Reflection On The Annual National Council Of Churches Gathering - By Dn. Arin Parsanian, Seminarian

I had the honor of participating in the Annual National Council of Churches (NCC) gathering in Boston, MA, held from October 13 –16, to represent St. Nersess as part of the seminarian segment. 

On the opening day, the Rev. Dr. Tammy Wiens, Director of Christian Education and Faith Formation at the NCC, graciously invited me to attend her committee meeting. I was deeply moved by the spirit of collaboration and the thoughtful dialogue that took place among the members.

At the Ecumenical Dinner, I had the privilege of sitting beside Dr. Monica Schaap, Executive Director of Christian Churches Together (CCT). Our conversation was both profound and enlightening, and I came to appreciate how closely CCT’s mission and vision align with my own faith perspective.

I had meaningful conversations with Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, Diocesan Legate and Ecumenical Director for the Eastern Diocese, who also serves on the leadership central committee of the World Council of Churches. It was inspiring to witness the significance of his role in the global ecumenical movement and the deep respect he receives among his peers.

I also met with Dr. Rebecca Hiromi Luft of Marquette University in Wisconsin. Our discussion centered on Armenian family life and Christian marriage, during which I shared insights from my thesis on the topic. Dr. Luft expressed great interest and requested a copy of my work, with the possibility of a future lecture at her university.

The gathering concluded with an evening service at Holy Trinity Armenian Church in Cambridge, MA, followed by presentations and a meal. It was a joy to reconnect with Arpi Nakashian Bullockian, and I wish to extend my sincere gratitude to Rev. Fr. Vasken Kouzouian, Yn. Arpi Kouzouian, and all who worked diligently to organize such a meaningful closing event for the NCC.

While there may be theological and operational differences among its member churches, the NCC’s diversity reflects the beauty of our shared human experience. Each of us is unique and imperfect, yet our differences enrich our collective Christian witness. Christ calls us to love one another and to strive for unity in His name — and that spirit of unity was deeply felt throughout this gathering.