On Thursday, October 9, 2008, our Parish had its annual organizational meeting with all Auxiliaries to discuss a variety of topics such as the church’s policies and procedures, the needs and concerns of each organization, as well as notification of each other’s upcoming events and projects for the year 2008 – 2009.

            The meeting opened with a prayer and remarks by Very Rev. Fr. Vahan Hovhanessian, followed by welcome and observations by Parish Council Chairman, Michael Zohrabian. One of the main topics discussed that evening was the Church’s Policies and Procedures by Dn. Frank Kabarajian as well as the Church’s Calendar of Events by our Secretary Mariam Vakilian.

            It is with great pleasure that we remind our faithful parishioners once again of the following upcoming events for the reminder of the current year of 2008:

-     November 9, 2008: 50^th Anniversary Gala Dinner-Dance.

-     November 16, 2008: Shnorhali Choral Group at Philadelphia, PA.

-     December 10, 2008: Women’s Guild Christmas Luncheon.

-     December 31, 2008: New Year’s Eve Celebration by HMADS.

As a reminder, your Parish membership dues and your Auxiliary’s Assessment are now due and payable. I would like also to let you know about two Parish member events that have been scheduled: First, is the Annual Budget Hearing on January 25^th, 2009. Second, is the Annual Parish Assembly on February 10, 2009.

            In addition, as mentioned in the organizational meeting, our parish schools and auxiliaries are strongly urged to be in direct contact with the church office when planning their meetings and events, even if they are to be held outside the premises of the church this will eliminate conflicts with other activities. Among other topics discussed were 2008 End-of-Year Reports that include a financial report and written report of your group’s activities for 2008, signed by your chairman, superintendent or treasurer, that  must also be submitted to the church office by December 31, 2008.

            Therefore, I openly request that all parishioners, organizations, auxiliaries and committees lend their support, promote and attend all parish activities and events as we conclude the events for the 50^th Anniversary celebration of the consecration of our church.

            Finally, with your support, cooperation and involvement, under the leadership of Very Rev. Fr. Vahan Hovhanessian, we will continue to flourish for the betterment of the Holy Martyrs Family. And we look forward to another successful year of activities and events within our parish.