On the occasion of the feast of the Nativity and Epiphany of Jesus Christ, the Candlelight Divine Liturgy is celebrated today in the Mother Cathedral of Etchmiadzin, and presided over by Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II.

Tonight, people will take the lamps lit in the church home with them. It symbolizes divine light and blessing. It also symbolizes the light of the Star of Bethlehem, which guided the Magi to the Baby Jesus.

The Candlelight Divine Liturgy of the Nativity of Christ is celebrated twice a year: on the feasts of the Nativity of Christ and the Holy Resurrection.

According to the Armenian Apostolic Church, the week preceding the Nativity of Christ is a period of fasting. From December 30 to the evening of January 5, people fast. During this time, solely plant-based foods are consumed. Armenian Christmas celebrations begin on the evening of January 5 and continue after midnight.