THE SUNDAY MESSENGER
April 7, 2024

Annunciation to the Virgin Mary

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 greetings 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.

Fellowship Today – Because the hall is being used for a private event, a shortened Coffee Hour will take place in the lobby today.

Armenian Sisters Academy – The best way to learn about ASA is to experience it for yourself! Visit our campus to see how our deep appreciation for the Armenian language and culture empowers our students, promotes self-respect, and prepares future role models. All visitors must have a scheduled appointment and may not freely enter the building without prior notice. To schedule your private tour contact Legna Santerian at Lsanterian@asaphila.org or (610) 687-4100.

Armenian Sisters Academy – In love with Golf? Come out, play, and support ASA! This year ASA’s Spring Scramble will once again take place at the beautiful Philmont Country Club located in Huntingdon Valley on Monday June 3rd. Join us for an exciting day of golf including delicious food, refreshing cocktails, fun raffles, cool prizes and more! For registration and more information visit us online at www.asascramble.com.

Stay Connected with our New Church Portal – Over the past several months Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church has changed to a new Church Management System called One Church.  The new software puts you in control of your information (email, phone number, giving information, etc.), allows us to communicate with you more effectively, facilitates online, text, and app donations, and provides greater connectivity throughout our community.  You should have received an email.  If you have not gotten one (please make sure to check your spam folder), then reach out to the church office.

Humanitarian Support for Artsakh Ongoing From The Knights And Daughters Of Vartan – As the Azeri government still cracks down on the Armenian people in the nation of Artsakh, the people are not giving up! Please consider making a donation to the Knights and Daughters of Vartan Call to Action Committee! Donations will go towards humanitarian aid. For further information please visit the Knights and Daughters of Vartan website at https://kofv.org/a-call-to-action-from-kdv-for-artsakh/

Mail your donations to Knights of Vartan, Mr. Ronald Nazeley, Treasurer, 558 Kentwood Bluffs Drive, Los Angeles 90045.

Checks should be made to Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Memo: Artsakh, and brought or mailed to church. Online donations can be made by going to www.holytrinity-pa.org, go to donations, scroll down to Open Donation and enter Artsakh.

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 to the interested candidates, along with one-on-one direction from a senior choir person.  For further information, contact Karinne Andonian at karinne.hov@gmail.com.

Calendar of Events

Apr 10 – Wednesdays @ 7pm – Zoom Bible Study with Fr. Hakob
Apr 14 – Armenian Tree Project Presentation – During coffee hour
May 19 – Celebration Banquet with guest His Grace Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan