The feast of St. Vartan the Warrior and his companions is considered one of the most important national and religious feasts for Armenians, as they had fought and died in defense of their Christian faith in 451. Every year, on the Thursday lying before the Poon Paregentan, the Sunday preceding the great Lent, Armenians worldwide commemorate the feast and renew their vows of service to their church and homeland on the example of these martyrs.

Consequently, on Thursday morning, February 24^th, 2022, a Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Bishop Magar Ashkarian at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Antelias, under auspices of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I. The Liturgy was sung by the Naregatsi Children’s choir.

In his sermon, Bishop Magar quoted the 12^th chapter of the Letter of Apostle Paul to the Hebrews, where he exhorts the faithful to overcome sins and endure hardships patiently. His Eminence in turn encouraged the faithful to follow this message, especially in light of many examples of martyrs who have tolerated sufferings with strong faith. He then singled out the characteristics of St. Vartan and his companions who did not kneel before the Sassanid Empire, even though outnumbered by force of arms, and led the battle for the sake of their Christian faith and homeland.

It is noteworthy to mention that it was the custom to continue the commemoration in the main hall of the Catholicosate where the Seminarians perform hymns and poetry dedicated to the feast and His Holiness delivers his message, however, this year, the celebration was canceled due to his Holiness showing symptoms of Covid-19.