Presided by His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, the Eve of the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord Jesus Christ to the Temple (Diaruntarach) was solemnly celebrated on Tuesday, February 13^th, 2024, at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Antelias. During the special service, Antasdan (Blessing of the Four Corners of the World), presenting the children to the altar for blessing, and the traditional bonfire took place.

Following the service, His Holiness Catholicos Aram addressed the faithful, emphasizing the significance of presenting Baby Jesus to the temple and the importance of preserving traditions. He underscored how traditions contribute to a nation’s self-understanding and encouraged Armenian families to uphold these age-old traditions.

Concluding the service, the grand sacristan HE Arch. Gomidas Ohanian brought a candle from the altar and presented it to the Catholicos, who initiated the lighting ceremony. Priests received the children and turned them around the Altar for the blessing. Subsequently, a procession, led by His Holiness, proceeded to the courtyard where the traditional bonfire was lit by His Holiness.