument, requiem concerts, and films on the genocide and Jewish holocaust. It is impossible to pass this day without any emotional response.

View Martyr's Day Gallery

I was blessed to part of the entourage of clergy of the Mother See led by the Catholicos of All Armenians and the President of the Republic of Armenia. Following the military honor guard into the main section of the monument at the center of which is an eternal flame, we all placed flowers as a sign of loving respect to the marytrs. By the end of the day the broadcast showed the pile of flowers having grown to over five feet high.

After the requiem prayers we returned to the Mother See for the celebration of holy Badarak and another requiem in front of the original martyrs monument. Attached are some photos taken on this most solemn day for Armenians everywhere.

Blessed and etrernal be the memory of the Armenian Martyrs of 1915. May we continue to honor their memory by recommiting ourselves to the faith of the Holy Armenian Apostolic Church, the Armenian language and sacred traditions.

With prayers,
Hayr Simeon

p.s. - As an interesting side note, there is lot of talk here about opening roads between Armenia and Turkey. Time will tell what becomes of this and how it will impact our nation - positively and negatively.

April 18, 2009

Dear Friends,

It's the end of Easter Week, which in a number of our sister Orthodox Churches is referred to as "Bright Week." I must say that the last three days have been particularly bright ones for me. In my researching of the Christian Education Center of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, I visited 6 kindergartens in the city of Etchmiadzin, where the children presented Easter pageants.

The Christian Education Center prepared the program, which is being produced in over 100 kindergartens throughout Armenia. In the context of the show, children present facts about Great Lent, Holy Week and Easter through recitations, song and dance. There are also games and riddles related to the season. Special artisitic displays were created for the occasion.

Classrooms are decorated with traditional Eastern themes, including red colored eggs, pilaf made with raisins, fish, and the Zadig (lady-bug) which is placed by the tomb of Christ. A few places had Zadig cakes and, of course, pagharch - sweet bread. At each school I was invited to bless the bread, salt and water. In the course of the program the symbolism of each item was given.

For instance, the pilaf is symbolic of the people of the world and the raisins are the Christians whose virtuous lives sweeten the world. The fish is the symbol used by the early Christians and the red color of the eggs is the blood of our blessed Lord, shed for the salvation of the world.

Needlessto say we adults learned a lot from the children about Easter and the Armenian traditions surrounding this feast of all feasts.

The attached photos will give you a flavor of Easter in the kindergartens of Armenia.

With prayers,
Hayr Simeon

April 14, 2009

Dear Friends,

The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin was filled with thousands of pilgrims, from Armenia and throughout the world, participating in the liturgical activities celebrating the glorious resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.

I am attaching photos from three events of the past weekend:

1. Easter Eve Divine Liturgy and Dinner with the Brotherhood presided over by His Holiness Karekin II;
2. Easter morning parade from St. Hripsime Monastery to Holy Etchmiadzin made up of hundreds of children from the "Hayortyats" Youth Centers; and
3. Easter Divine Liturgy celebrated by His Holiness Karekin II and attended by Mr. Serge Sarkissian, President of the Republic of Armenia, and many high-ranking government officials and diplomats.

Once again, my very best heartfelt wishes to you all during this most joyous season of the Resurrection of the Son of God.

With prayers,
Hayr Simeon

Easter 2009

Dear Friends,

It is my great pleasure to greet all of you with the ancient Easter greeting, ”Kreesdos haryav ee merelots! – Christ is risen from the dead!” This day we celebrate the joyous Light of the resurrection, which is the terminus of our Lenten and Holy Week journey. Fortified by fasting, prayer and good works, we have concluded this annual pilgrimage and have prepared ourselves to celebrate the mystery of the empty tomb of Easter.

This year I had the privilege of undertaking this journey in the sacred bosom of the Armenian Apostolic Church, the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. On this occasion I want to share with you two insights.

First, my journey was anchored on daily worship in the Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin, one of our most revered holy places. During Lent and Holy Week the average daily time spent in the sanctuary was two hours. (Yesterday, between the Holy Thursday services and Good Friday Vigil – Khavaroom, we were in prayer approximately 8 hours). The insight here is that unlike typical parish life where you know everyone, here in our spiritual center besides the clergy and a group of regular “havadatsyals,” at each service there are always new faces — pilgrims of all ages from throughout Armenia and the world — united by our Holy Apostolic faith.

A second insight came to me about a week ago during one of the services. For an Armenian American, there are certain challenges in adjusting to life in Armenia. There are definite cultural and psychological differences. Also, the linguistic difference is significant. In Armenia, the Eastern dialect of Armenian is used with occasional words from the local dialects and some Russian words. The insight is that despite all the differences, when we were together in prayer, it was the very same language, in fact the very same prayers, liturgy and hymns of our universal Church, which created a powerful unity. Obviously, this is something that I was aware of but the enormity of this truth genuinely touched me.

Friends, I want to again extend my very best wishes to you and your loved ones on this feast of all feasts, the Resurrection from the dead of our blessed Lord Jesus Christ. May the joyous hope of this holy day transform your hearts and fill your lives with new meaning and all spiritual zeal.

