THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM

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1 Guideline for Baptisms 1. All baptisms must be performed according to the canons of the Armenian Apostolic Church. 2. Secure a date for the baptism by calling the church office (323) Be aware that baptismal ceremonies can be performed any day of the week during the entire calendar year. 3. The church secretary will forward a questionnaire which should be promptly completed and returned to the church office. Please ensure that all information, including the spelling of names, is correct. Please specify if the child will be given an Armenian name. 4. The Godfather of the child to be baptized should preferably be a member of the Armenian Apostolic Church. If a suitable Godfather is not available, consult with the officiating clergy about a substitute. The Parish Priest can then instruct the Godfather concerning the sacraments prior to baptism. 5. The Armenian Apostolic Church has no explicit provisions for a Godmother at baptism. However, the church considers a Godmother the person who tends to the child during the Order of Baptism, holding the child before the Godfather has taken the child, undressing or dressing the child at times prescribed, and in general attending to the child during the performance of the sacraments. 6. All fees and honorariums should be paid according to the Schedule of Church Fees and Customary Donations in the Board of Trustees Handbook available in the church office. If you have invited another clergyman, the same fees and honorariums apply to him. 7. Items Needed: Infant baptism: One or two large white towels A WHITE outfit to be worn after the baptism; A chain and cross for the neophyte (newly-baptized). Adult baptism: Prior instruction by the officiating clergy, describing baptism and confirmation; One or two white towels; A chain and cross for the neophyte (newly-baptized). Scriptural Readings on Baptism Passages read during the ceremony: Gospel of St. Matthew 28:16-20 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Epistle of St. Paul to the Galatians 3:24-29 Therefore the law was our disciplinarian until Christ came, so that we might be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer subject to a disciplinarian, for in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith. As many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abrahams offspring, heirs according to the promise. HYMN OF THE BAPTISM O children of the New Zion born from the Holy Font, You who are adorned with the gifts of the Holy Spirit, praise the heavenly Father on the day of the Holy Virgin s birth. For it was because of the bearer-of-god in whom the curse of the foremother was changed into a blessing. 5 6 Prepared by Most Rev. Muron Aznikian Holy Cross Armenian Apostolic Cathedral ê ʲâ вÚò ²è²øºÈ²Î²Ü زÚð î²ö²ð 900 W. Lincoln Avenue, Montebello, CA Tel (323) / Fax (323) holycross900@sbcglobal.net 1 Find us on THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM Baptism is absolutely necessary for salvation because Christ has said: Unless a man be born again of water and the Holy Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. (John 3:5)

2 WHAT IS A SACRAMENT? = A Sacrament is a outward or visible signs performed by a minister of the Church to give us God s invisible graces. It is a channel by which the Christian graces enter into our souls to feed, to nourish and to strengthen our spiritual life. -How many Sacraments are there? = There are seven Sacraments: Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Communion, Penance, Ordination, Matrimony, and Prayers over the sick. BAPTISM a) Baptism begins with exorcism, introducing the Christian concept of evil and Evil One, Christ s victory over the devil. b) The Creed. c) Presentation of the catechumen. d) The blessing of the water. e) Immersion (death, cleansing, rebirth, resurrection, etc.). f) Confirmation/Anointing (receiving of the Holy Spirit). g) Communion. Is Baptism absolutely necessary for salvation? = Yes, Baptism is absolutely necessary for salvation because Christ has said: Unless a man be born again of water and the Holy Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. (John 3:5) Who is the minister of Baptism? = The minister of Baptism is the priest. How is Baptism performed? = Baptism is performed by immersing the child into the water three times, giving the name, and saying at the same time, This servant of God is baptized in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Why is the child immersed into the water three times? = The child is immersed three times in memory of Our Lord s remaining in the tomb for three days. GODFATHER -What is a godfather? = A godfather is a Christian man who sponsors the child for membership in the Church at the baptism. How soon should a child be baptized? = A child should be baptized as soon as possible after a week of his/her birth. What sin do parents commit who put off for a long time, or entirely neglect, the baptism of their children? When a child should be baptized? = Parents who put off for a long time, or entirely neglect the = Children should be baptized as soon as possible, preferably eight days after birth. Children are entitled to re- baptism of their children commit a very grievous sin because = The child asks for faith, hope, love, and baptism. they deprive the child of the grace of baptism and endanger What is the duty of a godfather after baptism? ceive the benefits of the gifts of the H. Spirit as early as his/her right to eternal life. The Church does not bury those = The duty of a godfather after baptism is to see that the possible. Baptism is necessary for salvation. Unless a who die without being baptized. child is brought up as a good Christian and a good man be born again of water and spirit he cannot enter the Can baptism be repeated? Church member is, cooperation with the parents. Kingdom of God. Baptism cleanses us from Adam s or = No, baptism cannot be repeated if performed by a lawful Who should be chosen as godfather at baptism? original sin, makes us children of God, children of light, minister of the Church and in the right way. = Only those members of the Church who know their gives us a new birth, makes us Christians and members of What kind of name should be given a child at baptism? chosen as godfather for baptism. faith and live up to the duties of their religion should be the Church and heirs of the kingdom of God. What other graces does Baptism give us? = If the given name is not a Saint s name, it is advisable that = By Baptism we become Christians, i.e. children of God, a Saint s name also be given as a second name. members of the Church, and heirs of heaven What is the function of the godfather? = The function of the godfather is to hold the child in his arms and act as a spokesman for him at the baptism. Can a non-armenian Church member be a godfather at the baptism of an Armenian child? = The godfather at an Armenian Baptism must be a member of the Armenian Apostolic Church because he is sponsoring the child to become a member of the Armenian Apostolic Church. You cannot sponsor someone to become a member of a certain society unless you are a member of it. What does the child promise through his godfather at baptism? = The child promises through His godfather at baptism to renounce the devil and all his works, and to live according to the teachings of Christ and His Church. What does the child ask at baptism through his godfather?

