But the one who endures to the end will be saved.

Matthew 24:13

By Zaven Khanjian, AMAA Executive Director/CEO

Times and circumstances demand expectations which, if taken seriously and exercised properly, will bring in the crown of righteousness.

I cannot imagine a more fitting place to ponder about perseverance than in my native Homeland, Armenia, which struggles to recover from a historical assault that shattered its self-belief and depressed its psyche.
That was a year ago, but the dismal remnants of which, as I witness on the ground today, persist in segments of Armenian society.

During the fall of 2021, the AMAA encountered two amazing heroes whose fearless struggle in life and persistence in a course of action in spite of conceived unsustainable difficulties and obstacles makes them enviable role models.

This issue of the AMAA News spotlights their lives. One in his joining the Lord and the other in his recent revelation.

For decades, Peter Kougasian served as an AMAA Board member, Armenia Committee Chair and Vice President. A man of deep faith and unfathomable whit, Peter was a multi-talented human being. His love of music, magic and ministry, in addition to a stellar professional career at the New York District Attorney’s office placed him on a different plateau.

During the past several years, Peter was assaulted by a vicious and brutal disease, ALS, which eventually laid him physically incapacitated in a hospital bed. Peter persevered fighting a heroic battle armed with faith and utilizing every technological invention available to connect, communicate and create. Peter’s legacy of endurance and perseverance is a model to follow.

In October, Artak Beglaryan, State Minister of Artsakh Republic, was the guest of honor at the AMAA Annual Meeting and keynote speaker at the Banquet in Fresno, California. Artak lost his eyesight as a teen in a landmine explosion. Soon after, he also lost his father. Artak would never give up. As a fighter, he extensively struggled in life. Armed with faith and courage, Artak persevered and conquered all obstacles to gain vast knowledge, higher education and multiple degrees. He climbed the ladder of greatness through humility, hard work and the Christian spirit of service, which he attributes to have gained at AMAA summer camps in Stepanakert. Artak brought us inspiration, courage and fortitude from our historic highlands, which remain wounded but upbeat and forward-looking.

Two perseverant heroes to look up to, emulate and overcome the odds.

Brighter days are ahead for our people.

Thank you for your support.

November 22, 2021
Yerevan, Armenia