Nagorno-Karabakh residents welcome Easter with prayers for peace

The Easter services were held in 10 churches of Nagorno-Karabakh; after the abolition of anti-COVID restrictions, many believers have visited them, the diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church has informed.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that on April 16, the parishioners of the Armenian Apostolic Church celebrated the Easter Eve. In Yerevan, after the liturgy, a march with lit candles was held. Residents of Armenia and Karabakh said that on this day they traditionally set a festive table and try to visit the church.

In 2020, due to the pandemic, believers in Armenia were unable to visit churches on the Christmas Eve and Easter; they had to watch liturgies in the online mode. In 2021, the Easter and the Christmas were welcomed amid severe anti-COVID restrictions.

This year, the Easter services were also held in the Dadivank Monastery, where 20 believers were accompanied by peacemakers, a source of the Artsakh (Karabakh) diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church has informed.

The family of Samvel Balayan, a Stepanakert resident, has visited the temple. "We, like many families, attended the church services on the Easter Eve, and today – the Easter liturgy. Everything was traditional – candles, Easter meals and eggs. We pray that there is peace, our soldiers are alive, healthy and fearless, and that there are no more wars," Mr Balayan has stated.

Seda Gabrielyan, another Stepanakert resident, said that her family seldom visits the church.

"In general, the day is like a normal one. Every day we pray to God for peace; we pray for the peace for those who have perished," the woman has added.