The latest news and videos from Artsakh
“In everything give thanks. This is what God wants you to do because of Christ Jesus.”
I Thess. 5:18)
November 2020
My Dear friend,
I hope this note will find you and your loved ones well and safe.
I thought I was retired, but I was wrong; I am busier than ever.
We are about to celebrate Thanksgiving. I am sure many of us have mixed feelings. We have the conflict between Azerbaijan and Turkey in Artzakh (Karabagh), the Coronavirus and the deportation of our people from their homes and villages. Humanly speaking, life is becoming unbearable.
As you can see in the videos below, hundreds of thousands are leaving their homes. Some are burning their houses, that they built 20 years ago, not wanting the Azerbaijanis to dwell in them. Datee monastery, which was built by the help of one of the apostles, Thaddeus, was surrendered. The priest, Fr. Hovhannes, whom I met personally, with tears in his eyes, kissing the cross stones said, “I will not leave this place, I will stay to protect the monastery.” A mother, on leaving her house was asked “Do you have anything to say for all of these things that are taking place?” She said, “I see one difference between this deportation with the 1915 deportation, in 1915 our ancestors left their villages by foot, now we are leaving by cars.”
A question arises. How can a person be thankful in all these calamities?
I am sure, the God of our forefathers, hearing and seeing the groaning and the agony of our people will surely come down and rescue them. (Ex. 2:24) The question is How? To be honest with you, I don’t have the answer either. But one thing I know; the nation “Who fear him, trust in the Lord, He will be their help and shield.” (Ps. 115:11)
Meanwhile, we are helping the deportees and mercenaries to find accommodations and supplying their daily needs, to make sure they are comfortable and comforted.
Thanksgiving is almost here, and we have many things to thank God for. Life is not full of roses and sometimes we experience thorns on our pathway, but as I quoted above, Saint Paul says we have to be thankful in everything and in every circumstance.
I personally thank God, who is enabling us, through your prayers and financial support, to soothe our people’s pain and suffering. Just imagine the agony of the parents who lost their children in a war that ended with “surrender.”
We always find that it is easy to thank God when everything is going well but it is not so easy to thank God when everything appears to be going wrong. Our people from Artzakh (Karabagh) are appreciative and thankful to God for all the help that we are privileged to render through you, who are helping us to make it possible. God bless you!
We all know it is hard to be thankful when we go through hardship, but I believe that Romans 8:28 ALWAYS is in effect., “We know that God makes all things work together for the good of those who love Him and are chosen to be a part of His plan.” Sometimes we don’t know how it works, but if we love God, we must accept the fact that He knows how to operate His “business.” I have personally experienced it many times.
Once again, I thank those who are joining us with their prayers and financial support. God bless you. Please, continue praying. It is desperate and urgent!
Wishing you and your loved ones a very Happy, Healthy, Blessed and a joyful Thanksgiving.
Prayerfully, with gratitude,
Archpriest Aram Stepanian
P.S. Your contribution is Tax Deductible.
The final part on the series on faith: "How to gain a God pleasing Faith"
Faith Part 2
Click HERE for the 2nd part of Der Aram’s message on Faith
What does it mean to have God pleasing Faith?
Preached in English and Armenian
Click HERE
The adventurous trip to Artzakh
“How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent?” (Rom. 10:14-15)
February 2020
I greet you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
I just came back from Armenia and Artzakh (Nagorno Karabagh) I truly praise God for this safe trip. When we leave home, or fly abroad, we take it for granted that we will come back safe and sound. This time I did not take it for granted. You will find out below why?
In the above verses Paul stated “And how shall they hear (the Gospel) without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent.”
In this chapter, Paul is emphasizing the importance of believing in God, and the way we would have God pleasing faith is, by hearing or reading His Word, preaching the Word of God, and being sent a preacher to preach. After all, that was the last commission of Jesus to His disciples and to His followers. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. (Matt. 28: 19-20) So, obeying to His command and calling I headed to Armenia. First to secure a new place for our Summer Camp, then to respond to the invitation from Artzakh (Karabagh) “Come over to Macedonia (Artzakh) and help us.” (Acts 16:9) So I promised, and I went.
God graciously provided the orphans a new gorgeous place, where, God willing, we will hold our 11th Summer camp. Please, pray. Then on February 12 we headed to Artzakh. On the way we stopped at the farm and saw the improvement of the building and the business. Praise the Lord. After resting a little bit, at 7:00 P.M. we came to the Armenian Apostolic ecclesiastical hall, which we had purchased some 20 years ago.
