Saint Sarkis Day, or Surb Sarkis, is a cherished celebration in Armenia honoring the patron saint of youth and lovers. The Armenian Apostolic Church commemorates Saint Sarkis, a military commander and Christian preacher who was martyred for his faith in the year 363. Revered by all Armenians, Saint Sarkis holds a special place in the hearts of young people who eagerly await this day to glimpse into their future on the eve of the festival.
Since 2007, Surb Sarkis has been officially recognized when His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, declared the day as the Blessing of Youth. From that moment onward, after the festive church services held across Armenia and in Armenian diaspora communities worldwide, a special rite of blessing for young people is conducted, underscoring the saint’s role as a protector of the young and those in love.
In Tbilisi, Georgia, the day begins with a time-honored pilgrimage to the chapel dedicated to Saint Sarkis. Led by the clergy of the local Armenian Church, worshippers process from the Surb Echmiadzin church carrying icons and banners toward the old chapel situated in the Harpukh district of the old city. After prayers at the ruins of this historic chapel, pilgrims continue to the Cathedral of Surb Gevorg (Saint George) where a festive liturgy is celebrated, followed by the solemn blessing ceremony for the youth.
Traditional folk customs also enrich the celebration of Surb Sarkis. According to an ancient practice, on the eve of the festival, young people eat salty flatbreads and go to sleep with the hope of dreaming about their destined partner—someone who will offer them a drink in the dream, symbolizing future love and companionship. Another old custom involves placing a tray filled with flour from roasted wheat on the roof or balcony, in the belief that the hoofprint of Saint Sarkis’s horse, which legend says flies over homes accompanied by angels, will be left on the flour.
But who exactly was this revered military commander, Saint Sarkis? He is one of Armenia’s most esteemed saints, having sacrificed his life alongside his son Martiros and fourteen warriors in defense of the Christian faith. Emperor Constantine the Great, impressed by his valor and leadership, appointed Sarkis prince and sparapet (commander-in-chief of the Armenian army) in Cappadocia, the region bordering Armenia. Not only a brilliant strategist, Sarkis was also a passionate preacher. With the emperor’s permission, he destroyed pagan shrines, built churches, and spread Christianity across the lands under his command.
When Emperor Julian the Apostate launched persecutions against Christians (360-363 AD), God appeared to Sarkis and instructed him to leave the empire’s borders. Sarkis and his son Martiros sought refuge in Armenia, ruled by King Tiran, grandson of King Trdat the Great. Upon learning that Julian was marching toward Persia with a large army, and hoping to avoid invasion, King Tiran urged Sarkis to join forces with King Shapur of Persia.
Welcomed warmly by King Shapur, Sarkis was made commander of his army. Many soldiers, inspired by Sarkis’s devout faith and the miracles attributed to his prayers, renounced paganism and embraced Christianity. However, Shapur demanded that Sarkis worship fire and participate in pagan rituals. Sarkis steadfastly refused, proclaiming, “Only the Holy Trinity—who created heaven and earth—is to be worshiped. Fire and idols are not gods, for they can be destroyed by men made of dust.” After these words, Sarkis shattered a statue of an idol. Enraged, the crowd attacked him and his son. Martiros was the first to receive the martyr’s crown. Sarkis was imprisoned and, remaining resolute in his faith, was soon beheaded. A radiant light appeared over his body after death. His fourteen loyal warriors also perished for their Christian beliefs. The faithful buried the martyrs in the city of Amida.
For Armenians, Saint Sarkis is one of the most beloved saints. Saint Mesrop Mashtots later transferred his relics to Karbi-Ushi in the Ashtarak region, where a church dedicated to the saint was built. The day of Saint Sarkis is observed not only with church ceremonies but also with cherished folk traditions. Known as the swift protector of all youth, Saint Sarkis is believed to perform miracles through his intercession. On this special day, young people pray fervently, asking the saint to carry their prayers to the Almighty. Saint Sarkis is considered a guardian of love and devotion, helping those who seek his blessing in matters of the heart.
