On Wednesday, November 13, the Prelacy’s Vahakn and Hasmig Hovnanian reception hall was filled with faithful of the metro area who came to learn more about the recently published bilingual book, Commentary on the Nicene Creed. The book is based on a series of lectures given by Archbishop Zareh Aznavorian, of blessed memory, in Antelias. The lectures, which were originally published in Armenian, are now available in both English and Armenian, thanks to Deacon Shant Kazanjian who undertook the task of translating.
Bishop Anoushavan, Vicar of the Prelacy, opened the evening by welcoming everyone and introducing Dn . Shant who spoke about the late Archbishop and his own journey of translating the work. The Creed (Havadamk) is the official declaration of the Christian faith, written and accepted by the Holy Fathers of the first two ecumenical councils—Nicea (325) and Constantinople (381). Dn. Shant described how he first embarked on translating this important work during his spare time and then set it aside, until a few years ago when he began to complete the project in earnest. Dn. Shant had the opportunity to spend time with Archbishop Zareh during the months he was in New York for medical treatment. He described that time as “a gift” filled with many lessons.
Archbishop Zareh Aznavorian (1947-2004) was a member of the Brotherhood of the Catholicosate of Cilicia. He was a prominent biblical scholar, translator, and specialist in Armenian liturgical music, as well as a composer of religious music. He wrote numerous books, articles, musical scores, and directed the Department of Christian Education at the Catholicosate from 1982-2004.
After a period of questions, the guests enjoyed a reception with refreshments and fellowship, and the opportunity to purchase the new Havadamk book, as well as the many other books written by Archbishop Zareh that are available at the Prelacy Bookstore. The Commentary on the Nicene Creed was under the sponsorship of St. Illuminator’s Cathedral.
The book was sponsored by St. Illuminator’s Cathedral.
