The Armenian Apostolic Church will celebrate the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, or Khachverats, on September 13. It is the last of the Church’s five major Tabernacle Feasts and is considered the most important feast dedicated to the Holy Cross.
Khachverats commemorates the return and glorification of the Cross of Christ. In the Armenian Church, the feast is celebrated on the Sunday falling between September 11 and 17.
The name of the feast is associated with the historical tradition of the Holy Cross being returned to Jerusalem from Persian captivity and raised again at Golgotha.
Bishop Zakaria has addressed several frequently asked questions concerning Khachverats and the Day of Remembrance of the Dead (Merelots) that follows it.
Is Khachverats a Feast Dedicated to the Dead?
According to the bishop, Khachverats itself is not dedicated to the deceased. It is a joyful feast celebrating the return and glorification of the Holy Cross.
The Monday following the feast is designated as Merelots, when the Church commemorates the departed.
Does Khachverats Change the 40th-Day Memorial?
No church feast changes or interrupts the traditional seventh-day, 40th-day or anniversary commemoration of a deceased person. These observances are held on their corresponding dates regardless of Khachverats.
Is Merelots Different for Those Who Died Recently?
There is no distinction based on how much time has passed since a person’s death. Families may visit the graves of their deceased relatives on Merelots regardless of when they died.
This year, September 14 will be Merelots, the day following Khachverats. A Divine Liturgy will be celebrated in churches, followed by a memorial service for the departed. Believers traditionally visit the graves of their deceased relatives afterward.
