Council report

Thursday evening delegates heard from Oscar Tatosian, chairman of the Diocesan Council, who spoke about the events and successes of the Diocesan ministries and programs.

Delegates asked the Diocesan Council about preliminary investigation into the use of the air rights of the Diocesan Center. Tatosian said there was no decision, but a general introductory study into the possible use of the air rights based on Council’s fiduciary responsibility. Jim Kalustian, Diocesan Council treasurer, noted that air rights do not necessarily have to be build on a site but can be used in construction in neighboring plots.

Tatosian was also asked about a lawsuit involving an estate which was successfully challenged by the heirs of the deceased. The woman planned to leave her property in Orange County, NY, for use as a camp for Armenian children, however she died before the final papers could be drawn up. The heirs successfully contested the will.

Delegates also asked about a fund established for a lecture series in memory of Dr. Hagop Nerssoyan. They money is used to provide lectures at St. Nersess Seminary in New Rochelle, NY.

Delegates asked the Council about last year’s budget plan which included five youth leaders which were to be based in the regions of the Diocese. Kalustian said one youth leader has been hired, and the question would be discussed later when the 2008 budget is introduced.

When asked about the status of the Diocesan collection of Gorky paintings, Diocesan Council Secretary Lillian Chapian said there has been no new actions taken other than the restoration of 11 works, which was funded by the Gulbankian Foundation. The report from the firm hired to restore the works outlined the need to assure a temperature controlled facility for the homes to be exhibited in Holy Etchmiadzin. The paintings continue to be loaned to museums, most recently in Fresno, the Whitney in New York City, and in Texas.

When asked if the Council was looking to hire a new Executive Director, the Council said it was but thought the hiring of a new financial director and stewardship director has given the organization help. “It seems as if with the addition of these two qualified executives and the Diocesan Vicar there is a sense of momentum at the Diocesan Center,” Tatosian said.

Delegates asked about Diocesan efforts to minister to soldiers and veterans. Fr. Yeprem Kelegian, Diocesan Council member, said a letter was sent out to all parishes asking for military address of all soldiers in harms way and their families information.

“As we know families are suffering too, with their loved ones off,” he said, noting that he was waiting for substantial response. “We’re also preparing outreach material for pastors, because we have soldiers coming back with things like post-traumatic stress. Providing resources for our pastors to know where to go. This is something that is heavy on my heart.”

In looking at the proposed budget, delegates asked for details on how the Diocese was funding ecumenical efforts. The budget for the Legate is found in a line item under the office of the Primate; it is about $100,000 a year.

Delegates also asked the Council about a new effort to utilize St. Vartan Cathedral plaza. The Diocese has been in negotiations with a catering company which has run cafes in churches. As of now, there is nothing operating on the plaza.

“We’re taking a look at establishing something that would give Armenians who travel into the city for worship to stay and have fellowship,” said Michael O’Hurley-Pitts, director of Stewardship and Development. “We want to provide a revenue stream and provide an outreach effort to raise awareness of the Armenian community. If we do something our primary concern is first and foremost we are a place of worship and food will not be served on Sunday or during any other service. This would be at the service of the Diocese if it is something we can bring to fruition.”

Posted by Jake at May 3, 2007 08:40 PM