On Sunday, August 18, St. Sarkis Church and its parishioners honored and celebrated Asdvadzadzin Day, The Feast of The Assumption of the Holy Mother of God.
After celebrating the Badarak and delivering a homily about Mother Mary, her grace, her intercession and faith, Der Nareg, the Deacons, Altar Servers, and the Choir processed down to the main hall to bless the grapes and harissa.
The blessing of the grapes is a tradition that represents the start of the harvest season, earth’s fruitfulness, as well as the blood of Christ through wine, are donated by Dr. Tatyana Ulubabova.
St. Sarkis has enjoyed a twenty-year long tradition of having a Harissa luncheon. This year we were pleased to see the celebration well-attended, especially by our youth and young adults.
The Harissa (Madagh) was donated anonymously, in memory of Anna Hovsepian, and was lovingly prepared by Yn. Annie Terterian and Loucine Megherian. Amy Gostanian prepared and donated the kataif with the help of Anita Masoian. The tan was donated and prepared by Dori Shishmanian. Diane Boyadjian spearheaded a joyful crew comprised of Alina Kochoumian, Mary Kasparian, Adriana Nercessian, Madlene Hazarian, Hilda Gorgissian, Vicky Hagobian, Vicky Bodyikoglu, Laura Asadourian, Lilian Hairabedian and myself who organized the event. The meaningful and decorative grape vines were freshly cut and donated by Mr. and Mrs. Armen and Zepiur Ardzivian.
The “feast” was delicious. The fellowship was effervescent. Our church was full with love.
We are grateful to all who organized, donated and participated in celebrating this Holy day honoring our beloved Mother Mary.