Easter is one of the most important religious holidays in Armenia. Armenian people celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ with great joy and special traditions. The celebration begins on Saturday evening. Families go to church for the midnight service. People light candles and sing beautiful hymns. The priest announces “Christ is risen!” and everyone responds “Blessed is the resurrection of Christ!” On Easter Sunday morning, families gather for a festive breakfast. The table is decorated with colorful painted eggs. Children love to crack eggs together – whoever’s egg doesn’t break wins! Armenian families also prepare special Easter bread called “chorek” which is sweet and delicious. Traditional Easter foods include fish, rice pilaf, and various salads.The meal is a time for family members to come together and celebrate. After breakfast, children go on egg hunts in gardens and parks. They search for hidden chocolate eggs and small gifts. Some families visit relatives and friends to share Easter greetings.

Vocabulary

resurrection – հարություն religious – կրոնական celebration – տոնակատարություն traditions – ավանդույթներ announces – հայտարարում է festive – տոնական decorated – զարդարված various – տարբեր, զանազան spiritual – հոգևոր communities – համայնքներ

Exercise 1: True or False Read the sentences and write T (True) or F (False):

1. Easter is celebrated only on Sunday in Armenia. F
2. Armenian families eat special Easter bread called “chorek.” T
3. Children play games with painted eggs. T
4. People visit churches on Saturday evening. T

Exercise 2: Answer the Questions

1. What do people do at the midnight church service?
   People light candles and sing beautiful hymns.
2. Name three traditional Easter foods mentioned in the text.
   Traditional Easter foods include fish, rice pilaf, and various salads.
3. What does Easter represent for Armenian people?

Armenian people celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ with great joy and special traditions.

Exercise 3: Complete the Sentences Fill in the blanks with words from the text:

1. Easter is one of the most important religious holidays in Armenia.
2. The table is decorated with colorful painted eggs.
3. Children go on egg hunts in gardens and parks.
4. Easter brings together and keeps ancient traditions alive.