Sunday Messenger
August 30, 2026

Third Sunday after Assumption

Scripture and Feast Day Notes

Isaiah 9:8-19 God’s warnings through his prophet are unequivocal: even though the people of Israel confidently plan to rebuild after an attack by enemies, their evil and neglect of God will render all they do futile. His punishment will continue because of Israel’s prideful arrogance. Discuss/reflect: Evil is referred to (v. 18) as a raging forest fire that consumes all in its path. This image is particularly vivid today as we consider the horrendous fires consuming California for years now and other parts of the world. As you look at current events, where do you see this engulfing effect of evil? How can it be stopped? (God has concrete suggestions in chapter 10!)

2 Corinthians 1:1-11 Often personal and passionate in the opening lines of his epistles, here St. Paul stresses the compassion of a God who comforts the suffering, enabling us, in turn, to comfort others. This is particularly meaningful to Paul who has just endured unimaginable hardships in his travels and realized that relying entirely on God’s love and mercy was the only way to survive. Discuss/reflect: Paul found that troubles and hardship led him to rely on God all the more (v.9) How do you respond when life gets difficult? Can you recall a difficult time during which you experienced God’s comforting presence?

Mark 4:35-41 Chapter 4 begins and ends with Jesus in a boat, as he teaches about the nature and power of God. Here, the disciples fear for their lives as a storm develops on the Sea of Galilee and Jesus, no doubt exhausted, is asleep. After stilling the waves and winds, Jesus asks the disciples (and all of us!) why they are lacking in faith.  For even now, after all the disciples had seen and heard, they ask in awe: “Who can this be?” Discuss/reflect: In Scripture, God addresses fear more than any other emotion, repeatedly asking us not to be afraid. What fears do you have? In what ways might this story be instructive in handling them?

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.

Agape Hour – Please join us for fellowship and good conversation following Badarak today in our lovely hall for Christian fellowship, enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, and mingle with fellow parishioners. Please feel free to bring other treats to share during Agape Hour.

Renovations – In an ongoing effort to make the church safer and welcoming for our parishioners and guests, renovations are continuing in the lower bathrooms. Please pardon our appearance during this time as the renovations will take a few more weeks. While these restrooms are unavailable, please remember that 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.

~~~~~~~~~~TODAY’S EVENTS~~~~~~~~~~

Third Sunday after Assumption
Sep 07         Labor Day – Church Office Closed
Sep 13         Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Sep 17         Zoom Book Club Meets
Sep 21         Armenian Independence Day
Sep 27         Feast of the Holy Cross of Varak
Oct 24-25    Annual Harvest Bazaar