Armenian Church Funeral: Traditions & Guide

Let's dive into the traditions and customs surrounding an Armenian Church funeral service. It's a profound and deeply spiritual event, filled with unique rituals and symbolism. Understanding these elements can provide comfort and clarity during a difficult time. So, grab a cup of coffee, and let's explore this important aspect of Armenian culture together.

Understanding the Armenian Church Funeral Service

Armenian Church funeral services are steeped in rich traditions that reflect the faith's ancient roots. The service serves not only as a farewell to the deceased but also as a powerful affirmation of faith and hope in the resurrection. It’s a time for the community to come together, offer support, and remember the departed soul.

The theological underpinnings of the service emphasize the belief in the immortality of the soul and the promise of eternal life through Christ. Prayers and hymns focus on seeking God's mercy and granting rest to the departed in His heavenly kingdom. This is why the service is conducted with reverence and solemnity, creating an atmosphere of spiritual reflection and communal mourning.

Key Elements of the Service

Several key elements define the structure and meaning of an Armenian Church funeral service. These include:

• The Vigil (Hokehankist): Typically held the evening before the funeral, the vigil is a prayer service where family and friends gather to remember the deceased and offer prayers for their soul. It's a time for quiet reflection and sharing memories.
• The Funeral Liturgy (Hats Tseenoon): This is the main funeral service, usually held in the church. It includes readings from the Bible, hymns, prayers, and a sermon, all centered on themes of resurrection and eternal life. The liturgy provides comfort and spiritual guidance to the mourners.
• The Kiss of Peace: A significant moment during the service, the Kiss of Peace symbolizes reconciliation and unity among the mourners. It’s a gesture of love and forgiveness, both for the departed and among the living.
• The Committal Service: Held at the graveside, this is the final farewell. Prayers are offered, and the body is committed to the earth, awaiting the resurrection. The priest blesses the grave, and the family says their final goodbyes.

These elements combine to create a service that is both deeply personal and communally significant, providing solace and hope during a time of grief.

Preparing for an Armenian Church Funeral

When preparing for an Armenian Church funeral, several steps need to be taken to ensure that the service honors the deceased and adheres to the traditions of the church. From coordinating with the priest to arranging the burial, each aspect requires careful consideration.

Initial Steps

1. Contacting the Priest: The first and most crucial step is to contact the priest of the Armenian Church. The priest will guide you through the necessary arrangements, offer spiritual support, and help schedule the funeral service. They will also provide valuable insights into the specific customs and protocols of the church.
2. Informing the Community: It's important to inform the Armenian community about the passing of the individual. This can be done through church announcements, community newsletters, or word of mouth. A strong community network is essential for providing support and comfort during this time.
3. Selecting a Funeral Home: Choose a funeral home that is familiar with Armenian funeral customs. They can assist with preparing the body, arranging the viewing, and coordinating with the church. Discuss your specific needs and preferences with the funeral director to ensure a respectful and dignified service.

Making Arrangements

• Preparing the Obituary: Work with the family to write an obituary that honors the life and accomplishments of the deceased. Include details about their family, career, and community involvement. Share the obituary with local newspapers and online platforms.
• Choosing the Music: The music for the funeral service is an important part of the ceremony. Work with the priest and the church choir to select appropriate hymns and musical pieces. Traditional Armenian hymns are often chosen for their spiritual significance and comforting melodies.
• Arranging the Burial: Coordinate with the cemetery to arrange the burial. Ensure that the burial plot is prepared and that all necessary permits are obtained. Consider the family's wishes regarding burial location and memorial arrangements.

Coordinating with the Church

Coordinating effectively with the Armenian Church is vital for a meaningful and traditional funeral service. The church plays a central role in guiding the family through the process and ensuring that all aspects of the service are conducted according to Armenian Orthodox traditions. Here’s how to make that coordination seamless:

• Meeting with the Priest: Schedule a meeting with the priest as soon as possible after the passing of the loved one. This initial meeting sets the tone for the entire funeral process. The priest will offer spiritual guidance, explain the funeral rites, and help with the logistical planning.
• Discussing the Service Details: During the meeting, discuss the specifics of the funeral service, including the date, time, and location. Coordinate the readings, hymns, and prayers with the priest. If there are specific family traditions or requests, communicate them clearly to ensure they are honored.
• Understanding Church Customs: The Armenian Church has unique customs and traditions that should be respected and followed. The priest can provide valuable insights into these customs, helping the family understand their significance. This includes aspects like the appropriate attire, the use of incense, and the order of the service.
• Arranging Church Facilities: If the funeral service is to be held in the church, coordinate the use of the facilities with the church staff. This includes the sanctuary, the reception hall, and any other areas that will be used for the service or gathering. Ensure that all necessary arrangements are made for seating, lighting, and sound.
• Involving the Choir: The Armenian Church choir plays a crucial role in the funeral service. Coordinate with the choir director to select appropriate hymns and musical pieces. The choir's participation adds a layer of solemnity and beauty to the service.

