Weekly Oshagan

March 10th, 2024, Newsletter of

St. James Armenian Church of Los Angeles

Rev. Fr. Haroutioun Tachejian, Parish Priest

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This Sunday, on March 10th, at St. James Armenian Church, we will commemorate the 40th day since the passing of our esteemed architect, Hrant Agbabian. As we reflect upon a life imbued with creativity, dedication, and profound commitment to the Armenian community, Hrant's legacy, epitomized by the architectural marvel of St. James Armenian Church in Ladera Heights, stands as a testament to his unparalleled vision and unwavering devotion.

Born on March 29, 1929, in Larnaca, Cyprus, Hrant embarked on a journey of architectural excellence that would leave an indelible mark on the landscape of our community. Emigrating to the United States at the tender age of 19, he pursued his passion for architecture with fervor, eventually earning his Bachelor of Arts from USC, a testament to his scholarly dedication and pursuit of excellence.

St. James Armenian Church architect, Hrant Agbabian

Among his myriad accomplishments, Hrant's crowning achievement lies in the resplendent design and construction of the Armenian Genocide Martyrs Monument in Montebello, California, a testament to his deep reverence for our history and heritage. However, the ethereal beauty of St. James Armenian Church also stands as a profound testament to his brilliance. Designed with meticulous attention to detail and inspired by the majestic silhouette of Mount Ararat, the sanctuary serves as a beacon of spiritual solace and cultural pride for generations to come.

Hrant's crowning achievements: on the left, the Armenian Genocide Martyrs Monument in Montebello, California, and on the right, St. James Armenian Church of Los Angeles.

Under the auspices of His Holiness Vazken I, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, the groundbreaking ceremonies for our sacred sanctuary heralded a new era of architectural magnificence. From the moment construction commenced, Hrant's unwavering commitment to excellence imbued every facet of the project, culminating in the consecration of our hallowed sanctuary on March 21, 1971.

Groundbreaking Ceremony for the St. James Sanctuary on May 19, 1968.

The Very Reverend Fr. Dirayr Dervishian, Parish Priest of St. James, accompanied by Hrant Agbabian on his left side.

Beyond his architectural prowess, Hrant embodied the essence of community stewardship, engaging tirelessly in the vibrant tapestry of Armenian life. His profound impact extended far beyond the realms of design, enriching the fabric of our community with his boundless generosity and unwavering dedication.

As we bid farewell to a luminary whose brilliance illuminated our lives, we take solace in the enduring legacy he leaves behind. Though Hrant may have departed this world peacefully on January 10, 2024, his spirit lives on in the timeless beauty of St. James Armenian Church and the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In the gentle embrace of fond memories and shared camaraderie, we pay homage to a visionary whose legacy will forever grace the annals of Armenian history. In this time of profound loss, we extend our deepest condolences to Mrs. Alidz Agbabian, son Ari, and daughter Areni. May his soul find eternal repose, and may his memory continue to inspire and uplift us in the days ahead.

Fr. Haroutioun Tachejian

In the annals of the St. Nerses Seminary in New York, the names Hagop and Satenig Ouzounian shine brightly as beacons of unwavering generosity and devotion. Their story is not merely one of material endowment but a testament to the profound impact of faith and benevolence on the Armenian community in the United States.

Hagop Ouzounian, an immigrant who embarked on the journey to the United States in 1907, laid the foundation for a legacy that would resonate for generations. His dedication and tireless efforts, alongside his beloved wife Satenig, exemplify the essence of the Armenian spirit – resilience, determination, and unwavering faith.

Mr. and Mrs. Hagop & Satenig Ouzoonian

Theirs is a story etched in the fabric of the Armenian diaspora, marked by decades of hard work, active participation, and boundless generosity. As founding members of the first Armenian church in the Los Angeles area, the Ouzounians carved out a sacred space for the community to gather, worship, and thrive.

