Armenian Rite

Armenian Rite

The Armenian Rite is one of the ancient liturgical rites of the Christian Church, primarily used by the Armenian Apostolic Church and the Armenian Catholic Church. It is distinct in its liturgical language, ceremonies, and traditions, reflecting the unique cultural and historical context of the Armenian people.

History

The Armenian Rite has its origins in the early Christian communities of Armenia, which is traditionally considered the first nation to adopt Christianity as its state religion in 301 AD. The rite developed over centuries, influenced by both Eastern and Western liturgical traditions, yet maintaining its own unique characteristics.

The liturgy of the Armenian Rite was significantly shaped by the work of Saint Gregory the Illuminator, the patron saint and first official head of the Armenian Church. Over time, the rite incorporated elements from the Byzantine Rite, the Syriac Rite, and the Latin Rite, while preserving its own distinct identity.

Liturgical Language

The liturgical language of the Armenian Rite is Classical Armenian, also known as Grabar. This ancient form of Armenian is used in the liturgical texts and hymns, and it holds a sacred status within the Armenian Church.

Structure of the Liturgy

The central act of worship in the Armenian Rite is the Divine Liturgy, known as the "Soorp Badarak". The structure of the Armenian Divine Liturgy includes the following key components:

• Preparation: The priest prepares the bread and wine, which will become the Eucharist.
• Liturgy of the Word: Includes readings from the Old Testament, New Testament, and the Gospels.
• Liturgy of the Faithful: The central part of the liturgy, including the Eucharistic Prayer and the consecration of the bread and wine.
• Communion: The faithful receive the Body and Blood of Christ.
• Dismissal: The service concludes with prayers and blessings.

Unique Features

The Armenian Rite is noted for its use of incense, elaborate vestments, and the singing of hymns in the traditional Armenian style. The architecture of Armenian churches, with their distinctive domes and cross-stones (khachkars), also reflects the unique liturgical and cultural heritage of the Armenian people.

Calendar and Feasts

The Armenian Church follows its own liturgical calendar, which includes major feasts such as Christmas on January 6th, the Feast of the Transfiguration, and the Feast of the Assumption. The Armenian Rite also observes a number of unique saints' days and commemorations.

Influence and Legacy

The Armenian Rite has had a significant influence on the development of Christian liturgy, particularly in regions with Armenian communities. It has preserved ancient Christian traditions and contributed to the rich tapestry of Christian liturgical practices worldwide.

See Also

• Armenian Apostolic Church
• Armenian Catholic Church
• Christian liturgy
• Eastern Christianity

References

• Garsoïan, Nina. The Armenian People from Ancient to Modern Times. Palgrave Macmillan, 1997.
• MacCulloch, Diarmaid. Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years. Penguin Books, 2010.