With prayers,
Hayr Simeon
Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

p.s. - I’ve included a few photos taken during the Vespers of the Ten Virgins (Holy Tuesday), the Washing of the Feet (Holy Thursday) and the Service of the Crucifixion (Good Friday).

April 6, 2009

“Lazarus is dead and I am glad for you that I was not there so that you might believe in me.”
“Out of the mouths of babes comes forth perfect praise.”

Holy Week has begun in full force and living in a monastery I have the rare advantage to participate in the very full schedule of services appointed from ancient time to commemorate each day of this most solemn week for us Christians. What is most spiritually uplifting is the interplay between the theme of each day, the scripture readings and the accompany hymnology, which are poetic reflections on the prophecies and gospels.

View Palm Sunday Gallery

Holy Week began with Saturday, the remembrance of the resurrection of Lazarus, the good friend of our Lord Jesus. (see John 11) After morning prayer in the cathedral I was picked up by Bishop Sion Adamyan, Primate of the Armavir Diocese. He has previously invited me to take part in the annual pilgrimage to the St. Lazar Church in Medzamor. Taking part in a pilgrimage is yet one more way that we connect with our spiritual ancestors and at the same time outwardly witness to our holy faith. The pilgrimage procession commenced from the entrance of the city and made its way, about a fifteen minute walk up to the church. We were led by a cross-bearer, two banners, the Primate, clergy and the approximately 200 pilgrims singing the verses of St. Nersess the Graceful’s hymn, “Aravod Loosoh” as it made its way.

Soon upon entering the church the holy Badarak began. The church was literally packed (literally two feet was left open in front of the altar) with an overflow outside. In honor of his name day, the celebrant was Fr. Ghazaros Bedrossian, who serves a village called Pyooravan. Sion Srpazan gave the message of the day on the theme from John 11, “Lazarus is dead and I am glad for you that I was not there so that you might believe in me.” In this miracle of the raising Lazarus from the dead, Jesus once again demonstrated his glory as the divine Son of God and at the same time prefigured-prophesied His own death and resurrection. It is in this context that He makes the well known proclamation, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, though he dies, yet shall he live. And whoever lives and believes in me shall never die.” (John 11:25) In truth the whole theme of our Holy Week journey is encapsulated in this one verse.

What was remarkable was that all ages were represented at the pilgrimage. It was truly a family of faithful gathered in prayer to begin their spiritual walk with the Savior in the last week of His life. I was so moved with the level of piety – the bowing, the crossing and the singing of the Badarak in unison, from the heart, and focusing on the celebration at hand!

After the liturgy the clergy gathered in a small building, which serves as an after school activity center for approximate 45 children (similar to the Hayortyatz format) where they learn singing, art and marionette performance. I must point out that the people of Medzamor are at a great economic disadvantage. The city had been built about thirty years ago to house the workers who built and ran the atomic power plant. Unfortunately, after the earthquake and the fall of the Soviet Union the city fell on extremely hard times. When the plant was decommissioned for a few years, international workers abandoned the place and the city became populated by refugees from Baku and elsewhere, as well as by a certain criminal element. The children’s center thus serves a very challenging clientele, a number from broken homes – fathers having deserted their families. In addition to programs for the children, the center also gives spiritual and psychological support to needy families.

The children presented a few songs, one of which was the hymn of the Armenian army, during which the Armenian flag was proudly waved. Before departing, I promised that I would visit the school when classes were in session.

The pilgrimage was an excellent way to begin my Holy Week journey. During Vespers that evening as the hymn of Palm Sunday, “Vor verorhnis” was chanted, the curtain of the main altar (closed since the beginning of Great Lent) was opened in preparation for the celebration of our Lord’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem for our salvation.

Sunday morning the Mother See was a buzz with activity as pilgrims from everywhere converged on the world-wide center of the Armenian Apostolic Church, the locale appointed by Christ Himself over 1700 years ago.

His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, in remembrance of the fact that it was the children who recognized and praised Jesus our heavenly King when He entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, has declared it a day of blessing for children. Indeed, “Out of the mouths of babes comes forth perfect praise.” After morning services Hayortyats children came out in full forth. The drum bands played patriotic tunes and provided a march for the Catholicos and Brotherhood walking in procession to the courtyard of the Cathedral for the solemn blessing of the four corners of the world.

In the center was a table covered with willow branches, which were distributed to the faithful. Many formed laurels with these branches and placed them on the heads of the children. Following the Antasdan the Catholicos prayed for the children.

Hayortyats children also made colored chalk artwork on the asphalt next to the open air altar as the marching bands continued to perform into the afternoon.

The Divine Liturgy followed and was celebrated by Bishop Ararat Kaltakjian, the Grand Sacristan of the Mother See. He is responsible for all of the liturgical rites celebrated in the cathedral. He also oversees the other three monasteries in Etchmiadzin. At the conclusion of the liturgy the children filled the chancel to capacity as yet another prayer of blessing was offered by His Holiness.

