Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church

05/29/2026

THE SUNDAY MESSENGER
May 31, 2026

Remembrance of the Prophet Elijah

Scripture and Feast Day Notes

1 Kings 18:29-46 Elijah’s prayer to God brings rain after a long drought, whereas the prayers of Baal’s prophets prove futile. This ‘contest’ is spectacular: 850 pagan prophets against the one prophet Elijah of the one God Yahweh. Discuss/reflect: Where is the one true God competing with the false gods in your life?

2 Kings 2:1-15 The prophet Elijah continues to remind his protégé Elisha that God would soon be taking his master from him. When Elijah is taken up to heaven in a fiery chariot, he drops his cloak to the ground. Elisha picks it up, taps the nearby Jordan river with it, and the water parts for him. God’s spirit had descended now upon Elijah’s pupil. Discuss/reflect: Have you ever had the mantle of leadership passed on to you? What quality of your mentor did you value most?

James 5:16-20 In these concluding verses of James’ epistle, he advises his listeners to confess to and pray for each other, as the “prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” He cites Elijah as a man whose prayers were indeed effective. Discuss/reflect: Have you ever helped someone make a better, more God-pleasing decision? Consider the far-reaching consequences!

Luke 4: 25-30 Jesus is in a synagogue in his hometown of Nazareth. To the congregation’s amazement, he famously dF@ith2023eclares that no prophet is accepted in his hometown. He cites the examples of the prophets Elijah and Elisha whose healings were more readily accepted by non-Jews. So angered by this, the people drive him to the edge of a cliff to throw him down; but Jesus manages to leave them peacefully. Discuss/reflect: Perhaps we have more in common with this congregation of two thousand years ago than we think. Is there anything about what Jesus teaches that makes you so uncomfortable you would rather drive him out of your life?

Today is the Remembrance of the Prophet Elijah

Tomorrow, St. Hripsime and her companions
St. Hripsime and the community of nuns traveling with her (led by St. Gayane) are the unsung heroines of the Christianization of Armenia. Fleeing persecution from the Emperor Diocletian in the late 3rd century AD, they escaped to Armenia and settled in Vagharshapat. King Drtad himself then pursued the beautiful Hripsime only to be rebuffed by the devout young woman. The 5th century historian Agathangelos recorded her story along with St. Gregory’s, vividly describing the physical battle between her and the king. In his new book, Women Too Were Blessed: The Portrayal of Women in Early Armenian Christian Texts, scholar David Zakarian speaks of the fight as significant on two levels: Christian virtue and faith overpowering paganism and a powerless young woman physically defeating a tyrannical king. In the renowned icon (a copy of which adorns a side altar in the St. Nersess Seminary chapel), Hripsime is depicted as triumphant and glorified. What one rarely notices is how she tramples upon the head of King Drtad who brandishes a useless sword. One of the first things St. Gregory did was build shrines over the relics of the fallen Hripsime and Gayane and their fellow nuns. Two churches in their names stand near Holy Etchmiadzin to this day. Reflection: Pray for these beloved saints, grateful for the heroic martyrdom that inspired a nation’s faith.

The Kiss of Peace – After the gifts of the Eucharist are brought to the Altar Table, the deacon proclaims, “Greet one another with a holy kiss.” The person giving the greetings says, Kristos ee mech mer Haydnetsav – Christ is revealed amongst us. The recipient would respond, Orhnial eh Haydnootiunun Kristosee – Blessed is the revelation of Christ.

The Nicene Creed/ Havadamk – This is the Profession of our Faith which is recited every Sunday moments after the Gospel is read from the altar. Sometimes it is sung, but more often it is recited by the Deacons and/or the Choir. We invite you to affirm your own “Profession of Faith” by reciting along with us. God longs for all of us to express our faith and devotion to Him.

Requiem Services – We Honor And Pray For These Souls

Karasoonk today will be for
Artyush Andranikovich Abramyan on the 40th day of his eternal rest. Requested in loving memory by wife Iskui, children and loved ones.

Agape Hour — a beautiful expression of love, community, and togetherness is just not the same without YOU!! Please join us after Divine Liturgy for fellowship and good conversation. Today’s Agape Hour is sponsored by the family of Artyush Andranikovich Abramyan. All are Welcome!