3 CONFIRMATION -What is Confirmation? = Confirmation is a Sacrament by which we receive the Holy Spirit in order to make us strong and perfect Christians and soldiers of Jesus Christ. -When does Confirmation take place? = Confirmation takes place immediately after Baptism. -How is Confirmation administered? = The priest, after laying his hand over the newly baptized, he prays to God to sent the Holy Spirit, then anoints with his thumb crosswise with Holy Chrism (Myron) the nine parts of the body with appropriate prayers. -Which are the nine parts of the body of the newly baptized child that are anointed at Confirmation? = They are the forehead, eyes, ears, nose, mouth, hands, heart, back and feet. -What is Holy Chrism (Myron)? = Holy Chrism is a mixture of olive oil and essence of forty three kinds of fragrant flowers, balms, and various kinds of incense. -Who consecrates the Holy Chrism? = His Holiness the Catholicos alone consecrates the Holy Chrism in an elaborate and sacred ceremony assisted by the bishops and priests of the Church. The priest pours the Holy Muron in his palm and starts to anoint, saying; The Forehead: May this sweet oil, which is poured upon your forehead in the name of Jesus Christ, be a seal of incorruptible heavenly gifts. The Eyes: May this seal in the name of Jesus Christ enlighten your eyes, so that you may never see death. The Ears: May this Holy anointing open your ears so you can hear the divine commandments of God. The Back: May this seal in the name of Jesus Christ be for you a shield of strength so that you may quell the fierce arrows of the evil. The Nostrils: May this seal in the name of Jesus Christ bring the sweet aroma of eternal life to your nostrils. The Mouth: May this seal in the name of Jesus Christ guard your mouth and be a strong door for your lips. The Hands: May this seal in the name of Jesus Christ be a cause for benevolence and for all virtuous deeds and behavior. The Heart: May this divine seal cleanse your heart and establish an upright spirit within you. The Feet: May this divine seal direct your journey towards eternal life so that you may not be shaken. Then the priest says; Peace unto you, O saved one of God. Peace unto you, O anointed one of God. 5 6 Prepared by Most Rev. Muron Aznikian Holy Cross Armenian Apostolic Cathedral ê ʲâ вÚò ²è²øºÈ²Î²Ü زÚð î²ö²ð 900 W. Lincoln Avenue, Montebello, CA Tel (323) / Fax (323) holycross900@sbcglobal.net THE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION 2 Find us on Confirmation is a Sacrament by which we receive the Holy Spirit in order to make us strong and perfect Christians and soldiers of Jesus Christ.

4 The Sacrament of Confirmation In the olden days the kings and priests of Israel were anointed by holy oil to receive the blessings of the Holy Spirit in order to be able to perform successfully the duties which they had undertaken. At the present time, in like manner, the priests of the Church are anointed by chrism (holy oil muron) for the same purpose. Like water, oil is an essential religious symbol, one of healing, light, reconciliation, and peace. The dove brought Noah an olive branch announcing God s forgiveness and reconciliation with humanity after the Great Flood. The peace and healing by oil, is represented during the actual pouring of Muron into the water from a dove-shaped vessel. The priest sings the hymn Arakeloh Aghavnoh (the dove that was sent ) Then after the neophyte (newly-baptized), he/she is confirmed by the priest, with the holy oil, in order to receive the graces of God, through the descending of the Holy Spirit upon the one baptized. It is not sufficient to be baptized only by water to become Christian, but also by the Spirit at the same time. According to the words of Jesus Except, a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. This is the reason that the Sacrament of Confirmation is performed by the priest immediately after baptism in the Armenian Church. In the Roman Catholic Church the priest only baptizes the child, and at a later date the bishop confirms him. Muron (holy oil of the Church) is composed mostly of olive oil and the oils of the flowers of balsam and the essence of various sweet flowers. Confirmation is also called the anointing, or sealing, according to Apostle Paul, Now he which 2 established us with you in Christ, and had anointed us, in God; who had also sealed us, and given the earnest of the spirit in our hearts. (II Cor. 1: 21-22). Confirmation is the completion and perfection of Baptism and follows immediately Baptism. By Baptism a new and spiritual life is given and by Confirmation the gifts of the Holy Spirit are ministered to overcome the spiritual conflicts in the Christian warfare as a soldier in the army of Christ. The holy and blessed oil or Muron is essential religious symbol for spiritual fortitude, wisdom, healing, light, reconciliation, peace and God s spiritual presence. The biblical expression for Confirmation is laying on of hands, as it is described in the book of the Acts of the Apostles chapters 8 and 19. It is always accompanied by the receiving of the Holy Spirit. The sacramental act at the Confirmation is the anointing of 9 parts or members of the body of the baptized with the sanctified oil called Chrism/Muron. Holy Muron is made of olive oil and of the essence of some 40 or more kinds of flowers and other sweet smelling herbs as ingredients. Like Baptism, Confirmation also is not repeatable. All those who desire to become members of the Armenian Church, and who are not confirmed in their former church, must be anointed before their formal admittance into the membership of our Church. Then the child is taken to the altar to worship God. There Holy Communion is given to him. Thus all the necessary Sacraments for salvation, Penance, Baptism, Confirmation and Communion are administered in one continuous act of making a person a member of the Christian Church. sealed as possessions of God. He (God) has put His seal upon us and given us His spirit in our hearts as a guarantee (2 Cor. 1:22). A Christian character is given to us by this sealing. Confirmation being the completion and fulfillment of the Baptism, there is a close connection and similarity of natures between these two sacraments; therefore separate administration of the sacraments, which is the common practice in the West, is not justifiable. The practice of the early Church was to administer them together. All those who desire to become members of the Armenian Church, and who are not confirmed in their former church, must be anointed before their formal admittance into the membership of our Church. After the unction the child is dressed. As the last and crowning act of the sacrament the priest ties around the neck of the child a cord made of white and red colored strings. It is symbolic of the blood and water which came out from the side of Christ on the cross, and signifies purity and courage. That string combines the meanings of Baptism and Confirmation. By Baptism, as we have said, the baptized is purified, and through Confirmation he is given the grace of spiritual fortitude, making him a Christian soldier to fight against the powers of the Evil which beset the Christian in the course of his life. In the Armenian language the name of the sacrament of Confirmation is GUNOUNK which means Sealing, referring to the spiritual fact that by Confirmation we are 3 4

