The triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem that signals the start of Holy Week which we celebrate on Palm Sunday was symbolically replicated on Sunday 20 March 2016 with a procession of clergy, deacons and children.
The Church was buzzing with movement inside and out with faithful parishioners and plenty of children of all ages creating an electric atmosphere of fellowship and joy.
Pronounced as Children’s Day in the Armenian Church, with infants to young teens, families took part in the festivities approaching before the altar to receive the blessing of the Reverend Fathers. The sweet voices of the children raising their voices in unison to the Hayr Mer was spine-tingling. Then with lit candles, dressed in Sunday-best the children moved out of the church following the diaconate into the Edgarian Hall to receive prayers and goodie bags prepared especially for them.
Similarly on Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Eve Candlemas and Easter Sunday, the Church was abuzz with the faithful taking part in the Divine Liturgy and services commemorating the Last Supper, Washing of the Feet, the evening Vigil recalling the passion, the burial and crucifixion services all culminating in the Glorious Resurrection of Christ.
Easter church services were complemented with our annual Armenian traditions and delicious fare. A shared meal on Thursday and egg-cracking, cheoreg, sweets and delicacies along with an ACYA Easter Fun Day for Kids with craft and fun activities made for a vibrant Easter Sunday.
May the joy of our risen Christ dwell in the hearts and souls of our faithful day in and day out.
