On Saturday, July 20, the Armenian Church commemorates the sons and grandsons of St. Gregory the Illuminator, namely, Sts. Aristakes, Vrtanes, Housik, Grigoris, and Daniel (who was not related, but was a distinguished and favorite student of St. Gregory). All of them continued the work of St. Gregory, preaching the word of Christ to pagans at great personal peril. Gregory had two sons, Aristakes and Vrtanes. Aristakes, the younger son, succeeded…
On Saturday, following Transfiguration, the Armenian Church commemorates Saint Thaddeus, one of two apostles who preached in Armenia, and Saint Sandukht, daughter of King Sanadrouk, and the first martyr saint of the Armenian Church. It is not an exaggeration to say that these two—Thaddeus and Sandukht—were pioneer in bringing Christianity to Armenia in the first century. Princess Sandukht was converted to Christianity by Thaddeus, and she in turn converted many others.
The Armenian Church and the Armenian language have helped Armenians defeat existential threats. The Armenian language as a factor in national survival is second only to the conversion of the Armenians to Christianity and the establishment of a national church. Thus, language has played a dual role for the Armenians: first, as a medium of communication; second and more important, as a cohesive force for national survival.
Today, as we remember St. Leon (Ghevont), the priest, and his companions, we are reminded of the profound sacrifice and unwavering faith that have shaped our history and sustained our Armenian spirit through the ages. St. Ghevont’s life and actions during the Vartanantz war stand as a beacon of courage and divine commitment, illuminating the path of righteousness for all of us, especially those called to serve in the priesthood.
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.
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…
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)…
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.
The Feast of the Conception of the Holy Virgin Mary is one of the eight feast days devoted to the Holy Virgin in the Armenian Church’s liturgical calendar. This feast is always celebrated on December 9 and is part of the Church’s preparation for Christmas. The faithful rejoice in the event that celebrates Mary’s conception in …
