TEHRAN -- The 71st iteration of the Badarak (Holy Communion) ceremony unfolded with profound reverence and unity at the ancient Qara Kelisa (St. Thaddeus Monastery) in Chalderan, West Azerbaijan Province. 
The sacred gathering, held from August 1 to 3, drew over 4,000 Armenian pilgrims from Iran and around the world, including Armenia, Syria, Lebanon, the Netherlands, France, Austria, Germany, and Canada.
Qara Kelisa, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a paramount monument of Christian heritage, believed to be the oldest surviving church in the world. 
Erected atop the tomb of St. Thaddeus—one of the apostles of Jesus Christ and a martyr—the historic monastery embodies centuries of faith, culture, and resilience. The monastery’s spiritual significance resonates deeply with Armenians, who regard it as a beacon of faith and a symbol of their enduring connection to the land.
Archbishop Grigor Chiftchian, the Armenian Catholicos of Azerbaijan, described the Badarak ceremony as “a golden chain shining brightly in the world of Christianity.” He highlighted the vital role of Iranian authorities, especially the Governor of West Azerbaijan and the Chalderan District Governor, in safeguarding this heritage site and facilitating the three-day spiritual event.
The Badarak ceremony is a profound ritual commemorating the Last Supper of Christ, connecting the faithful with their apostolic roots. Pilgrims participate in sacred prayers, light candles, and perform ritual sacrifices as acts of devotion and thanksgiving. Families often bring their children for baptism in this historic sanctuary, believing in its blessings and spiritual protection.