The Armenian Divine Liturgy

The principal Eucharistic service of the Armenian Apostolic Church is known as the Surb Patarag, or Holy Sacrifice.

The Armenian liturgy developed through centuries of interaction with broader Christian liturgical traditions.

It includes biblical readings, prayers, hymns, the Eucharistic offering, and ceremonial practices.

Liturgical Language

Classical Armenian, known as Grabar, remains important in Armenian liturgical worship.

The preservation of this language connects modern religious services with the literary traditions established during the fifth century.

Sacred Music

Armenian sacred music developed distinctive forms, including the liturgical hymn tradition known as sharakan.

These hymns preserve theological teaching, poetic expression, and musical heritage.

The Armenian Church's musical tradition changed and developed over many centuries, with important contributions from medieval and modern composers and scholars.

The Role of Komitas

Komitas Vardapet, born Soghomon Soghomonian in 1869, became one of the most influential figures in Armenian music history.

As a priest, composer, ethnomusicologist, and collector of folk music, he studied and preserved important elements of Armenian musical culture.

His work helped document Armenian sacred and secular musical traditions.

Although Komitas lived long after the original conversion, his achievements demonstrate the continuing relationship between Armenian Christianity and Armenian cultural preservation.