With spiritual joy we announce that on Wednesday, February 13, the first Lenten Meditation or Hesgoom of the 2013 Great Lenten season was performed at St. John Armenian Church. With many faithful in attendance, Fr. Mesrop began the service by explaining that this year's vigils were being called meditations in order to remind us that Lent is a time for meditation, when we can focus our thoughts on God, and strip away unnecessary things. This is healthy, and spiritually rejuvenating.

On Saturday, February 6, members of Armenian Church Youth Organization of St. John, San Francisco volunteered at Martin De Porres Soup Kitchen. The leader of this inspirational day was Sub-Deacon Arto Bedikian. The day began with our youth cutting desserts in preparation for serving. Then, we spread out into different groups and helped to prepare food, serving, collecting dishes, and cleaning dishes. Overall, this was a enriching and important day as our youth were able to assist those who are destitute in our greater community of San Francisco.

Enjoy this thoughtful reflection on the Armenian Church's relationship with Great Lent, which has evolved over the centuries. The 40 Days of Great Lent following this Sunday's Divine Liturgy.

On Sunday, January 27, 2013 the Feast of St. Sarkis the Warrior was commemorated, and was Youth day at St. John Church. Fr. Mesrop Ash invited the youth for a special service and blessing and delivered a special message, he talked about who St. Sarkis was and what was his role in the Armenian Church.

A special message was offered for youth of all ages about the role of social networks in our lives, such as Facebook.