5 PENENCE (Repentance) Penance is the sacrament by which sins committed after Baptism are forgiven through absolution by the priest. It is true that by the sacraments of Baptism and confirmation we are saved. However, it is well known that after Baptism we do not always stay in the state of grace; we commit sins. As a remedy for these sins after Baptism, the sacrament of Penance has been established to build up, to strengthen and rebuild spiritually and morally. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us (I John 1:18) If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just, to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all iniquity (I John 1: 9). If a wicked man turns away from all his sins which he has committed and keeps all my statutes and does what is lawful and right, he shall surely live none of the transgressions which he has committed shall be remembered against him; for the righteousness which he has done he shall live (Ezekiel 18:21-22). Penance is the result of remorse that man feels deeply in his heart for realizing a wrong act or the sin he has committed. The true repentant really feels the terribleness of the sin he has committed, and therefore he feels sorrow for it heartily, and decides firmly not to repeat again that wrong act, but to walk henceforth in the right way, which is pleasant to God. The results of true repentance are: (1) regret and weeping, as the Apostle Peter who saw the terribleness of the sin he committed, regretted and wept immediately (Matt ), (2) Confession, as David recognized the sin he had committed, he confessed it to the prophet Nathan (II Sam. 12, 13), and then to God (Psalm 51:3-4), (3) Restoration, as Zaccheus confessed his sin before Jesus Christ and promised to restore fourfold anything that he had taken from any man by false accusation (Luke 19, 1-10). This Sacrament of Penance is performed in the Armenian Church according to a written formula, through the confessor priest. The Armenian Church is rich by supplications, songs, hymns, and prayers concerning repentance. They are very touching and inspiring and can lead the sinner to repentance when he follows them with sincerity and an open heart. It is through Penance, the sacrament of healing that humankind is restored and reconciled with God. God through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. So we are ambassadors for Christ, God making His appeal through us. We beseech you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God (2 Corinth.5:18-20). It is necessary to know that Jesus before leaving his apostles gave them authority to forgive sins or to refuse to forgive them Whatever you shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven (Matt.18:18, John 20:21-23). Also our Lord commanded when he said: Repent, and believe in the Gospel (Mark 1:15). Unless you repent you will all perish (Luke 13:3). This authority has been transferred from the Apostles to the bishops and the priests of Christ s Church. These are men who by the authority vested on them are the qualified officials with this definite commission. In order to receive this sacrament properly, we must: a) Examine our conscience, b) We must be sorry for our sins, expressing to God our grief at having been disloyal to Him, c) We must have a firm purpose not to sin again. Sincere resolution not to sin again, we must honestly avoid sin and everything which causes us to sin, d) Confession. Private and public or general. The priest should know our spiritual troubles in order that he may give his advice or guidance in accordance with our need. The private confession is based on the teachings of the gospels and of the church, as well as on common sense and in the need of our soul. Prepared by Most Rev. Muron Aznikian 5 6 Holy Cross Armenian Apostolic Cathedral ê ʲâ вÚò ²è²øºÈ²Î²Ü زÚð î²ö²ð 900 W. Lincoln Avenue, Montebello, CA Tel (323) / Fax (323) holycross900@sbcglobal.net 3 Find us on THE SACRAMENT OF PENANCE If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just, to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all iniquity (I John 1: 9).

6 PENANCE -What is the Sacrament of Penance? = Penance is the Sacrament whereby the sins, which we have committed after Baptism are forgiven. What do we mean by doing penance? = We mean to carry out the obligations imposed upon us by the priest. -Why do we have to do a penance after our confession? = We have to do a penance after our confession so that we may make some reparation to God for our sins, and that we may receive help to avoid them in the future. -When, did Our Lord institute the Sacrament of Penance? = Our Lord instituted the Sacrament of Penance when He breathed on His Apostles and gave them power to forgive sins, saying: Whose sins you shall forgive, they are forgiven them; and whose sins you shall retain, they are retained. This power was given by Christ to His Apostles and through them to their successors, the bishops and thereby the priests of the Church. -What is sin? = Sin is disobedience to the commandments of God. -Is temptation a sin? = No, temptation is not a sin, if the act to which we are tempted is not committed. -How is a sin committed? = A sin is committed by thought, by word, and by deed. -How many kinds of sin are there? = There are two kinds of sin: Mortal sin and Venial sin. -What consideration, concerning Our Savior will lead us to sorrow for our sins? = We must consider that Our Savior died for our sins and that by sinning grievously we crucify Him again. What should the penitent do to receive Forgiveness? = Three conditions are required on the part of the penitent to receive forgiveness: Contrition, confession, and doing penance. -What is contrition? = Contrition is a sincere sorrow for our sins, together with a firm purpose to sin no more. -How may we have a firm purpose to sin no more? = We may have a firm purpose to sin no more by avoiding not only sin itself, but also the dangerous occasions of sin. -How can we obtain a sincere sorrow for our sins? = We can obtain a sincere sorrow for our sins by earnestly praying for it, and by reminding ourselves that by our sins we have offended God, Who is infinity good to us. CONFESSION What is confession? = Confession is to accuse ourselves of our sins before a priest for the purpose of obtaining forgiveness from God. -How can we make a good confession? = We can make a good confession by: 1.Being humble and sincere. 2.Praying heartily for the grace to wake a good confession. 3.Examining carefully our conscience. 4.Taking time to make a good act of contrition. 