Theirs was not only a life of service within the walls of the church but also an embodiment of its teachings in their everyday existence. The purchase of the School building in Evanston, Illinois, in 1961, its first location of St. Nerses Seminary, stands as a testament to their commitment to the education and nurturing of future clergy. Satenig Ouzounian, in memory of her late husband Hagop, bestowed upon the seminary a gift of immeasurable value – a gift that transcends monetary worth and speaks to the depths of her devotion.

Original location in Evanston, Illinois. Purchased by Satenig in memory of her husband Hagop for the seminary in 1961 for $65,000. The building was officially named “Ouzoonian House”. The chapel named St. Hagop Chapel.

Catholicos-Patriarch Vasken I, in his pontifical letter of blessings, aptly captured the essence of their magnanimous gesture. Satenig Ouzounian's vision to establish the Ouzounian Fund stands as a beacon of hope, a living testament to the enduring legacy of love and compassion.

In the corridors of St. Nerses Seminary, the Ouzounian House stands as a physical embodiment of their legacy – a reminder of the transformative power of faith and philanthropy. Theirs is a story that continues to inspire, a narrative of selflessness and unwavering dedication to the Armenian heritage.

In the late 1960s, during the pivotal construction phase of the St. James Armenian Church sanctuary, Satenig Ouzounian's benevolence illuminated every corner. Her generous spirit embraced the sacred spaces of the church, as she contributed significantly to the creation of the Altar and Choir room. Furthermore, her philanthropic vision extended to the very foundation of the church, where her donations provided crucial support during its formative years. Satenig Ouzounian's unwavering dedication and generosity not only adorned the physical structure of the church but also enriched its spiritual essence, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of parishioners for generations to come.

In a poignant tribute to cherished memories and enduring legacies, the Reverend Fr. Archpriest Mardiros Chevian, Dean of St. Nersess Armenian Seminary in New York, will lead a commemorative Divine Liturgy and special Requiem services on Sunday March 10, 2024 at St. James Armenian Church. This solemn occasion serves as a tribute to the esteemed Very Reverend Fr. Dirayr Dz. Vartabed Dervishian, former Parish Priest of St. James Armenian Church and founding member of St. Nersess Armenian Seminary's Board of Directors in 1961. Additionally, the ceremony honors the enduring spirit of Hagop and Satenig Ouzounian, beloved parishioners of the Armenian Church of Los Angeles and cherished benefactors of St. Nersess Armenian Seminary. Fr. Mardiros Chevian's gesture symbolizes St. Nersess Seminary's profound gratitude and appreciation for their unwavering support and dedication throughout the years.

As we reflect on the profound impact of Hagop and Satenig Ouzounian, let us be reminded of the indelible mark they have left on the Armenian community – a mark that transcends time and echoes through the corridors of history. In their generosity, we find inspiration; in their faith, we find solace; and in their legacy, we find hope for generations to come.

Fr. Haroutioun Tachejian

The Sunrise service directed towards God the Son, Christ Jesus, symbolizes a spiritual awakening—a call to embrace the luminous presence of divinity in our lives.

In the midst of the solemnity of the Great Lent season, the Sunrise service stands as a beacon of hope and renewal. Through resplendent hymns and fervent prayers, we are called to vigilance, aligned with the imminent return of our Savior. Just as the rising sun heralds the dawn of a new day, so too, the radiant light of Christ illuminates our souls, guiding us along the path of righteousness.

The Armenian Church reveres the beauty of this service, performing it with utmost reverence on Sunday mornings during Great Lent Season. The first hymn, "Harevelits," invites us into the embrace of unity and inclusivity.

Let’s read the words of the Hymn, “From the East to the West, from the North and from the South, all nations and people bless in new praises the Creator of all things created, who has sent forth the light of the sun this day on the world”.

This Hymn evokes the cardinal directions—East, West, North, and South—symbolizing the universal nature of divine worship. As we lift our voices in praise, we join hands with all nations and peoples, celebrating the Creator who unites us all.

The imagery of the rising sun speaks to us of renewal and enlightenment, reminding us of the eternal presence of divine light in our midst. With each dawn, we are reminded of the hope for peace and spiritual awakening in our hearts.