Holy Badarak – Over the summer is a wonderful time to learn and familiarize yourself with the Badarak. If your children sing in the school choir, please encourage them to come sing in our church choir to continue developing their voice on Sundays during the summer. It’s ok if they don’t know many of the sharagans, they will learn. And if they can read music, they will be fine. Our senior choir members are here to help. I look forward to seeing your children upstairs with us!

Book Club News – The Holy Trinity ZOOM Book Club will soon conclude another successful season with the Planning Team of Alyssa Santerian and Suzanne Sherenian. They have worked together for three years to create a comfortable environment for sharing and facilitated engaging book discussions. Both are avid readers, enthusiastic about books and articulate leaders. While Alyssa has decided to step down, she will remain an active member and occasional facilitator. Don Paretchan will join Suzanne in planning and implementing the 2026-27 season. There is one session remaining in this season; we hope you will join us on Thursday, June 25 as we discuss “90 Minutes in Heaven” by Don Piper. 06/21

Church Membership - Our spiritual church is thriving and our children are smiling, but have you thought about becoming a member if you are not one already? Membership is the key to the success of Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church. When you become a member of the church, you strengthen the foundation of Holy Trinity, allowing it to become stronger and more successful. You have the opportunity to vote in the parish assembly, join various committees and organizations and to help forge the path of Holy Trinity.

If you wish to become a member, please go to https://holytrinity-pa.org/donation/ and select the appropriate membership for 2026.

Discover the Beauty of the Armenian Language! – Learn Eastern Armenian with Mariam, a native speaker, through engaging and personalized classes that focus on the alphabet, vocabulary, cultural insights, and practical communication. Sign up now and start your Armenian language journey with Mariam! For more information, please contact Mariam via Email at [email protected] or call her at 445-256-3966.

Jun 19 Juneteenth – Church Office Closed
Jun 21 Father’s Day
Jul 03 Independence Day Observed – Church Office Closed
Oct 24-25 Annual Harvest Bazaar

Welcome to our new online giving portal. To create (or access) an account, go to https://htac.onechurchsoftware.com and register. You don’t need to create an account in order to donate.

05/22/2026

ACYOA Sports Weekend!

Let the excitement begin—games, cheers, teamwork, and unforgettable moments ahead! May they step into every challenge with energy and confidence, support one another with true spirit, and make memories that will last far beyond the weekend. Wishing them joy, success, and every blessing as they compete and grow together!

05/22/2026

THE SUNDAY MESSENGER
May 24, 2026

Pentecost

Scripture and Feast Day Notes From Today’s Readings

From Today’s Readings

Acts 2:1-21 While the disciples are gathered in one place, the Holy Spirit comes to them in a great wind and in tongues of fire which appear above each disciple, empowering them to speak different languages. Addressing the crowd’s rumor that the disciples seem to be drunk, Peter recalls the prophetic words of Joel: the “Holy Spirit would be poured out over the people, gifting them with dreams and visions” and filling the world with a flurry of signs in anticipation of the coming of the Lord. Discuss/reflect: vv 1-4 is the renowned description of a notable event. Prayerfully imagine you were there with the disciples. Experience a howling wind that filled the house. What did it sound and feel like? What do you make of these tongues of fire? Why fire? How do you picture them coming “to rest” on the disciples?

John 14:25-31 In preceding verses we read about Jesus washing the disciples’ feet in the Upper Room where he predicts Judas’ betrayal and Peter’s heart-breaking denial. Here, he promises the Holy Spirit, the Counselor, whom the Father will send to remind them of all they had learned and continue to teach them. He assures them that he will return, leaving them with a peace that transcends the world’s understanding. Discuss/reflect: Does your faith in Jesus Christ provide you inner peace, no matter what shape your personal life or the world may be in? If not, what is keeping you from the peace Jesus promised?

Today is Pentecost (Hokekaloost)

Falling 50 days after Easter, Pentecost celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples, empowering them to go out into the world and share Jesus’ message of salvation. (See Acts 2:1-21 and above for full account.) Armenians are especially grateful for the gift of language received by the disciples Thaddeus and Bartholomew who were then able to journey to Armenia (each at a different time) to convert and baptize many. These First Enlighteners planted the seeds that St. Gregory would cultivate and bring to full bloom a few centuries later when Armenia became the “first Christian nation” under his mentorship. This coming of the Holy Spirit took place at the time of the Feast of Weeks, a harvest feast of pilgrimage, so Jews from everywhere were gathered in Jerusalem to give thanks for the first fruits of nature. Similarly, Christian Pentecost is a festival of thanksgiving for the first fruits of the Holy Spirit. Reflection: The Holy Spirit descended on a group of Jesus’ followers whose hearts were open to His coming.. How ready are you to receiving the Spirit’s guidance and power?

