THE SUNDAY MESSENGER
April 12, 2026

Octave of Easter (New Sunday)

Scripture and Feast Day Notes

From Today’s Readings

John 1:1-17 These renowned and eloquent verses testify to the presence of God the Son from the very creation of the world (vv 2-5) to his Incarnation; Jesus Christ was the ultimate revelation of God’s presence, glory, and enduring love. John the Baptist was called to be a witness so that “all people might believe.” Discuss/reflect: Jesus made his dwelling “among us.” (v 14). How much have you allowed him to “dwell” with you? Are you keeping him at the door? In the living room? Or have you given him the keys?

Acts 5:34-6:7 Two important events are recounted here. In the first, the teacher of the law Gamaliel exhorts the apostles’ antagonists to let them continue Jesus’ work, since if their purpose is godly they will prevail over any force against them anyway. The second details the first “ordination” as men are called and consecrated to assist the apostles in caring for the poor. St. Stephen was foremost among them and is considered the first ‘deacon’ of the Church. Discuss/reflect: Despite the warning that they not preach the Good News, the apostles joyfully continued to proclaim Jesus as the Christ (5:41-42). How might you share this news today?

James 3:1-12 The apostle James explains the great harm that speech (the tongue) can cause. He compares the tongue’s power to the bit in a horse’s mouth or the rudder of a huge ship – something so small having the power to give incredible direction; but also potentially as disastrous as the tiny spark that can burn down a forest. Discuss/reflect: James wonders how we are able to both praise God and revile others with the same lips. How can salt water and fresh water flow from the same source? (vv 9-12) How would you answer him? Where do you need to make changes in how you talk?

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.

Requiem Services – We Honor And Pray For These Souls

Hokehankist Today Will Be For

Rita Khachaturyan requested in loving memory by her family.
Jerry Munk on the first anniversary of his Eternal Rest. Requested in loving memory by Emily Terjimanian.

Agape Hour – Coffee hour is just not the same without YOU!! Please join us after Divine Liturgy. Dessert Contributions are Welcome! Your homemade or store-bought treats will add sweetness to our fellowship and are greatly appreciated!

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)

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~~~~~~~~~~

Octave of Easter (New Sunday)
Apr 25        Armenian Heritage Walk
May 10       Mother’s Day
Jun 21       Father’s Day