On March 25, 2018—Palm Sunday—the Eastern Diocese celebrated ACYOA Day. The annual event shines a light on the youth of the church, the ACYOA, and its ongoing efforts.
A Tribute to Musical Giants George Avakian and Anahid Ajemian
Two departed giants of the American musical scene, the late George Avakian and Anahid Ajemian, were remembered in a tribute concert on March 15, 2018. The program remembered two people linked by their devotion to the arts, by their notable contributions to American and international music—but mostly by their tender marriage of some seven decades.
Florida Parish and Priest Celebrate 20 Years Together
“The consecration of St. Mary Armenian Church is the realization of a much-cherished and long-awaited dream. Starting from the first deacons who held services on the shores of Miami Beach in the 1930s until today in our newly-built and relocated spiritual home, we have kept our religion alive. What started with a small group of newly-established Armenians on the shores of South Florida continues today with us, and tomorrow with our children and their children.”
Toros Mangassarian is the Diocese’s 2018 “Armenian Church Member of the Year”
When businessman Toros Mangassarian traveled to Armenia with his family two summers ago, he read his children a passage from William Saroyan’s short story “The Armenian and the Armenian.” The Pulitzer Prize-winner’s words struck a chord with his youngest daughter, Gabriela, who said the message taught her about the “strength and resilience” of Armenians.
Diocesan Youth Ministry Completes Lent Retreat Season
The Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries successfully completed its 2018 Lenten Retreat season, with three ACYOA Juniors regional retreats. Collectively, there were 92 youth in attendance from across 17 parishes.