The solemn observance of the Armenian Christmas Eve (or “jrakalouytz”), on the evening of January 5, 2009, was celebrated by His Grace, Bishop Bagrat Galstanian, Primate of the Canadian Armenian Diocese. Attending the liturgy were Rev. Archpriest Zareh Zargarian, Rev. Father Sarkis Gulyan and Reverend Canon Harold Nahabedian, of St. Mary Magdalene Anglican Church.
Faithful of the parish gathered in the sanctuary of Holy Trinity Armenian Church to worship together and celebrate Nativity and Theophany of Jesus Christ. Immediately following the liturgy, clergy and faithful came by procession into the church lobby, where the Primate took delight in showering the faithful during the blessing of the water, salt and bread, and the evening ended on a joyful note.
The Parish Council served cognacs and liqueurs, chocolates and as well as cubes of the sweet bread “cheoreg”, prepared by Mrs. Sona Mutevelli, and blessed by Father Zareh to help traditionally toast this joyous event.
On the morning of Tuesday, January 6, 2009 Holy Trinity was filled with prayers and celebration. Rev. Archpriest Zareh Zargarian, parish priest, celebrated the Divine Liturgy. Immediately following the liturgy was the traditional blessing of water, and distribution to all present faithful.
The Armenian tradition of observing January 6th rather than the more common December 25th, or the Eastern Orthodox January 7th, is what helps to set us apart as a distinct, ancient and traditional Christian nation. All Armenians, the world over, were united on this happy day. The solemn Armenian Christian Christmas greeting, both during the “kiss of peach” and for 40 days after Christmas, is “Christ is born and revealed to us” and the response is “Blessed is the revelation of Christ”.
The members of Women’s Guild of the Holy Trinity Armenian Church, under the leadership of Mrs. Seta Keshishian had organized a very nice Christmas Luncheon for the parish. The “Magaros Artinian” Hall was filled with decorated tables. Great food, tasty dessert followed by music and dance provided more to the celebration of the Holy Nativity Day. A big thank you to the attendees and their support.