It was an incredible to see so many families, parents and children flocking to the Mother See throughout the entire day – almost 12 hours nonstop. I don’t recall ever seeing so many children in my life.

The day’s activities concluded with Vespers and the Service of the Opening of the Doors – Trnpatsek. In the morning we celebrated Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem for our salvation. In this deeply moving evening service we contemplated our worthiness to enter the heavenly Jerusalem and God’s mercy beyond measure. Before the closed curtain, three clergy in the lamenting tone, prayed that the Lord “open the doors of mercy that we may enter in.” After a series of three short dialogues and as the Catholicos himself recited, “Open unto us the doors of mercy, they we may enter,” the curtain was opened, a final gospel regarding our Lord’s saving mission was read and a final blessing bestowed.

I hope that you find this account informative, if not inspiring.. My Holy Week is off to a good start and I wish all of you a spiritually uplifting one as well as we together look forward to celebrating the feast of all feasts. I’ll have more to report as the week progresses.

Father Simeon Odabashian
Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

Dear Friends,

In honor of the feast of St. Gregory’s Entrance into the dungeon of Khor Virab, I have translated the following interesting essay written by Ms. Heghine Mkrtchyan of the Information Services - See of Holy Etchmiadzin. Accompanying this are photos taken at the Prefestal Vespers held the evening of the feast, presided over by His Holiness, Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians. The service takes place before the Altar of the Descent (Eechman Seghan) located at the center of the cathedral. Some photos show the faithful venerating the sacred relics of St. Gregory.

Through the intercession and prayers of our Holy Father Gregory the Enlightener, may the Lord receive our supplications and save us. Amen.

With prayers,
Hayr Simeon

The Relics of Saint Gregory the Enlightener

Today, March 28, is the feast of St. Gregory the Enlightener’s Entrance into Khor Virab – the Deep Pit (dungeon). The feast commenced last evening as a reliquary containing relics of St. Gregory the Enlightener was carried in a pontifical procession into the Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin bestowing blessing upon the clergy and faithful gathered.

The feast of his Entrance into Khor Virab is the first of three annual feasts commemorating St. Gregory. The tortures endured by the first Catholicos of All Armenians in the pit (over 13 years) and the story of his deliverance from the pit are known to many. However, few realize that St. Gregory the Enlightener as a pan-Christian saint is celebrated in the calendar of other Christian churches as well. Likewise, St. Gregory’s relics are considered to be of great sacredness in other churches, too. In this regard the story of the relics of St. Gregory in the possession of the Roman Catholic Church is of particular interest.

View Gallery here.

In the Neopolitan Church of St. Gregory the Armenian (built in honor of the saint) the saint’s skull, chains (used to fetter his feet), two staffs with which his torturers beat him, and other holy relics are kept. According to tradition, the relics were brought to Naples at the end of the 8th century by nuns from a monastery in Constantinople. Today, the relics are maintained with great reverence by local Benedictine nuns. St. Gregory is the object of a special veneration by pious Neopolitans and is considered the second patron saint of the city. In the year 2000 the Roman Catholic Church (His Holiness Pope John Paul II of blessed memory) presented one of these relics from Naples to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.

Another relic of St. Gregory the Enlightener is kept in a city in the south of Italy, not far from Naples, called Nardo. St. Gregory the Enlightener is also the patron saint of this city. In 1743 at the time of a catastrophic earthquake in Nardo only the statue of St. Gregory remained standing. For this reason the first Catholicos of the Armenians was declared the patron saint of the city. On February 20th, a feast dedicated to the saint, the faithful take part in impressive solemnities and glorious processions. The faithful also offer intercessory prayers to the saint when the city is in need of rain.

There are various testimonies regarding relics of St. Gregory the Enlightener found in Greece, too.

The Right Hand (Soorp Ach) relic of St. Gregory the Enlightener, the first chief priest of the Armenian Apostolic Church, is kept in Holy Etchmiadzin, the spiritual center of the Armenian people and seat of the Catholicos of All Armenians. It is cherished as a sacred relic officially signifying this spiritual authority.

by Heghine Mkrtchyan

March 26, 2009

Armenian Church’s Expanding Role in the Military

Some time ago through Catholic television in the United States I became aware of a high level ministry known as the Archdiocese of the Military. This archdiocese has no geographical boundaries, yet it has a diocesan structure with an archbishop based in Washington and priest chaplains stationed at every US military installation, base, warship, etc. in the world.

How pleased and proud I was to learn that Armenia has a quickly developing military chaplaincy program. In 1997 His Holiness Catholicos Karekin I appointed Father Vertanes Abrahamian as the first chaplain of the Armenian Army. Since then the program has grown to 30 chaplains, both priests and deacons, serving Armenia’s military forces. At the helm of this critical ministry is the since elevated Bishop Vertanes Abrahamian, himself as veteran of the Karabagh-Azeri conflict.

Expanding Role in the Military Gallery

Last week I walked into a meeting of the chaplains and observed Bishop Vertanes at work strategically ordering the young clergy in his charge. My immediate thought was that here is a spiritual general at work. In some nations chaplains are granted military rank.

