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Saint Sahag Armenian Church
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 203 North Howell St.
 St. Paul, MN 55104
 Tel: (651) 603-1940
emailsaintsahag@aol.com







  updated
  March 20, 2008  
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Saturday, September 7, 2002 was a very special day for the Armenians in Minnesota, and indeed, the upper Midwest. After more than 100 years since settling here, a dream has been realized.

Throughout our history, the church has been the focal point of an Armenian community. It was here that people gathered for church services, meetings, social events - whatever the needs were - the church was the community's home. And now, the Armenians of Minnesota finally have a home.

St. Sahag Armenian Church was purchased in December, 2000. The edifice was built in 1912, by and for the Presbyterians. With their numbers dwindling, they made the decision to sell the building. The Armenian community had been searching a site for quite some time. We were most fortunate for those timely circumstances and for the generosity of benefactors, Chacké Yeterian Scallen and Massis Yeterian, that we were able to take advantage of this unique opportunity.

The first service took place on Saturday, January 15, 2001 with Fr. Yeprem Kelegian as celebrant. Thereafter, services were held quarterly and have now increased to weekly. One of the more significant events was erecting the sign on the grounds in front of the church. The words (St. Sahag Armenian Church) were the first Armenian letters to be displayed in this state. It was an extremely emotional moment.

 

 

 

 

 

Altar Design And Reconstruction

There is no question that the reconstruction of the altar area was a major project. This undertaking required the talent and skill of many professionals. Our community is most fortunate to have Francis Bulbulian, an extremely talented architect, who stepped forward and offered his services as a gift. There are not enough words to express our gratitude to Francis, who spent innumerable hours designing, coordinating, and overseeing every aspect of the project. It is his dedication and artistry that have given us an exquisite altar.

On the altar is a magnificent painting of Mary, the Mother of God, holding the Lord Jesus. This was not a simple painting. The requirements of this icon were specific, and it took a tremendous amount of research and follow-through to bring about the superior result. While many had input, Vahram Kardashian deserves a substantial share of the credit for this aspect of the altar.

Prospects For The Future

It may have taken 100 years, but Minnesota Armenians, like Armenians around the world, have held fast to their legacy of faith, tradition, depth and spirit. We have survived, endured, prospered, and contributed to every facet of society. In the words of William Saroyan, "Whenever two or three Armenians gather anywhere in the world, see if they will not create a new Armenia." Thanks to the excitement created by the opening of St. Sahag Armenian Church, as well as the deep dedication and boundless energy of this community, the future is bright indeed.

Transferred to The Diocese  

 
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