The Kiss of Peace – After the gifts of the Eucharist are brought to the Altar Table, the deacon proclaims, “Greet one another with a holy kiss.” The person giving the greetings says, Kristos ee mech mer Haydnetsav – Christ is revealed amongst us. The recipient would respond, Orhnial eh Haydnootiunun Kristosee – Blessed is the revelation of Christ.

The Nicene Creed/ Havadamk – This is the Profession of our Faith which is recited every Sunday moments after the Gospel is read from the altar. Sometimes it is sung, but more often it is recited by the Deacons and/or the Choir. We invite you to affirm your own “Profession of Faith” by reciting along with us. God longs for all of us to express our faith and devotion to Him.

Requiem Services – We Honor And Pray For These Souls

Karasoonk today will be for

Jan Mirijanian on the 40th day of his eternal rest. Requested in loving memory by Patty & Gregory Egavian and family along with Kim & Andy Gider and family.

Agape Hour – Coffee hour is just not the same without YOU!! Please join us after Divine Liturgy for fellowship and good conversation. This week’s Agape Hour is sponsored by the family of Jan Mirijanian as they reflect on his 40 Days of Eternal Rest. All are Welcome!

Church Membership - Our spiritual church is thriving and our children are smiling, but have you thought about becoming a member if you are not one already? Membership is the key to the success of Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church. When you become a member of the church, you strengthen the foundation of Holy Trinity, allowing it to become stronger and more successful. You have the opportunity to vote in the parish assembly, join various committees and organizations and to help forge the path of Holy Trinity.

If you wish to become a member, please go to https://holytrinity-pa.org/donation/ and select the appropriate membership for 2026.

Discover the Beauty of the Armenian Language! – Learn Eastern Armenian with Mariam, a native speaker, through engaging and personalized classes that focus on the alphabet, vocabulary, cultural insights, and practical communication. Sign up now and start your Armenian language journey with Mariam! For more information, please contact Mariam via Email at [email protected] or call her at 445-256-3966.

Seeking Part-time Organists – The Choir of Holy Trinity continues to seek multiple talented musicians who would be seriously interested in playing the organ for the Sunday morning Divine Liturgy (Badarak) on a rotating schedule. Organ lessons will be provided for the interested candidates, along with one-on-one direction from a senior choir person. For more information, please contact Karinne Andonian at [email protected].

May 25 Memorial Day – Church Office Closed
Jun 19 Juneteenth – Church Office Closed
Jun 21 Father’s Day
Jul 03 Independence Day Observed – Church Office Closed

Welcome to our new online giving portal. To create (or access) an account, go to https://htac.onechurchsoftware.com and register. You don’t need to create an account in order to donate.

05/15/2026

THE SUNDAY MESSENGER
May 17, 2026

Second Palm Sunday

Scripture and Feast Day Notes From Today’s Readings

John 12:12-23 Great crowds welcome Jesus into Jerusalem and wave palms and sing songs of praise. Although the disciples were present, it was only after Jesus rose from the dead that they truly understood the meaning of this day. Some Gentiles – surprisingly -- ask the disciple Philip if they might be able to meet Jesus. Perhaps now, at a symbolic moment when all people are beginning to seek him – and not just the Jews who were initially and exclusively welcome, Jesus declares that the hour had come for him to be glorified, that his march to the cross had begun. Discuss/reflect: The Greeks seeking Jesus clearly unsettled the disciples; this was an unusual request in the religious landscape of that moment. Philip and Andrew conferred about these newcomers. Is there a “screening process,” i.e. certain requirements, for who can draw closer to your community (and therefore Jesus)? If so, what are the criteria?

Acts 23:12-35 A group of Jews were conspiring to kill Paul while he was in Jerusalem. Overhearing their plot, Paul’s nephew reports it to his uncle and then to the Roman commander who has Paul immediately transferred to Caesarea under heavy guard and with an explanatory letter to Felix, the Governor of Judea and Samaria. Discuss/reflect: Both St. Paul’s nephew and the Roman commander took risks in acting boldly against a popular movement. Has your faith ever guided you to go “against the tide” even if it meant taking an unpopular stand?

