The Fast of Catechumens is unique to the Armenian Church, and It is observed on Monday preceding the feast of St. Sarkis. In the ancient times, the custom was to fast for five days, however, today the fast is extended over three days…
Emperor Theodosius II, who started his rule over the Roman Empire in 408 at the tender age of seven, succeeded his father, Arcadius. Known as “the Younger” to differentiate him from his grandfather, Emperor Theodosius I the Great, his reign is notable for two major accomplishments: the promulgation of the Theodosian law code and the construction of the Theodosian Walls in Constantinople. His sister, Pulcheria, played a crucial role in his life, instilling in him a deep Christian piety and a strong devotion to the Orthodox Faith.
In our lives, names hold a profound importance. Most of us carry names that embody meaning and history. We often name our children after our ancestors or influential figures, underscoring the value we place on names. Throughout history, names like Alexander the Great, Tigran the Great, Socrates, Julius Ceasar, Isaac Newton… have etched themselves deeply in our collective memory. Their impact was like stars shining bright, yet their legacy, in many cases, faded into darkness, leaving behind …
January 14th of each year, the Armenian Church commemorates the Feast of the Birth of St. John the Forerunner (also known as St. John the Baptist). The elderly couple Zechariah and Elizabeth welcomed with great joy the birth of their son who they named John just as the angel Gabriel had instructed. Neighbors and relatives, who had gathered to celebrate the birth of this special child…
Every January 13, the Armenian Church celebrates the Feast of the Naming of our Lord Jesus Christ, in accordance with the Hebrew custom. The commemoration of this event (see Matthew 1:20-23; Luke 1:30-32; Luke 2:21) comes seven days after the Feast of Theophany, which is the eighth day of the octave of Theophany. This event of the naming and circumcision of our Lord resulted …
The Armenian Church commemorates the Holy Fathers Basil, Gregory of Nyssa, Sylvester of Rome, and Ephrem the Syrian. St. Basil “the Great” was an intellectual and exceptional leader who helped spread Christianity. St. Gregory of Nyssa was the younger brother of Basil. St. Sylvester served as the Bishop of Rome for more than twenty years. St. Ephrem the Syrian lived in Mesopotamia (Syria)…
On Thursday, December 28, the Armenian Church commemorates the Holy Apostle James and John the Evangelist. Both held prominent positions among the twelve apostles, and they were called “Sons of Thunder” by Jesus (Mark 3:17) probably because they were impetuous and quick tempered as suggested in Luke …
The Holy Apostles Paul and Peter, were perhaps the two individuals who had the greatest role in the growth and spread of Christianity. Peter was renowned for his oratory skills, and he used his talent to spread the Word. Paul was an oppressor of the early Christians until on the road to Damascus he converted when a brilliant light blinded him and he heard …
On Monday, December 26, the Armenian Church commemorates St. Stephen first deacon and proto-martyr. After Christ’s ascension, the apostles went about spreading the Word. It soon became apparent that more people were needed to serve the growing church community. Seven worthy individuals were called upon to …
St. James is known for his divine vision on Mount Ararat. According to tradition, while preaching near Nisibis, St. James learned that some doubted Noah’s Ark’s story. Determined to show proof, he embarked on a journey to Mount Ararat’s peak to find the ark’s remains. Saint James’ journey up the mountain is a metaphor for our own spiritual journey. He faced obstacles and challenges, yet he never gave up. His goal was not just to reach the summit but to seek a closer communion with God.
