MERRIMACK COMMUNITY GIVES PRELATE WARM WELCOME
On the weekend of November 21-23, His Eminence Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, Prelate, visited the community of St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church of Merrimack Valley in North Andover, Massachusetts. On Friday evening, November 21, a festive Family Night was organized by the church’s Ladies’ Guild, during which an extravagant and delicious Thanksgiving Dinner was served to the delight of all.
The evening began with Blessing of the Table prayer (Օրհնութիւն Սեղանոյ) found in the breviary of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The Prelate blessed the elegantly prepared table, assisted by the church’s pastor, Rev. Fr. Stephan Baljian, and Deacon Shant Eghian. During the evening, Fr. Stephan stood up to welcome everyone and to reflect on the meaning of giving thanks in the Christian life. At one point, he revealed a special surprise: the recipient of this year’s Prelacy Award is Armen Jeknavorian, who has served St. Gregory Church in many capacities over the years, but who had recently stepped down after a long and outstanding tenure as Chairperson of the church’s Men’s Club. Fr. Stephan introduced Mr. Jeknavorian, highlighting his sense of devotion and the dedication with which he approaches serving the church and community. All in attendance responded with thunderous applause.
On Sunday, November 23, Archbishop Anoushavan celebrated the Divine Liturgy, during which Subdeacon Zareh Bulbulian, a long-time of member of the St. Gregory Church choir, was ordained a deacon. Fr. Stephan acted as his sponsor. In his message, Archbishop Anoushavan extolled the virtue of service in the Holy Church, reminding the parishioners—on the eve of the Thanksgiving holiday—of the importance of giving thanks to God with sincerity and humility. He congratulated the newly ordained deacon, presenting him as an example for all to emulate in service toward our Lord and the building up of our church.
Following the Divine Liturgy, nearly twenty young individuals ranging from early childhood to young adults had the unique opportunity to participate in a special “Youth Forum” with their spiritual leader. Fr. Stephan offered welcoming remarks, after which he outlined the purpose and objectives of this brief encounter. He then introduced Archbishop Anoushavan and invited him to share his remarks with the young participants. The Prelate then stated that he wished to hear from the participants, who asked thoughtful and challenging questions about faith, culture, and various aspects of the life of the Church.
A light reception was held in Jaffarian Hall, during which those in attendance viewed the Prelacy’s recent specially prepared video, celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the Election and Consecration of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I. After the video, the Prelate addressed the community members. He thanked them for their hospitality and reminded them to remain faithful to their Church, always give thanks to God and to be good stewards of the role entrusted to them in the Armenian Diaspora.