Sunday Messenger
August 2, 2026

Fourth Sunday after Assumption

Scripture and Feast Day Notes

Isaiah 10:12-19 The passage is a reminder that no human power is greater than the power of the Lord. The king of Assyria may boast of his accomplishments, but he is ultimately subject to the Lord’s judgment. The passage also teaches us that the Lord is a God of justice. He will punish the arrogant and the wicked, but he will also vindicate the oppressed and the innocent.

2 Corinthians 2:12-3:3 The main message of this passage is the importance of forgiveness. Paul teaches that forgiveness is not only necessary for the restoration of relationships, but it is also necessary to prevent Satan from taking advantage of us. When we forgive others, we are following the example of Christ, who forgave us even though we did not deserve it. It is a reminder that we are all called to spread the fragrance of Christ to the world, even when it is difficult.

Mark 6:30-44 In this passage, Jesus and his disciples are in a remote place, and a large crowd gathers to hear him teach. Jesus has compassion on the people, and he teaches them for many hours. When it is evening, the disciples suggest that Jesus send the people away so that they can buy food. But Jesus says, “You give them something to eat.” The disciples have only five loaves of bread and two fish, but Jesus took the food, looked to the heavens, and blessed the food. He gave it to the disciples and tells them to distribute it to the crowd. When they do, there is enough food for everyone, and even twelve baskets of leftovers are collected.

This passage also shows Jesus’ compassion for the people and his power to provide for their needs. It is also a sign of Jesus’ future role as the Messiah, who will one day feed all of God’s people.

Saturday, September 5, celebrates the 318 Fathers of the Council of Nicaea

The word “ecumenical” means “universal” and comes from the Greek oikoumene, which means “the inhabited world.” An ecumenical council was the meeting of the entire Church as represented by her bishops and other leaders. Following research and debate, decisions in these councils were arrived at through the grace and guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Council of Nicaea in 325 AD was the first of the three Ecumenical Councils recognized by the Armenian Church and was called by the Emperor Constantine to address a specific controversy. In opposition to the heresy espoused by the priest Arius, namely that the Son of God was created by the Father, the Council decreed that Son of God, Jesus Christ, is uncreated and divine, of one essence with the Father (homoousios) and not made or created by Him. Among other important results, the Council began the formulation of the Nicene Creed (ergo its name) which was finalized at the Second Ecumenical Council of Constantinople in 381. Reflection: Diocesan and Parish Assemblies are church councils. Knowing that God is especially present when we gather in His name, how might we focus ourselves better on His will for us as we elect officials and deliberate budgets and policies?

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 – 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

Karasoonk today will be for

Rosen Kashikjian on the 40th day of her eternal rest. Requested in loving memory by the Mahserejian Family.

Hokehankist Today Will Be For

Patrick Killian on the 10^th Anniversary of his eternal rest. Requested in loving memory by Joyce Killian and Stacey, Alen, Alexis and Dylan Cakiryan. The quiet comfort of his support will remain anchored in our hearts forever.

Tamara Vandian on the 16^th anniversary of her eternal rest. Requested in loving memory by the Sarkisian family.

Agape Hour — a beautiful expression of love, community, and togetherness is just not the same without YOU!! Please join us after Divine Liturgy for fellowship and good conversation. Today’s Agape Hour is sponsored by the Mahserejian Family in memory of Rosen Kashikjian. All are Welcome!

Renovations – In an effort to make the church safer and welcoming for our parishioners and guests, renovations have begun on the lower bathrooms. Please pardon our appearance during this time as the renovations will take a few weeks. While these restrooms are unavailable, please remember the restrooms near the elevator at the back of the Sunday School area are available. Thank you for your patience and understanding during this process.

Reminder – The finale of Summer 2026 is almost here!!…..have you paid your 2026 dues yet? According to the Diocesan Bylaws, membership dues are to be paid no later than December 31st each year in order to be a member in “good standing” and to be eligible to vote at the annual assembly. You may pay by sending a check via snail mail, dropping off in the Narthex before/after Divine Liturgy or online at https://holytrinity-pa.org/donation/

Holy Badarak – Over the summer is a wonderful time to learn and familiarize yourself with the Badarak. If your children sing in the school choir, please encourage them to come sing in our church choir to continue developing their voice on Sundays during the summer. It’s ok if they don’t know many of the sharagans, they will learn. And if they can read music, they will be fine. Our senior choir members are here to help. We look forward to seeing your children upstairs with us!

~~~~~~~~~~TODAY’S EVENTS~~~~~~~~~~

Fourth Sunday After Assumption
Jul 29         Breakfast on the Beach – Zoom Part 2
Aug 12        Breakfast on the Beach – Zoom Part 3
Aug 16        Feast of the Assumption of the Holy Mother-Of-God (Blessing of the Grapes)
Sep 07         Labor Day – Church Office Closed
Sep 13         Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Sep 21         Armenian Independence Day
Sep 27         Feast of the Holy Cross of Varak
Oct 24-25    Annual Harvest Bazaar