After singing this Hymn, the priest reads this following prayer. 

“From the East to the West you are blessed, O Lord, for you are a merciful King and your name is fearful in the entire world.

Let our psalm be acceptable in your sight. Let justice from your righteousness come forth unto our weakness. Let your all-holy name be glorified, and may we be worthy to remain in the way of your commandments and to sing blessing and glory to you, with the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and always, forever and ever. Amen.”

The prayer begins by acknowledging God's omnipresence and omnipotence, symbolized by the invocation "From the East to the West you are blessed, O Lord." This phrase emphasizes the universal sovereignty of God.

The prayer then emphasizes the mercy and fearfulness of God's name, highlighting the divine attributes of compassion and reverence. It acknowledges God's righteousness and justice, beseeching that our praises and actions align with His divine will.

Furthermore, the prayer expresses a profound desire for spiritual alignment and righteousness, seeking to be worthy of God's commandments and to glorify His holy name. It emphasizes the importance of living a life in accordance with God's will and the transformative power of singing blessings and glory to the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Ultimately, the prayer culminates with the affirmation of faith and devotion, expressing the eternal praise and adoration of God, both now and forevermore. It serves as a poignant reminder of the believer's commitment to living a life that reflects the divine attributes of mercy.

In conclusion, as we immerse ourselves in the profound symbolism and spiritual depth of the Sunrise service, let us carry forth its message of hope, renewal, and universal unity. Through the resplendent hymns and fervent prayers, we are reminded of the eternal presence of divine light in our lives, guiding us along the path of righteousness.

Let us embrace the dawn of each new day as a symbol of hope and peace, knowing that the light of Christ shines eternally in our hearts. Together, as one community united in faith, let us lift our voices in praise and adoration to the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—forever and ever.

May the Sunrise service continue to inspire and uplift our souls, guiding us towards a deeper connection with the divine and a steadfast commitment to living lives of compassion, mercy, and love. Amen.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR AND SAVE THE DATES FOR THE FOLLOWING FRIDAY EVENINGS:

HUSGOOM LENTEN SERVICES AT 7:00 PM SCHEDULE:

Friday, March 15th

Ladies Society hosting refreshments after services.

Friday, March 22nd

************************************************

ST. JAMES LADIES' SOCIETY

PRESENTS

LENTEN – MICHINK

LUNCHEON

When:         Sunday, March 10^th, 2024

Time:       Immediately after Church Services

Where: Gogian Hall, - (Large Hall)

Join us for an enjoyable Michink Luncheon

Tickets: Adult only $35.00 - Children only $15.00

For information and reservations please call:

Church Office: 323 295-4588 OR

Anahid Sousanian: 310 - 699-2112

Have your children remember the special experience participating in the Palm Sunday procession holding their special decorated candle.

THE LADIES’ SOCIETY OF ST. JAMES Church has available for sale decorated candles for Palm Sunday.

PRE-ORDER your Palm Sunday decorated candles for your children and have them experience a memorable moment in the special Palm Sunday procession remembering our Lord’s entry into Jerusalem.

Candles are available for purchase in the church Narthex on Sundays.

To pre-order and reserve your candle(s) please contact the church office at (323) 295-4588 OR Margo Vartanian at (310) 654-1205 by Thursday, March 21, 2024.

Կիրակի, Մարտ 10, 2024

Ս. Պատարագ - Ժամը 10:00ին

Արեւագալի Ժամերգութիւն 11:00ին

Քարոզ - Ժամը 11:45ին

Հոգեհանգստեան Պաշտօն - Ժամը 12:15ին

Sunday, March 10, 2024

Divine Liturgy at 10:00am

Sunrise Services (Arevakal) 11:00am

Sermon at 11:45am

Requiem Services at 12:15pm

ՍՈՒՐԲ ԳՐԱՅԻՆ ԸՆԹԵՐՑՈՒՄՆԵՐ

ԿԻՐԱԿԻ , ՄԱՐՏ 3, 2024

ԱՒԵՏԱՐԱՆ ԸՍՏ ՂՈՒԿԱՍՈՒ 17.20-18.14

Փարիսեցիներ Յիսուսի հարցուցին, թէ ե՛րբ պիտի գայ Աստուծոյ թագաւորութիւնը: Անիկապատասխանեց.