5.Resolving by the help of God to renounce out sins and to begin a new life for the future. -In what manner must we make our confession to the priest? = We must go to the Church; kneel before the priest in the presence of God; make the sign of the Cross saying: In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Then recite Our Father and then say: I have sinned against the all Holy Trinity, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. I confess before God, and before the Holy Mother of God and before all the Saints and before thee, father, all the sins, which I have committed. For I have sinned in thought, word, and deed, willingly and unwillingly, knowingly and unknowingly, I have sinned against God. Then we mention whatever sin we may have committed and tell our priest about any problem weighing on our conscience; and finally ask him for Absolution. -What must we do in addition to the penance imposed on us by the priest or when he does not impose any Penance? = We must: 1.Do acts of charity. 2.Increase our social works to the Church. 3.Read the Holy Bible and other religious books. 4.Give more time for private prayers and Church attendance. 5.Deprive ourselves of some particular pleasures we especially like, 6.Endure our hardships and sufferings patiently. 7.Observe the days of abstinence. ABSOLUTION -Who is the minister of penance? = The minister of penance is the priest. -How does the priest forgive sins? = The priest forgives sins in the name of God, when he pronounces the words of absolution -What is absolution? = Absolution is a pronouncement made by the priest in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of the sins of the penitent. -How should we ask absolution from the priest? = After confessing our sins and receiving the instructions of the priest, we must say: Reverend Father, I hold thee as my reconciler and intercessor with the only begotten Son of God, that by the power given thee, thou wilt release me of the bond of my sins, I pray thee. -What are the words of absolution said by the priest? = The words of absolution said by the priest are: May benevolent God, have mercy upon you, and grant you forgiveness of all your sins, both those confessed and those forgotten. Therefore, with the priestly authority, and by Divine command that whatsoever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven, I absolve you of all your sins committed in thought, in word, and in deed, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and I reinstate you in the Sacraments of the Holy Church, that whatsoever good you may do, may be accounted to you for good and for the glory in the life to come. Amen

7 HOLY COMMUNION -What is Holy Communion? = Holy Communion is the Sacrament, in which we receive, under the appearance of bread and wine, the true Body and Blood of our Lord. -Who instituted Holy Communion? = Christ instituted Holy Communion at the Last Supper the night before He died. -How did Christ institute Holy Communion? = Christ instituted Holy Communion in this way: He took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to His Apostles, saying: Take and eat, THIS IS MY BODY : then He took a cup of wine, blessed it, and giving it to them said: Drink ye all of this; THIS IS MY BLOOD OF THE NEW COVENANT which is being shed for many unto the forgiveness of sins; finally He gave His Apostles the commission: Do this in remembrance of Me. -What did Christ, mean when He said Do this in remembrance of Me? = When Christ said: Do this in remembrance of Me, He gave to the Apostles the order to do this sacred ritual as a memorial of His passion and death, suffered for the salvation of mankind. -How are the bread and wine changed into the Body and Blood of Christ? = The wine and bread are changed into the Body and Blood of Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit, to whom, all things are possible. -Is Holy Communion a Sacrament only? = Holy Communion is not a Sacrament only, it is also a sacrifice as the Armenian word Badarak describes it. -What is sacrifice or Badarak? = A sacrifice is the offering of a victim by a priest to God. In this Holy Sacrifice Christ, through the ministry of the priest, offers Himself to God under the elements of bread and wine. -What is this sacred act called? = This sacred act is called Divine Liturgy or Holy Mass. -Is the Divine Liturgy one and the same sacrifice with that of the Cross? = The Divine Liturgy is the same sacrifice as that which Christ Himself offered on the Cross to His heavenly Father. - For what purpose is this sacrifice or the Divine Liturgy offered? =This sacrifice is offered 1.As a memorial of the Passion and Death of our Lord. 2.To satisfy the justice of God for the sins committed against Him. 3.To be united with Jesus Christ, the source of our spiritual life. 4.To thank Him for all His benefits to us. 5.To obtain all other graces and blessings through Jesus Christ. ATTENDANCE AT THE DIVINE LITURGY -How must we attend the Divine liturgy? =We must attend the Divine Liturgy with reverence, with attention and with devotion. -What is necessary to receive Holy Communion worthily? = To receive Holy Communion worthily it is necessary to have: 1.A right intention 2.To go to confession and receive the absolution of the priest. 3.To be fasting for at least six hours or from midnight before partaking of Holy Communion unless, for reasons of health, one has obtained permission from his priest to take medicine or light nourishment. -Is it a sin to receive Holy Communion, without confession? = Yes, it is a great sin to receive Holy Communion without confession as St. Paul said, He that eats and drinks unworthily, eats and drinks judgment to himself. -How should we prepare ourselves for Holy Communion? = We should prepare ourselves for Holy Communion by: 1.Thinking of our Divine Redeemer. Jesus Christ, Whom we are about to receive into our hearts. 2.Examining our conscience to recall to our mind all the sins we have committed since our last confession. 3.Making reconciliation with those of our fellow men with whom we are not on good terms. 5 6 Prepared by Most Rev. Muron Aznikian Holy Cross Armenian Apostolic Cathedral ê ʲâ вÚò ²è²øºÈ²Î²Ü زÚð î²ö²ð 900 W. Lincoln Avenue, Montebello, CA Tel (323) / Fax (323) holycross900@sbcglobal.net THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION 4 Find us on Holy Communion is the Sacrament, in which we receive, under the appearance of bread and wine, the true Body and Blood of our Lord.

