BLESSING OF POMEGRANATES

Since 2015, we’ve embraced a beautiful tradition to welcome the New Year by blessing pomegranates. Why pomegranates? Because this fruit, so intricately woven into our Armenian heritage and Christian faith, carries profound symbolism. From its deep red color to the abundance of seeds, the pomegranate has come to represent new life, fresh beginnings, and the overflowing blessings God has in store for us.

When you crack open a pomegranate, you’re met with a burst of color and hundreds of seeds, all packed inside. It’s a visual reminder that God’s blessings aren’t stingy. God doesn’t just want to fill our lives; He wants to overflow in our lives. Ephesians 3:20 tells us He’s able to do “exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think.”

The red color of the pomegranate is yet another reminder—this time of Christ’s sacrificial blood. It speaks of the greatest gift ever given: salvation through Jesus’ sacrifice. Ephesians 1:7 says, “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” Every time you see a pomegranate, let it remind you of the grace, mercy, and love poured out for you on the cross.

And then there’s the crown on the pomegranate. That crown is a powerful symbol of God’s sovereignty. It reminds us that He is the King of Kings, reigning over all creation. No matter what challenges or uncertainties may come, God is on the throne, and He holds our future securely in His hands.

Here’s one more amazing thought about the pomegranate. The pomegranate is believed to contain 365 seeds—one for every day of the year. What a beautiful thought!Just as each seed holds the potential for life, each day holds the potential for renewal, for purpose, and for reflecting God’s love in the world.

So, as we step into this new year, let’s hold onto this symbol of the pomegranate. Let it speak to us of God’s restoring grace, His bountiful blessings, and the bright future He has in store for us. Believe it, receive it, and watch the seeds of blessing flourish in unexpected ways.

God bless you, Happy and Blessed New Year!

Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan
January 1, 2025