Like its American counterpart, the Armenian Diocese of the Armed Forces has a unique arrangement by which its religious jurisdiction encompasses all army bases and military institutes in Armenia and Nagorno-Karabagh.

According to a recent agreement between the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and the Minister of Defense, His Excellency Mr. Seyran Ohanian, chaplains are to be a permanent presence and will be funded by the Ministry of Defense. In addition, plans have been approved for the erection of a cathedral for the military located close to the Ministry, where all official church/military events will be held. This church will also meet the spiritual needs of over 50,000 residents in the Avan section of Yerevan.

The Ministry of Defense, Armenia’s version of the Pentagon, is a sprawling, impressive structure, which was opened less than a year ago. With the approval of the Minister, Bishop Vertanes has been given an office within the Department of Human Resources. His office will eventually be equipped with an up to date computer system and teleconferencing capabilities, so that the Primate can be in frequent contact with chaplains.

In the words of Colonel Rafael Tatevosian, “Bishop Vertanes and the chaplaincy program’s work are closely related to the work of our department. That is why his office is located in our section. In our military, it is not enough to be physically fit and informed about tactical strategies, it is even more important to have a solid ideological, cultural, patriotic, and religious background. Since we are in Khorenatsi’s words, a ‘Pokr Adzoo-Small Nation’ and are easily outnumbered, our strength is in our ideological convictions. Part and parcel of this is the faith of the Apostolic Church, which is taught by the chaplains. Our soldiers need to be informed about historical events like the Battle of Avarayr, for example.”

While the Armenian Apostolic Church is the only religious presence allowed by law in military areas, to further strengthen the church’s presence, plans are in the works to build small chapels on every base and military school. Bishop Vertanes envisions “chapels built on all of the military bases, where a soldier will go to pray, receive a blessing and words of encouragement from the chaplain prior to his shift of duty. After completing his shift he will go again to the chapel to offer a prayer of thanks. This will help in relieving danger-related stress.”

While the Armenian border with Turkey is well guarded by Russian Federation forces, the critical eastern boarder with Azerbaijan is defended solely by Armenian troops. One of Bishop Vertanes’ serious challenges is to find qualified chaplains willing to serve in these most critical border areas in Karabagh.

So why is this religious presence so important? Chaplains offer prayer and encouragement to the soldiers. They also provide education on the Christian faith and Armenian Church sacred traditions. Further, they offer Christian education at seven military schools. Bishop Vertanes is proud of the fact that as of this year a new uniform curriculum was adopted for use by all chaplains, which covers the basic teachings and history of the Armenian Church, as well as questions of morality and spirituality. Next year the curriculum will be further refined and modified for use in various settings.

The primate of the military regularly inquires regarding the chaplains’ effectiveness. He enjoys the utmost respect of the minister of defense and thanks to this, generals are from time to time giving talks at the seminaries to familiarize future clergy with the spiritual needs of those serving in the military and to be enabled to minister to their families as well.

This ministry is not taking place in a vacuum. There is on-going contact with chaplaincy organizations in other countries. For example, Bishop Vertanes will be attending a meeting in England and in the near future groups will be visiting from Greece and Russia. Though he is quick to point out that the Armenian Church has her own unique spiritual and cultural traditions that must be carefully adhered to.

Historically, the Armenian Church has been the spiritual backbone of the nation’s defense. The role of clergy led by St. Ghevont Yerets at the battle of Avarayr in 451 is the most familiar. In the days of the First Armenian Republic priests eagerly volunteered to join the laity in arms. In October 1918 Archbishop Khoren Mouradbekian (later Catholicos Khoren I) proposed a pastoral guideline for “priest soldiers.” Priests were to serve side by side with the soldiers, wearing their clerical garb, but never taking up arms. Like the chaplains of today they were called to be a spiritual presence among their flock and were “required with the colonel’s arrangement to lecture soldiers during free time regarding the Bible and national-church history, keeping alive the knowledge of their responsibility and love toward the nation and national sacred treasures.” They were also charged with teaching prayer, conducting worship and providing opportunities for soldiers to attend the Divine Liturgy.

Duties of today’s chaplains are not so different. They have a significant presence on the base, engaging the soldiers and officers in conversation of a spiritual nature, teaching classes, visiting and praying for those in the infirmary and solitary confinement. Soldiers are personally invited to attend the Divine Liturgy in a local church.

In terms of vision, the primate would like to see the Armenian Church be represented on the highest level in the military and that the clergy chaplains truly make a difference in the military by assisting in the moral and religious formation of every soldier, and also that we have an ongoing presence at the Ministry of Defense. To assist in this mission the primate has published a small prayer book, which will be distributed to every soldier.

Bishop Vertanes also pointed out that cults and other religious movements are on-going challenges, however, the Armenian Church is the only religious presence, which enjoys official recognition. No other group is permitted to proselytize in military facilities and Jehovah’s Witnesses refuse to serve. Members of other faiths are certainly free to follow their religious convictions and chaplains do not discriminate against members of other churches.

