Apostolic Faith ID

Overview of the Armenian Apostolic Church

The Armenian Apostolic Church is one of the world's oldest Christian communities and is the most widespread national church of the Armenian people. Boasting an age-old theological tradition, it has a significant influence on the spiritual identity and culture of Armenians everywhere.

Historical Background

The Armenian Apostolic Church identifies its origins in the missions of Apostles Bartholomew and Thaddeus in the 1st century. In 301 AD, Armenia became the first country to adopt Christianity as a state religion. St. Gregory the Illuminator, an essential figure in the religious history of the country, is considered the first Catholicos of all Armenians - a supreme ecclesiastical leader akin to a pope. The church split from Eastern Orthodoxy in the 6th century due to theological differences following the Council of Chalcedon.

Beliefs and Practices

The Armenian Apostolic Church adheres to the Nicene Creed without the Filioque clause. It recognizes the leadership of the Catholicos of All Armenians. The church uses the ancient Armenian rite, a version of the liturgical family also used by the Orthodox churches of Syria and Kerala, India.

The sacraments practiced by the Armenian Apostolic Church are Baptism, Chrismation, Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony.

Architecture and Art

Armenian Apostolic Church’s architecture and art are distinct, characterized by unique church architecture - frequently in cruciform plan with a central dome. Notable examples include the Echmiadzin Cathedral, the mother church of Armenian Apostolic Church, and the churches of Haghpat, Sanahin, and Geghard.

Sacred music, a vital part of Armenian Apostolic Church’s tradition, has a long history. It is typically a capella and often delivered in forma antiqua, meaning the music follows the text's accents and rhythms.

Current Status

Currently, Armenian Apostolic Church has two catholicosates: the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, and the Great House of Cilicia. The church preserves the Armenian Christian identity, maintaining sizeable congregations not only in Armenia but also among diaspora communities around the world.