STS. VARTANANTZ ARMENIAN APOSTOLIC CHURCH

E- NEWSLETTER

 

Pastor: Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian

461 Bergen Boulevard, Ridgefield NJ

Office Tel. (201) 943-2950

Fax (201) 943-6283

 

E-mail: sts.vartanantz@verizon.net

   

  

SUNDAY, APRIL 1st, 2012

 

Morning Service             10:00 am

   Divine Liturgy                10:30 am

 

 

THIS WEEK IN OUR CHURCH

 

CHRIST'S TRIUMPHANT ENTRY INTO JERUSALEM

PALM SUNDAY, APRIL 1, 2012

 

 

EPISCOPAL DIVINE LITURGY

The Church's Pastor and Board of Trustees gladly

convey to our parishioners that on PALM SUNDAY, April 1st,

the Vicar General of the Armenian Prelacy

HIS GRACE BISHOP ANOUSHAVAN TANIELIAN

will celebrate the Divine Liturgy and deliver the Sermon.

 

-After the Divine Liturgy PROCESSION of the children.

-Followed by The OPENING OF THE GATE (TURUN PATSEK)

 

Godfather, TOROS BALYAN

 

PALM SUNDAY

 

This Sunday, April 1, is Palm Sunday commemorating Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem and the beginning of Holy Week. The Church is joyful after forty days of repentance. Christ is coming into the city of Jerusalem. He is coming in the name of the Lord in fulfillment of the prophecy (Zechariah 9:9-16), in the words of the Introit of Palm Sunday,"Rejoice, O Jerusalem, and adorn your bridal chamber, O Sion, for behold your King Christ, seated on the new colt, shows meekness and comes to enter into your chamber. ... Cry aloud, Hosanna, blessed is he that comes in the name of the Lord, who has great mercy."

    

 

KING, YOU CAME TO THIS WORLD

By Catholicos Sahag Bartev

 

King, you came to this world

By way of the city of Jerusalem,

Riding the ordinary donkey, close to the soil,

and called the pagans to reverence.

 

The old with branches of the olive,

The young with branches of palm, came.

And flock by flock, choruses sang:

Hosanna, blessed is your coming, Lord!

 

All of the kingdoms of Zion rejoiced.

All of the holy churches were enthralled.

With elation they welcomed the blessings

of your coming, savior of this world.

 

 

 

 

 

 REMEMBRANCE OF THE RAISING OF LAZARUS

 

 

This Saturday, March 31, the Armenian Church commemorates the Raising of Lazarus as told in the Gospel of John, Chapter 11.

 

       Lazarus and his sisters Mary and Martha were good friends of Jesus. Their home in Bethany (near Jerusalem) was Jesus' home whenever he was in Jerusalem. Lazarus's sudden death threw his sisters into deep mourning. Jesus also wept for his friend. John's gospel account emphasizes the fact that Lazarus was indeed dead by pointing out that his body was in the tomb. Jesus' raising of Lazarus convinced many people of his unique powers, and according to John, the authorities took steps to try to silence him.

       Lazarus personifies the whole of humankind and Bethany represents the whole world. Lazarus Saturday is the real beginning of the Cross. Its major themes are the forthcoming victory of Christ over death, the supreme sacrifice of love, and the resurrection as the ultimate triumph of love.

       A hymn traditionally sung on Saturday evening (eve of Palm Sunday) says: "With the raising of Lazarus by which the dead were given hope, the descendants of Adam were also raised...." Thus, as the Lenten period comes to an end, we are greeted by the hope of Christ's promise of the resurrection of humankind.  

The forty days of Great Lent (Medz Bahk) come to an end with Vespers on the Friday prior to the commemoration of the Raising of Lazarus. A new fasting period for Holy Week begins on Monday and continues through Holy Saturday. 

 

 

PALM SUNDAY AND HOLY WEEK

  

     We are now entering the most solemn period of Christendom-Holy Week-leading us to Christianity's most sacred and joyous period-Easter and the celebration of the Resurrection.