After getting an overall picture of this program from Bishop Vertanes, I wanted to see with my own eyes our chaplains in action. Deep down I wanted to see if their presence made a difference or not and what sort of reception they received.

So I visited a military base located next to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, where the chaplain is Deacon Sahak Sahakian. Regarding Deacon Sahak’s presence, Major Karen Beglarian said, “It is of great help and there is much need among the soldiers. The chaplain offers classes regarding the Apostolic Faith. Each successive generation needs to be informed regarding our culture and faith so they won’t enter the cults. It’s very bad when our people join other religious movements. Thus it’s very good to have Deacon Sahak here. On the occasion of Sparabed Vasken Sargsyan’s 50th anniversary the deacon led a group of our soldiers to the Mother See to pray in the cathedral and tour the museums. The army is improving day by day. Being close to the cathedral keeps the religion alive among the soldiers. Psychologically this has been of benefit.”

Deacon Sahak pointed out that soldiers also went to the Mother See for the annual observance of Military Day on January 28. They attended the Divine Liturgy with high-ranking clergy, members of the Brotherhood and the Minister of Defense. Soldiers are taught to pray before meals and at the beginning of classes. There are also prayerful observances on special holidays. Deacon Sahak was also proud of the fact that because of the proximity of the Mother See, his soldiers have the highest attendance rate at Divine Liturgy.

It was clear that Deacon Sahak is greatly respected on the base. His routine includes daily classes on the faith and traditions of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Examples of topics are the practices of Great Lent and Easter, how to fight against sin and profanity and the practice of forgiveness. During Holy Week he will escort a group of soldiers to the Mother See to take part in the Washing of Feet Service.

The soldiers in his class had many questions about the faith and the essential difference between the Armenian Church and other religious movements. There is great concern about cults whose followers refuse to serve in the army and in the defense of the nation. Some felt that these movements are set on infiltrating the nation and may have certain connections with foreign governments.

To the question does having a chaplain make a difference, one soldier, Razmik Astryan, responded, “His presence changes a soldier’s life. Attending church is very positive. We are helped to sin less. “

My interest also led me to the Marshal Armenak Ghamparyantz Air Force Institute with Deacon Michael Barsaeghyan, who was recently appointed as its first chaplain. Similar to chaplains serving on bases, his role is first and foremost to impart the Christian faith to the cadets both through classes as well as via personal encounters. His presence in the institute has been warmly received by not only the commander, but by staff and cadets alike.

In Deacon Michael’s words, “I keep all my encounters on a strictly official level. I have an excellent relationship with the commander and officers and can say that I have in a very short time earned their respect. I try to do my best. I bring in interesting movies and am working with AR TV station to prepare programs on the Armenian army and Marshal Bagramian. I am also planning a group baptism for cadets, who have not yet been baptized. My dream is to have a chapel on the grounds of the institute, where we can celebrate the Divine Liturgy, light candles, pray and meditate. Something that we have introduced is a prayer before lunch. Soldiers often approach me with prayer requests and questions about the faith.” He also feels that this work is very rewarding and will help him to be a more effective priest.

The assistant to the Commander of the institute, Colonel Zaven Hakobjanyan shared that “in the past religion was absent here, but now we are very happy that Deacon Michael is here. We feel his spiritual presence and we observe him to be passionate about his work. He is truly concerned about the fruit of his labors. The Mother See has truly blessed us with this program. The cooperation between the Mother See and the military is very healthy.”

Without any hesitation, it can be said the Armenian Apostolic Church is making great strides in meeting the spiritual and pastoral needs of those serving in the military forces in the Armenian Republic. The following illustrates how this presence is truly moving the souls of servicemen.

During my visit to Bishop Vertanes’ office, a young soldier entered inquiring about being baptized. The primate warmly welcomed him, gave him a New Testament and a small wood cross and encouraged him to return when they could further discuss the meaning of baptism and arrange for the sacrament. When I asked the primate if this was a common occurrence, he responded that the more our Church’s presence grows, the more we see this phenomenon of people (especially the young) reaching out for the saving sacraments of God.

Father Simeon Odabashian
Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

March 19, 2009
Michink Observed at Etchmiadzin Hayortyants Doon

On March 18 I received a kind invitation to attend at special observance of “Michink” at the Etchmiadzin Hayortyats Doon. I arrived a little before 3:00 pm and was greeted by the director, Ms. Janetta Yeghiazarian, who escorted me to a large room which was filled to over capacity with children eager for the program to begin. It should be noted that this Hayortyatz is meeting in a temporary facility, which was at one time a kindergarten, but has since become very worn down. Nevertheless, in Hayortyats style, teachers are able to overcome all obstacles to nurture and develop children’s talents in exceptional ways.

I addressed a few words to the assembly, in which I reminded the children that Michink is the time when we recommit ourselves to true meaning of Lent, namely spiritual preparation leading us towards the joyous celebration of Christ’s resurrection, just 25 days away. After this Ms. Mariam Kirakosian, the religion teacher, gave an informative presentation regarding Michink and various folk customs surrounding this mid-day point of Great Lent. Of particularly interest was the tradition of baking pagharch (sweet bread) with a coin or button hidden within. The one who receives the piece containing the item will have a successful year. In the villages not only family members, but also animals were given a slice. Ms. Kirakosian, however, stressed that beyond these nice customs we must never lose sight of the true religious meaning of Michink, which is a reminder us of our Lenten commitments.