– Աստուծոյ թագաւորութիւնը արտաքնապէս տեսանելի նշաներով պիտի չգայ. կամ պիտի չըսեն թէ«Ահա հոս է կամ՝ հոն», որովհետեւ ահա Աստուծոյ թագաւորութիւնը ձեր մէջ կը գտնուի:

Ապա իր աշակերտներուն ըսաւ.

– Ժամանակ պիտի գայ, երբ դուք պիտի ցանկաք Մարդու Որդիին այս օրերէն մէկը տեսնել, բայցպիտի չտեսնէք: Եւ եթէ ձեզի ըսեն՝ «Ահա հոս է կամ հոն», մտիկ մի՛ ընէք, մի՛ հետեւիք անոնց: Որովհետեւ՝ ինչպէս կայծակը փայլատակելով կը լուսաւորէ երկնակամարին մէկ կողմէն մինչեւմիւսը, նոյնպէս պիտի ըլլայ Մարդու Որդին իր գալստեան օրը: Սակայն նախ պէտք է որ անիկա շատչարչարանքներ կրէ եւ մերժուի այս սերունդէն: Եւ ինչպէս որ Նոյի ժամանակ Աստուծոյ պատիժըյանկարծակի վրայ հասաւ, նոյնպէս պիտի պատահի Մարդու Որդիին օրերուն ալ: Անոնք ալկ’ուտէին, կը խմէին, այր կամ կին կ’առնէին, մինչեւ այն օրը, երբ Նոյ տապան մտաւ, եւ ջրհեղեղըեկաւ բնաջնջեց զանոնք: Կամ ինչպէս Ղովտի օրերուն պատահեցաւ. կ’ուտէին, կը խմէին, կը գնէին, կը ծախէին, կը տնկէին ու կը շինէին. բայց այն օրը որ Ղովտ Սոդոմը ձգեց, երկինքէն կրակ ու ծծումբտեղաց եւ բնաջնջեց բոլորը: Նոյնը պիտի պատահի այն օրը, երբ Մարդու Որդին յայտնուի:

Այդ օրը, ան որ տանիք ելած է՝ վար իջնելէ ետք թող տուն չմտնէ՝ հոն գտնուող իր գոյքերը առնելուհամար: Նոյնպէս, ան որ դաշտին մէջ է՝ թող տուն չվերադառնայ ունեցածները առնելու համար: Յիշեցէ՛ք Ղովտի կնոջ պարագան: Ով որ կը ջանայ իր կեանքը փրկել՝ պիտի կորսնցնէ զայն, եւ ով որկորսնցնէ իր կեանքը՝ պիտի փրկէ զայն: Կ’ըսեմ ձեզի, այդ գիշեր եթէ մէկ անկողինի մէջ երկու հոգիըլլան՝ անոնցմէ մէկը պիտի առնուի եւ միւսը ձգուի, կամ եթէ երկու կին միասին ցորեն կ’աղան՝անոնցմէ մէկը պիտի առնուի եւ միւսը ձգուի, կամ եթէ արտին մէջ երկու հոգի ըլլան, անոնցմէ մէկըպիտի առնուի եւ միւսը ձգուի:

Աշակերտները հարցուցին Յիսուսի.

– Տէ՛ր, ո՞ւր պիտի պատահի ատիկա:

Անիկա պատասխանեց.

– Անգղները կը հաւաքուին հոն՝ ուր դիակ կայ:

Յիսուս առակ մը պատմեց իր աշակերտներուն, ցոյց տալու համար թէ պէտք է միշտ աղօթել՝ առանցվհատելու: Եւ ըսաւ.

