The eve of the feast of St. Jacob of Nisibis (Surp Hagop Medzpina Hayrabed) was solemnly observed at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Antelias, presided over by His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, on Friday, December 15th, 2023.
Armenian faithful hold this occasion dear, receiving the saint’s blessing by approaching the relic of St. Jacob of Nisibis housed in the Cilicia Museum.
During the Service, the seminarians sang hymns and prayers as His Holiness carried the relic, blessing the gathered faithful.
Following Vespers, the pontifical procession moved to the churchyard for the lighting of the Christmas tree, organized by the Christian Education Department. Sunday school students and the “Naregtasi” children’s choir, alongside the faithful, participated in the event.
- Rev. Fr. Stepanos Pashayan, director of the said department, conveyed His Holiness Aram I’s message. After the ceremonial lighting, the “Naregatsi” choir sang Christmas songs, and Santa Claus distributed gifts to the children.
