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Holy Week and Easter
Under the Auspices of His Eminence, Archbishop Khajag Hagopian, Prelate, Holy Week was observed and Easter Sunday celebrated in Armenian Prelacy of Canada churches across the country. His Eminence presided over Liturgy services at Montreal’s Sourp Hagop Armenian Apostolic Cathedral and Sourp Kevork Armenian Apostolic Church in Laval.
Holy Week and Easter Sunday in the Armenian Church
Holy Week (Avak Shapat) rituals carry a specific significance for the Church and are commemorated through traditional and meaningful ceremonies. A time to remember, to reflect upon, and re-enact the suffering and death of Jesus Christ, Holy Week is the last week of Lent before Easter Sunday.
After Palm Sunday (Dzaghgazart), the first three days of Holy Week are observed through the reading of excerpts from the Old Testament and Hymns (Sharagans) to remind us of the need for salvation.
Holy Thursday is the celebration of the Last Supper and the establishment of the sacrament of Holy Communion. Following the midday service, the Washing of the Feet (Vodenleva) ritual, which symbolizes humility, takes place in the evening.
On Holy Friday, the midday Burial Service (Taghoom) and evening (Khavaroom) Liturgy are performed in remembrance of Christ's betrayal and suffering.
Holy Saturday is dedicated to the burial of Jesus and the sealing of His tomb. Communion is given in the morning and a Candle Mass (Jarakalouyss) is held to signify the beginning of a new day.
His Eminence, Archbishop Hagopian, received the community at a reception in the Prelacy after Divine Liturgy on Easter Sunday and wished the community a Happy Easter on behalf of the Prelacy’s Religious and Executive Councils.
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