1 John 5:13-21 The writer assures the faithful of the truth of eternal life and that everything asked of God according to his will is heard and provided. Evil is real and everywhere; therefore, God’s children need to remember all they have come to know about the Lord and keep themselves and one another from sin. Discuss/reflect: The last line of this epistle starkly exhorts: “keep yourselves from idols.” It seems this has always been a problem worth warning people about. What “idols” of the world today tempt you away from following Jesus?

Today is Second Palm Sunday

Falling on the 4th day after Ascension, this Sunday is given its name based on the lection reading of the day, which is about Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. Begining with New Sunday (directly after Easter), the Armenian church lectionary prescribes daily readings from the Gospel of John in sequential order arriving on this Sunday at the Palm Sunday story. Reflection:This is a perfect time to reread and relive Jesus’ triumphant entry. Think of the people welcoming Jesus that day with palms and hosannas. Now reflect on your experience in church worship: do you feel the awe and joy of that day as if you are celebrating a true hero’s victory?The reign of a King and Savior?If not, why not?

The Kiss of Peace – After the gifts of the Eucharist are brought to the Altar Table, the deacon proclaims, “Greet one another with a holy kiss.” The person giving the greetings says, Kristos ee mech mer Haydnetsav – Christ is revealed amongst us. The recipient would respond, Orhnial eh Haydnootiunun Kristosee – Blessed is the revelation of Christ.

The Nicene Creed/ Havadamk – This is the Profession of our Faith which is recited every Sunday moments after the Gospel is read from the altar. Sometimes it is sung, but more often it is recited by the Deacons and/or the Choir. We invite you to affirm your own “Profession of Faith” by reciting along with us. God longs for all of us to express our faith and devotion to Him.

Requiem Services – We Honor And Pray For These Souls
Karasoonk today will be for

Rosemarie Zarzatian on the 40th day of her eternal rest. Requested in loving memory by the Jordan, Keytanjian and Zarzatian families.

Hokehankist Today Will Be For

Edward L. Zarzatian on the 28th anniversary of his eternal rest requested in loving memory by the Jordan, Keytanjian and Zarzatian families.

Altar Candles and Flowers are sponsored by the Jordan, Keytanjian and Zarzatian families in memory of their loved ones.

Agape Hour – It’s been one year since we have updated the name of our Fellowship/Coffee Hour! We hope that you have been enjoying our Agape Hours which are meant to be a beautiful expression of love, community, and togetherness that reflects our spirit more deeply. This week’s Agape hour is sponsored by the Jordan, Keytanjian and Zarzatian families in memory of their loved ones Rosemarie & Edward L. Zarzatian.

200 Club News - The May 2026 drawing (the 7th for 2025-26 season) of the "200 Club Raffle" was completed on 5/10/2026.

$500 Linda Preske #018
$200 Greg & Karinne Andonian #123
$100 Shya Terkanian #160
$100 Kim & Gena Willard #065
$100 Ara Arzoumanian #128

Congratulations to the winners! There will be one more drawing for the 2025-26 season. Good luck!
~ All 200 Club Winners can be viewed on the HTAC Website by clicking on "Men's Club" for details.

Church Membership - Our spiritual church is thriving and our children are smiling, but have you thought about becoming a member if you are not one already? Membership is the key to the success of Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church. When you become a member of the church, you strengthen the foundation of Holy Trinity, allowing it to become stronger and more successful. You have the opportunity to vote in the parish assembly, join various committees and organizations and to help forge the path of Holy Trinity.

If you wish to become a member, please go to https://holytrinity-pa.org/donation/ and select the appropriate membership for 2026.

Discover the Beauty of the Armenian Language! – Learn Eastern Armenian with Mariam, a native speaker, through engaging and personalized classes that focus on the alphabet, vocabulary, cultural insights, and practical communication. Sign up now and start your Armenian language journey with Mariam! For more information, please contact Mariam via Email at [email protected] or call her at 445-256-3966.

Seeking Part-time Organists – The Choir of Holy Trinity continues to seek multiple talented musicians who would be seriously interested in playing the organ for the Sunday morning Divine Liturgy (Badarak) on a rotating schedule. Organ lessons will be provided for the interested candidates, along with one-on-one direction from a senior choir person. For more information, please contact Karinne Andonian at [email protected].

