A reading, reflection, and church-event planning guide for the Feast of the Nativity and Theophany of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Armenian Apostolic Church celebrates the Nativity and Theophany together on January 6. The Church’s Western Diocese describes the January 5 eve observance and the Feast day services. Church schedules and local practices can vary, so check with your own church.
These photographs show three important Armenian Apostolic church centers. Each has its own history and community life; follow your local church for worship schedules and guidance.
Saint Gregory the Illuminator CathedralAntelias, Lebanon · Holy See of CiliciaPhoto by Antipop4 · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons source
OFFICIAL CHURCH SITES
Explore the Church and its dioceses
The Armenian Apostolic Church has historic sees and dioceses serving communities around the world. The Mother See provides an overview of its hierarchical sees.
The birth of Jesus and the baptism of Jesus are distinct events in the Gospel accounts. This guide keeps each reading clear while exploring why the Armenian Church celebrates the Nativity and Theophany together.
01 · THE NATIVITY
Good news in Bethlehem
Read: Luke 2:1–20
Find details about where Jesus is born, the message the shepherds hear, and what they do next.
Youth prompt: Retell the shepherds’ response using “first,” “next,” and “finally.” Which verse or detail helped you?
02 · THE THEOPHANY
Jesus is baptized
Read: Matthew 3:13–17
Notice where Jesus goes, who baptizes him, and what happens as he comes up from the water.
Youth prompt: Name two details from this scene. What do they help you understand about the event?
A SHORT FAMILY ACTIVITY
Two scenes, one feast
Make two columns on paper: “Bethlehem” and “The Jordan.” After reading both passages, write or draw details from each story in the matching column. Then discuss:
What happens in each passage?
Which people, places, and details belong to each scene?
What does your family want to remember about this feast?
Sentence starter:“In Luke’s account… In Matthew’s account… The detail I want to remember is…”
BEFORE A CHURCH EVENT
Plan with your local church
Use this checklist as a family reminder. Confirm service times, customs, and participation details directly with your church.
Check your church’s current January 5 and January 6 schedule.
Ask whether a Christmas Eve Candlelight Divine Liturgy is planned.
Ask about the January 6 Divine Liturgy and Blessing of Water, if offered locally.
Check what youth and families should bring or know before attending.
After the service, invite youth to share one detail they noticed or a question they would like to ask.