St. John Armenian Church Podcast
51 episodes — Page 1 of 2
Update From The Front Lines with Fr. Varazdat
Fr. Varazdat shares from his experiences leading the effort to deliver Christmas gifts to soldiers serving on the front lines in Armenia and Artsakh. This is in conjunction with the St. John holiday initiative "Christmas Gifts for Armenian Soldiers" We are still accepting donations toward this program at https://stjohnarmenianchurch.com/donate/chaplains. During his remarks Fr. Varazdat recounted his visits to the soldiers stationed in Artsakh and conveyed the gratitude and happiness that it brought to them. It was also an opportunity for the chaplains to bond with the soldiers and help address their spiritual questions and concerns by providing pastoral care. He spoke about the general need to continue to honor the sacrifices of our young Armenian soldiers who protect the homeland, by meeting them where they are at, and providing for their material, mental and spiritual needs. On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the Army, Fr. Varazdat thanked the St. John parish and Fr. Mesrop for their longstanding and unwavering support for the chaplaincy, and emphasized that it has had and will continue to have a meaningful impact on their God-pleasing efforts. He also encouraged the faithful to regularly pray for the soldiers and officers of the Armenian Army and the chaplains, ask for the Lord's mercy, and to protect them. Personal views expressed by the host or guests of this podcast do not necessarily reflect the those of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Introduction music is by Iakovos Kolanian, entitled "Vagharshapati."
Introducing Our New Podcast Janabar
We’re happy to present a new project, a daily podcast called Janabar. You can find it at https://stjohnarmenianchurch.com/janabar, and wherever your listen to podcasts like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Personal views expressed by the host or guests of this podcast do not necessarily reflect the those of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Introduction music is by Iakovos Kolanian, entitled "Vagharshapati."
Back to School Reflection
A reflection on going back to school during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. Personal views expressed by the host or guests of this podcast do not necessarily reflect the those of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Introduction music is by Iakovos Kolanian, entitled "Vagharshapati."
Special Message Regarding Beirut Explosion & Recorvery
A special message from our Thursday Night Service (8/6/20) regarding the explosion that rocked Beirut, Lebanon and the affect it has had on our community. Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997

Praying For Those That Hurt You
From our biweekly candle lighting service. Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.

The Multitude of Saints Walk With Us In Our Struggles
Original Date: April 26, 2020. Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.

Easter Message (Armenian) - Նորագույն եւ մշտական նորոգված
Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.

Easter Message - New Tools for New Problems
Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.

Reflections on Journey and the final Lenten Vigil
Introductory spiritual message followed by Lenten Vigil services. From live stream on April 1, 2020. Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.

We’re all on this flight together
This sermon was taken from the Sunday March 29 live stream. It begins midway through because of a technical glitch. Watch St. John live streams at https://stjohnarmenianchurch.com/stream Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.

A Glorious Struggle
Sermon delivered on March 15, 2020 Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.

Having and Wanting: The Struggle
"The more we pursue our desires in order to solve the question of fulfillment, the more we will grow farther away from God" This sermon was offered on February 25, 2018, on the occasion of the Sunday of the Prodigal Son. Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.

Expulsion from Paradise - Reflection on the Stoneman Douglas High School Shooting
This Sermon was originally offered on February 18, 2018, one week after the horrific school shooting that took place at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida on February 11, 2018. It was also the second Sunday of Lent, the Sunday of the Expulsion. Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.

Life Abundant
This sermon was given by Fr. Mesrop Ash on the occasion of the Blessing of the Water on January 12, 2020. Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Sincerity During the Holidays
This sermon was originally delivered on December 23, 2018. Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
The Prophet Elijah and Fatherhood
Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Podcast Returning Soon!
A special message from Fr. Mesrop about upcoming episodes. Personal views expressed by the host or guests of this podcast do not necessarily reflect the those of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Introduction music is by Iakovos Kolanian, entitled "Vagharshapati."
Living Water
Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Lets Talk About Parenting - Part 1: The Early Years
In this episode, the first in a three-part series on parenting, we discuss the challenges of raising young children, and how we can find the support we need. We also consider how the Church can be a fantastic resource for parents, even though it can be hard to actually get the kids ready on time. Thank you to our special guests: - Dn. Anthony Catchatoorian - https://twitter.com/trichordo - Jill Simonian - https://thefabmom.com - Gail Chalebdian - http://www.wdacna.com/CEC-SundaySchool Find St. John Armenian Church online: - Website - http://stjohnarmenianchurch.com - Twitter - twitter.com/stjohnsf - Facebook - facebook.com/stjohnsanfrancisco - Instagram - instragram.com/stjohnsf Personal views expressed by the host or guests of this podcast do not necessarily reflect those of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Introduction music is by Iakovos Kolanian, entitled "Vagharshapati." Outro music by Armenian Public Radio, entitled "Pari Arakil." Additional music by Lee Rosevere and Podington Bear.
Lets Talk About Dementia - Featuring Vic Mazmanian
In this episode, we discuss a difficult but important topic, dementia, and dementia caregiving, with special guest Vic Mazmanian of Alzheimers Care Armenia and Mind Heart and Soul Ministry. Even if dementia isn't a part of your life, if you are a caregiver of any type, you will probably find this conversation interesting. Links: - Vic Mazmanian at Mind, Heat and Soul Ministry - https://www.silverado.com/mind-heart-soul-ministry/mind-heart-soul-ministry - Alzheimers Care Armenia - https://www.alzheimerscarearmenia.org - Facts about Alzheimer's Disease in America - https://www.alz.org/facts/ Find St. John Armenian Church online: - Website - stjohnarmenianchurch.com - Twitter - twitter.com/stjohnsf - Facebook - facebook.com/stjohnsanfrancisco - Instagram - instragram.com/stjohnsf Personal views expressed by the host or guests of this podcast do not necessarily reflect those of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Introduction music is by Iakovos Kolanian, entitled "Vagharshapati." Transition music by Armenian Public Radio, entitled "Pari Arakil". Additional music by Lee Rosevere.
Lets Talk About Mental Health - Featuring Special Guest Anthony Saroyan
In this episode, we explore common Mental Health issues, and how we as members of the Armenian Church can respond to them. This episode features Anthony Saroyan, a doctoral candidate at USF, focusing on Psychology Education. He discusses with Fr. Mesrop, how to identify common mental health issues, and also his research regarding stigma of Mental Health treatment in the Armenian Community. MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES IN SF: http://www.mhbsf.org/resources/ National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255 Find us at stjohnarmenianchurch.com. Personal views expressed by the host or guests of this podcast do not necessarily reflect the those of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Introduction music is by Iakovos Kolanian, entitled "Vagharshapati." Transition music by Armenian Public Radio, entitled "Pari Arakil".
The potential of faith
Date: December 17, 2017 Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.

