In the summer of 2024, under the auspices of Rev. Fr. Dr. Abraham Malkhasyan, our Youth Ministries Advisory Committee was established comprised of parent representatives from each of our three schools.  At that point, Hye Kids, which is a parish-wide subsidiary of ACYOA was born for children ages 10-12.  Our organizational mission remains to offer an opportunity for our younger children to strengthen their relationship with each other and God through fellowship and service.

Hye Kids was first introduced to our parish community at our Annual Armenia Way Festival on September 14, 2024 within the newly established Youth Zone.  Youngsters had an opportunity to learn about this Youth Ministry initiative, receive giveaways, and engage in conversation with one another.

On Friday, October 18, 2024, we hosted our Hye Kids Fall Kickoff in Kalustyan Hall.  Following a ‘get-to-know you’ activity with Der Hayr, the over 30 youth participants had an opportunity to participate in festive pumpkin decorating and an Armenian dance workshop. Together, the children also enjoyed a delicious meal & make your own edible dessert craft.

Our next event occurred on Friday, November 1, 2024.  At the Faith Fall Fellowship. evening, our over 30 Hye Kids shared a wonderful experience with members of the ACYOA Jrs.  After dinner, youth participants congregated in the sanctuary to join Der Hayr in a beautiful service whereby the children actively participated by conducting scripture readings, etc.  Following the service, Hye Kids members traveled to the parking lot for a fun bonfire, s’mores making session, and Armenian dance experience.  The Hye Kids then reconvened in Kalustyan Hall to complete a Thanksgiving-aligned craft.

On Sunday, November 24, 2024, Hye Kids participants partnered with the Sunday School and ACYOA Juniors to partake in “Sandwich Sunday”.  As part of "Friendsgiving", and for the Advent season, sandwiches were donated to Christ Lutheran Church, Soup to Nuts Kitchen in Freeport. Five hundred sandwiches were prepared by the Sunday School students, Hye Kids and the ACYOA Jrs.  All sandwich supplies were donated by the groups participating.

On Friday, December 6, 2024, Hye Kids members joined in the Annual Holy Martyrs Christmas tree lighting.  Following service in the sanctuary, participants gathered on the Church plaza for the tree lighting and then headed to the Auditorium for light refreshments, Armenian dancing, and ornament making.

In February 2025, the Hye Kids gathered for a meaningful and insightful discussion, led by Dr. Lynn Cetin. The session, titled “HYE…Who am I?" provided a space for our young members to reflect on and celebrate what makes each of them special. The group leaders guided the kids through a thought-provoking conversation, encouraging everyone to share their individual strengths, passions, and qualities that define them. The discussion focused on building self-awareness and confidence, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every member’s voice was heard. Throughout the session, the youth explored the idea that each person’s unique qualities contribute to the vibrant community we create together. The event also included some group activities to help highlight these personal traits and how they can be used to support one another in both faith and daily life.

There are currently 30 kids in Hye Kids. Our hope is that this group will transition into the ACYOA Juniors when they turn 13 years old.  We remain thankful to our active Youth Ministries Committee comprised of parent volunteers who are consistently meeting to build fruitful opportunities for our youth.

Youth Ministries Committee Members:

• Fr. Abraham Malkhasyan

• Karen Antanesian

• Lara M. Ciamician

• Kathy Deukmedjian

• Melissa Haroutunian

• Lynn Jamie

• Seta T. Megherian

• Donna Sirounian