THE SUNDAY MESSENGER
March 8, 2026

Sunday of the Steward

Scripture Notes From Today’s Readings 

Luke 16:1-31 – Parable of the Steward (1-13). Today’s reading also includes the renowned story of the unnamed rich man and Lazarus. The rich man ignores the poor and ailing Lazarus and after both have died, he sees that Lazarus is in heaven at Abraham’s side. Lamenting his own torment far from God, he asks that Lazarus be sent to warn his brothers of what can happen when they live selfish lives. Abraham tells him they had already been well informed by the Law and the Prophets so nothing more could help. Discuss/reflect: What do you think Jesus means when he says “No one can serve two masters” (13)? What “masters” pull you away from God? What makes it so difficult for people to be convinced of God’s ways? 

Ephesians 4:17-5:14 St. Paul notes that ‘children of light’ must set aside past behaviors, having become renewed in Christ and created to be like God in true holiness (vv.23-24). The way of love excludes all the vices we might have once considered acceptable. Discuss/reflect: What specific ways does St. Paul cite as examples of “new self” behavior? (25: speak truthfully, 26: let go of anger quickly, 28: engage in useful work so we’re able to help others, 29: speak to build others up, 31: do not be bitter, or angry or slander others, 5:1: imitate God, 2: live a life of love, 3: avoid sexual immorality or any kind of impurity or greed, 7: avoid the people who encourage you to behave immorally.) Of those listed, what one behavior do you need God‘s help with? 

Isaiah 56:1-57:21 Isaiah shares God’s exhortation to his people to maintain justice, do what is right, keep the holy day holy and welcome all people, even “outsiders,” removing obstacles in their way. To these he promises joy and blessings. He rails against the selfishness and ignorance of Israel’s leaders who seek their own gain with “mighty appetites.” Discuss/reflect: Why the importance of keeping the Sabbath holy? How do you dedicate the day to the Lord? Does your church family or your Sunday worship service present obstacles for someone of another background?

STEWARDS oversaw the finances and all the affairs of the house for wealthy families of ancient times. The steward in this parable (often translated as the “shrewd manager”) is farsighted about his own welfare. When his master accuses him of wasteful ways, demanding an accounting and threatening his dismissal, the steward reduces the moneys owed to his master by others so that they might employ him should it come to that (he was actually lowering his own built-in commission in every negotiation). He is commended by the master. Although a challenging parable, it is easier to understand when we see that Jesus is asking us to be as diligent and ambitious about our spiritual welfare as we are about our worldly security (8-9). Reflection: What masters pull at you for allegiance? 

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 greeting 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 (Page 18 in New Divine Liturgy Book) – 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.

Church School  Lenten Drive Fundraiser with Vartanatz Presentation Video 

Join us on March 15th to watch the video of the church school Vartanatz presentation that many missed two weeks ago due to the blizzard forecast and help us raise funds to support TOGETHER ON STAGE a collaboration with one of FARS long time partners The Center for Children with Learning Disabilities in Armenia. This beautiful project promotes inclusion, challenges stereotypes, and helps children of all ability levels build confidence and creative independence. GoFARwithAYO! With your $5 or more donation, enjoy a bag of freshly popped popcorn and the show!

ASA Scholarship Applications Now Open – The Armenian Students’ Association of America (ASA) is now accepting applications for its Scholarships, as well as the Silver and Gold Medal Awards. Eligible students of Armenian descent are encouraged to apply. For eligibility requirements and application details, please visit www.asainc.org. The application deadline is April 1.(04/01)

Armenian Heritage Walk – Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate a milestone that has been decades in the making, the Armenian Heritage Walk at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This black-tie event will honor the completion of Phase One and mark the official unveiling and dedication of the Armenian Heritage Walk on April 25, 2026, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM at The National Constitution Center, 525 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Set against the backdrop of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, the night will shine with purpose, pride, and community as we introduce a meaningful new cultural landmark, a lasting gift to the nation. For more information or to purchase tickets please go to https://www.armenianheritagewalk.org/event-details/armenian-heritage-walk-gala (04/19)

Lent 2026 – Our Adult Christian Education (ACE) team has planned an impressive and diverse program this Lenten season. It includes five Zooms and one special presentation following Sunday Badarak. We will begin with a Rest Service on February 20 followed by two sessions on February 27 and March 6 featuring Rev. Fr. Arshen and Yn. Sirarpi Aivazian speaking on the spiritual poetry of Bishop Yeghishe Tourian. On March 13, Dn. Armen Terjimanian will moderate “Frequently Asked Questions on the Badarak” and on March 27 our senior deacon Albert Keshgegian will discuss his latest publication, “Take the Light: Reflections of God’s Love in our Lives.” All these Zooms will be held on Friday evenings from 7:00 to 8:00.  The single in-person program will be offered on March 22 by Shoghik Mikayelyan, the CEO of Nor Luyce Mentoring Center for Youth in Yerevan.  For more information on all these opportunities, take a flyer that will be available in the narthex.03/22

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 marpoghosyan17@gmail.com 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 (I double dare  you), by contacting Karinne Andonian at karinne.hov@gmail.com.

~~~~~~~~~~TODAY’S EVENTS~~~~~~~~~~

Sunday of the Steward

Annual Parish Assembly

Light lunch and snacks will be available before the meeting

You are cordially invited to attend the Annual Parish Assembly of our church. This meeting is a vital opportunity for our community to gather in fellowship, reflect on the past year’s blessings, and participate in the governance of our parish.

Your voice and presence are essential as we review our spiritual and financial progress and elect the leaders who will guide us into the coming year.

Please Note: While all are welcome to attend, only “Members in Good Standing” (those whose 2025 dues are current) are eligible to vote or hold office.

We look forward to seeing you there as we work together to strengthen our parish.

Mar 07 Day Light Savings – Spring Forward
Mar 13 Zoom FAQs on the Badarak: Dn. Armen Terjimanian
Mar 22 Presentation on Nor Luyce Mentoring Center in Armenia
Mar 27 Zoom Book Presentation: Dn. Albert Keshgegian
Mar 29 Palm Sunday
Apr 05 Easter