8 COMMUNION The Sacrament of Communion was established by Jesus Christ at the time of the last supper. As they were eating, Jesus took the bread and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it. For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. (Matt. 26, 26-28). In the Armenian Church the bread (morsel nushkar) of the Communion is prepared from unleavened bread which is made of wheat flour and undiluted wine of the grape, consecrated by the Service of the Holy Eucharist (Mass Badarak). The Roman Catholic Church also uses the unleavened bread for the Holy Eucharist but puts a few drops of cold water into the, wine. The Greek Orthodox Church puts cold and hot water into the Holy Eucharistic wine, but uses the unleavened bread the same as the Armenian and the Roman Catholic Church. In the Roman Catholic Church those who receive communion, receive only the bread, but in the Armenian Church they receive both the bread and wine at the same time. The Armenian Holy Eucharist Service has two parts. The first part of the service begins with the following declaration by the deacon: Let none of the catechumens and no one of weak faith, none of the penitents, nor the unclean, draw near to this divine mystery. The second part starts from this point and continues to the end. In the early days, in the Armenian Church, the unbaptized (Yerakha), the catechumens and un-repented persons were allowed to be present only during the first part of the Holy Eucharist service. At the end of the first part, when the deacon said, Go to the doors and pray, they left the church and stayed out in the church courtyard and prayed. The deacon would then close the church door before continuing the second part of the Holy Eucharist service. At the present time this ceremony is not in practice. The ceremony of the Holy Eucharist is the most solemn and impressive part of the Armenian Church service. Even foreign visitors regard it as very inspiring and very impressive. The Holy Eucharist, symbolizes the body and blood of Jesus Christ. Those who receive Holy Communion unite themselves with Jesus Christ spiritually. Only those who have repented and follow the teachings of Christ are entitled to receive Holy Communion. According to the apostolic instructions, Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. (I Cor. 11, 28-29). The earliest Fathers of the Church are quite clear in teaching that the Consecrated elements of the Communion are the very Body and the Blood of the Savior. St. Cyril of Jerusalem 4 th century, has said That which seems bread is not bread, even if it is so perceived by the taste, but is the Body of Christ. Communion as Sacrament: outward signs, bread and wine. Is representation and continuation of the sacrifice of Golgotha. The Offerer and the Victim are one and the same, even if the sacrifice be offered by the priest. Communion as Sacrifice: remission of sins, reconciliation of man with God Walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God (Ephesians 5:2). For, Jesus is the living bread which came down from heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he will live for ever; and the bread which He gives, is for the life of the world (John 6:51). For it is impossible that the blood of bulls and goats take away sins...but through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ, that we have been sanctified once for all (Hebrews 10:4, 10). Communion as worship, is thanksgiving, praise, love and unity with God and fellow church members, both the living and the dead. If you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift (Matt.5:23-35). According to this command, while exchanging The Kiss of Peace, during Divine Liturgy, we sing ;.. The church has become one soul, the kiss has been given as a full bond, the adversity has been removed, and love has been spread among us all.. When, is Holy Communion received? = Holy Communion is received during the Divine Liturgy immediately after the Der Voghormia (Lord Have Mercy) and Chrisdos badarakial (Christ is Sacrificed) are sung by the choir and the curtain is withdrawn. -What should we do after Holy Communion? = After Holy Communion we must spend some time in prayer, thanking Our Lord for the grace we have received, renewing our promises of love and obedience to him, and asking Him for blessings for ourselves, our families, our community and our Church in general. -How often are we to receive Holy Communion? = We are instructed to receive Holy Communion: 1. At least on five greater Holy Days of the Church, Christmas, Easter, Transfiguration (Vartavar), Assumption (St. Mary s Day), Exaltation of the Holy Cross. 2. As often as we can; without fail at Easter and Christmas time. 3. When entering a hospital during an illness. 4. When in need of strengthening ourselves spiritually. -How is Holy Communion administered? = Holy Communion is administered in both kinds; the priest puts a small portion of the Holy Body (consecrated bread) dipped in the Precious Blood (consecrated wine), into the month of the person communicating. -How are small babies given Holy Communion? = The priest simply touches the lips of the small babies with his finger, which has previously been dipped in the Precious Blood (consecrated wine). This is called Communion by lips

9 MINISTERS OF THE CHURCH -What is an ordained person called? =The ordained person is called a minister of God. -Who is the minister of the Sacrament of Ordination? = The bishop is the minister of the Sacrament of Ordination. -What are the main Holy Orders in the Armenian Church? = The main Holy Orders or ranks in the Armenian Church are Clerk (Chorister), Deacon, Priest, Vartabed, Bishop, Patriarch, and Catholicos. -How is power given to the ministers of the Church? = The power is given to all ministers of the Church by the imposition of hands; however, a priest, a bishop, and the Catholicos are, in addition, consecrated by the anointment of Holy Myron. PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE How do we greet Clergy? - To the Catholicos: I am your servant, Your Holiness ; or God be your helper, Your Holiness. - To the Patriarch: God be your helper, Your Beatitude. - To Archbishops and Bishops: God be your helper, Your Grace. - To celibate priests: ARCHIMANDRITE (VARDAPET) God be your helper, Father. - To priests: Bless me, Father. Who is the Catholicos of All Armenians and where does he live? His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenian is our Cathoilcos and he lives in Holy Etchmiadzin. Who is the Catholicos of The Great House of Cilicia and where does he live? His Holiness Aram I, and he lives in Antelias, Lebanon. HOW TO ADDRESS IN WRITING THE CLERGY - THE CATHOLICOS His Holiness (Name) Catholicos of All Armenians, Holy Etchmiadzin, Armenia Your Holiness, His Holiness (Name) Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia Antelias, Lebanon Your Holiness, -THE PATRIARCH His Beatitude Patriarch (Name) Your Beatitude, -THE ARCHBISHOP His Eminence Archbishop (Name) Your Eminence, -THE BISHOP His Grace Bishop (Name) Your Grace, -THE ARCHIMANDRITE (VARDAPET) Very Reverend Vardapet (Name) Very Reverend Father, -THE PRIEST (BOTH CELIBATE AND MARRIED) Reverend Father (Name) Reverend Father, AT THE END OF THE LETTERS Asking for Your Blessings. Prepared by Most Rev. Muron Aznikian Holy Cross Armenian Apostolic Cathedral ê ʲâ вÚò ²è²øºÈ²Î²Ü زÚð î²ö²ð 900 W. Lincoln Avenue, Montebello, CA Tel (323) / Fax (323) holycross900@sbcglobal.net Find us on THE SACRAMENT OF ORDINATION Ordination is a sacrament which by laying on of hands and anointing by the bishop, gives the candidate authority and the grace to perform the Sacraments and the services of the church, according to the canons of the church.