This led into a number of well-rehearsed musical and dance performances. The audience was treated to a rendition of Straus’ well known, “Blue Danube Waltz.,” played by the violin ensemble. The kanon class shared some American Ragtime music, a piece by Komitas and the popular Russian folksong, “Kalinka.” Dance classes offered a wide range of styles, from traditional Armenian folk style and Khachaturian’s “Mascarade Watlz” to Latin salsa. To keep everyone awake and alert the dhol boys presented a selection of their unique music.

Following the approximately 45 minute performances, Ms. Yeghiazarian and Ms. Kirakosian led me to various classrooms, where Michink “parties” were already in progress. A number of the parents had prepared “pagharch” and other treats for the children. I got to share one with the faculty members, however, I did not choose the lucky piece. Better luck next Michink.

Because of its proximity, I’ve been to this Hayortyats a number of times. I am so appreciative of the feeling of warmth and welcome each time I visit. I am convinced that when the move is made into their new facility in a few months, that this center will blossom, enrollment will sky-rocket, and this will be a shining star among the Hayortyats family.

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March 13, 2009
Armenian Hayortyats Youth Centers – A Continuing Miracle

“Marvel” is probably the best word to describe the impression one gets spending time at one of Armenia’s Hayortyats Dunner or Armenian Youth Centers. Though the experience clearly elicits other emotions as well. In Armenian the centers are referred to as “dunner” - homes and that’s exactly the atmosphere found there.

Hayortyats Youth Centers Picture Gallery

Hayortyats was the brainchild of Archbishop Karekin Nersessian of the Araratian Pontifical Diocese (now Karekin II Catholicos of All Armenians). The first centers were opened in 1993 in the Arabkir and Malatia districts of Yerevan in buildings formerly housing the Pioneers (Soviet Youth). At present there are five additional functioning centers located in Nork, Vanatsor, Ashtarak, Kanaker and Etchmiadzin. A youth center in Shirak is currently in the works and Etchmiadzin is eagerly looking forward to moving into it's own fully renovated “Hratch and Susan Toufayan” Youth Center.

Hayortyats has assembled an impressive cadre of high level masters in the arts and expert sportsmen to impart their skills to youth whose talents are subsequently blossoming. All this made possible under the auspices of the Armenian Apostolic Church and Armenian General Benevolent Union.

Course offerings are impressive and include in part: karate, macramé, piano, dance, rug weaving, chorus, needlework, dhol (Armenian drum), drama, computer, journalism, sculpture, painting, miniature painting, dance and more. While there is overlap in courses offered in the various centers, each one understandably has its own forte, for example Nork excels with its circus arts, Malatia with its Karate, drama, drum corps and unique model plane class, and Arabkir with its Ayntab/Vaspuragan style needlepoint. Etchmiadzin is known for its wood carving, kanon, drum and violin classes.

The centers provide exceptional educational programming, which compliments the children’s public school classes. However, it’s not about learning for leaning’s sake, because all of the above is overarched by a well prepared and inspiring religious education program based on the sacred teachings of the Armenian Apostolic Church. A powerful Christian witness to the children is the presence of soup kitchens for the needy, which are attached to some of the centers. To further their understanding and experiencing of the Armenian faith, students participate in special programs based on major church feasts and go on pilgrimages to Armenia’s holy shrines. On Easter Sunday children from all the centers will converge on the city of Vagharshabad and conduct a procession – parade led by the beat of the drum corps from the Monastery of St. Hripsime to the Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin.

Accomplishments of the students have been most notable. For example, Arabkir’s Kantegh Choir produced a well received CD of liturgical, patriotic and German language songs. Students of the arts and sports have scored exceptionally in competitions both on the national and international levels.

Children who successfully complete the program are awarded a diploma. The directors and teachers proudly point out that many have gone on to the music conservatory and other areas of higher education and specialties. A few have entered seminary and several have returned as instructors at one of the centers.

Today Hayortyats provides after school education to over 2,600 students and much needed employment to almost 300 employees.

The success of such an endeavor is dependent on the ability and commitment of staff. To get a full picture of the Youth Centers, one need only to engage in conversation with Mrs. Aida Antreassian, Director of the Nork Center and assistant to the Spiritual Supervisor. She is one of the original movers and shakers, hand-picked by then Archbishop Karekin Nersessian.

Sharing her memories of the early days, in light of the dismal realities of life in Armenia in the early 1990’s, they “had little hope for the success of the endeavor. Nevertheless, thanks to the relentless encouragement of Karekin Srpazan and the most generous backing of Mrs. Louise Manoogian Simone of the AGBU, before long four centers, former Soviet youth palaces, were acquired, renovated and opened for use.”

