Armenian Christians have played a pivotal role in preserving some of Christianity’s most sacred sites for over 1,600 years. From the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which houses the tomb of Jesus Christ, to the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, Armenian Christians have safeguarded these holy places with unwavering dedication.
The “Christianity & the Amazing Armenians: 10 Facts” campaign launched by Khachkar Studios has shed light on this remarkable history. The campaign, which reached over 1.5 million people through full-page ads in the South Florida Sun Sentinel and an accompanying podcast, has sparked a renewed appreciation for Armenian Christian contributions.
Armenians have been custodians of Christian sites in Jerusalem since the 4th century, when the Armenian Christian Quarter was established. Since 638 A.D., they have been responsible for protecting the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of Christianity’s holiest sites. Their role expanded in the 14th century to include the guardianship of the Tomb of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
In the 19th century, Armenian Christians also became custodians of the Church of the Nativity, the birthplace of Jesus, and the Armenian Church of Our Lady at the Fourth Station of the Cross, marking the place where Jesus met His mother, Mary, on His way to crucifixion. These responsibilities are a testament to the trust placed in Armenian Christians by the broader Christian community.
Despite centuries of persecution and hardship, Armenian Christians have remained steadfast in their commitment to protecting these sites. Their presence in Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and other key locations ensures that these sacred places continue to be places of worship and pilgrimage for Christians worldwide.
Many people who engaged with the “10 Facts” campaign expressed astonishment at this historical role. One reader stated, “I had no idea Armenian Christians were entrusted with safeguarding the most sacred sites of Christianity. Their dedication is inspiring.”
Khachkar Studios is committed to continuing this conversation through multimedia outreach, events, and digital content. The goal is to ensure that Armenian Christian contributions are widely recognized and celebrated. By highlighting this legacy, Khachkar Studios hopes to inspire both Armenian and non-Armenian Christians to cherish and protect their faith’s historical foundations.
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