By the order of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, the Feast of St. Sarkis the Captain and his soldiers-companions is proclaimed day of blessing of the youth.

On January 25 believers gathered in the yard of St. George’s Armenian Cathedral. Large procession with the icon of St. Sarkis, accompanied by clergy - Priest Samvel Torosyan, Priest Husik Harutyunyan, and Priest Narek Kushyan- headed for the ruined church of St. Sarkis the Captain.

After lighting the candles and prayer ceremony procession made its way to Holy Echmiadzin Church in Avlabari. The festive ceremony was held in the church and the leader of the Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church in Georgia, His Grace Bishop Vazgen Mirzakhanyan blessed the youth.

It is accepted to celebrate the Feast of St. Sarkis not only according to church rites and prayer, but also according to various folk traditions. St. Sarkis the Captain is the patron of youth. Many miracles happen thanks to his intercession. In the church salty cookies were given to youth. On the day of the feast young people pray the saint asking him to make their prayers audible to God. St. Sarkis is the realizer of the love longings. Believers received the blessing of God Almighty and grace of St. Sarkis and inspired returned to their homes.