St. Sarkis Day — is a national holiday in the Republic of Armenia, celebrated annually at the end of January — in the first half of February.
Saint Sarkis (St. Sarkis, 320—370) — is one of the most revered saints of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the entire Armenian people. Saint Sarkis was originally from the province of Gamerek, lived and performed feats during the reign of Emperor Constantine the Great. Under the influence of the sermons of the commander Sarkis, many warriors were baptized. In 363, under Emperor Julian the Apostate, Saint Sarkis suffered for Christ.
A beautiful legend has survived to this day, helping to understand why St. Sarkis is considered the patron saint of young lovers. So, returning victorious after another battle, Saint Sarkis and 39 of his soldiers and associates celebrated their victory in the royal palace. After a rich treat, having taken a fair share of alcohol, all forty winners went to bed. The king ordered forty young women to kill the brave warriors. 39 women carried out the order and killed Sarkis' soldiers and associates, but one woman, seeing the beautiful face of the sleeping Sarkis, fell madly in love with the warrior. Instead of killing Sarkis, she kissed him.
Waking up and realizing what had happened, Sarkis saddled his white horse with lightning speed, jumped on it, placing his beloved next to him, broke through the city gates and left the city.
That is why the lovers began to honor Saint Sarkis and see him as their patron and protector. And Saint Sarkis always helps and assists young lovers who seek protection from him.
The holiday of the patron saint of young lovers, Saint Sarkis, has been officially celebrated in Armenia since 2007. The night before the holiday, the young people eat a salted pancake and wait for revelation in their dreams: what kind of bride or groom is intended for them.
The Church calls these days to diligently pray to Saint Sarkis. In this regard, the holiday is preceded by a five-day fast.
On the day of the holiday, in the small center of the capital of Armenia, in the Church of Surb Sarkis, it is especially crowded. Here, as in all Armenian churches, a festive liturgy takes place. Many young people, in pairs or still alone, come for a blessing.