Dyarnuntarach occurs 40 days after Christmas. It commemorates the presentation of the baby Jesus to the Temple. Read our facts sheets for more information.

In the Armenian tradition, children are presented or dedicated at the foot of the altar, where the clergy carry or walk them around the altar. They are receiving Heaven’s blessings as the altar is considered the Holy of Holies of a sanctuary, or God’s residence.

It is the closest one can be to God physically. This opportunity has always held a special place in our foremothers’ and forefathers’ hearts.

Following the church ceremony, the faithful proceed outside and form a circle around a bonfire, that is lit by the ranking clergy. There are different traditions of singing favorite Armenian songs, and even of young couples jumping on the bonfire. Most of these have

been passed down from pre-Christian Armenian customs. Since we are a people of traditions, our church leaders have “Christianized” many of them instead of abolishing them outright. The light of the bonfire is symbolic of Christ who is the Everlasting Life and True Light of the world.

What does Dyarnuntarach mean?

Although the word looks daunting, it is actually a magical Armenian word that says a lot in a little.

Dyarn – ent – aratch
Տեառն – ընդ – առաջ
The Lord – towards – the front

In one compound word, we can say a whole sentence: “the feast of the presentation of the Lord to the temple”