We conducted a short Q&A with each graduate regarding their experience these past few weeks.
Dn. Timothy Aznavourian
Q: Where did you grow up and what is your home parish?
A: I was born in Boston, MA spending my childhood years in Malden, MA. I moved to Pawtucket, RI when I was 10, which is where I have spent the majority of my adult life. My home parish is Sts. Sahag & Mesrob Armenian Church in Providence, RI.
Q: What is your undergraduate degree?
A: I hold a B.A. in Philosophy from Rhode Island College in RI.
Q: Where are you interning and what are you doing?
A: I am interning at my wife Julianne Aznavourian's (née Tavitian) parish, Hye Pointe Armenian Church in Haverhill, MA with the Rev. Fr. Vart Gyozalyan as my mentor.
I have learned much during my mini-internship post-graduation, particularly in the age of COVID-19 and civil unrest. I have learned that the need for the Church to be there for its faithful remains the same, regardless of the circumstances. I have learned that it is important to really listen to the struggles and trials of the flock which is entrusted to our care. I have also learned that it is essential to be able to take direction from experienced and tested leaders of our Church, of which Fr. Vart is a prime example. I sincerely thank Fr. Vart and the Hye Pointe Armenian Church for welcoming me -- albeit for a short time -- into their fold once more!
Dn. Armen Terjimanian
Q: Where did you grow up and what is your home parish?
A: I'm originally from Troy, Michigan. My home parish is St. John Armenian Church in Southfield, MI. I also spent 9 years attending St. Mary Armenian Church in Washington, DC, when I lived and worked in the DC region.
Q: What is your undergraduate degree?
A: I have a Bachelor of Arts in Film & Video Studies and Political Science from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, and a Master of Science in Journalism from Columbia University in New York City.
Q: Where are you interning and what are you doing?
A: Currently, I am doing a mini-internship with the Very Rev. Fr. Aren Jebejian (pastor) and the Rev. Fr. Armash Bagdasarian (assistant pastor) at St. John Armenian Church in Southfield, MI.
I have hit the ground sprinting in this month-long internship. I've been working with the parish's Armenian Medical Advisory Team (AMAT) on how to re-open the parish to the faithful in a phased manner and also participated in auxiliary zoom meetings. Two weeks ago, I facilitated a virtual Bible Study and delivered the Sunday sermon and will deliver another sermon soon. I've asked Hayr Aren and Der Armash to give me as diverse a parish experience as possible in these tumultuous times. It's been a great experience so far!