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Why is it important for Christians to fast? What is the religious significance of fasting?
Fasting and abstinence are ways of doing penance. According to St. Krikor of Datev, "fasting is: grief and penance," because we repent and mourn for our sins. Christians observe weekday fasts as days of abstention in atonement for the sins of the first man and woman, Wednesdays for Adam and Fridays for Eve. The remaining fasts are all for the atonement of our sins. As long as one fasts, he is doing penance.
Fasting and abstention are similar to physical exercise. The strain of exercise on arms, legs, and other parts of the body do not discourage the athlete from going on. In fact, despite the pain, fatigue, and stress he may experience, he continues to exercise with the expectation of improving his health. Abstinence from food, pleasures, and worldly ways may not be a pleasant experience, but it is a constant and sure reminder to faithful Christians to bring ourselves in line with holiness. Read more.
Women Saints Days
On March 5, the Diocesan Women's Guild will hold Saintly Women's Day gatherings at parishes throughout the Diocese. This year the gatherings will honor the life of Tsuveeg.
Some parishes will be joining regional gatherings while others will hold individual events. See the list of events.
Easter is March 27th this year
You can find a wide variety of classroom resources on this site. These include special activites for children and youth. You will also find special information about prelude to Easter and Holy Week. You can also listen to Armenian music that is special to Easter season activities.
A spiritual workout: St. Gregory of Narek
The purpose of this exercise is to examine and reflect on the writings of one of our great Church Fathers, the mystic, St. Gregory of Narek (951-1003). Afterwards, your group will make an attempt at mysticism. The prayer is from his book, "Speaking with God from the Depths of the Heart." Go to the activity.
Armenian Resources
Check out these resources to help you teach Armenian.
Attention teachers, did you know that the Diocese's Zohrab Information Center's resources are available to you via e-mail, telephone, and in person. Books and information on history, culture, and our faith are made available to you. If you have any questions, please contact Aram Arkun, assistant coordinator of the Center, by e-mailing arama@armeniandiocese.org or calling (212) 686-0710 ext. 26.
The Zohrab Center also always welcomes donations of books, old periodicals, and audiovisual materials pertaining to Armenians and their history.