THE SUNDAY MESSENGER
February 9, 2025

Third Sunday after the Octave of Theophany

Scripture Notes For Today’s Readings: 

John 6:15-21 In this account of Jesus’ miracle of walking on the water, he assures his terrified disciples: “It is I; don’t be afraid.”(v.20). The original Greek is a more powerful construction, namely, “I AM,” echoing God’s very same self-identification to Moses at the burning bush.

2 Tim 2:15-26 Timothy describes the life of righteousness and love for all ministers in God’s service. To counter false teachings, he suggests instructing people gently so that their hearts might open to God’s truth.

Is 61:10-62:9 Isaiah describes God’s redemptive promises to the Israelites who have returned from a long and painful exile. Now they will be acknowledged by all as a blessed, priestly people of God, clothed in “garments of salvation” and “robes of righteousness.”(v.10). These images are echoed in the Armenian rites of baptism and ordination as well as in the priest’s vesting prayers before the Divine Liturgy.

Saturday, February 15: St. Sarkis the Warrior

“Warrior” might seem a curious word for describing a saint! And yet the imagery of spiritual warfare is deeply biblical. There were also many soldiers and generals (St Vartan) who fought for their faith, standing firm and courageous for Christ. Sarkis was a soldier of Greek descent in Emperor Constantine’s army. When Emperor Julian took the throne in 361, he began to zealously promote traditional Roman paganism instead of the Christian faith legitimized by Emperor Constantine in 313. This earned him the title “Apostate.” Under threat of persecution, Sarkis and his son Mardiros sought the protection of King Tiran of Armenia. From there, he went to serve in the Persian army, where he and his son won many converts to Christianity. When they refused to worship pagan idols, father and son were martyred. Fourteen Persian soldiers whom Sarkis had converted to Christianity risked their lives to bury the general’s body and they too were executed. In the fifth century, Mesrob Mashdotz moved the saint’s remains to Armenia.

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.

Requiem Services – Hokehankist Today Will Be For

• Sooren & Mary Paretchan and Judy Paretchan. Requested in loving memory by Robert & Diane Paretchan, Donald Paretchan, Michael & Tanya Paretchan, and Families.
• Julieta Arakelova requested in loving memory by the Melikyan Family.

Alter Flowers are donated today by the Paretchan Families in memory of their loved ones.

Annual Parish Assembly is Scheduled for February 16, 2025 with alternate snow dates of February 23 or March 9.

Understanding our Sharagans – A Simultaneous Translation:  Our Adult Christian Education ministry is pleased to offer an enlightening experience for our faithful intended to deepen their understanding of the hymns of the Liturgy. On February 16, while Dn. Albert Keshgegian speaks the lyrics of the hymns in English, our choir will sing them acapella in Armenian. The effect will touch your heart! The sharagans—intended to be sung by the people—contain some of the most profound teachings of our faith.(02/09)

Poon Paregentan Celebration – Join us for a joyful Day of Good Living on Sunday March 2nd! Let us gather to share good food, games, uplifting music and a wonderful time together before entering the season of Lent. Festivities start at 12:30pm in Santerian Fellowship Hall. Church School Students are free. All others $15/per person. Purchase your tickets at the Church School Office or on the Church Website Holytrinity-pa.org from Feb 2nd to Feb 23rd. (02/23)

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.

Feb 12         Weekly Bible Study
Feb 13         Church Office Closed for Deliveries and Pick-Ups
Feb 16         Annual Parish Assembly
Mar 02        Poon Paregentan Party
Mar 05        Lent Begins
Mar 06        Zoom Book Club

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.(03-02)