Why is Armenian Christmas Celebrated on January 6?

Even at the time of the apostles, there was no uniform way to celebrate this holy day in Christian churches around the world. And it wasn’t even celebrated in the very early Church. By the end of the third century, Christmas in Rome was held on Dec. 25 which coincided with a major pagan feast, while in the Eastern churches it was observed on January 6. The Armenian Church has maintained that ancient tradition to this day, whereas the Greek-speaking Christian world switched to the Latin tradition at the end of the fourth century. As good Christians, we must focus on the spirit of the Nativity of the Saviour and not the differences in our traditions.

How May Armenian Households Celebrate Christmas in Canada Today?

You may prefer to exchange Christmas gifts on Dec. 25 since it is the custom in Canadian society. In traditional Armenian homes, gifts were exchanged on Jan. 1, which is not a day of religious significance. Changing the day from Jan. 1 to Dec. 25 is not a major change since neither day has religious importance.

Many Armenians have family reunions and dinners on Dec. 25 and that is fine too. However, Armenians should fast during the seven-day period preceding Jan. 6 and on the evening of Jan. 5, families should attend church and participate in the celebration of the Christmas Eve Divine Liturgy. They should receive Holy Communion that evening or the following morning which is the Feast of the Theophany (the Manifestation of God).