The week before Easter marks a series of events in the life of Jesus that were ordained or prophesied. These events include the resurrection of Lazarus (as described above) and the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, which we commemorate on Palm Sunday (Dzaghgazart). Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey, as described centuries before by the prophet Zechariah (see Bible reading for today above). A large enthusiastic crowd greeted him with olive and palm branches, and with the words, "Hosanna! Blessed is he that comes in the name of the Lord" (John 12:13).

On Palm Sunday the altar curtain, which was closed at the beginning of Lent, is opened. The palms are blessed and distributed to the faithful. The traditional procession of young children, dressed in their finest clothes, carrying decorated candles, is an impressive sight as the long procession of happy children parade around the church. On the evening of Palm Sunday the faithful gather at the door for the Opening of the Doors ceremony (Trunbatsek), symbolizing the opening of the gates to the Kingdom of God. The priest kneels before the doors and says, "Open to us Lord, the door of mercy." In most communities in the Diaspora, especially in the United States, this service takes place immediately after the Divine Liturgy on Palm Sunday, rather than in the evening vespers service.

Each day of Holy Week (Avak Shapat) is a holy day. Monday commemorates the barren fig tree (Matthew 21:18-20). Tuesday commemorates the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:13). Wednesday commemorates the Anointment and Betrayal of Christ. Thursday is Maundy Thursday, which originates from the command of Christ that his disciples love one another (John 13:34). In the evening the Washing of the Feet ceremony (Vodunlva) takes place in remembrance of the events of the Last Supper. In late evening the betrayal and torment of Christ, Tenebrae (Khavaroom), is commemorated. Twelve small candles and one large candle are placed before the closed altar. Seven chapters are read from the Gospel, describing Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane, the betrayal by Judas, and denial by Peter, interspersed with the readings and hymns composed by Nerses Shnorhali are sung. After each reading a candle from each side is extinguished in the darkened sanctuary.

Holy Friday (Avak Ourpat) commemorates the death and burial of Jesus and is the most solemn and sacred day in the Christian calendar. In the Armenian Church tradition, during evening Vespers a tomb is prepared and decorated with flowers and candles. The faithful bring flowers and decorate the tomb throughout the service.  

 

 

THE INSPIRING MUSIC OF HOLY WEEK

 

     The Armenian Church's hymns of Holy Week, from Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem to his passion and crucifixion, to his burial and resurrection, comprise some of the most beautiful and inspiring music ever created.

     Palm Sunday is the first outburst of joy after the somber Lenten period, and the hymn "Rejoice, O Holy Church" (Ourakh ler) expresses the joy of Palm Sunday. "Rejoice, O Holy Church, at the advent of the Holy Only-begotten, rejoice and delight with all the saints. Blessed are you. You, who came, King of the universe." During the Opening of the Doors ceremony (Trunpatsek), the beautiful hymn, "Open to us, Lord" (Pats Mez Der) is sung at the door of the church or in front of the closed altar. "We beseech you, O Lord, open for us, open for us, Lord, the gate of your mercy, we beseech you imploringly, O Lord. "During the vigil on Maundy Thursday some of the most melodious and memorable hymns are sung including, "My Heart Trembles" (Sird eem Sasani); "Seized by the Love of Money" (Ardsatsiroutyampun Molyal), and the heartbreaking "Where Are You, O Mother?" (Our Es Mayr eem). "Where are you, most sweet mother? I fervently seek your motherly love. My eyes are filled with bitter tears; I have no one to wipe them away. Where are you, my mother?"

 

 

 

 

Bible Readings

PHILIPPIANS

(4:4-7)

 

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

 

MATTHEW

(21:6-11)

 

The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. They brought t he donkey and the colt, placed their cloaks on them, and Jesus sat on them. A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, 

"Hosanna to the Son of David!"

"Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!"

