Armenian Apostolic Holy Church The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

On February 14, the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church celebrated the Feast Day commemorating the presentation of the 40 day-old Christ Child to the Temple in Jerusalem.

The festivities began on the evening of February 13 in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. On this occasion, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians; accompanied by a procession of priests, presided during an Evening Service.

Following the Evening Service, His Holiness performed the Andastan Service wherein the four corners of the world, the Homeland and people were blessed.

At the conclusion of the service, under the delightful “Christ in Glory” hymn, His Holiness lit a candle from the flame on the Holy Altar of Descent, conveying the light to the faithful who were present.

The procession went to the courtyard of the Mother Cathedral where a traditional fire was lit, in symbolism of the Light and Wisdom of Christ. On this occasion the Gevorkian Theological Seminary Choir performed national and spiritual songs