Author: Haig Sakouyan

Friday Social (Game Night) – September 19th 2025

We invite you to join us for a relaxing night filled with games, food, laughter, and good company. Whether you enjoy backgammon, ping pong, card games, board games, or simply want to sit, chat, and connect with others — this evening is for you. There’s no competition, no pressure — just a joyful space to unwind, strengthen bonds, and meet new friends. With school and work routines back in full swing, it’s the perfect chance to pause, recharge, and enjoy an evening together.

Open Mic and Mafia Night at AACC – July 11th

St. Vartan Armenian Apostolic Church and Ararat Armenian Community Center are hosting an open mic and mafia night as our next Friday Social!

We invite you to come show off your talent, tell jokes or anecdotes, play your instrument, sing, read a poem, sing karaoke, or even just practice your public speaking and prepare for a presentation. Anyone of all ages and skill levels is welcome, as long as it’s family appropriate!

Following the open mic, we will run a game of mafia for those that are interested.

⏰WHEN: Friday July 11th at 7pm

📍WHERE: Setrak Kalpakian Hall, 1260 W 67th Avenue, Vancouver

🎉WHAT: Open mic, mafia, barbecue dinner, and dessert

🎟️TICKET PRICE: $10 for students, $20 for everyone else

➡️ To RSVP, please contact Sasha at sasha@stvartanchurch.com or at 778-512-6065.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Celebrate the first day of summer with AACC!

For our next Friday Social, we are hosting a social night of refreshments and games to celebrate the first day of summer!

Featuring a build-your-own-smoothie station, non-alcoholic cocktails, and fun games.

⏰ WHEN: Friday June 20th at 7pm
📍 WHERE: Setrak Kalpakian Hall, 1260 W 67th Avenue, Vancouver
🎉 WHAT: Build-your-own-smoothiemocktailsgames, and snacks 
🎟️ TICKET PRICE: $10 for students and seniors, $15 for everyone else

To RSVP, please contact Sasha at sasha@stvartanchurch.com or at 778-512-6065. Feel free to reach out as well with any feedback or suggestions for future events.

We look forward to seeing you there!

June 6th Friday Social Recap

Friday Socials at Ararat Armenian Community Center have started up again, and with a great first event! We had 70 people at our Welcome Back Barbecue party, including many new faces. Thank you to all those who attended for making it such a success!

Barbecue and Karaoke – Welcome back Friday Socials at AACC

St. Vartan Armenian Apostolic Church and Ararat Armenian Community Center are excited to bring back Friday Social Nights! These fun, family-friendly gatherings will take place every two weeks, offering a fun, family-friendly atmosphere for all ages. Mark your calendars and spread the word.

We’re kicking things off with a community barbecue party on June 6. See you there!

⏰ WHEN: Friday June 6th at 6pm
📍 WHERE: Setrak Kalpakian Hall, 1260 W 67th Avenue, Vancouver
🎉 WHAT: Barbecue, salads, lavash, drinks, dancing, and karaoke! 🪩🎤
🎟️ TICKET PRICE: $10 for students and $20 for everyone else

To RSVP, please contact Sasha at sasha@stvartanchurch.com or at 778-512-6065.

Food and non-alcoholic drinks are provided, but we invite you to bring more to contribute to our potluck as well!

We look forward to seeing you there!

Summer Job Opportunities at St. Vartan Armenian Apostolic Church of BC

St. Vartan Church is excited to participate in the Canada Summer Jobs program and is now hiring youth who are eager to support their community, gain valuable experience, and get paid!

We’re looking for:

🗓 1 Administrative Support Officer (University student)
📅 Start Date: May 1, 2025
30 hours/week for 8 consecutive weeks

🗓 2 Administrative Assistants (High school students)
📅 Start Date: July 3, 2025
30 hours/week for 8 consecutive weeks

Build professional skills
Serve your community
Earn while you learn

If you’re motivated, community-minded, and ready to make a difference this summer, we’d love to hear from you!

📩 Apply now or contact us at pc@stvartanchurch.com for more details.

Job descriptions:

Join Our New Fitness Classes – Starting May 1st!

We’re excited to announce that fitness classes led by Seda Sakouyan (Group Fitness Certified) will begin Thursday, May 1st, and continue for 8 consecutive weeks at the Ararat Armenian Community Centre (1260 West 67th Avenue).

Classes focus on low-impact cardio with optional modifications for those seeking a higher-intensity workout. All fitness levels are welcome!

Class Details:

  • When: Thursdays, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM, starting May 1st
  • Cost: $10 per class, or $60 for all 8 classes
  • What to bring: A water bottle and, if you have one, a mat for floor exercises (optional but recommended)

Important:
Participants are responsible for ensuring they are in good health before participating.

How to Register:
To register and reserve your spot, please contact the below email to receive the registration form and payment instructions:

haig@stvartanchurch.com

Spots are limited — we look forward to seeing you!

The Voice Behind the Music – Manush Ahead of the April 5th Concert

🎧 Listen to Manush’s Interview on the Armenian Variety Show

In a heartfelt interview on the March 18th episode of the Armenian Variety Show, Manush shares her deep connection to Armenian music, her classical training, and the emotion she brings to every performance. She speaks about the power of cultural identity through song and offers a glimpse into what audiences can expect on April 5th at the Vancouver Academy of Music.

This exclusive interview is a beautiful introduction to Manush’s artistry and spirit—and a perfect way to get inspired before showtime.

▶️ Listen to the full interview below and hear Manush’s story in her own words.
🙏 Special thanks to the Armenian Cultural Association of BC for spotlighting Armenian talent.

🎟️ Tickets for the April 5th performance are on sale now—don’t miss this unforgettable evening of music and culture.