Seminarians and Dean Travel to Cambridge, MA for Palm Sunday
Over the Palm Sunday weekend, Fr. Mardiros Chevian, Dean, and the seminarians traveled to Holy Trinity Armenian Church in Cambridge, Massachusetts, at the invitation of Fr. Vasken Kouzouian, pastor and seminary alumnus.
The visit began on Friday with a tour of the Armenian Museum and Library of America in Watertown, where the group explored its rich and extensive collection of Armenian history and culture. They then visited the Armenian Heritage Park in Boston before gathering in the evening for dinner with Der Vasken and members of the Holy Trinity Parish Council.
On Saturday, March 28, the seminarians worked closely with newly ordained deacons, offering hands-on training in the sacred services of Holy Week, including the preparation of nshkhars. In the evening, three seminarians presented a program to deepen the understanding of the Church’s most sacred days, “Walk Through Holy Week”, followed by dinner and fellowship with the parishioners.
On Sunday, Der Mardiros celebrated Badarak, and Dn. Arin Parsanian delivered the sermon on the message of Palm Sunday for our lives today. Seminarians participated throughout the morning by singing in the choir, serving at the altar, and teaching in the Sunday School.
Following Divine Liturgy, during the ACYOA Day Palm Sunday Banquet, Dn. Karo Boyadzyan reflected on the symbolism of Palm Sunday and how the youth have God-given gifts to make the world a better place. More than 70 members of the parish’s ACYOA Juniors and Seniors took part in the ACYOA 80th anniversary celebration.
Fr. Mardiros offered the closing remarks and benediction. He warmly accepted a check presented on behalf of the parish for the new Fr. Mardiros Chevian St. Nersess Deacons’ Training Program in Jerusalem Fund.
“It was a joy to meet the parishioners of Holy Trinity, sing in the choir during Badarak, and deliver the Palm Sunday sermon,” said Dn. Arin Parsanian. “I am grateful to God for the opportunity to connect with the faithful of the greater Boston area and thankful to Der Vasken and Yn. Arpi for their warm hospitality and thoughtful planning.”
