St. Nersess Armenian Seminary will host a special Young Adults' conference from June 17-20, 2004 at the Seminary in New Rochelle, New York. Modeled after the popular summer study conferences for youth, the conference is designed for post-college aged adults wishing to grow in their faith, and in their knowledge and service of the Armenian Church. College students are invited to register and will be accepted as space permits.
Guest speakers will address and lead discussions on a number of topics related to Armenian identity and Christian faith and their significance for young adults in America today. The conference is being co-sponsored by the ACYOA.
"It's all about stewardship," says Rev. Fr. Stepanos Doudoukjian, who will co-direct the conference together with V. Rev. Fr. Daniel Findikyan (St. Nersess Dean) and Ms. Nancy Basmajian (Executive Secretary of the ACYOA).
"Why should young adults today dedicate themselves to the Christian lifestyle in the Armenian Church?," Fr. Doudoukjian asks. "And how is this possible considering the increasing demands on their time, energy and resources? We want to talk frankly about these issues."
Featured speakers will include Rev. Fr. Shnork Souin, Pastor of St. Mary Armenian Church, Livingston, NJ, who will address the same-sex marriage movement in a presentation entitled, "Is Christian Marriage Still Possible in America Today?".
V. Rev. Fr. Daniel Findikyan, Seminary dean and a specialist in the theology and history of the liturgy, will make a presentation entitled, "The Armenian Divine Liturgy: A Double Dose of Love." Jason Demerjian, Director of College Ministry at the Eastern Diocese in New York and founder of the Armenian Volunteer Corps, will speak on Stewardship in Armenia.
The conference will also feature daily worship in the seminary chapel, Bible Study, cultural activities and plenty of time to meet and socialize with peers. An evening in New York City is also being planned.