Fr. Gomitas Hovnanian was appointed in October 2008 as Spiritual Supervisor of the entire Hayortyats Youth Center system. He came to his position with great enthusiasm and experience returning to serve the Mother See after pastoring churches in Germany and France for 27 years. The directors are thrilled with his spiritually charged leadership style. He also brings a solid musical education background.

When asked about his vision for Hayortyats, Fr. Gomitas expressed that, “Hayortyats is the place where we can offer formation to children in a few ways as it is under the umbrella of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Hayortyats forms them to be faithful Christians. It provides them the ability to think and to know the difference between right and wrong; and will create people, who not only know how to receive, but also more importantly how to give.”

Immediate plans concern attracting new students to the programs as numbers have declined because of economic challenges and fewer births in Armenia. In his role as spiritual supervisor, Fr. Gomitas is planning to personally visit along with some of his staff public schools local to each center to present concerts and exhibit the fruits of Hayortyats to parents and students. He is committed to building enthusiasm and is convinced that this enthusiasm will inspire more parents to enroll their children.

It goes without saying that Fr. Gomitas is the right person to usher in a new era of growth particularly in the spiritual realm for Hayortyats and that the Catholicos of All Armenians was wise to hand pick this appointment.

Fr. Gomitas is committed to promoting a genuine family spirit at Hayortyats. For him, “It’s one thing to teach a subject, it’s another thing to create an Armenian individual in the traditional Christian sense.”

It was also telling to hear from staff as to what makes Hayortyats so special. Hayortyats children have significant behavioral differences from their peers in school. They tend to be more focused and are higher achievers and exemplify a greater respect towards parents and teachers. It’s been observed that typically it takes a child three weeks to adapt to the Hayortyats environment and three years to be totally transformed.

Besides attracting new students, another issue to be tackled is the present condition of the facilities. Each center is more or less in need of some level of renovation, whether it be damaged and neglected roofs, ceilings, floors, or costly rebuilding of swimming pools and heating systems. As an example, a renovated aquatic center would be a great attraction and incentive to bring many new students to the Arabkir Center.

A constant challenge is attracting high caliber instructors with Christian commitment and connection to the Apostolic Church, who are willing to teach for considerably less salary than they would receive elsewhere.

Perhaps the most ominous threat to Hayortyants comes from religious movements, which are foreign to Armenia, but which come with abundant international funding and are aggressively proselytizing among uninformed desperate citizens and who have cleverly counterfeited the format of Hayortyats in everyway with one exception - their centers are well funded with updated facilities and well paid staff.

Hayortyats has a significant role to play in the strengthening of the Armenian Apostolic Church in Armenia. However, the challenges are formidable. If diasporan Armenians want to truly make a difference and assist the church in its mission, they need to step up and give their generous support to Hayortyats. They need to visit Armenia and make a point of visiting the centers, particularly those which are less frequented. They will be surprised at what they see. While today there are 7-8 centers (four of which are within Yerevan), with the help of generous contributors in Armenia and diaspora, there could be at least one youth center in every diocese in Armenia.

On another note, there’s no reason that the Hayortyats format could be not be adopted and implemented in dioceses and parishes throughout the world. It’s certainly a good alternative for communities unable to sustain accredited day schools, yet who want to provide meaningful programs for youth in addition to religious education.

Besides being absolutely impressed by the accomplishments of Hayortyats youth, one leaves with a genuine appreciation of the camaraderie among directors and faculty. It’s remarkable that despite their modest incomes, they have a high level of love, commitment, devotion and loyalty to the mission of Hayortyats, the Armenian Apostolic Church and the AGBU.

The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and the Armenian General Benevolent Union are deserving of ceaseless praise for promoting and supporting the Hayortyats Youth Centers. The words of His Holiness Catholicos Karekin II thoughtfully summarize the mission of Hayortyats, “Every young boy or girl that walks through the doors of an Armenian Youth Center is given the opportunity to develop their God-given talents and abilities, surrounded by our sacred Christian values, the language of Mashtots, the spirit of Narek, the music of Gomitas and the steadfast faith of Vartan. Here they learn not only art, sculpture, song, dance, poetry and acrobatics, they also learn to serve with love their Church and their nation, inspired by the gospel of Jesus Christ and the examples of their sacred forebears.”

With prayers,
Hayr Simeon

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March 9, 2009

Dear Friends,

Since coming to Holy Etchmiadzin I have befriended a member of the Brotherhood named Fr. Mampre Tashjian. He was formally the abbot of St. Gayane Church/Monastery. He survived a terrible car accident in November 2007. He later wrote an article on the experience, which I translated and would like to share with you as a witness to the power of our holy Christian faith so that "many non-believers and many who have gone astray will convert and believe in Me."

With prayers,
Hayr Simeon

With God’s Blessing I Returned To Earthly Life

The story that I want to share will seem unreal and a fantasy to many. I also perhaps would not have believed it if I heard it from someone else; because I did not believe that one could go before the Creator and then return to earth.

You’d think that November 9, 2006 was not much different from any other day. After completing my duties at St. Gayane Church, where I am the abbot, at about 6:30 pm I was driving to Yerevan in my car, since a few days before I had made an appointment to pick up some books in order to work on the thesis for my theological degree.

