On July 31, 2025, heavy rainfall caused severe flooding across New York City and Queens. Sadly, St. Sarkis Church was not spared; our entire lower level, including our main hall, was inundated with over a foot of water.
Immediately following the flood, the Board of Trustees, led by Dr. Annita Nerses, initiated a coordinated recovery effort. Their first steps included assessing the extent of the damage and ensuring that the building was safe for restoration. The team swiftly removed debris, repaired the clogged floodwater drainage system, tested for mold, and cleared out all affected materials, including drywall and the entire flooring of the main hall.
We are especially grateful to Mr. Stephan Tchorbajian, a dedicated parishioner and civil engineer who has generously provided professional guidance and invested significant amounts of his time on a pro bono basis to understand the main sources of flooding. Under Mr. Tchorbadjian’s direction, a root cause analysis of all sources of flooding was completed, and an action plan has been developed and implemented to address each issue. His expertise has been invaluable in ensuring that the work is done correctly and efficiently. The hall is currently undergoing a full renovation, complete with new flooring and a fresh coat of paint.
Thanks to the dedication of our trustees and volunteers, the restoration process is moving forward smoothly. We expect the main hall to be fully restored by mid-September. This challenging experience has reminded us of the resilience and unity of our parish family. Together, with God’s grace, we are transforming a moment of hardship into an opportunity for renewal.