Three Days of Armenian Christmas Celebration
This year the Theophany of Jesus Christ was celebrated over three days at St. Stepanos Armenian Church. Services began on Thursday, January 5th with the evening Divine Liturgy, known as “Jrakalouys.” The Very Reverend Father Mamigon Kiledjian was the guest celebrant. Prior to the Diving Liturgy, readings were read from the Old Testament, including the Chronicles of Daniel. This year Alec Mouradian and Dillion Mouradian read the Chronicles of Daniel in English, while Deacons Terenig Terjanian and Ara Karakashian read the Chronicles of Daniel in Armenian. Divine Liturgy concluded with the singing of “Khorourt Medz” (Great Mystery) and the distribution of the light of Jesus Christ. Congregants approached the candle of Jesus Christ, lit their lanterns, and took the blessed light home with them.
The second day of celebration took place on Friday, January 6, Armenian Christmas. The Divine Liturgy was celebrated in the morning by Very Reverend Father Mamigon Kiledjian. Deacons and choir members were dressed in special red feast-day robes. The choir sang beautiful hymns dedicated to Armenian Christmas.
As is a tradition in the Armenian culture, the day after a major feast day is a day to remember loved ones who have passed away (“Hishadag Merelots”). A “hokehankisd” service took place on Saturday, January 7 to remember beloved deceased family members and friends.
The final day of the celebration was Sunday, January 8. The church pastor, Reverend Father Daniel Karadjian celebrated Divine Liturgy. Following the Divine Liturgy, the service of the Blessing of the Water took place, remembering the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan. The honor of being this year’s godfather for the Blessing of the Water service went to Ohan Najarian. The blessed water was distributed to the faithful. Der Hayr handed Christmas gifts to the children. Following services, the School children performed a talent show in the church hall. Performances included singing, playing musical instruments, and dancing.
Throughout the joyous three-day celebration, parishioners proclaimed:
Chrisdos dznav yev haydnetsav!
Chris is born and revealed!
Ortnyal eh haydnootyoonun Chrisdosee!
Blessed is the revelation of Christ!
