Every year, on the occasion of Christmas and Easter Celebrations, the Visitation Committee of
the Women’s Guild of the Holy Trinity Armenian Church organizes special visits to the three
long term care homes in Toronto.
On January 10, 2012 visitation committee volunteers and Nurhan Sargavak Ipekcian were at
Leisureworld. We were joined by the students of AGBU Zaroukian School students, Principal,
Mrs. Orysia Perun, teachers, Mrs. Gadarine Meneshian, Mrs. Hripsime Demirdjian, Ms. Juliana
Brown and Ms. Pamela Falls, as well as volunteer parents. The students accompanied Nurhan
Sargavak during the church service by singing number of hymns. Following the service they
entertained the residents with songs and recitations. At the conclusion of the program the
students and our elderly residents were offered treats prepared by the visitation committee.
There was a festive atmosphere in the lounge where we had all gathered. Tears of joy were
visible on some of the residents, and one could feel and see the warm and appreciative
expressions of all.
On January 13, 2012 the visitation committee members were at Seven Oaks. Fr. Zareh
conducted the service after which the residents were treated to a lovely lunch prepared by
Mrs. Lida Kirtavit.
On January 14, 2012, we visited the Armenian residents at Seniors’ Health Centre where we
were joined by grade 6 students of St. Sahag, St. Mesrob Armenian Saturday School along
with their teacher, Mrs. Seta MacLennan, Principal, Mr.Yetvart Balian, and volunteer parents.
The students joined Fr. Zareh during the service by singing hymns, after which they offered a
program that included singing, piano selections and guitar playing. The students had pre-
pared gifts for each of the residents and mingled easily with them spreading joy & happiness.
Again, the students were treated to sweets and the residents were treated to a delicious
lunch prepared by Mrs. Rita Bedirian in memory of her loved ones.
It is admirable that students take part in these functions which brings much needed joy to
our elderly residents in institutions. We are sure that the students, in turn, learn the true
meaning of compassion and the satisfaction of bringing happiness to others. Our deep appre-
ciation and thanks go to the principals, teachers, parents and the students for their participa-
tion in these events.
Nora Baltayan
