The forty-day fasting and abstinence period before Easter started last week after the carnival period in many parts of the world. Special masses were also held in Armenian Catholic Churches due to the “Mokhrots” or “Ash Wednesday”, which was held with the beginning of the Lent.
Under the direction of its high priest Father Hayr Vartan Kazancıyan, the mass that held closed to the public due to the pandemic in Taksim Surp Hovhan Vosgeperan Armenian Catholic Church, was accompanied by; Kahana Haygaram Çekiç, Gisasargavak Jan Acemoğlu, and also the readers. Surp Hovhan Vosgeperan Choir sang hymns under the direction of Conductor Zaven Agay.
Traditionally, “Ash” that is applied to the foreheads of believers in the form of a cross and meanwhile the Priest saying; “You are soil and you will be soil!” reminds believers that our life on earth is temporary and that we must turn away from sins by repentance.
As is customary in Armenian Churches, during the 40-day fasting, the curtains on the altar will be kept closed until the resurrection of Jesus Chirst, that is Easter.
