HTAC Press Office
The last Sunday of Great Lent, the Palm Sunday during which our Lord Jesus Christ’s triumphant entry to Jerusalem, humbly riding on the foal of a donkey is celebrated. As Jesus rode into Jerusalem with his disciples and followers, people welcomed Him with palms, olive branches and cries of Hosanna (Glory to God!), (Matt. 21, Mark 11, Luke 19:28-40, John 12:12-19).
In commemoration of Lord’s entry to Jerusalem the Church was decorated with palms and olive branches. Later the blessed olive and palm branches were distributed to the faithful.
On March 20, 2016, the Holy Trinity Armenian Church was filled with parishioners on this beautiful occasion. The Rev. Archpriest Zareh Zargarian, Parish Priest, celebrated the Divine Liturgy accompanied by Deacons, Sub Deacons and the Church Choir led by Mr. Shahe Altounian.
The members of Armenian Church Youth Organization of Canada (Seniors and Juniors) participated in Sunday Mass and were blessed by Fr. Zargarian. In his sermon, Reverend Father spoke about the importance of relationships between parents and children and encouraged all to listen more and pay attention to their loved ones. He asked the young members of the community to follow our Lord Jesus Christ especially when they go through challenges and confusion. Fr. Zargarian emphasised on importance of implementing faith in children so it will have everlasting positive impact in their lives. Then he appreciated everyone present at church for taking part in celebration. The members of ACYOC were praised for their dedication and devoted services to their church.
The Sunday School students holding signs and beautiful messages about Palm Sunday started the the procession followed by all children and their parents who were blessed by Fr. Zargarian.
The “Opening of the Doors” (Trnpatsek) service, symbolic of our entrance into the heavenly Jerusalem was followed and the Church curtain was opened after being closed for the duration of the Great Lent.
Everyone was invited to enjoy the Palm Sunday Annual Luncheon, organized and hosted by the Senior and Junior ACYOC members that took place in “Margaros Artinian” Hall. It was wonderful to see newcomers to Canada from Syria and Iraq who were invited to attend the Palm Sunday Liturgy and Luncheon. This was a great occasion to find new friends and enjoy a great celebration at Church.
A very warm and festive atmosphere, great food, entertainment, friends and family, made this another memorable Palm Sunday Luncheon. The unconditional help and support of everyone who made this event possible and successful is greatly appreciated.
Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, which commemorates the events, that happened on the last days of Christ’s earthly life. The Holy Week concludes on Easter, when we celebrate the miraculous Recreation of our Lord Jesus Christ.
See more pictures from Palm Sunday Liturgy
See more pictures from Palm Sunday Luncheon
