The Feast of the Assumption of St Mary has a special place in the mind and witness of the church and in the life of Armenians. She is always present and is a source of inspiration for spiritual life and renewal for the people. Armenians have consecrated churches in her name, built shrines and organized pilgrimages in her honour.

His Holiness Aram I has dedicated the month of August to the Saint and invites the faithful to come to Saint Mary’s Monastery on pilgrimage, perform acts of mercy and pray to St Mary to intercede on their behalf.

In order to guide the spiritual journey of the faithful, the church offers the following acts of piety during the month at St Mary’s Monastery in Bikfaya:

1. Holy Liturgy every Friday during August 5, 12, 19 and 26, at 7:30 pm
2. Daily Bible studies during the week preceding the Feast of Assumption of St Mary.
3. On the eve of the Feast of Assumption on Saturday 13^th August in the evening, the Holy Liturgy followed by offerings and the blessing of the grapes.
4. During the month, the gates of the Monastery will remain open from 8:00 o’clock in the morning to 8:00 o’clock in the evening for the faithful to come and offer their prayers at St Mary’s Chapel.

The Catholicos encourages everyone to join this spiritual journey by taking part in the different pious acts.