Holy Resurrection Armenian Apostolic Church 

With deep sorrow and profound regret, the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America wishes to inform its leadership of the death of the Reverend Fr. Arsen Avak Kahana Barsamian, who passed away on June 12, 2026, at age 94.
 
In the course of 66 years of priestly service, Fr. Arsen’s ministry touched generations of our faithful people. Born Steven Barsamian on April 6, 1932, in South Milwaukee, WI, he discerned a calling to the priesthood at a young age, setting aside a promising future in music to devote his life to the service of God and the Armenian Church. Through the generosity of benefactors and the guidance of church leaders, he pursued theological studies at the Catholicate of Cilicia in Lebanon, at the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem, and at several American institutions of higher learning.
 
Ordained to the priesthood in 1960 by Archbishop Sion Manoogian, Fr. Arsen served Armenian communities in Milwaukee, WI; Waukegan, IL; West Allis, WI; Richmond, VA; and Watertown, MA. Throughout those decades of ministry, he was joined by his beloved wife, Yeretzgin Varteni, whose warmth, kindness, and devotion enriched every parish they served. Today as we remember Der Hayr, we also bless the memory of his dear wife of 54 years. Together they raised three children and became cherished friends and spiritual companions to countless faithful.
 
Many will especially remember Fr. Arsen's long ministry at Watertown’s St. James Church, where he served alongside the late Rev. Fr. Dajad Davidian. The two priests formed a remarkable partnership. Fr. Dajad was known for his outgoing personality and energetic leadership, while Fr. Arsen's gifts were quieter but no less profound. Gentle, thoughtful, and deeply pastoral, he connected with people on a personal level, offering wise counsel, compassionate friendship, and a calming spiritual presence.

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He also embraced the role of teacher and author, dedicating himself to helping Armenian Christians rediscover the richness of their spiritual heritage and cultivate a deeper awareness of God's presence in their daily lives. Through his books, articles, and pastoral guidance, he offered comfort, inspiration, and a vision of faith marked by dignity, peace, and devotion.
 
The family has written an overview of Der Arsen’s faithful life, which can be read here.
 
Funeral arrangements for Fr. Arsen Barsamian are as follows:
 
Visiting hours will be held at St. James Armenian Church (465 Mount Auburn St., Watertown, MA) on Thursday, June 18, from 4 to 7 p.m., with the dahn gark (wake) service at 6:30 p.m.

 

The Divine Liturgy and Final Anointing will be held on Friday, June 19, at St. James Church, beginning at 9:30 a.m. As Primate I will preside over the service. Burial will follow at Ridgelawn Cemetery.
 
Clergy wishing to participate in the services should contact Fr. Arakel Aljalian through the church office, at (617) 923-8860.
 
Memorial donations in remembrance of Der Arsen may be directed to the following churches: St. James Armenian Church (465 Mount Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472); Holy Resurrection Armenian Church (P.O. Box 143, South Milwaukee, WI 53172); and St. James Armenian Church (834 Pepper Ave., Richmond, VA 23226).
 
The karasoonk (40th-day memorial) for Der Hayr should be observed on Sunday, July 26.
 
May our Lord grant rest to His servant Der Arsen Avak Kahana Barsamian, and remember him on the great day of His judgment. With the words of Holy Scripture, we pray: “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His faithful servants” (Psalm 116:15).

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Prayerfully,
 
Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan
Primate

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