By Wally Sarkeesian
Orange County: The feast of the Assumption of the Holy Mother of God was celebrated at Forty Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church with special services including Divine Liturgy and the blessing of grapes. on Sunday, August 18, in which clergy members participated.
Also see Wally Sarkeesian full interview with Rev. Karekin Bedourian, Paster
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Armenian Church doctrine teaches that the Blessed Mother Mary has a primary place of honor because it was ‘of’ her and ‘by’ the Holy Spirit that God became incarnate (took human flesh). She is seen as the image of humanity fully obedient to God and ultimately sanctified by doing God’s will. Therefore on the feast remembering her Dormition (falling asleep in Christ) and Assumption (ascending to heaven), we celebrate the Blessing of Grapes.
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During the Divine Liturgy Rev. Karekin Bedourian, Paster reflected on the message of the feast and the image of the Holy Mother, which is the utmost example of virtue and purity, modesty and sacrifice; for families, Armenian women and for all Armenian Christians.“On this Feast Day of the Assumption of the Holy Virgin, the Church also celebrates the dedication and sacrificial lives of all mothers. Inspired by St Mary the Holy Mother of God, you have taken upon yourselves the duty and responsibility to teach, educate and discipline your children and grandchildren the Word of God,”