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Members of the Armenian community in Syra's Latakia celebrated Tiarn'ndaraj  - a Christian feast for newly-weds and families. The celebration took place at St. Astvatsatsin Church, where people gathered, made a bonfire in the churchyard, went round it and jumped over the flame. Armenian folk dance group Geghard joined the festive event, performing national songs and dances.

To remind, on February 13 the Armenian Church celebrates the Feast of the Lord's Presentation to the Temple. Tiarn'ndaraj, or Candlemas as it is known in the West, symbolizes the presentation of the 40 day-old Christ Child to the Temple in Jerusalem.

On the morning of the Feast Day (February 14), divine liturgies are offered at Armenian churches around the world, followed by the blessing of newly-weds.