On Living Simply - Announcing Winter Bible Study Courses
At times life is hectic, cluttered, and complicated. Sometimes it's all those things. Did God intend for our lives to be this way all the time? The answer is no. We know this through the teachings of Jesus Christ, as well as those of our sainted Church Fathers. Join us this season as we learn how they can guide us to simplicity. In this course, we will study selected passages from the Bible, as well as the works of Armenian and non-Armenian saints to understand how they tried to minimize distraction and deprioritize the unimportant so that they could find spiritual fulfillment and achieve their goals. We will also review historical and contemporary tools that we can use to bring about a more simple lifestyle, creating time for self-improvement, loved ones, and of course God. Personal views expressed by the host or guests of this podcast do not necessarily reflect the those of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Introduction music is by Iakovos Kolanian, entitled "Vagharshapati."
We Owe Everything to God - Happy Thanksgiving
Prepared by Fr. Mesrop Ash and delivered by newly ordained Dn. Kevin Kestekyan Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Orthodoxy vs. Opinion
In this message, we share reflections from the visitation of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians. We also discuss the difference of understanding how we feel about the Gospel versus what the Church teaches about the Gospel, and how we can protect ourselves from the harm of errant biblical understanding. Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
We are part of fulfilling prophecy
In this message Fr. Mesrop shares stories from visiting families affected by the North Bay fires. He connects them with Christ's commission to His church to continue his ministry to those in need. Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Give from your poverty
During this sermon, we address the fires in San Francisco's North Bay, and how we often feel the compulsion to help in situations like this. Date: October 15, 2017 Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
The Hardened Heart
Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.

Special Edition: Announcing Fall Bible Study Sessions
Are you curious about your faith? We've got just the thing. In this special episode Fr. Mesrop announces the upcoming bible study sessions for the fall. Don't hesitate to sign up! Personal views expressed by the host or guests of this podcast do not necessarily reflect the those of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Introduction music is by Iakovos Kolanian, entitled "Vagharshapati."
Finding peace in the midst of chaos
Date: August 27, 2017 Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Connected to the Vine, plus an addendum
Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Underneath the Mask
Date: July 23, 2017
Want a bite?
Date: July 16, 2017 Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Cultivating the Garden of the Soul
Date: July 9, 2017 Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Choir, 1997 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
The Only Sign That Matters
Date: July 2, 2017 Intro and outro liturgical music: "Armenian Liturgy" by the Sofia Armenian Choir, 1995 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Love, obligation, and Armenia
Date: June 25, 2017 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
A Heavenly Palm Sunday
Date: May 30, 2017 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Announcing the Serount Project and Chatting with our Sunday School kids
Date: May 22, 2017 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Happy Mothers Day
Date: May 18, 2017 Featuring a special message by Dn. Charles Cherezian Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Easter Sermon: What are you looking for?
Date: April 16, 2017 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Opening Doors & Honoring the Victims of the Coptic Church Bombings
Date: April 9, 2017 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
What are you meant to care for?
Date: March 19, 2017 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
The Prodigal Son - Lost and Found
Date: March 12, 2017
Great Lent and the Garden of the Soul
Date: March 5, 2017 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Great Lent and the Wordless Witness
Date: February 26, 2017
How Thirsty Are you?
Date: February 20, 2017 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Different Types of Hunger [Children's Sermon]
Date: January 12, 2017 This sermon was offered to the children and youth of the parish on the occasion of the feast of St. Sarkis. It is followed by a special blessing service. Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
Drawn to Christ
Date: January 29, 2017 Note: sermons are offered each Sunday during the Divine Liturgy Armenian and English. This recording has been edited for content and length and will consist of either English or a mix of Armenian and English.
When Nicodemus Met Jesus
Date: January 22, 2017
Symbols at the Wedding in Cana
Date: January 15, 2017 At the wedding in Cana of Galilee Christ performs one of the most famous of miracles. However, this often cited event usually goes without due appreciation. Of course, the miracle was a miracle and worth respect, but the context and details of surrounding miracle itself have profound symbolic meaning!