10 ORDINATION The Ceremony of Ordination is performed upon the person who resigns from worldly affairs and dedicates himself entirely to the service of the church, as a minister of the gospel, and as a preacher of the good news of salvation. A candidate for the holy order is elected by the votes of the people, and then is presented to the Bishop of the Diocese, to receive his ordination. The priest, or any Vartabed (celibate priest) cannot ordain any person for the Church office. Only a Bishop has authority to ordain the deacon and the priest, but the Bishop cannot ordain anyone it the people have not elected him. On the other hand, the Bishop has the right not to ordain anyone if after conscientious examination he finds him unworthy of the high and holy office of priesthood. If the candidate for ordination approaches his office by divine calling, inward conviction and a consecration, he receives at the time of ordination the anointing of the Holy Spirit of God, and is endowed abundantly with heavenly graces, which are very important for the office that he undertakes. Ordination is a sacrament which by laying on of hands and anointing by the bishop, gives the candidate authority and the grace to perform the Sacraments and the services of the church, according to the canons of the church. HOLY ORDERS The Church is an organized society/baptized persons united with the same Faith, Communion and sacraments. Ministers or officers of the church who serve God, teach and sanctify the faithful and govern the church. The authority to serve, to teach, to sanctify is given by a sacred ritual which is called Ordination. Through Ordination men receive the power and grace to perform the sacred duties of a minister of the church. The Sacrament of Ordination is administered by a bishop. There are various orders in the church, and consequently, there are various forms of ceremonies by which each one of these orders is conferred. One common act to all these various orders is the imposition of hands by the bishop. Laying on of Hands. For the ordination of any cleric, except a bishop, one bishop is sufficient to administer the Sacrament. The consecration of a bishop, is performed by the Catholicos, having at least two other bishops assisting him at the Ordination. During the Apostolic Age, the Apostles were the sole ministers in the church. Later as the membership of the Church increased, the Apostles created other officers to assist them. The first established order was the deacons (Acts 6). The Apostles also appointed and ordained other assistants to help them. These men were called Elders, the predecessors of our present day priests. The Apostles while in mission to other countries and places, appointed supervisors and capable persons to oversee the Christian communities and to act with full authority in their name, they were called bishops. These bishops, later became the successors to the Apostles. At present Deacons assist the bishop and the priest in the church during church services. During the Apostle s time there were three holy orders, or ranks, in the early Christian Church: deacons, elders (priests), and bishops, and they were all married. (I Tim. 3, 2-12). Holy Orders are divided into two sections a.- Minor Orders / Door-keepers, Readers, Exorcists, Acolytes or torch bearers, Sub-deacons and Deacons. At the present time Exorcism in the Armenian Church is not in practice, and the deaconship has two parts, sub-deacon and deacon. The other four degrees are called chorister (Tubrootune). According to the instruction of the Mashdotz, a sub-deacon is allowed to marry and later on if he wishes he can be ordained a priest, but a deacon cannot marry as he is a candidate for Vartabed (celibate priest). This is the reason that deaconship has two degrees-sub-deacon, and deacon or avak deacon. b.- Major Orders / Priesthood, Episcopate, Catholicosate. All together 9 Orders. The Priesthood is divided into two divisions: Married & Celibate. Maried Priest: administer all the sacraments except the Holy Orders. They are also shepherds and spiritual leaders of their local churches under the bishop. Archpriest: is an honorary title given to those priests who have fruitfully served their church and parishes for long years. Apegha: is a celibate priest, living in a monastery. Vartabed: teacher to teach the faith. And after completing his Thesis, with special ceremonies he receives 4 Ranks and a doctoral staff. The title of Vartasbed is an academic church title given to a celibate priest who has the necessary education. Dzayrakoyn Vartabed is an honorary title given to Vartabeds who have distinguished themselves by their learning in the fields of theology, religious teaching and ecclesiastic knowledge. Has 14 Ranks. Bishop: Governor, administrator, overseers, successor of the Apostles and prince of the Church. Guardian and defender of the true Orthodox faith and preacher of the Word. They alone administer the Holy Orders, consecrate churches, altars, baptismal fonts (I Tim. 3:1-7)

11 According to Jesus, remarriage after divorce is equivalent to adultery. If a woman divorces her husband is a case applicable only to Gentiles, for Jewish woman could not legally divorce her husband, except for sexual immorality. The family was God s first earthly institution. Before there was a government, and long before God instituted the Church. He ordained marriage and the family as the basic building block of society. The destruction of the family we are witnessing today is a harbinger of the ultimate collapse of all human society. The more the family is threatened, the more society itself is in danger of extinction. The Bible and human history begin and end with weddings. Adam and Eve come together in marital union in Paradise, before the Fall, revealing marriage as a part of God s eternal purpose for humanity in the midst of creation (Gen. 2:22-25). History closes with the marriage of the Bride to the Lamb (Rev. 19:7-9), earthly marriage being fulfilled in the heavenly, showing the eternal nature of the sacrament. In modern society, as well as in Christendom, a recurring debate is going on. It deals with the tension between equality of the partners in marriage and office or order in marriage. The words of St. Paul are clear on marital equality: The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise also the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does (I Cor. 7:4). Husband and wife belong to each other as martyrs, they belong to God as royalty, and they are called to treat each other accordingly. But within marital equality there is also order. The epistle passage read at the Sacrament of Marriage is Ephesians 5:20-33, the exhortation to husband and wives which begins with a call to submit to each other. The husband is to serve God as head of his wife, as Christ is head of the Church. The wife is to be subject to her husband as the Church is subject to Christ. There is nothing here to suggest that the wife is oppressed in marriage, anymore than one would call the Church oppressed in relationship to Christ. He who calls us brethren (Heb. 2:11) and friends (John 15:15) exhorts the husband to love his wife, to nourish and cherish her as He Himself does RULES FOR MARRIAGE -What is the sixth commandment of the Church? = The sixth commandment of the Church is not to marry within certain degrees of kinship, nor to solemnize marriage at the forbidden times. -Which are the times on which the Church forbids to solemnize marriage? = The times in which it is forbidden to marry without special permission are: 1.period of Lent. 2.Holy Week and the week after Easter. 3.All days of abstinence.. 4.All Sundays. -What are the certain degrees of kinship within which we are forbidden to marry? = We are forbidden to marry with a first cousin or any relative closer than a first cousin. -Does the Church encourage mixed marriage, outside of our faith? = No, the Church does not encourage mixed marriages because they often bring about family discords, indifferentism, and neglect of the proper religious training of the children in our faith. Through marriage the couple enters into the society formally and effectively. It is the beginning of all permanent relations among men. The character of a nation depends more on family discipline than on the civil constitutions or even the school system. Within the bonds of marriage, husband and wife experience a union with one another in love, and hopefully the fruit of children and one day the joy of grandchildren. And within the bonds of marriage there is both a fullness of equality between husband and wife, and a clarity of order with the husband as the icon of Christ, the wife as the icon of the Church. the Church. 5 6 Prepared by Most Rev. Muron Aznikian Holy Cross Armenian Apostolic Cathedral ê ʲâ вÚò ²è²øºÈ²Î²Ü زÚð î²ö²ð 900 W. Lincoln Avenue, Montebello, CA Tel (323) / Fax (323) holycross900@sbcglobal.net 6 Find us on THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY MARRIAGE Within the bonds of marriage, husband and wife experience a union with one another in love, and hopefully the fruit of children and one day the joy of grandchildren.

