On 26 December 2021, the Holy Resurrection Church observed the Commemoration of St Stephen, the First Deacon and the First Martyr for Christ.
Holy Mass was celebrated followed by a blessing of new Stoles (Oorars) for each of the deacons which were generously donated by Mr and Mrs Jack and Rita Nercessian.
His Eminence Archbishop Haigazoun Najarian invited the deacons before the altar, ornamented with crowns upon their heads and gave the blessings. On this day, it is traditional for all deacons serving at the altar to wear a liturgical crown, which is one of the vestments worn only by priests on all other days of the year, the crown being in this instance a symbol of martyrdom.
A blessing of all the Stepans, Stephens and Panos also took place today on their name day.
We congratulate our deacons on this occasion and may the blessings of Christ be upon them all
