Armenian Mass Baking Workshop Brings Generations Together in Holy Trinity Armenian Church

On Thursday, July 30, 2026, the Armenian community of Toronto gathered at Holy Trinity Armenian Church on 920 Progress Avenue for a hands-on Mass baking workshop that brought seniors and youth together around a shared table. Supported by the federal New Horizons for Seniors Program, the morning turned a centuries-old Armenian tradition into a living lesson in faith, food and belonging.

A hands-on celebration of Armenian heritage

The workshop welcomed participants of all ages, creating a rare and beautiful opportunity for elders and young people to connect through Armenian cultural and church traditions. As the dough was measured, kneaded and shaped, seniors shared stories, memories and the meaning behind recipes that have been passed down for generations. For many of the youth in the room, it was a first encounter with the customs their grandparents grew up with.

Baking Mass: the sacred bread of the Armenian Apostolic Church

The heart of the day was baking Mass (Nshkhar), the traditional unleavened church bread used in Armenian Apostolic religious services. Preparing Mass is more than a recipe, it is an act of devotion. As participants pressed the dough and marked each loaf, volunteers explained the symbolism behind the bread and its role in the Divine Liturgy, giving everyone a moment to reflect on faith and heritage.

MP Michael Coteau honors the community

The gathering was honored by the presence of Michael Coteau, Member of Parliament for Scarborough–Woburn, who joined participants and recognized the importance of preserving cultural heritage and building connections between generations. His visit underscored how community-led events like this one strengthen the wider fabric of multicultural Canada.

Bridging generations through the New Horizons for Seniors Program

The workshop was made possible with support from the New Horizons for Seniors Program, a Government of Canada initiative that funds projects helping seniors stay active, connected and engaged in their communities. By pairing seniors as teachers with youth as learners, the event captured exactly what the program is designed to do: turn lived experience into shared community wealth.

Keeping Armenian traditions alive in Canada

More than a baking class, the day was a celebration of identity, community and continuity. It is one of many gatherings that keep Armenian culture thriving across the country, the same spirit you will find in the cultural festivals, church picnics and concerts listed on Tomsak. Explore what is coming up in our Armenian Events in Ontario 2026 guide, or browse every gathering on our events page.

We thank Barev Centre who Invited us to this event. We gladly participated, volunteered and helped make this gathering such a memorable success, and we look forward to creating more opportunities where culture, faith, food and community come together.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Armenian Mass bread?

Mass (Nshkhar) is the unleavened church bread used in the Divine Liturgy of the Armenian Apostolic Church. It is prepared with care and marked with a religious seal before baking.

Where was the Mass baking workshop held?

The workshop took place at Holy Trinity Armenian Church, 920 Progress Avenue, Scarborough, Ontario, on July 30, 2026.

How can I find more Armenian events in Canada?

Tomsak lists Armenian cultural events, concerts and community gatherings across Canada. Browse the events page or subscribe to stay up to date.

What is the New Horizons for Seniors Program?

The New Horizons for Seniors Program is a Government of Canada initiative that funds community projects helping seniors stay active, connected and engaged. It supported this Mass baking workshop at Holy Trinity Armenian Church.

What is the Barev Centre?

The Barev Centre is a Canadian-Armenian community organization in Scarborough that runs social, cultural and educational programs. It invited the community to take part in this Mass baking workshop.