I was not in the habit of speeding and I believe that that day I did not surpass the speed limit. Evidently in between my being tired and the foggy fall twilight, my eyelids became heavy and from time to time were closing. (In retrospect, perhaps these are false reasons and everything was decided from above). After passing the Musa Ler arch I did not notice a huge truck preparing to make a u-turn and what followed was a horrible accident.

According to witnesses having seen my destroyed car, none could believe that the driver would still be alive. A few months after I awoke I remembered that at the time of the accident it seemed like an invisible power pulled back and destroyed my seat. (If the seat did not go back I would most certainly have died).

That hellish suffering, which my relatives and especially my parents lived, is until now imprinted upon their eyes, since none of the physicians from either the Etchmiadzin Hospital nor the Erepooni Medical Center saw any ray of hope for my survival.

Two hours after I was transported to the hospital the Catholicos of all Armenians Karekin II came to see me. After a brief private consultation with the director of the trauma department, he came out and said, “All that we can do is pray to God that He will give life to Hayr Soorp.”

I am convinced that the prayers of my parents, the Vehapar, my brother clergy, my other sisters and brothers reached God the Father.

After 22 days in a comma in the trauma unit of the Erepooni Medical Center, about the middle of the 23rd day I opened my eyes and the first person I saw was my older brother, who during that entire time was at my side around the clock like a guardian angel.

Several months have passed since that horrendous ordeal. Day by day, “drop-by-drop”, with God’s blessings and with the help of my parents and doctors I have recovered my lost strength. I believe that the day is not so distant when I will be strong enough to continue my mission…

Now permit me to continue on to this story’s most important part.
Immediately after my accident it was as if I was transported to another world. A sweet sleep covered my eyes and I felt myself ascending. Human language is not sufficient to describe the beauty that I saw. Endless green expanses, flowers and the smell of sweet incense. That place seemed so wonderful such that I was able to live forever without any troubles.

In that paradise was a large and beautiful house. Entering I saw a white bearded elder, who approached me. I immediately understood that I was granted a great fortune in being able to behold with my own eyes HIM, the Creator of the universe, the God and Father of us all. After greeting me I was introduced to the nature of this house. In this place they offered me heavenly food, holy bread and pilaf. The most surprising thing for me was a gigantic object, which showed what was happening on earth. In this incredible place there were many people. Peace and tranquility ruled in these men’s souls. Among them I recognized one of our neighbors (who as I later learned passed away a few days after my accident).

That which was taking place in this paradise of a place was simply put a miracle. It seemed that here there was no time; in any case that’s how I experienced it. I felt that I was in the lap of eternity and bliss. Everything was pure, irreproachable, interesting, and wondrous. They informed us concerning everything and we were able to see everything.

At one point later, the white haired elder, God the Father, called me and said that I must return to earth, to my parents and to the others waiting for me. “I am sending you back to earth,” He said, “to your father and mother; and seeing you, many non-believers and many who have gone astray will convert and believe in Me.”

I said that I was unable to return since I did not know the return route. He appointed an angel to lead me.

The descent was as (emotionally) moving as the ascent. On the way down my eyes fell upon a deep chasm from which heart wrenching and tormented human voices could be heard. In that evil portending pit I saw dogs with huge gigantic heads (I believe that they were called Cerberus). Those beasts’ jaws were so large that a man could without any difficulty enter and exit them. The angel said that evil men are thrown down there.

A little while later the angel was no longer with me.

My return was complete. I was on earth surrounded by the people dearest to me.

Father Mampre Tashjian
Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

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March 4, 2009

Dear Friends,

Yesterday completed my second week in residence at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. Providentially, I arrived on the eve of the great feast of Sts. Vartanantz, which is celebrated with great solemnity here. (BTW - I did not realize it was the feast when I booked my flight). Presided over by his Holiness the Catholicos of All Armenians, the holy Badarak was celebrated by the dean of the Kevorkian Seminary, Bishop Sahag Mashalian. Being the Name Day of Karekin Vehapar, the pontifical prayer was offered. I've attached some photos of my participation.  On my first day here I was humbled to be given the honor of reading the epistle during the Pontifical Prayer.  I was given a similar honor to read the gospel during a special Hokekankist held on March 1 for the victims of the post election violence, which took place in Yerevan one year ago.

Life here is very hectic. I awake each day to the ringing of the cathedral bells. Worship begins at 7:30 until about 8:30 with the participation of all the clergy and students residing here. (Evening service is also prayed each day at 5:30). The singing is amazing and truly uplifting. Presently, I have been assigned to write articles on various programs of the Mother See and challenges facing the church here,  which will be appearing in Armenian English papers in the US and elsewhere. I've also been asked to help out in the Kevorkian Seminary.

From time to time I will send you updates on my adventures here. Perhaps the biggest challenge is getting to know so many people - there are  a few hundred people who live and/or work or study in the Mother See. It's a very well organized operation, which is most competently overseen be the Catholicos himself.

Click here for more pictures.

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With prayers,
Hayr Simeon