    "Hosannain the highest!"                                                                              

 

When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, "Who is this?   "The crowds answered, "This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee."

 

 

 

NAREG SCHOOL STUDENTS VISIT TO PRELACY  

 

Last Saturday, students from the Nareg Saturday Armenian School, of Sts. Vartanantz Church (NJ), accompanied by their teachers, visited the Prelacy. The students were welcomed to the Prelacy by the Prelate Archbishop Oshagan as well as members of the Religious and Executive Councils who were attending their regular monthly meeting. The students were given a tour of the Prelacy building and the work done by the Prelacy that benefits all of the parishes and community was explained. The students reciprocated with songs and recitations.   

  

NAREG SCHOOL STUDENTS With the Prelate, His Eminence Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan

 

 

NAREG SCHOOL STUDENTS With the Pastor, Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian

 

 NAREG SCHOOL STUDENTS Prayer "Bahaban Amenayni"  

 

 

NAREG SCHOOL STUDENTS 

With Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, the Pastor of St. Illuminator's Arm. Cathedral, NY

 

 

 

ANNUAL LENTEN LUNCHEON

 

On March 18, 2012 Ladies Guild of Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church celebrated its annual Lenten Luncheon. All the members united and organized a pleasurable event. Individual members used their culinary expertise to prepare delicious Lenten foods for the attendees. Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian opened the luncheon with prayers and a short lecture on repentance, self denial, prayer, and fasting. In addition there was poem recitation and songs performed by members of the Church, Students and staff of Sunday school.

Program theme also included homage to the Lord and "Lusavorchi Ganteghe" where attendees held up candle lit lanterns during the recitation and "Yegeghetzin Haygagan." All who attended took with them another life memory of spiritual benefit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

PRELATE AND VICAR MAKE VISITS IN NEW JERSEY 

 

       Archbishop Oshagan and Bishop Anoushavan made their annual Easter Home Blessing visits yesterday to the Hovnanian School in New Milford, New Jersey, and the Armenian Home and Rehabilitation Center in Emerson, New Jersey. They were joined by Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, pastor of St. Illuminator's Cathedral, New York City, and Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian, pastor of Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey. In both places the clergy, led by Archbishop Oshagan, and performed the traditional Home Blessing service.

 

 

Archbishop Ohshagan and clergy during the Home Blessing service at the Hovnanian School. Following the service the students presented a short program for their guests.

 

 

Archbishop Oshagan and Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian greet the residents of the Armenian Home in New Jersey.

 

 

The clergy with administration and volunteers at the Armenian Home and Rehabilitation Center.

 

 

 

The Pastor & the Board of Trustees thank

Mr. & Mrs. HAROUT & MAGGIE KHOROZIAN

"SUNSET FLORIST"

for donating today's PALM Branches.

 

 

 

Pastor & Board of Trustees of Sts. Vartanants Church

would like to thank the 

SUNDAY SCHOOL

for decorating the church for Palm Sunday. Be Blessed

 

 

   

BAKE SALE

  

 

 

 On Palm Sunday, following

  the Holy Badarak

there will be a Bake Sale hosted

by the Ladies' Guild of Sts. Vartanantz Church

 

 

 

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

 

April 1, Sun.           PALM SUNDAY, Celebrant and Preacher

                                 His Grace Bishop ANOUSHAVAN TANIELIAN, Vicar General

                                 PROCESSION OF THE CHILDREN    After Badarak

                                TERENPATSEK  ''The Service of the Opening of the Gates''----After Procession

April 3, Tue.           HOLY TUESDAY, Ten Virgins' Service ----------------7:30 p.m.

April 5, Thu.           MAUNDY THURSDAY, Divine Liturgy (Badarak)-----5:00 p.m.

                                 Washing of the Feet, "VODENLEVA"----------------7:00 p.m.

                                Tenebrae (Betrayal and Passion of Our Lord ------8:30 p.m.

April 6, Fri.             GOOD FRIDAY, Entombment of Our Lord-------------7:00 p.m.

