‘Michink’ rite held at church in Kayseri, Türkiye

Turkish citizens of Armenian descent from various provinces in Türkiye gathered for the ‘michink’ ceremony at Surp Krikor Lusavoric Church in Kayseri

An Armenian Christian ceremony called “michink” was held at Surp Krikor Lusavoric Church in Kayseri’s Caferbey neighborhood. Led by Pastor Natan Arabyan, participants lit candles and offered prayers.

Zadik Toker, chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Kayseri Foundation of the Surp Krikor Lusavoric Armenian Church, told reporters that the michink rite was held in the time period coinciding with the middle of the “Great Fast” kept on Easter.

Stating that they also go to churches in Iskenderun and Hatay after Kayseri every year, Toker said, “After the earthquake of the century on Feb. 6, we were unable to visit these places as they were badly damaged. Hopefully, we will visit them in the coming years if they are restored. Fortunately, we come here every year and perform our rituals. The majority of visitors are from Istanbul, but many from Anatolia also come. We remember our ancestors, we pray for the souls of the dead.”

Regarding Israel’s attacks on Palestine, Toker said, “We strongly condemn the persecution of our brothers and sisters in Gaza. Toward the end of the ceremony, we will pray for the martyrs in Gaza. We strongly condemn what has been done.”

Source: Newsroom