In keeping with the spirit of the centennial observance of the Armenian Genocide, the Memorials Committee at Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Church in Chelmsford recently launched a Remembrance Bench Project, which provides a unique opportunity for descendants of Genocide victims to memorialize their family members who perished during the Genocide, the Armenian Weekly reports.

The Remembrance Benches are being added to the existing Sts. Vartanantz Genocide Memorial, and will be engraved with the names of beloved Genocide victims. Having these names etched in granite stone will serve as yet another lasting expression of compassion for those who perished in Ottoman Turkey, and give notice that their anguish and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

A dedication ceremony is scheduled for this fall, whereby descendant family members will have an opportunity to share photos and a brief reflection of their martyred ancestor.