Jun 19 Juneteenth – Church Office Closed
Jun 21 Father’s Day

Welcome to our new online giving portal. To create (or access) an account, go to https://htac.onechurchsoftware.com and register. You don’t need to create an account in order to donate.

05/15/2026

A wonderful week graced by Hayr Zakaria Baghumyan from the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.

Last Sunday, May 10, Hayr Zakaria celebrated the Divine Liturgy, whose presence and prayers brought warmth and inspiration to us all.

We also celebrated Mother’s Day with love and appreciation for all the mothers and women in our community.

At the same time, we shared heartfelt farewell wishes with our beautiful couple, Mariam and Vahan, as Mariam begins a new chapter continuing her studies in the state of New York.
We wish them both much success, happiness, and God’s blessings, and we look forward to welcoming them back to Philly soon.

05/08/2026

THE SUNDAY MESSENGER
May 10, 2026

Sixth Sunday of Eastertide

Scripture and Feast Day Notes

John 9:39-10:10 Jesus describes himself as the Gate through which his sheep pass, following the voice of the One they know. Whoever enters by this Gate, will “find pasture..and be saved.” (v.9) Discuss/reflect: Jesus describing himself as the Gate is one of the famous “I am’s” of the Gospel of John, in which Jesus provides a number of images which express his character. In verse 11, he is “the good shepherd.” What do the images of “gate” and “good shepherd” tell you about Jesus? What images could you add that would describe who he is to you?

Acts 20:17-38 St. Paul touches the hearts of the church elders in Ephesus with his eloquent farewell. Predicting an uncertain fate, Paul declares his life meaningless save for the task of witnessing to God’s power and grace. He asks these leaders to be good shepherds to their flock, as “wolves” will surely be on the prowl. He exhorts them to always work hard for the less fortunate. Discuss/reflect: St. Paul asks the Ephesians to think back on his time with them as a testimony to God’s grace (vv 18, 24). If someone watched you in action, what would they assume a Christian lifestyle is like? How would you like to change so they can get a better picture?

1 John 3:2-6 John relates that Christians are not fully who they will become with God’s grace. And yet only those who truly know Christ can come close to living a life without sin. If we continue to sin, how can we say we know Jesus? Discuss/reflect: In what ways do you habitually “keep on sinning” (v. 6)? Thoughtless anger? Envy? Lack of charity? Unforgiving spirit? What might these habits be saying about your walk with Jesus?

Thursday, May 14th, is the Feast of the Ascension of Jesus In Acts 1:1-11, we read a full account of Jesus’ ascension (see after having appeared to the disciples frequently during a forty-day period, Jesus told them to stay in Jerusalem and wait for the gift he had promised: the Holy Spirit. When asked by his devoted followers when he would return to “restore the kingdom to Israel” (still thinking of an earthly one), Jesus told them it was not known, but that they should continue to witness to him “in Jerusalem... and to the ends of the earth.” He was then taken up before their eyes. Two angelic figures appeared nearby as they watched their Lord disappear into the clouds. They assured the disciples that he would indeed return in the very same way. Reflection: Read Acts 1:1-11 and imagine yourself one of Jesus’ followers. You have heard him promise the power of the Holy Spirit and ask you to be his witness to the ends of the earth. Now you watch as he ascends to heaven. What are you feeling? Hoping? What are your fears?

The Kiss of Peace – After the gifts of the Eucharist are brought to the Altar Table, the deacon proclaims, “Greet one another with a holy kiss.” The person giving the greetings says, Kristos ee mech mer Haydnetsav – Christ is revealed amongst us. The recipient would respond, Orhnial eh Haydnootiunun Kristosee – Blessed is the revelation of Christ.

The Nicene Creed/ Havadamk – This is the Profession of our Faith which is recited every Sunday moments after the Gospel is read from the altar. Sometimes it is sung, but more often it is recited by the Deacons and/or the Choir. We invite you to affirm your own “Profession of Faith” by reciting along with us. God longs for all of us to express our faith and devotion to Him.

Requiem Services: Hokehankist Today Will Be For:

Georgy Osipyan and Eduard Mirzoyan. Requested in loving memory by Boris Avakyan.

Agape Hour – Coffee hour is just not the same without YOU!! Please join us after Divine Liturgy. Dessert Contributions are Welcome! Your homemade or store-bought treats will add sweetness to our fellowship and are greatly appreciated!

