Christ's Birth Celebrated at St. Vartan Cathedral

On Monday, January 6, worshipers gathered at New York’s St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral for the observance of the Feast of the Nativity and Theophany of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Diocesan Primate, celebrated the Divine Liturgy. The Primate spoke about Christmas as a time of renewal, and emphasized the importance of strengthening our connection with God and with fellow human beings at the start of the new year.

In Armenian tradition, January 6 commemorates not only the birth of Christ, but also his baptism by John the Baptist. The latter is remembered through the "Blessing of Water" service, which followed the Divine Liturgy on Monday. Hratch Nersessian served as godfather of the "Blessing of Water" service.

After the service on January 6, at a reception in Haik and Alice Kavookjian Auditorium, a traditional home-blessing ceremony was led by Archbishop Barsamian. A colorful dance performance was offered by the Akh'tamar Armenian Dance Ensemble, under the direction of Sylva Assadourian.

Click on the following links to read more about the Christmas celebration and to view photos and video highlights. http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/news-and-media/news/christ-is-born-and-revealed/

Armenian Christmas Eve was observed on the evening of Sunday, January 5, with the St. Vartan Cathedral dean, the Very Rev. Fr. Mamigon Kiledjian, celebrating the Divine Liturgy. The Christmas Eve service featured scripture readings by students from the Diocese's Khrimian Lyceum and St. Vartan Armenian School. Click here to view Christmas Eve photos. http://easterndiocese.smugmug.com/St-Vartan-Armenian-Cathedral/Christmas-Eve-at-St-Vartan

Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America [publicrelations=armeniandiocese.org@mail282.us2.mcsv.net]