Armenian Christmas Eve - Jrakalooytz
On Thursday evening, January 5, HMADS students beautifully read the Scriptures anticipating the birth of our Lord. Following the readings, Fr. Abraham celebrated the Jrakalooytz Badarak. A festive Christmas fellowship sponsored by HMADS was held in Kalustyan Hall following the Liturgy.

The word Jrakalooytz means “to light lanterns.” In Armenian tradition, on Christmas Eve the church would be lit with lanterns and the faithful would light their own candles. After the service, the faithful would take their candles home to illuminate their Christmas tables.

Armenian Christmas – Nativity & Theophany
In the Armenian Church, on January 6 we celebrate the Birth and Theophany (Dznoont yev Asdvadzahaydnootiun) of our Lord. Theophany means “a divine manifestation.” Christ’s baptism was the ultimate revelation of God to mankind. Following the Nativity Badarak, Fr. Arshen Aivazian, celebrated Christ’s baptism by performing the Blessing of the Water (Churohrnek) service with Stephen Sirounian serving as the Godfather of the Cross. Krisdos Dznav yev Haydnetzav, Tzezi Mezi Medz Avedis (Christ is born and revealed himself, to you and to us a great news!)

Home Blessing and Communion Breakfast
Following the Nativity Badarak, Fr. Arshen performed the traditional home blessing service in the auditorium. After he blessed the salt, water and bread, the parishioners came forward to kiss the cross, congratulate the Godfather of the Cross and to take a small sample of the blessed water. A beautiful Communion breakfast, hosted by the Women’s Guild completed the morning’s celebrations.