12 Matrimony Marriage Before the Fall / Marriage was a part of God s eternal purpose for humanity (Gen. 2:22-25). At the Parousa, human history closes with the marriage of the Bride to the Lamb (Rev. 19:7-9) earthly marriage being fulfilled in the heavenly. This Sacrament sanctifies the marriage/unity of a man and a woman giving them graces to establish a Christian family to lead Christian lives and to preserve the human race (Eph. 6:4). As a Sacrament, matrimony is the act by which the church blesses the mutual agreement of the two parties, and binds the new couples with a spiritual bond to each other and to the church. God himself is the author of marriage. He instituted this sacrament in the Garden of Eden saying, Increase and multiply and fill the earth. Our Lord Jesus Christ, with his presence at the wedding of Gana of Galilee sanctified this sacrament. A man and his wife are called to take part in the work of the Creator. Besides the aim of bringing children into the world, Marriage is also instituted for the mutual support of man and woman. Eph. 5:22-33 is an important passage referring to this sacrament and the role of husbands and wives. Necessary conditions to make the Sacrament lawful: Required age; healthy, not afflicted with bodily defects. Free consent of the bridegroom and the bride. It is forbidden to marry close blood relatives What are some of the duties of husband and wife in the married state of life? - The first duty of husband and wife is to be faithful to each other. Mutual love and respect. - The married couples should bear with each others faults and infirmities. Build up, and strengthen their relationship and their home, family. - Husband and wife must comfort and support each other in their common life. Mutual understanding, devotion/sacrifice. - The wife can influence her husband for good more by meekness and devotion, than by nagging and arguing. - The husband can win the heart of his wife more by companionship and consideration, than by wealth and force. In a true Christian marriage there is no question of first or second. There is no competition or superiority between wife and husband; for, as the Bible states, They are no longer two, but one flesh (Matt. 19:5-6). The marriage is indissoluble according to the decree of our Lord What God had joined together let no man put asunder (Matt.19:6). By death alone can the marriage of any person be considered dissolved (I. Cor.7:27-29). Second and third marriages are not looked upon with favor by the Church. Apostle Paul in his letter to the Ephesians (5, 32), regarded matrimony a great Sacrament/Mystery, because through holy matrimony husband and wife unite themselves spiritually. The Bible says, What therefore God hath joined together let no man put asunder. (Matt. 19, 6). According to the Apostle Paul, The husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the Church. Therefore, the matrimonial union of husband and wife symbolizes the union of Christ with the Church. The husband must love his wife as Jesus loves his Church (Ephes. 5 :22-25). The Matrimonial Ceremony is called Crown (Besak), because married couples wear crowns on their heads during the ceremony. For this reason the bridegroom is called King and bride Queen. Crown can be substituted by Narod (red and green ribbons with a little cross at the end, This is tied at the forehead of the bride and groom). In the Armenian Church the priest performs the service of holy matrimony according to the instructions of the Mashdotz (Book of Ceremony). The Mashdotz contains the proper rites and ceremonies for first and second marriages, but the third and fourth marriages can only be performed by the permission of the Holy See, of the Church. Divorce is not encouraged by the Church, except for fornication. In this case divorce is permitted by the Catholicos. Marriage with close relatives is also forbidden in the Armenian Church. In the early days the limit was eight generations apart -now it is five. This is very important for a healthy generation, and also in a moral sense. MARRIAGE AND DIVORCE Jesus departs Galilee. He goes to the region of Judea and across the Jordan. Pharisees interrogate Jesus in order to test Him. Their question is about the legality of a man divorcing his wife. The way in which the question is put, reflects the discussion within the Christian community. Jesus answer at first directs the questioners to the Mosaic law, which did indeed allow a man to write a certificate of divorce, and to put his wife away (Deut.24:1-4). Jesus interpretation of the reason behind the permission of divorce is that it was given because of their hardness of heart, that is, a concession arising from human stubbornness and unwillingness to submit to the genuine will of God. Moses legislation on divorce is a concession to a human weakness, hardness of heart, which is at the root of divorce on the part of one partner or both. On the other hand, Jesus locates God s will in marriage in the very act of Creation. What God intended from the beginning of Creation was to join male and female together in a oneness. This intention to form a one-to-one relationship is seen in the creation of the male and female genders. Jesus goes back to the original will of God for permanent monogamous marriage, indicated by the creation of man and woman as well as by God s explicit command in Gen. 2:24. Then they are no longer two, but one flesh is the heart of the biblical teaching on marriage: Husband and wife are one flesh, joined together in oneness by God. Here is the emphasis is upon the union created by the marriage bond, and it is intended that all other relationships shall be subservient to that bond. Being one, the two cannot be broken apart or divided again. The yearning of a husband and wife for one another was planted in human nature by God before the Fall. The harmony of Adam and Eve with God and with each other was a great virtue. Adam considered Eve a part of himself. When he cut himself off from the love of God, that harmony was broken. Jesus restores the marriage relationship to its original state, giving it a spiritual dimension. Divorce is permitted only for sexual immorality, which destroys a marriage a teaching held also by the Pharisees. The Orthodox Church may grant divorce, but regards it as a spiritual tragedy requiring great pastoral care

13 PRAYER OVER SICK -When is this Sacrament administered? = This Sacrament is administered when the sick one is in great pain and in need of comfort and healing. -How is this Sacrament administered? = This Sacrament is administered by reading the Gospel and other prayers prescribed for the occasion, by hearing the confession of the sick person, and by giving Holy Communion. -What other ceremony accompanied these prayers in the earlier days of the Church? = In the earlier days of the Church the priest used to anoint certain parts of the body of the sick with the Holy Chrism (Myron). From this ceremony the Sacrament derived the name of Last Anointment or Extreme Unction. -When is it advisable to call the priest to visit the sick? = It is advisable to call the priest to visit the sick in any serious illness even though there be no apparent danger of death, as it is the duty of the priest to visit the sick and to administer to his spiritual needs. A HEALING PRAYER O Jesus, heal the sick and the needy. I give You all those parts of my body which have suffered from illness. You know what it is like to endure pain. Look kindly on me today and heal me. Restore me to strength of soul and body. Give Your gift of wisdom to my physician that he may be guided by the H. Spirit in all he does. Bless my nurses so that their hands will become Your hands as they touch me. Bless, too, my medication. O Jesus, grant us all Your healing grace of love and peace. Amen. 5 HEALING GOSPEL: Reading from the Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Mark. (11:22-26.) You will find He s not too busy to hear your heart s cry He s passing by this moment, your needs