Surp Giragos Church in Diyarbakir hosts memorable postponed Easter service

Diyarbakir’s Surp Giragos Armenian Church hosts a vibrant Easter celebration, featuring traditional hymns, prayers, and a diverse mix of attendees after a delay because of a local election

The historic Surp Giragos Armenian Church in Diyarbakir’s Sur district hosted a colorful Easter celebration, bringing together a diverse group of attendees and highlighting the city’s rich cultural fabric.

Originally scheduled for March 31, the event was postponed due to local elections and recently took place, drawing significant interest.

The Clergy appointed by the Patriarchate of Turkish Armenians led the service, singing traditional hymns, reading prayers, and lighting candles. The celebration also featured the distribution of Easter bread and painted eggs, elements that added traditional flavor to the festive atmosphere.

Ohannes Gafur Ohanyan, Vice Chairman of the Surp Giragos Armenian Church Foundation, spoke about the significance and timing of the celebration.

“We are celebrating our Easter today, an event we had planned for March 31 but postponed,” Ohanyan stated. He highlighted the inclusive nature of the festivities, adding, “Everyone joins us here, Muslims and Christians alike. It is a celebration of enthusiasm and wide participation.”

The event attracted visitors from near and far. Nihayet Karaaslan, attending the ceremony for the first time with friends, shared her excitement: “We’ve been here before but never for the ceremony. We wanted to experience Easter together today.” Similarly, Onur Orak from Bitlis, who was exploring Diyarbakır’s historical sites, expressed his joy at participating in the event. “We were lucky to come across the ceremony while touring. It’s been a delightful surprise.”

Source: Newsroom