– Քաղաքի մը մէջ դատաւոր մը կար, որ ո՛չ Աստուծմէ կը վախնար եւ ո՛չ ալ մարդոցմէ կ’ամչնար: Նոյնքաղաքին մէջ այրի կին մըն ալ կար, որ անոր կը դիմէր եւ կը խնդրէր, ըսելով․ «Իրաւունքսպաշտպանէ հակառակորդէս»: Դատաւորը երկար ժամանակ մերժեց դատը տեսնել, սակայն իվերջոյ ըսաւ ինքնիրեն. «Թէեւ Աստուծմէ չեմ վախնար եւ մարդոցմէ չեմ ամչնար, բայց քանի այսայրին նեղութիւն կու տայ ինծի, իր դատը տեսնեմ, որպէսզի մինչեւ վերջ քովս գալով զիսչանհանգստացնէ»:

Ապա Տէրը շարունակեց.

– Լսեցէք թէ ի՛նչ կ’ըսէ անիրաւ դատաւորը: Իսկ Աստուած որքա՞ն պիտի համբերէ իր ընտրեալներունկրած անիրաւութեան. պիտի չպաշտպանէ՞ զանոնք, որոնք գիշեր ու ցերեկ իրեն կը դիմեն: Այո՛, կ’ըսեմ ձեզի՝ որ անոնց իրաւունքը անմիջապէս պիտի պաշտպանէ: Բայց Մարդու Որդին երբ գայ, արդեօք հաւատք պիտի գտնէ՞ երկրի վրայ:

Այս առակն ալ պատմեց անոնց, որոնք իրենք իրենց համար այն համարումը ունէին թէ արդար են, եւուրիշները կ’արհամարհէին:

– Երկու հոգի տաճար գացին աղօթելու. մէկը՝ Փարիսեցի, միւսը՝ մաքսաւոր: Փարիսեցին մէկ կողմկեցած, ինքնիրեն կ’աղօթէր. «Աստուած իմ, շնորհակալ եմ քեզմէ, որ ուրիշ մարդոց նման՝յափշտակող, անիրաւ, շնացող չեմ, կամ այս մաքսաւորին պէս ալ չեմ: Այլ՝ շաբաթը երկու անգամ ծոմկը պահեմ եւ ամբողջ եկամուտիս տասանորդը տաճարին կու տամ»: Իսկ մաքսաւորը հեռունկեցած, աչքերը առանց վեր բարձրացնելու՝ կուրծքը կը ծեծէր եւ կ’ըսէր. «Աստուա՜ծ, ներէ՛ մեղաւորիսմեղքերը»:

– Կ’ըսեմ ձեզի,- եզրակացուց Յիսուս,- մաքսաւո՛րն է որ արդարացած տուն գնաց, եւ ո՛չ թէՓարիսեցին. որովհետեւ ով որ իր անձը կը բարձրացնէ՝ պիտի խոնարհի, եւ ով որ իր անձըխոնարհեցնէ՝ պիտի բարձրանայ:

ՆԱՄԱԿ ՓԻԼԻՊՊԵՑԻՆԵՐՈՒՆ 3.1-4.9

Հետեւաբար, եղբայրնե՛րս, Տիրոջմով ուրախացէք: Նոյն բաները գրելը ինծի համար ձանձրոյթ չէ, բայց ձեզ ճշմարտութեան մէջ կը հաստատէ:

Զգուշացէք այն մարդոցմէ, այն շուներէն, որոնք չարիք կը սերմանեն՝ ստիպելով որ թլփատուիք: Իսկական թլփատուածները մե՛նք ենք, որովհետեւ Աստուծոյ Հոգիով լեցուած պաշտամունք կըկատարենք եւ միայն Քրիստոս Յիսուսի միացած ըլլալով կը պարծենանք, եւ ո՛չ թէ Օրէնքինգործադրութեամբ կամ Աբրահամի մարմնաւոր զաւակը ըլլալով: Եթէ ատոնք բաւարար ըլլայինփրկուելու համար, ինծի ոչինչ պիտի պակսէր. եւ եթէ ոեւէ մէկը կը կարծէ թէ մարմնական այդ կապինկրնայ վստահիլ, ես աւելիով կրնամ, քանի ութօրեայ թլփատուած Իսրայէլացի մըն եմ, Բենիամինիցեղէն, զտարիւն Եբրայեցի եւ օրինապահ Փարիսեցի: Ա՛յնքան նախանձախնդիր էի, որ Քրիստոսիեկեղեցին կը հալածէի. եւ արդար էի այնքան՝ որքան Օրէնքին անթերի գործադրութիւնը կրնար տալ: Սակայն այս բոլորը, որ ժամանակ մը առաւելութիւն կը սեպէի, հիմա վնաս կը համարեմ՝ Քրիստոսիսիրոյն համար: Եւ իրաւ, ամէն ինչ վնաս կը համարեմ՝ համեմատած այն գերազանց շահին հետ, որմեր Տէրը՝ Յիսուս Քրիստոսը ճանչնալն է: Այդ գիտութիւնը ունենալու համար՝ ամէն ինչ թողուցի, ոչնչութիւն սեպելով, որպէսզի Քրիստոսը շահիմ, եւ կատարելապէս անոր միանամ: Այնպէս որ, իմարդարութիւնս այլեւս Օրէնքի գործադրութենէն չի՛ գար, այլ՝ Քրիստոսի հանդէպ ունեցած հաւատքէս, եւ այդ արդարութիւնը Աստուծմէ եկած արդարութիւնն է, հիմնուած՝ հաւատքի վրայ: Հիմա միակփափաքս է՝ ճանչնալ Քրիստոսը, անոր յարութեան զօրութիւնը, եւ անոր չարչարանքներունմասնակից դառնալ՝ անոր մահուան օրինակը իմ վրաս առնելով, որպէսզի ես ալ արժանի ըլլամմեռելներէն յարութիւն առնելու:

Չեմ ըսեր թէ արդէն յաջողած եւ կատարելութեան հասած եմ, բայց հասնելու կը ձգտիմ, որովհետեւճիշդ ատոր համար Քրիստոս Յիսուս զիս պահեց: Եղբայրնե՛ր, ինքզինքս դեռ կատարելութեանհասած չեմ համարեր. բայց կ’աշխատիմ անցեալը մոռնալ եւ գալիքին նայիլ, եւ ուշադիր կերպով կըվազեմ դէպի նպատակակէտը, իբրեւ մրցանակ ստանալու համար յաւիտենական կեանքը, որուն կըհրաւիրէ մեզ Աստուած, Քրիստոս Յիսուսով:

Արդ, մենք որ կատարեալ ենք՝ նոյն ձեւով խորհինք: Իսկ եթէ դուք որոշ կէտերու շուրջ տարբեր կըխորհիք, Աստուած ինք ձեզ պիտի լուսաբանէ: Ամէն պարագայի, միասնաբար քալենք այնկանոններով, որոնցմով ընթացանք մինչեւ հիմա։

Եղբայրնե՛ր, ինծի՛ նմանեցէք, եւ հետեւեցէք անոնց՝ որոնք ձեզի տուած մեր օրինակով կ’ընթանան: Որովհետեւ, ինչպէս յաճախ կ’ըսէի եւ հիմա եւս լալով կ’ըսեմ, մեր մէջ կան շատեր՝ որոնց կեանքըթշնամանք է Քրիստոսի խաչին: Անոնց վերջը կորուստ է, որովհետեւ իրենց աստուածը իրենց փորնէ: Ամօթալի բաներով կը հպարտանան եւ միայն երկրաւոր բաներու մասին կը խորհին: Մենք, սակայն, երկինքի քաղաքացիներ ենք եւ հոնկէ՛ կը սպասենք որ գայ մեր Փրկիչը՝ Տէր ՅիսուսՔրիստոս, որ մեր մահկանացու մարմինները պիտի կերպարանափոխէ եւ իր մարմինին պէսփառաւոր դարձնէ իր զօրութեամբը, որով կրնայ ամէն ինչ իր իշխանութեան ենթարկել:

Ուստի, սիրելի՛ եւ կարօտալի եղբայրներ, դուք՝ որ իմ ուրախութիւնս էք եւ պսակս, այսպէս ամրօրէնՏիրոջ միացած մնացէք, սիրելինե՛ր:

Եւոդիային ու Սինտիքին կ’աղաչեմ, եւ կը թելադրեմ՝ որ իրարու հետ հաշտուին, քանի Տիրոջ միացածեն: Դո՛ւն ալ, ո՜վ հաւատարիմ լծակիցս, կը խնդրեմ որ օգնես այս երկու կիներուն, որովհետեւ ինծիհետ պայքարեցան Աւետարանին տարածման համար, Կղեմէսի եւ միւս գործակիցներուս հետմիասին, որոնց անունները Կեանքի գիրքին մէջ արձանագրուած են:

Միշտ ուրախ եղէք Տիրոջմով. դարձեալ կ’ըսեմ՝ ուրախ եղէք: Բոլորին հանդէպ ազնիւ եղէք: ՇուտովՏէրը կու գայ: Ոեւէ բան թող չմտահոգէ ձեզ. այլ միշտ ձեր աղօթքներուն եւ աղաչանքներուն մէջգոհաբանութեամբ Աստուծմէ խնդրեցէք ինչ բանի որ կարիքը կը զգաք, եւ այն ատեն Աստուծոյխաղաղութիւնը, որ միտքով կարելի չէ հասկնալ, խաղաղ պիտի պահէ ձեր սիրտերն ու միտքերը, որոնք Քրիստոս Յիսուսի միացած են:

Ի վերջոյ, եղբայրնե՛ր, խորհեցէք այն բաները՝ որոնք ճշմարիտ են, պարկեշտ, արդար, մաքուր, սիրելի, բարեհամբաւ, առաքինի եւ գովելի: Եւ գործքո՛վ կատարեցէք այն՝ ինչ որ ինձմէ սորվեցաք եւընդունեցիք, ինձմէ լսեցիք եւ իմ վրաս տեսաք. եւ Աստուած, որ խաղաղութիւն կու տայ, ձեզի հետպիտի ըլլայ:

BIBLICAL READINGS

SUNDAY, MARCH 3, 2024

Luke 17:20-18:14 

Once Jesus was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was coming, and he answered, “The kingdom of God is not coming with things that can be observed; nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There it is!’ For, in fact, the kingdom of God is among you.” 

Then he said to the disciple, “The days are coming when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it. They will say to you, ‘Look there!’ or ‘Look here!’ Do not go, do not set off in pursuit. For as the lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in his day. But first he must endure much suffering and be rejected by this generation. Just as it was in the days of Noah, so too it will be in the days of the Son of Man. 

They were eating and drinking, and marrying and being given in marriage, until the day Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed all of them. Likewise, just as it was in the days of Lot; they were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building, but on the day that Lot left Sodom, it rained fire and sulfur from heaven and destroyed all of them—it will be like that on the day that the Son of Man is revealed. On that day, anyone on the housetop who has belongings in the house must not come down to take them away; and likewise anyone in the field must not turn back. Remember Lot’s wife. Those who try to make their life secure will lose it, but those who lose their life will keep it. I tell you, on that night there will be two in one bed; one will be taken and the other left. There will be two women grinding meal together; one will be taken and the other left” Then they asked them, “Where the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.” 

Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray always and not to lose heart. He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor had respect for people. In that city there was a widow who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Grant me justice against my opponent.’ For a while he refused; but later he said to himself, ‘Though I have no fear of God and no respect for anyone, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will grant her justice, so that she may not wear me out by continually coming.’ And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God grant justice to his chosen ones who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long in helping them? I tell you, he will quickly grant justice to them. And yet, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” 

He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.” 

Philippians 3:1-4:9 

Finally, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is not troublesome to me, and for you it is a safeguard. 

Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil workers, beware of those who mutilate the flesh!” For it is we who are the circumcision, who worship in the Spirit of God and boast in Christ Jesus and have no confidence in the flesh—even though I, too, have reason for confidence in the flesh. 