He ll supply Jesus answered So, reach out and touch the Lord as He goes by them, Remember this, if you have faith in God, you can say to this hill: Get up and throw yourself in the sea. If you do not doubt in your heart, but believe that what you say will happen, it will be done for you. For this reason I tell you: when you pray and ask for something, believe that you have recieved it, and you will be given whatever you ask for. And when you stand praying, forgive anything you may have against anyone, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins. In sickness, man experiences his helplessness. In the administration of this sacrament, Jesus cleanses the sick person from sin and gives the strength to overcome the difficulties that accompany serious illness and the frailty of old age. In this way the sick are united with the passion of Christ. Finally, this sacrament perfects the anointing of Baptism and Confirmation and fortifies the sick person in his final journey to meet the Lord, and sometimes Jesus uses this sacrament to physically heal the sick person. HEALING GOSPELS IN CASES OF SERIOUS AND INTERNAL SICKNESS Eye and Sight Disturbances and other Internal Sicknesses Read the Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to St. Matthew (9:18-26,15:29-31). For all kinds of Sicknesses Read the Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to St. Matthew (15:29-31). In case of Fever From The Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to St. Mark (1:29-31). For the Handicaps and for sickness in general Read the Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to St. Mark (2:1-12, St. John 5:1-9). In times of Spiritual Troubles and Psychological disturbances Read the Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to St. Luke (4:31-37, 5:12-15, 13:10-13). Prepared by Most Rev. Muron Aznikian 6 Holy Cross Armenian Apostolic Cathedral ê ʲâ вÚò ²è²øºÈ²Î²Ü زÚð î²ö²ð 900 W. Lincoln Avenue, Montebello, CA Tel (323) / Fax (323) holycross900@sbcglobal.net Find us on SACRAMENT OF EXTREME UNCTION OR PRAYER OVER SICK Alleluia, Alleluia. (Psalm 6:1-9) O Lord, do not rebuke me in Your anger, nor chasten me in Your hot displeasure. Have mercy on me. O Lord, for I am weak; O Lord, heal me, for my bones are troubled. My soul also is greatly troubled; But You, O Lord how long? Return, O Lord, deliver me Oh, save me for Your mercies sake! I am weary with my groaning; All night I make my bead swim; I drench my couch with my tears. For the Lord has heard the voice of my weeping. The lord has heard my supplication; The Lord will receive my 7 prayer.

14 THE ORDER OF THE SICK OR THE EXTREME UNCTION This sacrament is administered to those who are found in stress and strain of grave illness. This ceremony which is performed by the minister of the Church has important parts which are repentance, prayer, and Holy Communion. The anointment of the sick existed even before Christ and who in turn practiced it many times as we read in the Gospel according to St. Mark Anointed with oil many that were sick and healed them. Also in the epistle of St. James 5:14-16, we read: Is any man sick among you? Let him send for the priest of the church and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith shall save the sick man. It is evident from this second quotation, that the important thing is the faith, first, on the part of the sick person and second on the part of the priest who will say the prayers. The administration of this sacrament today consists of a gospel reading; Confession; administration of Holy Communion; prayers; and the kissing of the cross. From the 4th to the 10th centuries, the Armenian Church administered the sacrament of the Unction of the Sick in its original form, because in the regulations number 11 of the council of Touin in 720 A.D. in time of Hovhannes Otznetzy the Catholicos, is mentioned that not only Bishops but even priests may bless the oil which will later be used for the sick. Let it be known that this oil is not the same one used at Baptism, which is blessed only by the Catholicos. The former is only olive oil which is commonly used for such devout purposes. However, beginning in the 15th century, the Armenian Church did not refuse, but abstained from conducting the sacrament in order to resist the influence of the Catholic Church. Over time, it was left out of our liturgical life. The Order of the Sick is referred to in the Mashdotz as The Order of the Night Hour Prayer, which is performed upon the person who is seriously sick as a remedy for his pains and for forgiveness of his sins. The priest of the Church lays his hand upon the sick person and prays that through the sign of the cross he will receive strength from God in order to endure his pains and sickness. At the same time he comforts and admonishes him that he trust in God s infinite mercy, by repenting and participating in Holy communion, to secure his salvation in order to enter his eternal rest with a peaceful mind and spirit. As to the Extreme Unction of the sick which is performed in the Roman Catholic Church, the Armenian Church does not practice it, finding no religious value in it. The Armenian Church only anoints the hands and foreheads of the clergymen, at their funeral, simply to honor them in regard to their priestly and holy office. The Orthodox and Catholic Churches acknowledge the unction of the sick as the seventh sacrament. In the Orthodox Church this sacrament is officiated upon people who are very ill and rely on God s mercy and belief that the Holy Oil will quicken the recovery or in the case of inevitable death, the oil will alleviate any death related sufferings. It was established according to the message of the Apostle who founded it. Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. (James 5:14). According to the Church fathers, the aim is to grant perfect health through penance. The service does not have any association with the preparation for death or last anointment. It is strictly to be used as a sacrament for healing, and can be repeated. T o d a y, the Unction of the Sick, is not regularly practiced, but is still recognized as a Sacrament of the Church. In the administration of Do not hide Your face from me in the day of my the Sacrament, distress! Incline Your ear to me; answer me speedily in the day when I call. (Ps 102:2) the clergyman prays and reads the Gospel of healing, blesses the individual, then offers communion. Thus, both the body and the soul of the individual find peace and healing. In conclusion both the sacrament of confirmation and this sacrament of the sick are to be looked upon as a preparation for a battle. At the confirmation a young warrior, a child of God is anointed with holy Myron. Here the same warrior only much older and defeated many times by sin during his life once again needs strength to stand the physical suffering that he is undergoing. EXHORTATION For the sick and for all that are afflicted let us beseech our Savior Christ that He may have mercy upon them according to His loving kindness and that He may heal the infirmities and sicknesses of the bodies and souls of His servants and with perfect health conduct them all to eternal and indefectible life; for He was sent by the Father to heal mankind, the Only Begotten Son of God, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Save us and have mercy upon us, O Lord. PRAYER O Lord, our God, dispel the pain and heal the sickness of Your people and grant to all perfect health by the sign of Your allconquering Cross, through which You did remove the weakness of men and did condemn the enemy of our life and salvation. O beneficent and most merciful God, only You can forgive and remove disease and sickness from us; to You are known our needs and necessities. O bestower of gifts, grant Your bounteous mercy to Your creatures according to the needs of each one, and specially upon Your servant (NAME,) through whom the All-Holy Trinity is glorified and praised; now and always, forever and ever. Amen