Christmas mass held in Türkiye’s Armenian church

DIYARBAKIR, Türkiye

Christmas mass was held on Sunday in Türkiye’s Diyarbakır Surp Giragos Armenian Church.

Hymns were sung and prayers were recited during mass led by three religious officials appointed by the Armenian Patriarchate in Istanbul.

Father Natan Arabyan said they are proud to celebrate Christmas in Diyarbakir, the cradle of civilizations.

Arabyan also thanked Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and top officials to provide the peaceful environment in Türkiye's southeastern Diyarbakir province.

"On this occasion, I wish everyone a happy new year and wish tranquility, peace, and brotherhood all over the world," he noted.

Sur District Governor and Deputy Mayor Asim Solak also visited the historical church before the mass and congratulated the participants' holiday.

In Western Christianity, Christmas Day is celebrated on Dec. 25, but due to a calendar difference, many Orthodox churches mark Christmas on Jan. 7.

Several countries, including Russia, Georgia, and Armenia, celebrate Christmas in January.