In ancient times candles were used in the church for a very practical reason: to provide light. Adequate lighting was especially important in churches, where the officiants of the liturgy relied on liturgical books to conduct the lengthy worship services. Apart from this strictly functional use, burning candles remind Christians...

Today we celebrate the Oil-bearing women who were the first to witness the resurrection of our Lord. What about this story inspired Armenians so much that they used to name their daughters Youghaper (Իւղաբեր)? What profound lesson and experience does our liturgy offer by celebrating this event not just once...

The vestments worn by the priest during the liturgy are a kind of sacred uniform. A person’s uniform is related to the kind of work that person does. It also provides a distinctive appearance that makes the person easily recognizable to the people he or she serves. A uniform may...

The modern western Christian is sometimes mesmerized, inspired and captivated by the stories of bravery, faith and martyrdom of early Christians. As for the Armenian Christianity and the Armenian Church, this was the reality it lived in, worshiped and practiced its faith for most its existence. On August 20, 1659...

On August 18, 995 A.D. the devastating earthquake spread destruction and death in Balu and surrounding areas. Through the efforts of Catholicos Sarkis I of Sevan, the Armenian Church took an active part in rebuilding and bringing life back to the destroyed towns and villages. During this time, he also...

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:28 It is important to note that the harmony, unity and equality St. Paul describes is based on Christ alone. When we base...

On August 15, 1204 the First Council of Sis took place in Cilicia. The council examined the request of Prince Zakaria about the use of portable altars in the Armenian army for the celebration of Badarak. The council adopted eight canons mostly of liturgical nature, which allowed the following: Canon...