Sunday Messenger
September 6, 2026 

Paregentan of the Fast of Exaltation

Scripture and Feast Day Notes

From Today’s Readings

Isaiah 13:1-11 This oracle against Babylon points to its destruction on “the day of the Lord,” the day of God’s judgment. The sound of advancing armies and genuine human terror is vividly described. The cosmos shares in the agony as the heavens darken. Discuss/reflect: Throughout Scripture, Babylon stands for arrogant pride (Isaiah 47:8: “I am and there is none besides me.”) and godlessness. God musters an army from the “ends of heaven” against this – a terrifying image! What 21^st century phenomena speak of arrogant human pride?

2 Corinthians 7:4-16 Paul’s spirit is comforted by the fact that rather than being distressed by a letter he had sent them, the Corinthians were prompted to repent. They embrace Titus and feel only concern and love for Paul. “I rejoice…!” exclaims a relieved and encouraged apostle. “Godly sorrow,” he declares, brings an eager desire to be better; worldly sorrow leads only to fruitless regret.  Discuss/reflect: The literal phrase in Greek for “Godly sorrow” is “what God sees as sorrowful.” Can you think of a time when godly sorrow motivated you to make a real change in your life?

Mark 7:31-37 A deaf mute from Decapolis, the predominantly Greek region of 1^st century Palestine, is brought to Jesus by caring people who seek His healing. Jesus takes him away from the crowd and first touches his ear and then, using His own saliva, touches his tongue, looking heavenward as He heals the man. Discuss/reflect: As in other healing stories, here we see again how people are brought to Jesus by others who are convinced that He can change lives. Think of a time someone brought you closer to God’s healing touch. Thank them in prayer.

Tuesday, September 8: Feast of the Nativity of the Holy Mother of God

Although not recorded in Scripture, Mary’s birth and upbringing are mentioned in early Christian sources such as the Infancy Gospel of James. James recounts the longing of Sts. Joachim and Anne for a child; they find comfort in the story of Isaac’s birth to the elderly Abraham and Sarah. Joachim fasts for 40 days and nights; Anna wraps herself in mourning clothes and sits in her garden praying fervently. After angels appear to them both assuring them of a child, Anna runs up to Joachim and, filled with emotion, “hung on his neck” exulting “The Lord has blessed me abundantly!” In joy and gratitude, they promise the child to the Lord and when Anna gives birth and learns it’s a girl, she names her Mary. So fervent was their desire for holiness, that as Mary took her first steps, they vowed not to let her walk on anything impure until she was dedicated to the Temple and so created a ritually sacred space for their beloved daughter. Reflection: James describes Sts. Joachim and Anne as a very human couple who loved God, one another, and their daughter with tenderness and devotion. How might their example be instructive for us in learning how to hear God’s plan for our lives?

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 – In consideration of the Labor Day Holiday weekend, there will be no Agape Hour this week. Please consider using the extra time to relax and we gear up for Bazaar Season at Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church 😊

Harvest Bazaar Donations Needed! – Seeking Christmas Decorations & Jewelry 🎄We are currently collecting gently used Christmas decorations and jewelry. As you begin going through your holiday decorations and perhaps costume jewelry, you’re no longer wearing, please consider setting aside any items you would be willing to part with.  We welcome all donations—large or small—and are so grateful for your support!

Donated items may be brought to the church and left in the first Sunday School room.

If you have any questions, please contact Gena Der Hagopian Willard at  genawillard@aol.com or Alyssa Santerian at apsanterian@gmail.com. Thank you so much for your support!

Meat Preparation – We are also looking for volunteers that are interested in helping to cut meat for the bazaar. This is a great opportunity to come and socialize, swap stories (tall tales) and life experiences while helping to prepare for the bazaar. Anyone interested in helping to cut and prepare the meat for our annual bazaar, please contact Robbie Barone at 610-529-2178.

Member Directory – We are pleased to announce that we have an updated member directory. Please reach out to the office if you would like a printed or digital copy. Please note a verified connection with Holy Trinity will be performed before the directory is released to you.

Renovations – We appreciate your patience as the church renovations are coming to an end. We expect everything to be back to normal prior to our annual bazaar. Please continue to pardon the inconvenience as we make the church safer and welcoming for our parishioners and guests. 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 continued patience and understanding during this process.

~~~~~~~~~~TODAY’S EVENTS~~~~~~~~~~

Paregentan of the Fast of Exaltation
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