April 7, Sun.           GREAT SATURDAY, Holy Communion----------------10:30 a.m.

                                 for Sunday and Nareg Armenian Schools fallowed

                                 by breakfast will be served by the Mesropian Family

                                 EASTER EVE VIGIL,Evening Service and Holy Liturgy----7:00 p.m.

                                 The Reading of the Scriptures (by the Sunday School Students)

April 8, Sun.            EASTER

April 24, Tue.          RMENIAN GENOCIDE COMMEMORATION

April 25, Wed.         MEMORIAL DAY

April 29, Sun.          The Ladies' Guild of Sts. Vartanantz Church in Ridgefield, NJ will present the New Jersey Premiere of "The Hye Legion -The Gamavor", a Musical True Story performed by the actors & singers of " The Way We Were" Ensemble.  A light lunch and program will begin following church services. Adults:  $20 Children: $10.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

THE WASHING OF THE FEET (VODUNLUVA)

All those who have made a commitment to have their children participate in the service of the washing of the feet (VODUNLUVA), please be sure to call the church office: 201-943-2950, by Wednesday April 4th, at 2:00pm. 

 

" Children participating Must be present no later then 7:00pm "

 

 

EASTER OFFERING (YUGHAKIN)

Dear Parishioners and Friends: We extend Easter Greetings to each and everyone of you. Your Church relies on your traditional offering to further her ministry.

Your generous offering for Easter will be gratefully received. You may mail your donation in the enclosed return envelope. Please write your name and address on the envelope clearly. Thank you!

 

 

HOME BLESSING

Those who wish to have their homes blessed during the Easter season,

kindly contact the Pastor

(Der Hayr) for appointments by calling Home:

201-945-0539 / Cell: 201-562-4487

 

 

GRAVE BLESSING

Those who wish grave blessing for their deceased on the Easter Memorial,

please contact Der Hayr for appointment by calling Home:

201-945-0539 / Cell: 201-562-4487

 

 

SICK VISITATIONS

If someone is sick in your family, at home or in the hospital,

please call the church Pastor, Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian directly

to schedule a spiritual visit.

Home: 201-945-0539 / Cell: 201-562-4487

 

 

 

 

Best Regards, Der Hovnan and the Board of Trustees

Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church

461 Bergen Boulevard, Ridgefield, NJ 07657

tel: 201.943.2950 fax: 201.943.6283Text Box: STS. VARTANANTZ ARMENIAN APOSTOLIC CHURCH E- NEWSLETTER Pastor: Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian 461 Bergen Boulevard, Ridgefield NJ Office Tel. (201) 943-2950 Fax (201) 943-6283 E-mail: sts.vartanantz@verizon.net SUNDAY, APRIL 1st, 2012 Morning Service 10:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:30 am 
THIS WEEK IN OUR CHURCH CHRIST'S TRIUMPHANT ENTRY INTO JERUSALEM PALM SUNDAY, APRIL 1, 2012 EPISCOPAL DIVINE LITURGY The Church's Pastor and Board of Trustees gladly convey to our parishioners that on PALM SUNDAY, April 1st, the Vicar General of the Armenian Prelacy HIS GRACE BISHOP ANOUSHAVAN TANIELIAN will celebrate the Divine Liturgy and deliver the Sermon. -After the Divine Liturgy PROCESSION of the children. -Followed by The OPENING OF THE GATE (TURUN PATSEK) Godfather, TOROS BALYAN PALM SUNDAY This Sunday, April 1, is Palm Sunday commemorating Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem and the beginning of Holy Week. The Church is joyful after forty days of repentance. Christ is coming into the city of Jerusalem. He is coming in the name of the Lord in fulfillment of the prophecy (Zechariah 9:9-16), in the words of the Introit of Palm Sunday,"Rejoice, O Jerusalem, and adorn your bridal chamber, O Sion, for behold your King Christ, seated on the new colt, shows meekness and comes to enter into your chamber. ... Cry aloud, Hosanna, blessed is he that comes in the name of the Lord, who has great mercy." KING, YOU CAME TO THIS WORLD By Catholicos Sahag Bartev King, you came to this world
By way of the city of Jerusalem,
Riding the ordinary donkey, close to the soil,
and called the pagans to reverence. The old with branches of the olive,
The young with branches of palm, came.
And flock by flock, choruses sang:
Hosanna, blessed is your coming, Lord! All of the kingdoms of Zion rejoiced.
All of the holy churches were enthralled.
With elation they welcomed the blessings
of your coming, savior of this world. REMEMBRANCE OF THE RAISING OF LAZARUS This Saturday, March 31, the Armenian Church commemorates the Raising of Lazarus as told in the Gospel of John, Chapter 11. Lazarus and his sisters Mary and Martha were good friends of Jesus. Their home in Bethany (near Jerusalem) was Jesus' home whenever he was in Jerusalem. Lazarus's sudden death threw his sisters into deep mourning. Jesus also wept for his friend. John's gospel account emphasizes the fact that Lazarus was indeed dead by pointing out that his body was in the tomb. Jesus' raising of Lazarus convinced many people of his unique powers, and according to John, the authorities took steps to try to silence him. Lazarus personifies the whole of humankind and Bethany represents the whole world. Lazarus Saturday is the real beginning of the Cross. Its major themes are the forthcoming victory of Christ over death, the supreme sacrifice of love, and the resurrection as the ultimate triumph of love. A hymn traditionally sung on Saturday evening (eve of Palm Sunday) says: "With the raising of Lazarus by which the dead were given hope, the descendants of Adam were also raised...." Thus, as the Lenten period comes to an end, we are greeted by the hope of Christ's promise of the resurrection of humankind. The forty days of Great Lent (Medz Bahk) come to an end with Vespers on the Friday prior to the commemoration of the Raising of Lazarus. A new fasting period for Holy Week begins on Monday and continues through Holy Saturday. PALM SUNDAY AND HOLY WEEK We are now entering the most solemn period of Christendom-Holy Week-leading us to Christianity's most sacred and joyous period-Easter and the celebration of the Resurrection. The week before Easter marks a series of events in the life of Jesus that were ordained or prophesied. These events include the resurrection of Lazarus (as described above) and the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, which we commemorate on Palm Sunday (Dzaghgazart). Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey, as described centuries before by the prophet Zechariah (see Bible reading for today above). A large enthusiastic crowd greeted him with olive and palm branches, and with the words, "Hosanna! Blessed is he that comes in the name of the Lord" (John 12:13). On Palm Sunday the altar curtain, which was closed at the beginning of Lent, is opened. The palms are blessed and distributed to the faithful. The traditional procession of young children, dressed in their finest clothes, carrying decorated candles, is an impressive sight as the long procession of happy children parade around the church. On the evening of Palm Sunday the faithful gather at the door for the Opening of the Doors ceremony (Trunbatsek), symbolizing the opening of the gates to the Kingdom of God. The priest kneels before the doors and says, "Open to us Lord, the door of mercy." In most communities in the Diaspora, especially in the United States, this service takes place immediately after the Divine Liturgy on Palm Sunday, rather than in the evening vespers service. Each day of Holy Week (Avak Shapat) is a holy day. Monday commemorates the barren fig tree (Matthew 21:18-20). Tuesday commemorates the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:13). Wednesday commemorates the Anointment and Betrayal of Christ. Thursday is Maundy Thursday, which originates from the command of Christ that his disciples love one another (John 13:34). In the evening the Washing of the Feet ceremony (Vodunlva) takes place in remembrance of the events of the Last Supper. In late evening the betrayal and torment of Christ, Tenebrae (Khavaroom), is commemorated. Twelve small candles and one large candle are placed before the closed altar. Seven chapters are read from the Gospel, describing Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane, the betrayal by Judas, and denial by Peter, interspersed with the readings and hymns composed by Nerses Shnorhali are sung. After each reading a candle from each side is extinguished in the darkened sanctuary. Holy Friday (Avak Ourpat) commemorates the death and burial of Jesus and is the most solemn and sacred day in the Christian calendar. In the Armenian Church tradition, during evening Vespers a tomb is prepared and decorated with flowers and candles. The faithful bring flowers and decorate the tomb throughout the service. THE INSPIRING MUSIC OF HOLY WEEK The Armenian Church's hymns of Holy Week, from Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem to his passion and crucifixion, to his burial and resurrection, comprise some of the most beautiful and inspiring music ever created. Palm Sunday is the first outburst of joy after the somber Lenten period, and the hymn "Rejoice, O Holy Church" (Ourakh ler) expresses the joy of Palm Sunday. "Rejoice, O Holy Church, at the advent of the Holy Only-begotten, rejoice and delight with all the saints. Blessed are you. You, who came, King of the universe." During the Opening of the Doors ceremony (Trunpatsek), the beautiful hymn, "Open to us, Lord" (Pats Mez Der) is sung at the door of the church or in front of the closed altar. "We beseech you, O Lord, open for us, open for us, Lord, the gate of your mercy, we beseech you imploringly, O Lord. "During the vigil on Maundy Thursday some of the most melodious and memorable hymns are sung including, "My Heart Trembles" (Sird eem Sasani); "Seized by the Love of Money" (Ardsatsiroutyampun Molyal), and the heartbreaking "Where Are You, O Mother?" (Our Es Mayr eem). "Where are you, most sweet mother? I fervently seek your motherly love. My eyes are filled with bitter tears; I have no one to wipe them away. Where are you, my mother?" Bible Readings PHILIPPIANS 
(4:4-7) Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. MATTHEW (21:6-11) The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. They brought t he donkey and the colt, placed their cloaks on them, and Jesus sat on them. A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Hosannain the highest!" When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, "Who is this? "The crowds answered, "This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee." NAREG SCHOOL STUDENTS VISIT TO PRELACY Last Saturday, students from the Nareg Saturday Armenian School, of Sts. Vartanantz Church (NJ), accompanied by their teachers, visited the Prelacy. The students were welcomed to the Prelacy by the Prelate Archbishop Oshagan as well as members of the Religious and Executive Councils who were attending their regular monthly meeting. The students were given a tour of the Prelacy building and the work done by the Prelacy that benefits all of the parishes and community was explained. The students reciprocated with songs and recitations. NAREG SCHOOL STUDENTS With the Prelate, His Eminence Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan NAREG SCHOOL STUDENTS With the Pastor, Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian NAREG SCHOOL STUDENTS Prayer "Bahaban Amenayni" NAREG SCHOOL STUDENTS With Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, the Pastor of St. Illuminator's Arm. Cathedral, NY ANNUAL LENTEN LUNCHEON On March 18, 2012 Ladies Guild of Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church celebrated its annual Lenten Luncheon. All the members united and organized a pleasurable event. Individual members used their culinary expertise to prepare delicious Lenten foods for the attendees. Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian opened the luncheon with prayers and a short lecture on repentance, self denial, prayer, and fasting. In addition there was poem recitation and songs performed by members of the Church, Students and staff of Sunday school. Program theme also included homage to the Lord and "Lusavorchi Ganteghe" where attendees held up candle lit lanterns during the recitation and "Yegeghetzin Haygagan." All who attended took with them another life memory of spiritual benefit. PRELATE AND VICAR MAKE VISITS IN NEW JERSEY Archbishop Oshagan and Bishop Anoushavan made their annual Easter Home Blessing visits yesterday to the Hovnanian School in New Milford, New Jersey, and the Armenian Home and Rehabilitation Center in Emerson, New Jersey. They were joined by Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, pastor of St. Illuminator's Cathedral, New York City, and Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian, pastor of Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield, New Jersey. In both places the clergy, led by Archbishop Oshagan, and performed the traditional Home Blessing service. 
Archbishop Ohshagan and clergy during the Home Blessing service at the Hovnanian School. Following the service the students presented a short program for their guests. Archbishop Oshagan and Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian greet the residents of the Armenian Home in New Jersey. The clergy with administration and volunteers at the Armenian Home and Rehabilitation Center. The Pastor & the Board of Trustees thank Mr. & Mrs. HAROUT & MAGGIE KHOROZIAN "SUNSET FLORIST" for donating today's PALM Branches. Pastor & Board of Trustees of Sts. Vartanants Church would like to thank the SUNDAY SCHOOL for decorating the church for Palm Sunday. Be Blessed BAKE SALE On Palm Sunday, following the Holy Badarak there will be a Bake Sale hosted by the Ladies' Guild of Sts. Vartanantz Church CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 1, Sun. PALM SUNDAY, Celebrant and Preacher His Grace Bishop ANOUSHAVAN TANIELIAN, Vicar General PROCESSION OF THE CHILDREN After Badarak TERENPATSEK ''The Service of the Opening of the Gates''----After Procession April 3, Tue. HOLY TUESDAY, Ten Virgins' Service ----------------7:30 p.m. April 5, Thu. MAUNDY THURSDAY, Divine Liturgy (Badarak)-----5:00 p.m. Washing of the Feet, "VODENLEVA"----------------7:00 p.m. Tenebrae (Betrayal and Passion of Our Lord ------8:30 p.m. April 6, Fri. GOOD FRIDAY, Entombment of Our Lord-------------7:00 p.m. April 7, Sun. GREAT SATURDAY, Holy Communion----------------10:30 a.m. for Sunday and Nareg Armenian Schools fallowed
 by breakfast will be served by the Mesropian Family EASTER EVE VIGIL,Evening Service and Holy Liturgy----7:00 p.m. The Reading of the Scriptures (by the Sunday School Students) April 8, Sun. EASTER April 24, Tue. RMENIAN GENOCIDE COMMEMORATION April 25, Wed. MEMORIAL DAY April 29, Sun. The Ladies' Guild of Sts. Vartanantz Church in Ridgefield, NJ will present the New Jersey Premiere of "The Hye Legion -The Gamavor", a Musical True Story performed by the actors & singers of " The Way We Were" Ensemble. A light lunch and program will begin following church services. Adults: $20 Children: $10. ANNOUNCEMENTS THE WASHING OF THE FEET (VODUNLUVA) All those who have made a commitment to have their children participate in the service of the washing of the feet (VODUNLUVA), please be sure to call the church office: 201-943-2950, by Wednesday April 4th, at 2:00pm. " Children participating Must be present no later then 7:00pm " EASTER OFFERING (YUGHAKIN) Dear Parishioners and Friends: We extend Easter Greetings to each and everyone of you. Your Church relies on your traditional offering to further her ministry. 
Your generous offering for Easter will be gratefully received. You may mail your donation in the enclosed return envelope. Please write your name and address on the envelope clearly. Thank you! HOME BLESSING Those who wish to have their homes blessed during the Easter season, 
kindly contact the Pastor (Der Hayr) for appointments by calling Home: 201-945-0539 / Cell: 201-562-4487 GRAVE BLESSING Those who wish grave blessing for their deceased on the Easter Memorial, 
please contact Der Hayr for appointment by calling Home: 201-945-0539 / Cell: 201-562-4487 SICK VISITATIONS If someone is sick in your family, at home or in the hospital, 
please call the church Pastor, Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian directly 
to schedule a spiritual visit. Home: 201-945-0539 / Cell: 201-562-4487 Best Regards, Der Hovnan and the Board of Trustees Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church 461 Bergen Boulevard, Ridgefield, NJ 07657 tel: 201.943.2950 fax: 201.943.6283