Feast of Saint Stepanos Observed

On December 24, 2017, St. Stepanos Armenian Church in Elberon, NJ celebrated the feast day of its patron saint. Following the Divine Liturgy, Deacon Terenig Terjanian briefly spoke about the life of Saint Stepanos; particularly, the Twelve Apostles’ need for helpers, Saint Stepanos’ humble desire to serve people, and his extraordinary faith which led to his martyrdom. Wearing colorful ornate crowns, usually reserved for clergy, parish deacons participated in a Hokehankisd service for the souls of deceased deacons and altar servers, who had served in the parish over the last sixty years. Finally, in the spirit of the Christmas season, the deacons sang Park ee Partsoons (Glory to God in the Highest) to the congregation.