On Sunday 27 December 2015 in commemoration of St Stephen the Protodeacon and first martyr of the Christian church, Holy Mass was celebrated in the Church of Holy Resurrection followed by a service dedicated to the blessing of deacons in which the deacons and priests participated adorned with ceremonial headdress (saghavard).

In his sermon, the Primate His Grace Bishop Haigazoun Najarian reflected on the life of St Stephen and the commemoration of deacons’ day which is conducted annually in the Armenian Apostolic Church. Bishop Najarian congratulated the deacons and encouraged each to continue offering service to the church and to ultimately receive God’s blessing.

The Church Council organised a reception in the Diocesan centre where the deacons and stole bearers were honoured for their dedicated weekly service for the glory of God, the church and the faithful.