Armenian Church Celebrates Feast of Purification with Liturgy and Blessings for Newlyweds

The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin marked the sacred Armenian holiday of Trndez, (Armenian: տրնդեզ) also called Tyarnndarach (Armenian: տյառնընդառաջ) with a grand celebration on February 14. This special day, also known as the Feast of the Presentation of the 40-day-old Infant Jesus Christ to the Cathedral, is one of the most significant religious traditions in Armenia. The occasion was observed with a Holy and Immortal Liturgy, presided over by His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, at the Mother Cathedral of the Nativity.

The celebrant of the Divine Liturgy was the Reverend Father Voskan Voskanyan, a monk of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. During his sermon, Father Voskan reflected on the profound meaning of the holiday. He reminded the faithful that Jesus Christ was born as the Prince of Peace, bringing heavenly tranquility to a world full of turmoil. He emphasized that Christ came as the Savior to reconnect humanity with God, bridging heaven and earth through His divine mission.

Father Voskan urged believers to seek the eternal Light of the Lord and to pray for newlyweds who embark on their journey with faith in God’s guidance. His words resonated with the congregation, reinforcing the spiritual significance of this sacred day.

A Blessing for Newlyweds

Following the Liturgy, the traditional blessing of newlyweds was performed. Karen Nazaryan, Executive Director of the Armenian Round Table Foundation of the Armenian Apostolic Church, was the honored bearer of the cross during the ceremony.

On this joyous occasion, His Holiness Karekin II extended his Patriarchal blessings to all newlyweds, offering them his best wishes for a long and happy married life. He likened their journey to that of St. Simeon the Elder, who recognized and glorified Jesus Christ as the Lord and Savior. His Holiness encouraged couples to live their lives in accordance with God’s will and to remain steadfast in their faith.

Time-Honored Traditions and Community Celebrations

Tyarnndarach is not only a religious holiday but also a cherished cultural tradition in Armenia. On the eve of the feast, families and newlyweds gather to light bonfires, symbolizing warmth, light, and the presence of God in their homes. This tradition has been passed down through generations, creating a sense of unity and joy among Armenian families.

Recognizing the deep significance of this practice, His Holiness declared Tyarnndarach as the "Day of Blessing of the Newlyweds." This special designation encourages couples to participate in the Holy Liturgy and receive the Lord’s blessings, ensuring divine grace upon their marriage.

Encouraging Love, Faith, and Strength

Addressing the newlyweds, His Holiness expressed his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes. He prayed for them to have a loving and harmonious family life filled with faith and devotion.

“May the Lord grant you many worthy children and keep you all under the protection of His graces and the Most Gracious Holy Right,” he said. “Our paternal exhortation is to always keep the light of faith burning within your souls and homes, to live with the piety of the elder Simeon, always carrying in your hearts love for God, the homeland, and each other.”

Later in the day, His Holiness met with the newlyweds and deacons who participated in the Liturgy. Accompanied by Archbishop Harutyun Kirakossian, the Acting Archbishop of the Mother See, the gathering was a moment of spiritual reinforcement and celebration.

A Message of Hope and Resilience

His Holiness also took the opportunity to address Armenian newlyweds from secular backgrounds who had come to receive blessings. He warmly welcomed them and emphasized that faith should be the cornerstone of their marriage. He encouraged them to support one another, to remain faithful through challenges, and to build strong, loving families rooted in the spirit of the Gospel.

The celebrations concluded with the traditional "Protector" prayer, during which His Holiness blessed the newlyweds and presented them with gifts. The day was filled with faith, hope, and a renewed sense of unity among the Armenian Christian community.

Tyarnndarach remains one of the most beloved celebrations in the Armenian Apostolic Church. It is a day when faith is renewed, families are strengthened, and the divine blessings of God are shared among those who seek His light. The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin’s observance of this holiday once again demonstrated the church’s commitment to preserving Armenian religious traditions while embracing the spiritual journey of its faithful.