Be strong and of good courage; be not frightened, neither be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
—Joshua 1:9
Dear Parishioners & Friends,
What a year this has been. I can’t recall a seminary class that could have prepared us for a pandemic, economic shutdown, social unrest, political polarization, and a second Artsakh war.
Who among us has not felt overwhelmed, angry, afraid, or in shock—and worst of all, physically isolated just when we most needed to come together.
Yet we have come together, bearing witness to the love of God in these most challenging of times. Let me show you a few examples of how Saint Sahag keeps you connected through joining in community, friendship, prayer, outreach and advocacy:
· Worship & prayer: Livestream & distance worship, prayers during the pandemic & civil unrest in the Twin Cities.
· Education: Fr.TAD Talks video presentations & Podmootiun podcasts introduced.
· Pastoral & Community Outreach: Pastoral outreach & support. Community pickup dinners and free meals. Helping the families in need in the community in partnership with The Cafesjian Foundation.
Identified and provided scholarships to Armenian students in the community in partnership with another foundation.
· Armenian Festival To-Go. While all other festivals and fairs were cancelled, we found a way to come together and celebrate our heritage in a safe and responsible way. Backyard Camp for our children to come together.
· United for Artsakh. Over $25,000 raised to support Artsakh. Advocacy & awareness. Ecumenical Prayer Service at the Cathedral of St. Paul for Artsakh.
I want to thank you for your financial commitment to Saint Sahag. Your gifts this year help to sustain and strengthen our mission and ministry. If you find you can increase your support, now is the time when it can make a real difference for our beloved Minnesota Armenian community. If your family faces challenges, please reach out to me.
Together, we can support one another through this difficult time—spiritually united even when physically apart.
With gratitude and blessings,
Fr. Tadeos Barseghyan, Pastor
