On Saturday, December 9, 2023, a one-day festival took place at St. Mary’s Armenian church in Glendale. At the conclusion of the festival, H.G. Bishop Torkom Donoyan, Prelate of the Western Prelacy, led a Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Accompanied by clergy, H.G. Bishop Donoyan sang inspirational hymns in front of the nativity scene, symbolizing the birth of Jesus Christ, and a majestic Christmas tree marking the arrival of 2024. With great enthusiasm and joy, the numerous attendees who filled the courtyard of St. Mary’s Armenian church cheered as H.G. Bishop Donoyan proceeded to light the Christmas tree and nativity scene.
The festival began in the afternoon and was organized by the clergy and Board of Trustees of St. Mary’s Armenian Church, with the involvement and assistance of dedicated community volunteers. The festival lasted until the evening, generating a unique celebratory ambiance as different groups and individuals contributed to the festival’s cultural program.
The festival and tree lighting ceremony were inspiring and unprecedented in their nature. Students from Vahan and Anoush Chamlian Armenian School and Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School participated by singing festive spiritual songs. The junior dancers from Hamazkayin’s “Ani” dance group showcased inspiring dances, along with performances by “Lilian”, “Lili”, “Ivok” and “Zvartnots” dance groups. At the end of the event, singer Hovannes Balian’s captivating performance filled the courtyard and instilled a sense of Armenian spirit and joy in the hearts of all attendees.
The day was abundant with prayers, songs, performances, games, presents, and various entertainment. The St. Mary’s Armenian church community welcomed over a thousand festival attendees, with familial warmth. Both the young and the old were captivated and entertained throughout the day, indulging in games, shopping, and capturing memorable photographs alongside the glowing nativity scene and the Christmas tree.