If anyone else has reason to be confident in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, a member of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew born of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless. 

Yet whatever gains I had, these I have come to regard as loss because of Christ. More than that, I regard everything as loss because of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but one that comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God based on faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the sharing of his sufferings by becoming like him in his death, if somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead. 

Not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal; but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but this one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those of us who are mature be of the same mind; and if you think differently about anything, this too God will reveal to you. Only let us hold fast to what we have attained. 

Brothers and sisters, join in imitating me, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us. For many live as enemies of the cross of Christ; I have often told you of them, and now I tell you even with tears. Their end is destruction; their god is the belly; and their glory is in their shame; their minds are set on earthy things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will transform the body of our humiliation that it may be conformed to the body of his glory, by the power that also enables him to make all things subject to himself. Therefore, my brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved. 

I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you also my loyal companion, help these women, for they have struggled beside me in the work of the gospel, together with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. 

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you. 

HOKEHANKIST REQUESTS:

SUNDAY, MARCH 10, 2024

Requested For:

H. HRANT AGBABIAN - 40TH DAY - Husband and Father

Requested By:

Alidz Agbabian - Wife

Ari Agbabian - Son

Areni and Gagik Khodavirdi - Daughter and Son-in-Law

and extended family members

Requested For:

VERY REVEREND FR. DIRAYR DZ. VARTABED DERVISHIAN

Former late Parish Priest of St. James Armenian Church and Member of the first Board of Directors of St. Nersess Armenian Seminary in 1961

Requested For:

HAGOP and SATENIG OUZOONIAN

Late Parishioners of the Armenian Church of Los Angeles and Benefactors of St. Nersess Armenian Seminary

Requested By:

REV. FR. ARCHPRIEST MARDIROS CHEVIAN

Dean of St. Nersess Armenian Seminary in New York

Requested For:

MANUSHAK SARKISIAN

and

EDWARD SARKISIAN - 40TH DAY

Requested By:

Friends

Last Sunday, MARCH 3rd we prayed for

Hokehankist Requests that were not listed in the Sunday Weekly Oshagan for:

HAGY AVAK KALADJIAN - 40TH DAY

HOKEHANKIST DONATIONS RECEIVED FOR:

MARCH 3, 2024

For:

MIHRAN DONIKIAN

By:

Rose Donikian

For:

HAGY AVAK KALADJIAN

By:

Hakaz & Lousin Ekmekchian, Hagop & Shake Kaladjian,

Robert & Elizabeth Balian, Vatche Sayeg & Family

To Request a Hokehankist:

For any Requiem (Hokehankist) service requests,

please contact the church secretary

by Noon time on WEDNESDAY

to be included in Sunday’s bulletin.

The secretary may be reached at

secretary@stjamesla.net or by calling +1(323) 295-4588.

Walk-in requests are welcomed on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 11:15 AM. The information will be listed in the following Sunday’s bulletin.

THANK YOUS AND DONATIONS

Sunday, March 3, 2024, to Friday March 8, 2024

We thank our faithful parishioners

for the generous donations and support of our church.

GENERAL DONATIONS

Week of March 3rd to March 8, 2024

Gary and Nina Turpanjian

PASTORAL/RITUAL SERVICES

Ձեր Խորհրդակատարութիւններուն, Տնօրհնէքի, հիւանդի այցելութեան եւ այլ խնդրանքներուն համար

դիմեցէք Եկեղեցի (323) 295 4588

կամ հեռացայնեցէք Տէր Յարութիւննին (818) 649-4796

For the arrangement of sacramental services, home visitation, home blessing or healing prayers, and Holy Communion, 

please call the church office at (323) 295-4588 

or Fr. Haroutioun directly at (818) 649-4796

Connect with St James Armenian Church on Facebook and Instagram @stjamesarmenianchurchla! We're just getting started here, but more soon!

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ST. JAMES OFFICE HOURS

Monday - Friday

9 AM to 1 PM

2 PM to 5 PM

The office is closed for lunch between 1-2 PM

Monday through Friday