Another Very Successful VBS!
Holy Martyrs VBS 2021 was extra special in so many ways. The VBS committee was thrilled to welcome back 50 campers in person this year! Days were filled with Bible Study led by Fr. Abraham, Armenian language & dance, recreation, and arts & crafts. Most classes and activities were led by our amazing and capable CITs. Representing ACYOA Jrs, HMADS, HMALS, and Sunday School, twenty CITs came together to volunteer their time and talents to teach, mentor, and watch over our young campers. Armenian dance teachers, Maria Iavrian & Anna Saribegov, came to teach a beautiful dance routine. Our most special visitor was the Primate, Bishop Daniel Findikyan, who sat and talked with our campers, led a special session for CITs, and shared lunch with us. We also had the Bayside Ambulance Corps give a talk and tour of their ambulance, and learned about and petted critters from Alley Pond Park. Our community service project for the Mary Brennan INN involved decorating and stuffing 200 snack bags for the needy. The last day culminated in an entertaining magic show, balloon animals, and a special visit by an ice cream truck! VBS would not have happened without our team of Fr. Abraham Malkhasyan, Zarmi Megherian, Lara Ciamician, Linda Yenicag, Michelle Andonian, and Kathy Deukmedjian. Special thanks to our volunteers: Elya Demiryan, Talar Aprahamian, Lena Felice, Seta Megherian, Carol Anastasian, Olga Hagobian, Aleene Abizeid, Linda Megerdichian, Helen Groll, and Ruthann Turekian Drewitz who lovingly hand-made decorations for Kalustyan Hall. Our sincere appreciation to our church office stuff, Mayda Haroutunian and Gary Gendjoian for their ongoing support prior to and during the entire week of the VBS!
A huge thank you to our generous donors who make it possible for us to keep costs low for our VBS families and still provide an amazing experience. The camaraderie of our CITs, excitement of our campers, and fellowship of our volunteers is a testament to your loving donations.
Please click here to view some photos.