The hall was packed. They introduced me to Mr. Masis Mailyan the foreign Minister, who also is a candidate for presidency. God willing, the election will take place on March 31st. (Please pray for him) The response to the Word of God was great. They asked me and later wrote and called asking me to go back this Summer and preach in the stadium, where I had the privileged preaching in 2002. I promised.
The adventurous trip. The next day, it was a sunny day, not even a cloud in the sky. Five of us got in the car, we thanked God for the weather and headed to Yerevan. At the boarder the officer said that the roads were not favorable. We stopped for a while, asked the people who were coming from Yerevan, the boys decided to continue our trip, if we face any obstacles, they said, it was not hard to come back. So, we did.
After driving about two hours, we noticed a gusty wind, but it was drivable. Cars were coming from the opposite side, which assured our skilled driver, Arayig, not to expect any danger. We noticed snow was being blown from the mountains and hills but still was drivable. After one more hour of driving, all of a sudden, we noticed a three feet high and four feet wide pile of snow blocking the road. It was too late to come to a full stop and impossible to cross the “red sea.” Needless to say, we got stuck. The car was hung on half frozen snow, the wheels were not touching the road. The wind was getting stronger and stronger, the visibility was getting very poor. I was told that some 175 cars were stranded. To make the long story short, the military trucks tried to pull us out, people from other cars came out to rescue us but the car was moving nowhere. Just then I was reminded
Paul’s journey to Rome when they faced such a violent storm. (Acts 27:18)
Finally, from the opposite side, a passenger van tried to pass through, he also got stuck. The passengers got out of the van, came to our car, with bare hands began rocking our car until the wheels touched the road, then they pushed the car and Arayig stepped on gas and the car slowly but surely began to roll. Believe it or not, we all thanked God that the van next to us got stock. I remembered Romans 8:28 and said to myself; “That verse is still in action.” “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who] have been called according to his purpose.”
Some nine hours later after we arrived in Yerevan, , I got several calls from Artzakh, the believers were so concerned they kept calling us to make sure we all were ok, because they were warned by the weather department that the ways to Artzakh were shut down and at least for two days no one was to try to travel. We never knew about that warning. For the first time I admitted that I should never take for granted when people say to me; “Have a safe trip.” No wonder James writes, saying (which I always say) “Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” (James 4:13-15)
In conclusion, God is so great, compassionate and caring, regardless of our fraility and ignorance, He is still on the throne and remembers His own. We are not a number for Him but precious, He will keep us as the apple of His eye and will hide us in the shadow of His wings (Ps. 17:8)
We all can’t physically go and preach, teach and reach out helping people, but we can fulfill Jesus’ last Commission sending those who are called to go. “How shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent?” God is equally pleased from the one who has the calling to go and from the one who has the talent to send.
Many thanks to you who sent me with your prayers and financial support. Jesus fulfilled His Commission. May God richly bless you. AMEN!
With gratitude.
Archpriest Aram Stepanian
It is said: “One picture is worth ONE thousand words!”
I am preaching to the Ecclesiastical Armenian Apostolic believers in a hall we purchased 25+ years ago.
I am with Mr. Masis Mailyan the Foreign Minister of Artzakh (Karabagh),who is also a presidential candidate.
Meet Ruben, a 17-year young man whose father was killed. He has a mother and 12 and 14 year old brothers.
He is the only bread winner in the family. He holds two jobs to support his family.
He said, “GIVE ME ANYTHING TO DO, ANYTHING, JUST TO SUPPORT MY FAMILY.” We hired him right away!
I am at the Artzakh bakery, holding a soft, delicious loaf of bread. It’s getting very busy, so we keep hiring people.
There were more than 175 cars and trucks that got stranded in the snow. They sent an Army truck to get us out but were unable to.
This is the scene of the blizzard blowing down the snow off the mountains.
In 2020 will you be happy?
January 2020
ARE YOU A HAPPY PERSON?
Well, the year 2019 is over. Now that American Christmas is over, we, the Armenians, are blessed to have two Christmases to celebrated, December 25 and January 6th. I have no space to explain to you why the 6th? Thank God the merchants are not aware of it, otherwise they would use the opportunity and bombard us with their “Specials” again.
As we confront 2020, I am sure some of us are getting ready to make our New Year’s resolutions. GOOD LUCK TO YOU!
Along with well wishes to each other, we wish “HAPPINESS” most. But what is real happiness? Is that something that comes from outward
circumstances, such as prosperity, position and power? Or we can be happy and have the joy of the Lord regardless of our present conditions and circumstances.
HOW CAN WE BECOME A HAPPY PERSON SOMETHING THAT MONEY CAN’T BUY?
Some of us think that money can buy anything. Contrary. Those who cannot handle money properly become the most miserable people on earth. The more they have, the more they want and that wanting leads them to greediness which makes them unhappy people, so they look for their happiness and satisfaction in other ways.
A few years ago I read an article, about a man who hit the three hundred eighty-million-dollar lottery. He said; “I wish I tore the ticket that day and not cashed the money, which ruined my life and my entire family.”
To my surprise, in TIME Magazine there was an interesting Article with the Title; “The science of happiness.”
I found it very interesting. Everything that the Bible is telling, the scientists are trying to research and scientifically understand and tell us how to apply it in our lives.
Some people are still trying hard to understand God through science. They will never be able to, as Paul writes,
“For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. as it is written, ‘He catches the wise in their craftiness,’ and again, the Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.” (I Cor. 3: 19-20)
The Article starts with series of questions;
“What makes the human heart sing?”
“What makes us happy?”
“What one thing in your life has brought to you the greatest happiness?”
“What are the major sources of happiness?”
Please allow me to ask you a few questions.
Are you now a happy person?
Where do you find your happiness?
What makes you happy?
Some 2000 years ago Jesus gave us the “formula” for THE WAY TO OPTAIN HAPPINESS.
Real HAPPINESS starts from within. A HAPPINESS that will not vanish in poverty or in sickness, or even when you lose your loved ones.
The HAPPINESS that Jesus has promised will not be taken away by any person, power or circumstance.
You must have heard of the “BEATITUDES” which were given by Jesus. There are eight progressive qualities that the Christian must try to achieve.
It is not something that we do to earn HAPPINESS. but something that we allow God to work in us and through us.
Just to give you some hints.
When Jesus preached THE BEATITUDES, in Mathews chapter 5, He gave us the “formula” for how to be HAPPY AND JOYOUS.
Jesus said; “Blessed and happy, to be admired are the poor in spirit.” (Amp. translation)
What did Jesus mean by saying “Poor in spirit”?
To be poor in spirit means wanting God, in everything, depending and relying upon God. The Bible says, we cannot be saved from our sins and expect to go to heaven by trying to be a good person, serving God and even financially helping others. (Romans. 3:24-28) That is what Jesus said; to be poor in spirit means is, “To love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and strength.” (Matt. 22:36)
Scientist has found a gene in the Human brain cells that makes the person “Searching for a Supreme being, God.” Think about this.
The second formula Jesus gave was, to mourn over our sins.
“Blessed and happy are those who mourn for their sins repent and find forgiveness (Matt.4:5) You cannot imagine how burdensome unconfessed sin is. Just try once, go to God, admit the fact that you are a sinner, confess your sins and ask forgiveness through Jesus Christ
see how “You will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” (phil. 4:7)
I will give you one more “formula” that Jesus, the source of happiness gave us.
“Blessed inwardly peaceful, spiritually secure, are those who are gentle, kind-hearted, the sweet-spirited, the self-controlled, for they will inherit the earth.” (Matt. 5:5)
If we want to obtain happiness and peace of heart, we have to be HUMBLE AND MEEK IN HEART, toward others, just like a child, forgiving “their trespasses against us.” I know It is not easy, but it is not impossible with God. If we allow Him to work in our hearts. The more we hold a grudge in our hearts toward others, the more miserable we become.
Try these God given formulas. You might like them. You have nothing to lose except happiness and peace.
Sorry, I don’t have the space to go over all the eight blessings that Jesus gave, I suggest you read the Gospel of Mathews chapter 5.
During 2020 I wish you and your loved ones a very Christ given Happiness.
✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞✞
WHAT IS CHRISTMAS?
(No, is not a typo. Armenian Christmas.)
GOD IS WITH US
“What more can we ask?” The apostle Paul says: “If God is for us, who can ever be against us?” (Rom. 8:31)
As we are witnessing these days, politicians are against each other, nations are against nations and people are against the authorities. Sometimes we see even the authorities finding themselves defenseless.
I am sure, sometimes, one way or another, we all have felt lonely and isolated, thinking that people are against us and no one cares for us.
Cheer up! Christmas is the time to once again remind ourselves that God, through His Son Jesus Christ, has assured us that in spite of our disobedience He has promised to be with us and live in us. What a great promise and affirmation that the Creator, the Almighty, the all-powerful ONE some 750 years before Christ, promised, with an infallible promise, that, God would send His Son Jesus to assure us that He would be with us and, if we allow Him, He will also dwell in us. God told Isaiah to write something that still some people today do not believe: “The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God is with us.” (Is. 7:14) (Please read and compare with Mathews 1:23) Even when the angel told Mary “[She would] be with a child and give birth to a son, and [she would] give Him the name JESUS,” even Mary, being a devoted young girl questioned, “How will this be, since I am a virgin.” The angel answered, “[Mary,] nothing is impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37)
My dear friend, this is our problem these days: We forget that Christmas is more than exchanging gifts and having parties.
A_ As we celebrate (the Armenian) Christmas, we MUST remember that God Himself came down incarnated, became just like us in order to save us from our sins, understand our sorrows, pains and afflictions and by becoming our “IMMANUEL” to do the impossible for us. Paul says; “Though He (Jesus) was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, He gave up His divine privileges; He took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, He humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.” (Phil. 2:6-8) Yes, Jesus was born in order to be crucified just for YOU! Can you imagine a greater love than this? Every Sunday the Armenian church confirms this by reciting the Creed; “Who (that is Jesus) for us, mankind, and for our salvation came down from heaven, was incarnate, became man, was born perfectly of the holy virgin Mary by the Holy Spirit. By whom He took body, soul and mind and everything that is in man, truly and not in semblance.” (The Nicene Creed)
B. _ During this (Armenian) Christmas, if you allow Him, God wants to become closer to you, to be your IMMANUEL” and live in you. Jesus said: “All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them.” (John 14:23) When Jesus was about to be born, the Bible says that, “And [Mary] brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:7)
Won’t you open your heart and make room for Jesus this Christmas? After all, He is your Creator and wants to be your IMMANUEL?
Wishing you and to your loved ones a very Happy, Healthy and a blessed Christmas.
Prayerfully,
Rev. Fr. Archpriest Aram Stepanian
P.S. Your contribution is Tax deductible
Summer Camp for our Orphans 2019 - July 13th - 21st
EASTER 2019
April 2019
From the day Jesus was raised from the dead, sceptics still ask the question, “was Jesus really raised from the dead? How can a dead person be raised?” They must have asked this question the Apostle Paul, and the apostle brings an example from nature. He writes. “But someone will ask, “How are the dead raised? With what kind of body will they come?” How foolish! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies. When you sow, you do not plant the body that will be, but just a seed, perhaps of wheat or of something else. But God gives it a body as he has determined, and to each kind of seed he gives its own body.” (II Cor. 15:35-38)
From the first Easter until now, the Christian faith has moved forward based on the fact that Jesus Christ indeed was raised from the dead, and that was not done in secrecy. The Roman soldiers witnessed it, the women who came to anoint His body witnessed it, the apostles saw Him after His resurrection and, according to the Scripture, He appeared to more than 500 people. (I Cor. 15:6) Beside this, whenever people met the historic Jesus their lives were changed. And this transforming influence of a risen Jesus did not fade out in the first century, but ever since it has left a trail of changed lives.
Paul, who had witnessed Saint Stephen’s martyrdom for the sake of Jesus’ resurrection, kept persecuting Christians. On the way to Damascus, when he met the resurrected Jesus, he asked the question, “Who are you Lord?”
Paul did not believe that the person who was crucified and buried was raised from the dead. I am sure it was a shocking experience for Paul, and when he committed his life to the resurrected Jesus Christ, his life was transformed and after that he did not stop preaching, talking and writing on the resurrection of Jesus. They called him “crazy, lunatic, out of his mind,” they stoned him, tortured him and they put him in jail, but the message of resurrection thundered to the jailers, inmates, kings and Caesar. How can a dead person motivate and inspire millions to give their lives for Him if He was still dead, buried and was not alive?
To be very honest with you, people in past and present wish that Jesus was not raised from the dead. Do you know why? Because once they believe and accept that Jesus was raised from the dead, then the series of questions will haunt them. Why was He incarnated, why was He crucified, and now that He is alive what am I supposed to do? What are my responsivities to Him?
Every Sunday the Armenian Church by singing Psalm 34:8, invites the parishioners to “Taste and see that the Lord is good. Alleluia!” (“Jashagetzek yev desek zee kaghtsr e Der, alelooya.”) Have you tasted the power of His resurrection, have you accepted the fact that Jesus gave His life and was raised from the tomb in order for you to have eternal life?
My dear friend, the risen Jesus has given us purpose and meaning in this chaotic world, with its empty promises. He has given us the solution to the guilt problem, with His forgiveness on the cross. Jesus purchased us by His precious blood. (Rev. 5:9) He has given us hope for the future, by conquering death. During Easter, we sing; “Christ is risen from the dead! He conquered death and with His resurrection He granted life to us. Glory be to Him forever. Amen!” Paul writes, “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” (I Cor. 15:55)
My friend, if you haven’t done so yet, as you are getting ready to celebrate Easter, let the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ fill your heart with hope, joy and peace, and discover for yourself that Jesus is the answer to the questions of your life, and let Him give you a new everlasting meaning for your life. Make Him Lord of your life.
With this firm belief and with the hope of the Resurrection, I wish you and your loved ones a very Happy and a Blessed Easter.
Krisdos Haryav ee Merelots
Christ is risen from the dead
Orhnyal eh Harootyoonun Krisdosi
Blessed is the Resurrection of Christ
MARCH 2019
“Leave your fatherless children; I will keep them alive.
Your widows too can depend on me.”
(God said in Jeramiah 49:11)
March 2019
Dear Co-laborer,
I greet you in the name of our lord Jesus Christ. I hope this letter will find you and your loved ones well.
Since the establishment of THE VOICE OF THE ARMENAIN CHURCH, in 1984, I have NEVER written a “fund raising” letter like this one.
You may have known that the foundation is a nonprofit, charitable organization, 501(c)(3). The organization was very much involved in helping the victims of the devastating earthquake, which took place in 1988, taking more than 25,000 precious lives and leaving behind thousands of handicaps. By the help of God, “Voice” was channeled to bring many victims to the US, placing them in hospitals, rehabs and homes to be cared for. We had Susan, from Gyumri, a 28-year-old girl, who had lost her husband, her child and her two legs. She was hung head down for three days under the rubble. By the help of God, we found compassionate doctors and therapists and after 6 months Susan was able to walk and dance with her prostheses legs and was sent back to Gyumri to help the handicaps like her. I witnessed her climbing her fourth-floor house without any help. THANK GOD! We helped send hospital equipment, medicine, clothing and goods to Armenia. We prepared “The earthquake that shook the world” video. Condensed from thousands of footages. We started a building program, (like Habitat for humanity) taking with us young volunteers to help build houses. Later, when building material cost skyrocketed, we began purchasing flats, like condos, to provide housing for desperately needy families. When people needed surgery and hospitalization, we helped to cover the cost of surgery and care. We provide scholarships to needy students, heat and gas to families who cannot afford to pay the cost. I must say here, we never donate money to anyone or family, we pay the bills directly to the institution and we do not have any one on a payroll, here in US or in Armenia. we all are volunteers, dedicated to help like “the good Samaritan” We help the handicap, like Vartan. Siranoosh, mother of six children, father has abandoned them, one of siblings Vartan, was born healthy but at age 2 the doctors gave him a vaccine which left him invalid. Though Vartan is 18 years old now but he cannot talk, walk or even eat properly. Vartan still lives in diapers. Always smiling a happy young man. In Gyumri, we are in planning to start a weaving carpets and rugs BY BLIND PEOPLE. We have an “Agape Meal” ministry. Every Sunday elderly walk miles to come to church. They come fasting in order to take Communion. After church service we give them hut meals, and sometimes our own orphans serve their “dadigs and mamigs”
For 10 years, God has given us the privilege to run the “Summer Camp For our orphans” program, where we gather from all over 75 plus of the neediest children, from 10 to 16 years of age we bring them to a beautiful Summer resort in Dzaghgatzor, where three kids to a room have their own bath. Every year I baptize from 15 to 30 children and adults. After the “Big Family” (Camp) program is over, each Sunday, the counselors take groups to local churches. After church service they have Bible study and a day filled with fun. We just finished renovating a rundown school in Churahovid. Recently we got engaged in helping the farmers who, because of lack of work, were leaving their villages. We purchased 18 acres of farmland with a bakery, buildings suitable to raise cows, sheep, goats, beehives and grow vegetation. At this writing, we are projecting to provide jobs for more than 50 families in Mardagert, (Karabagh) region. As I said above, all are done by volunteers, we have no overhead or administration cost.
A question often is asked: “Der Aram, why are you doing all these projects without a financial reward, and how long are you planning to continue?” The answer is very simple and clear. When we help and serve people not only are we helping the needy and the afflicted, but we are doing the will of GOD by becoming HIS hands. Jesus always had compassion on those who were hungry, sick, neglected and forgotten by people. We are simply and humbly following HIS command.
Jesus said: “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, to the extent that you did it for one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it for Me.” (Matt. 25:40)
Why am I reporting all this?
I am sure you get a lot of letters like this, asking financial help. Sometimes you donate and sometimes you tear the letter up and throw it away. I don’t know why, but I was led to write this letter to you.
The Ministry unexpectedly and rapidly is expending. Thank God! That is why I asked to be released from pastoring position. Our Annual budget is now over $150,000.00 (One hundred and Fifty Thousand dollars) We don’t have big organizations to help us financially, we trust God and depend on compassionate people like you. In order not to lose the opportunity and close the deal in Karabagh farm land, I had to borrow $30,000.00. Please, reach us in order for us to reach others. Thanks.
I believe in the power of prayer. Most of the time I have taken the steps with prayer BEFORE I have secured the finances. And God faithfully has supplied the needs of HIS people because;
“God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them.”
(Heb. 6:10)
I ask you to pray and if you are led by God then please, fill up the below stub, make checks payable to: The Voice of the Armenian Church, Inc. and return it in the self-addressed envelope. Your donation is Tax exempt.
Thank you for reading this report. May God richly bless you and supply ALL your daily: physical, spiritual and financial needs.
Prayerfully,
Rev. Fr. Archpriest Aram Stepanian.
Published in “CROSSROAD” by Easters Armenian Prelacy of America.
Archpriest Fr. Aram Stepanian celebrates his final Badarak on January 6 as pastor of St. Stephen Church of New Britain and Hartford.
“The Religious and Executive Councils of the Eastern Prelacy announced the retirement of Archpriest Fr. Aram Stepanian, long time pastor of Saint Asdvadzadzin Church of Whitinsville, and for the past several years pastor of St. Stephen Church of New Britain, Connecticut. Der Aram will serve the Prelacy as an outreach priest and will continue his growing charitable endeavors in Armenia and Artsakh that include preaching the Gospel, organizing a summer camp for orphans, supporting local projects that increase jobs especially in rural areas, renovating schools, building homes, supporting orphanages, and providing educational opportunities, such as English classes for students who will be applying to colleges and universities where familiarity with English is necessary.
Aram Stepanian was born in Der el Zor, Syria. His family moved to Aleppo in 1945 where he received his elementary education and where he served as an acolyte in the local church. In 1957, he went to Lebanon, where he devoted himself to the study of Theology at the Theological Seminary from where he graduated in 1961. He continued his studies at the Bible College of Wales. In 1962 he came to the United States and settled in the Boston area where he retained close ties with the Armenian Apostolic Church, most notably with St. Stephen Church and Sunday School of Watertown.
In 1967 he was ordained a deacon by the Prelate, Archbishop Hrant Khatchadourian of blessed memory. From that time on his duties and responsibilities in the religious life of the community increasingly grew. Der Aram was ordained to the priesthood twenty years ago on January 9, 1999 by the Prelate Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan. Der Aram was a familiar face and voice, because for many years prior to his ordination he often served as a guest preacher and lecturer around the world.
We wish Der Hayr and Yeretzgin Margaret continued success in their mission of service to the Armenian Church, the Eastern Prelacy, Armenia and Artsakh. For information about their charitable work in Armenia and Artsakh contact The Voice of the Armenian Church, Inc., P.O. Box 321, Sutton, Massachusetts 01590 or email to aramstep2@gmail.com.”
SUMMER CAMP FOR OUR ORPHANS JULY 13 - 21ST 2019
Summer Camp for our Orphans 2019 - July 13th - 21st God willing this will be the 10th year of doing our summer camp. We provide a safe and Spiritual getaway for hand picked children that have needs beyond most of our understandings. Some as simple as learning to use utensils. They are provided meals, clothes, basic necessities, fellowship and FUN!
Year after year the number of children grows as the word spreads of this unforgettable experience.
God is always good!
It’s with the help of donations, not only financial, that keeps this yearly event going. I have promised the children when they ask, “will there be camp next year?”, that as long as I am standing, there will be camp.
If you have access to (new) items to donate, please contact me to discuss what you can contribute. Of course you can donate through this site or by sending a check to the address on the contact page. 100% of contributions go to funding housing, fuel, everyday needs and of course our orphans.
September 2018 Report
“Come and see what our God has done,
what awesome miracles He performs for [our] people!”
(Ps. 66:5)
September 2018
My dear friend of ‘THE VOICE,”
The Summer is almost over and very soon we will turn our heaters on. We will forget the record breaking heat we have been having.
Some of us had good Summer, yet, unfortunately others have experienced unexpected. Illness, death and suffering. Unfortunately, we are living in an imperfect world, a world which was cursed because of sin. (Gen. 3:17) Some of us have many unanswered questions; “Why me?” And as I look around, hear of my friends and family members sick and afflicted, I ask the question “How come not me?”
Margaret and I flew all the way to California, just for 2 days to see our very dear friend suffering from the cursed disease, cancer, and came back and heard of another one afflicted from the same disease. As life goes on, and I am not getting younger, I have changed my way of thinking about life. I am no longer counting the years I lived, how old I am, but how close I am to my final destination, to face the Lord and be accountable for the life and the gifts God gave to be used for humanity and for His glory.
I remind myself of the words of the wisest man, Solomon. “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, “I find no pleasure in them”…”Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.” (Ecc. 9:10 &12:1)
I personally praise God for the very busy and fruitful Summer we had. The Summer Camp (the Big Family) was the most successful and the best ever we had. Almost 75 orphans, from 10 to 16, came and got the taste of the Lord’s love. Their lives were changed and they went back promising to pass it on to their loved ones.
Ardone writes: “I have never been to camp before. This was my first time. I thought that I would not fit in with others, but everyone was so nice to me, they helped me feel comfortable. There was only one day left and I don’t want to go back.” One of the counselors wrote: “Now that I am leaving the Camp, I am leaving a part of my heart behind, the part which will be full of good memories. Though I was a counselor in this Camp, I enjoyed as much as the children did. I learned not only about God and His love but how to behave myself and live a Godly life. Thanks to Der Hayr and the sponsors of this Camp.”
I don’t have the space to quote many praises and heartfelt expressions, but overall I must say that, God is so good that He gave us the privilege and the honor to be part of this Ministry and the credit also goes to you who prayed and financially supported this God pleasing ministry. God bless you and also supply ALL your daily needs in Christ Jesus. AMEN!
SURPRISES, SURPRISES, SURPRISES.
As they say, “God works in mysterious ways.” But sometimes, I say, He surprises us and works in supernatural ways.
As you know, beside the spiritual Ministry, that is evangelizing around the world, pastoring, preaching, teaching and the Summer Camp, God, with His mercy also has opened many doors to help the needy in Armenia. Let’s not forget, Jesus not only provided the spiritual needs of the people, but He also provided their physical needs; heeling the sick, feeding the crowd of thousands and He asked us to continue His Ministry. “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ ( Matt. 25:35-40)
For more than two years now. I have been working, with many groups who are experts in businesses and in helping the farmers. We have spent countless days and hours, driven hundreds of miles, met with farmers and mayors just to find the best ways and means to help the neglected farmers who have left their homes and gone to foreign countries in order to provide the basic needs of their families. I have seen myself the vacant houses. A young man Armen, whom I knew when he was only 10, told me: “Der Hayr, do you see these empty house they are my neighbors homes and they asked me, “Armen, please, watch over our houses, hopefully someday we will come back.”
And this year when I visited Armen’s village, I noticed some of the neighbors had come back. Armen told me. “Der Hayr, because of the drastic change in our political system and the peaceful revolution we had, they have confidence and hope and are coming back.” I said to Armen, “Now that they are back how can we help to keep them here? I have been thinking and planning to help the farmers.”
I asked Armen to have a meeting with the mayor of the village and the farmers and inform me of the best way to help them. I met with the Mayor and asked him to do the same thing. They did not lose time, they got together and discussed raising cows, goats, sheep, poultry and green houses. They came up with this plan.
There is a risk in dealing with livestock, any livestock, to provide them the proper nutrition, to take care of their health Winter and Summer. Marketing them we would be taking a risk, and we don’t see taking that risk they said.. The best and most productive and practical business for us would be to have green houses, where we can grow anything the local families need and marketing them is much easier then meat.
I asked Armen to send me the plans and pictures of the greenhouses they were referring to. Armen did not lose time, as you can see he immediately sent me the pictures and the plans.
Each greenhouse will cost $5,000.00 (Five Thousand Dollars) which will support a family of five, they will write an agreement and a promissory Note, which will say that the greenhouse is not a donation to them, (This will make them responsible and accountable) and they promise to pay back the $5,000.00 within four years. They gave me in details, what they will plant, the income and how much they will pay back annually. “Wow” I said to myself, “These farmers know their business, they had the opportunity to ask anything they wanted but they picked the best, practical and the most productive business.” I immediately got in touch with my businessmen team and asked them to study this matter. After having several meeting with Armen, villagers and mayors, they also came tothe conclusion that it was the best way to support the farmers of this village and help them to return to their own houses.
Incidentally, I MUST mention here that Armen is NOT going to be one of the recipient. He, along with his brother and father already have their own farming business, ARMEN IS HELPING US TO BRING HIS NEIGHBORS BACK HOME, THAT IS WHY HE IS ASSISTING US VOLUTARILY TO ACOMPLISH THIS PROJECT.
During one of the meetings the mayor asked, “Der Hayr, do you have the time to see our school, where our children are educated?” I said “Sure” they took me to the local school Outside, as you can see the building is very impressive and solid, but when I saw inside I did not believe that the facility would be operative in the present rundown condition. Armen said, “Der Hayr, every day my mother comes and cooks for the 185 children.” I tried to hold my tears back and left the facility promising the mayor, by the help of God, I will do my best to help them.
I was reminded of the words of Saint Paul; “For a great and effective door has opened to me.” (Cor. 16:9) I never expected. As I said, God not only works in mysterious ways but in supernatural ways.
At this writing my volunteer staff and I are working on the following projects.
✟ Every Sunday taking to church a group of the children who attended the Camp. After church service holding Bible studies, and having fellowship. This way they will keep the bond year around.
✟ To prepare meals and serve our elders in the Nursing homes (This is a new ministry)
✟ To continue the “Agape Meal” Ministry.
✟ To continue providing scholarship to needy students.
✟ To continue providing heat, gas and electricity to needy families.
✟ Before winter hits to build five greenhouses and start renovating the school.
To complete the 2 floor renovation of the school with kitchen and bathrooms, $50,000.00.
✟ Farming and business experts have already visited the villages, all the way to Artzakh
(Karabagh), met with farmers and village mayors to discus and plan for more
farming projects. As I said, because of the change in Government regime, the
farmers are returning to their villages. HALLELUJAH!
✟Now, that the English language is a second language in Armenia, and is mandatory
to be accepted into colleges or universities, we decided to have preliminary English
classes. We already have dedicated VOLUNTEER teachers who came forth to take on
this very important task. Praise the LORD!
We have already rented a facility with rooms and a kitchen where they would be
preparing the meals for the elderly and hold their classes. (See the picture) They are excited!
The doors of opportunities are wide open, and the LORD is telling us: “Enlarge the
place of your tent, And let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; Do
not spare; Lengthen your cords And strengthen your stakes.” ( Is. 54:2)
And that’s what we are doing trusting in our heavenly Father and taking every step by faith.
When Israelites faced the Red sea with the enemy from behind, God told Moses, “Tell the Israelites to move on. Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground.” Then we read, “So the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea on the dry ground, and the waters were a wall to them on their right hand and on their left.” (Ex.14: 15,22)
That is what I am doing, through your prayers and your financial support I am boldly taking these God pleasing steps relying on His promise: The infallible Bible says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart… and He will make your paths straight.”(Pr.3:5)
A HEARTFELT PERSONAL THANKS TO YOU MY CO-LABORER GOD BLESS YOU!
We have just established a nonprofit, charitable organization in Armenia.
“HOOYS AND LOOYS.” (Hope and Light)
Please, continue to pray and do whatever you can to help us accomplish this God pleasing Mission for the glory of God and for the benefit of HIS children. AMEN!
Prayerfully,
Fr. Aram Stepanian
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