On Sunday, January 5, 2020, the eve of the Feast of the Nativity and Theophany of our Lord Jesus Christ was celebrated in Prelacy Churches with Divine Liturgy and candlelight service. H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, celebrated Christmas Eve Divine Liturgy and delivered his message at Holy Martyrs Church in Encino. The reading of Scriptures by Sunday School students preceded Divine Liturgy.
The Prelate began his sermon by recounting the circumstances of Christ’s Birth, focusing on the encouraging words “Do not be afraid” uttered by the angel to the shepherds when announcing the good tidings of the Nativity, by the archangel to Mary during the annunciation, and also to Joseph when he was afraid to take Mary as his wife. “The shepherds and magi experienced great joy upon hearing the good tidings; they went to see and worship the newborn King and returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen. Today, the newborn King must be reborn in our hearts and souls; we must strive to see the bright star of Bethlehem with our spiritual eyes and hear the encouraging words of the angel with our spiritual ears. We must not be afraid, for today there is born to us a Savior Who came to bring redemption for our sins and grant the promise of eternal life, to illuminate and brighten our lives so that we can illuminate and brighten our surroundings, our homes, and our church and national life. Thus, let us always give glory to God in the highest, continue to pray for peace in the world, and in the Middle East especially, and let love and goodwill guide our daily interactions with our fellow man,” stated the Prelate.
The Christmas Eve candlelight service symbolizing the radiating of Christ light in the world took place at the conclusion of Divine Liturgy. As the choir sang “Great and wonderful mystery,” the Prelate lit a candle from the altar from which faithful lit their candles as the service continued with prayers and a Gospel reading.