THE SUNDAY MESSENGER
March 15, 2026

Sunday of the Judge

Scripture Notes for Today’s Readings

Luke 17:20-18:14 Jesus describes the Second Coming as a time like any other in some ways, with people in pursuit of their usual pleasures; joys as well as suffering continue. Yet we learn that His Coming will be as bold as a bolt of lightning. We cannot be prepared for it if we have not lived all along as God’s devoted children; if we haven’t, we will be reluctant to leave behind earthly pre-occupations for heavenly ones. This description is immediately followed by The Parable of the Unjust Judge (or Persistent Widow). See below for more on this parable and reflection questions. Discuss/reflect: How does Jesus’ example of Lot’s wife looking back clarify the meaning of verse 33: “whoever tries to keep their life will lose it and whoever loses their life will preserve it”?

Philippians 3:1-4:9 “Rejoice in the Lord!” St. Paul declares, since all that once was valued is nothing, rubbish (lit: dung;3:8) compared to knowing Jesus. A life for those who eschew earthly things for a glorious “citizenship in heaven” is marked by joy, gratitude, a worry-free serenity. And a peace from God that “transcends all understanding.” (4:7) Discuss/reflect: How would you finish the sentence in v.13 as you try to draw ever closer to Christ: “…one thing I do:______.”

Isaiah 65:8-25 In prophesying to postexilic Israel, Isaiah shares God’s promises of judgment to the disobedient but salvation and renewal to the faithful – a world where there will no longer be tears and where the wolf and the lamb will peacefully co-exist. Discuss/reflect: “I called and you did not answer…I spoke and you did not listen…you chose what displeases me…” (v.12) In some ways, could this describe you? How?

Sunday of the Judge To underscore the importance of prayer, Jesus tells the parable of an unjust judge who neglects the pleas of a poor widow until, tired of her persistence, he hands down a decision and sends her away. Just as Jesus used the example of a less-than-virtuous-steward (last Sunday’s Lenten lesson), he now uses the example of an exasperated, self-centered judge. If he submits to the supplication of the widow, won’t a merciful, loving God hear and respond to our needs? Prayer is one of the essential ways we grow closer to God. It was the only thing the disciples asked Jesus to teach them! Reflection: When do you pray? Only at certain times? When you feel angry or sad? Thankful? Memorize Thessalonians 5:16-18 as a good mantra for prayerful living.

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.

Saintly Women’s Day – The annual program will be presented this year by St Sahag & St Mesrob’s Church, Wynnewood on Saturday, March 21. The service is at 11:30 & our Der Hakob will be a  presenter. Lunch will be at noon followed by the program at 12:45. Following the speaker, there will be a panel with Der Hayr & Yn Ana. The cost is $30. Please call 610-937-1187 to make a reservation. You should have also received an email with details and additional ways to register. We hope to see you there.

Lent 2026 – Our Adult Christian Education (ACE) team has two more Zoom programs remaining in its Lenten series this year. These include “Frequently Asked Questions on the Badarak,” moderated by Dn. Armen Terjimanian on Friday, March 13 and “Take the Light: Reflections on God’s Love in our Lives” presented by senior deacon Albert Keshgegian who will discuss his latest publication (available in our bookstore).  Both Zooms will be held on Friday evenings from 7:00 to 8:00. Our faithful are encouraged to check their inbox for the Zoom link.(04/22)

ASA Scholarship Applications Now Open – The Armenian Students’ Association of America (ASA) is now accepting applications for its Scholarships, as well as the Silver and Gold Medal Awards. Eligible students of Armenian descent are encouraged to apply. For eligibility requirements and application details, please visit www.asainc.org. The application deadline is April 1.(04/01)

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~~~~~~~~~~

Sunday of the Judge
Lenten Drive Fundraiser With Vartanatz Presentation Video

Join us after Badarak to watch the video of the church school Vartanatz presentation that many missed two weeks ago due to the blizzard forecast and help us raise funds to support TOGETHER ON STAGE a collaboration with one of FARS long time partners The Center for Children with Learning Disabilities in Armenia. This beautiful project promotes inclusion, challenges stereotypes, and helps children of all ability levels build confidence and creative independence. GoFARwithAYO!

 With your $5 or more donation, enjoy a bag of freshly popped popcorn and the show!

Mar 13         Zoom FAQs on the Badarak: Dn. Armen Terjimanian
Mar 27         Zoom Book Presentation: Dn. Albert Keshgegian
Mar 29         Palm Sunday
Apr 02         Holy Thursday
Apr 03         Holy Friday
Apr 04         Easter Eve and Fellowship
Apr 05         Easter
Apr 25         Armenian Heritage Walk