Update on St. Hagop of St. Petersburg

The Armenian community in St. Petersburg began 33 years ago. Today, it is nearing completion of its own sanctuary. The delegates on Saturday afternoon received an update from leaders of that parish.

“Today we see the dreams of our members materialize. We see the sanctuary as a guiding beacon which will soon be guiding Armenians through its doors to its altar,” said Parish Council Chairman Arsen Bayandrian, who noted the church will also serve as a way to educate non-Armenians about the community.

Aram Megerian, co-chair of the community’s fund-raising efforts, spoke to the delegates about the growth and the momentum they have seen as the walls have gone up.

“Even some old faces who have been away from the church have reared their heads now that construction has begun,” he said, nothing that attendance at badarak, which is held four times a month, has grown from 30 to 90 people.

The parish has 70 dues-paying members, 400 individuals on the mailing list, and a community of 1,200 Armenians in the region

“I became involved simply because Srpazan asked,” Megerian said. “He asked me because he wanted to infuse the project with youth and energy. I’m working hard with everybody else to bring youth back into this church.”

He noted that the parish has set a goal of conducting 200 home visits to ask for financial help and to ask individuals to commit to coming back to church.

“We need a church and we’re working very hard to make sure we have a church,” Megerian said.

“We are proud of all you are doing. We know it has taken time and that it has not been without financial struggle,” said Fr. Mardiros Chevian, who has been visiting the parish. “I would love to see all of us come to the assistance of our brother and sisters in this community so this church will be not just their church but all of our church as well.”

Delegates, led by Diocesan Council Chairman Oscar Tatosian, then stood to pledge their support.

"Blessed are those who build churches, let us be blessed by God," the Primate said.

Posted by Jake at May 5, 2007 02:42 PM