Presentation to Temple (Tiarn’ndaraj)
On February 14, the Armenian Apostolic Church celebrates the Feast of the Lord’s Presentation to the Temple. Tiarn’ndaraj, or Candlemas as it is known in the West, symbolizes the presentation of the 40-day-old Christ Child to the Temple in Jerusalem.
In the tradition of the Church, Evening Services (Nakhatonak) are conducted on the night preceding the Feast Day. At the conclusion of the service, the priest lights a candle from the Holy Altar, and distributes the flame to all present. With great care, the faithful take the lit candles home to their families.
On this day, newly-married and loving couples jump over the fire and receive congratulations and blessing from relatives and friends. The ceremony is followed by traditional songs and dances around the fire.
Under the auspices of Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II, Tiarn’ndaraj has been announced the day of blessing the newly-weds.
Source: Panorama.am