By working closely with the priest and the church staff, families can ensure that the funeral service is conducted in accordance with Armenian Orthodox traditions, providing comfort and spiritual support to the mourners.

What to Expect During the Service

Attending an Armenian Church funeral service can be a unique experience, especially if you're unfamiliar with the traditions. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and respectful during the ceremony. Let’s walk through the key parts of the service and what they signify.

The Vigil (Hokehankist)

The Vigil, or Hokehankist, is typically held the evening before the funeral. It's a prayer service dedicated to the memory of the deceased. Family and friends gather to offer prayers for the departed soul and find solace in each other's company. The priest leads the service, reciting prayers and hymns that emphasize hope and eternal life.

During the Vigil, you might hear readings from the Bible and reflections on the life of the deceased. It's a time for sharing memories and offering support to the grieving family. The atmosphere is usually quiet and contemplative, allowing attendees to reflect on the significance of life and death.

The Funeral Liturgy (Hats Tseenoon)

The Funeral Liturgy, or Hats Tseenoon, is the main funeral service held in the church. This is a more formal ceremony that includes readings from the Bible, hymns, prayers, and a sermon. The liturgy is centered on the themes of resurrection and eternal life, providing comfort and spiritual guidance to the mourners.

As you enter the church, you'll notice the reverence and solemnity of the setting. The priest leads the service from the altar, and the choir sings traditional Armenian hymns. The readings and sermon focus on the hope of salvation and the promise of eternal rest for the departed.

Key Moments in the Liturgy

• The Kiss of Peace: This is a significant moment during the service, symbolizing reconciliation and unity among the mourners. It's a gesture of love and forgiveness, both for the deceased and among the living. Attendees often turn to each other and offer a sign of peace, such as a handshake or a gentle embrace.
• The Procession: The procession is a formal march that usually takes place within the church. The priest leads the way, followed by the choir and the family of the deceased. The procession is a visual representation of the community accompanying the departed on their final journey.
• The Final Blessing: At the end of the liturgy, the priest offers a final blessing, asking for God's mercy and grace for the departed soul. This is a moment of profound spiritual significance, marking the conclusion of the service in the church.

The Committal Service

The Committal Service takes place at the graveside. This is the final farewell, where prayers are offered, and the body is committed to the earth, awaiting the resurrection. The priest blesses the grave, and the family says their final goodbyes. It's an emotional moment, but also a time for closure and acceptance.

As the body is lowered into the ground, the priest recites prayers that affirm the hope of eternal life. Family members may offer flowers or other tokens of remembrance. The Committal Service is a poignant reminder of the cycle of life and death, and the enduring power of faith.

Cultural and Religious Considerations

Understanding the cultural and religious considerations surrounding an Armenian Church funeral is essential for showing respect and providing support to the grieving family. These customs reflect deep-rooted traditions and spiritual beliefs that are central to Armenian identity.

Dress Code and Etiquette

• Attire: When attending an Armenian Church funeral, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully. Dark, subdued colors are generally appropriate. Avoid wearing bright or flashy clothing. Men typically wear suits or dark trousers with a dress shirt, while women often wear dresses or skirts that cover the knees. It's a sign of respect to dress in a way that doesn't draw attention to yourself.
• Behavior: During the service, maintain a respectful and reverent demeanor. Avoid talking loudly or engaging in casual conversations. Turn off your cell phone or put it on silent mode. Pay attention to the prayers and readings, and participate in the hymns if you know them. Show empathy and support to the family by offering condolences and a comforting presence.

Religious Customs

• Candles: Lighting candles is a common practice in Armenian Church funerals. Candles symbolize the light of Christ and the hope of eternal life. You may see family members and friends lighting candles at the vigil or during the funeral liturgy. If you are invited to light a candle, do so with reverence and offer a prayer for the departed soul.
• Incense: The use of incense is another important aspect of Armenian Church services. Incense symbolizes the prayers of the faithful ascending to God. The fragrant smoke fills the church, creating a spiritual atmosphere. Be aware that some people may be sensitive to the smell of incense, so position yourself accordingly.
• Fasting and Mourning: In some Armenian traditions, families may observe a period of fasting and mourning before and after the funeral. This is a time for reflection and spiritual focus. Respect the family's customs and offer your support as they navigate their grief.

Offering Condolences

• Words of Comfort: When offering condolences to the family, keep your words simple and heartfelt. Express your sympathy for their loss and offer your support. Avoid saying anything that might minimize their grief or offer unsolicited advice. A simple