FAR - After being displaced from Artsakh in 2023, Nora Balluyan faced the daunting challenge of rebuilding her life and continuing her education in Armenia. With her family struggling to make ends meet, transferring into a program that aligned with her studies seemed out of reach—until the Fund for Armenian Relief (FAR) team stepped in. Through the Matevosyan Scholarship, FAR provided the critical support Nora needed to cover tuition and continue her studies in English and Russian, helping her regain stability during an incredibly uncertain time.

Today, Nora is thriving—working as an English teacher, continuing her education, and planning for a master’s degree. She credits FAR not only for financial assistance, but for the sense of encouragement and community that helped her move forward with confidence.

Stories like Nora’s highlight the life-changing impact of FAR’s education programs for displaced Armenian students. To learn more or support students like Nora, visit FAR's website: https://www.farusa.org/education

Discover the Beauty of the Armenian Language! – Learn Eastern Armenian with Mariam, a native speaker, through engaging and personalized classes that focus on the alphabet, vocabulary, cultural insights, and practical communication. Sign up now and start your Armenian language journey with Mariam! For more information, please contact Mariam via Email at [email protected] or call her at 445-256-3966.

Seeking Part-time Organists – The Choir of Holy Trinity continues to seek multiple talented musicians who would be seriously interested in playing the organ for the Sunday morning Divine Liturgy (Badarak) on a rotating schedule. Organ lessons will be provided for the interested candidates, along with one-on-one direction from a senior choir person. You know you’ve been pondering volunteering for this rewarding role. Make this the week that you reach out for further information, by contacting Karinne Andonian at [email protected].

~~~~~~~~~~TODAY’S EVENTS~~~~~~~~~~

Sixth Sunday of Eastertide
Mother’s Day

May 28 Book Club "How to Read a Book"
Jun 19 Juneteenth – Church Office Closed
Jun 21 Father’s Day
June 24 Book Club "90 Minutes in Heaven"

We're improving schools with quality education, helping teachers grow through training, and making higher education accessible for all including rural children and those with disabilities.

05/08/2026

With the deepest sorrow and regret, the Eastern Diocese mourns the loss of the Reverend Fr. Karekin Avak Kahana Kasparian, who passed away on April 29, 2026, a few weeks short of his 96th birthday. Fr. Karekin was a truly unique figure in the modern history of the Armenian Church. His inexhaustible....

05/05/2026

A beautiful and uplifting day at Holy Trinity. Our hearts were filled with joy as five wonderful, God-loving and astute students participated in our Church School graduation ceremony. We conducted a special service of blessing for them, and Fr. Hakob anointed the students. At the end, they received gifts from the Church School along with a special gift from Mr. and Mrs. Greg & Grace Meranshian.

Heartfelt thanks to the Knights of Vartan for preparing a delicious and generously shared breakfast.

05/04/2026

The Holy Trinity Parish joins in congratulating our reelected Primate, Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan. We pray for God’s continued guidance, strength, and wisdom as he leads our Diocese in faith and service.

05/02/2026

THE SUNDAY MESSENGER
May 5, 2026

Apparition of the Holy Cross

Scripture and Feast Day Notes

From Today’s Readings

John 7:14-23 Preaching in the temple courts, Jesus told those amazed at his knowledge that all he taught was from the One who sent him. He exhorts them to see that healing on the Sabbath is more proper than their strict adherence to Mosaic Law. Discuss/reflect: Jesus taught a humane flexibility about “tradition” and asks people to scrutinize their own behavior: “Has not Moses given you the law?And yet not one of you keeps the law” (v 19) When it comes to your Christian faith, do you ‘walk the walk’ or just ‘talk the talk’ (as so many of Jesus’ critics did)?

Acts 17:1-15 Accompanied by Silas, St. Paul preached in the synagogues at Thessalonica and Berea. Although many Jews jealously opposed him - even inciting mobs to riot - Paul converted a large number. Discuss/reflect: The Bereans were eager students of the Bible and “examined the Scriptures every day” (v.11). How often do you read the Bible? If not often, how could you increase your time spent with the Word of God, so that you, too, might be able to “reason from the Scriptures” like St. Paul (v. 2)?

1 John 1:1-10 John shares his joy in all he has experienced and witnessed. God is light; those who claim fellowship with him can no longer walk in the darkness. He exhorts believers to be honest about their shortcomings since Jesus forgives our sins if we confess them. Ultimately, fellowship with God leads to fellowship with one another. Discuss/reflect: The epistle writer shares his experience of the Lord “to make [his] joy complete.” (v.4) How important it is that he considers his faith complete only when proclaimed to others! Do you witness to your faith? By example? By invitation? In conversation?

Today is the Feast of the Apparition of the Holy Cross

The 4th Sunday after Easter, this important feast of the cross recalls a miracle occurring in 351 A.D. when a huge cross appeared in the sky over Mt. Zion in Jerusalem. It was seen stretching from the Mount of Olives to Golgotha (a distance of approx. 1½ miles). The miracle affected everyone: Christians were strengthened in their faith and many non-believers were converted as a result. There is historical proof of this event. The presiding Archbishop of Jerusalem, Guregh (St. Cyril), wrote to the Christian Emperor Constantine of Constantinople telling him of this great miracle; the letter has been preserved by the Armenian Church. At the time, Constantine was still defending the teachings of the heretic Arius and thereby promoting division in the church. But the letter renewed his faith and fortified his resolve to adhere to orthodox doctrine.

The Kiss of Peace – After the gifts of the Eucharist are brought to the Altar Table, the deacon proclaims, “Greet one another with a holy kiss.” The person giving the greetings says, Kristos ee mech mer Haydnetsav – Christ is revealed amongst us. The recipient would respond, Orhnial eh Haydnootiunun Kristosee – Blessed is the revelation of Christ.

The Nicene Creed/ Havadamk – This is the Profession of our Faith which is recited every Sunday moments after the Gospel is read from the altar. Sometimes it is sung, but more often it is recited by the Deacons and/or the Choir. We invite you to affirm your own “Profession of Faith” by reciting along with us. God longs for all of us to express our faith and devotion to Him.

Requiem Services: Hokehankist Today Will Be For:

Georgy Osipyan and Eduard Mirzoyan. Requested in loving memory by Boris Avakyan.

Agape Hour – Coffee hour is just not the same without YOU!! Please join us after Divine Liturgy. Dessert Contributions are Welcome! Your homemade or store-bought treats will add sweetness to our fellowship and are greatly appreciated!

FAR - After being displaced from Artsakh in 2023, Nora Balluyan faced the daunting challenge of rebuilding her life and continuing her education in Armenia. With her family struggling to make ends meet, transferring into a program that aligned with her studies seemed out of reach—until the Fund for Armenian Relief (FAR) team stepped in. Through the Matevosyan Scholarship, FAR provided the critical support Nora needed to cover tuition and continue her studies in English and Russian, helping her regain stability during an incredibly uncertain time.

Today, Nora is thriving—working as an English teacher, continuing her education, and planning for a master’s degree. She credits FAR not only for financial assistance, but for the sense of encouragement and community that helped her move forward with confidence.

Stories like Nora’s highlight the life-changing impact of FAR’s education programs for displaced Armenian students. To learn more or support students like Nora, visit FAR's website: https://www.farusa.org/education

Discover the Beauty of the Armenian Language! – Learn Eastern Armenian with Mariam, a native speaker, through engaging and personalized classes that focus on the alphabet, vocabulary, cultural insights, and practical communication. Sign up now and start your Armenian language journey with Mariam! For more information, please contact Mariam via Email at [email protected] or call her at 445-256-3966.

Seeking Part-time Organists – The Choir of Holy Trinity continues to seek multiple talented musicians who would be seriously interested in playing the organ for the Sunday morning Divine Liturgy (Badarak) on a rotating schedule. Organ lessons will be provided for the interested candidates, along with one-on-one direction from a senior choir person. You know you’ve been pondering volunteering for this rewarding role. Make this the week that you reach out for further information, by contacting Karinne Andonian at [email protected].

~~~~~~~~~~TODAY’S EVENTS~~~~~~~~~~

Apparition of the Holy Cross
Church School Graduation Ceremony Class of 2025 and Closing Day
- Tomas Majian
- Brennan Pica
- Nare Safaryan
- Cameron Santerian
May 10 Mother’s Day
Jun 21 Father’s Day

We're improving schools with quality education, helping teachers grow through training, and making higher education accessible for all including rural children and those with disabilities.