Did you know that the Holy Cross Armenian Apostolic Church in Washington Heights has witnessed both triumph and tragedy? This very building before us stands as a testament to the resilience of the Armenian community in New York City. It’s not just a place of worship. It’s a living history book.
The Holy Cross Armenian Church wasn’t always Armenian. Initially it served as the second location of a Lutheran church. Built between 1925 and 1926 for $30000 it later became the home of the Armenian community in 1929. Architect Stoyan N. Karastoyanoff designed the original structure.
But the story of Holy Cross Armenian Church is intertwined with a dark chapter in Armenian-American history. On Christmas Eve in 1933 a horrific event unfolded within these very walls. Archbishop Levon Tourian was assassinated while celebrating Divine Liturgy. Nine members of the Tashnag party were later convicted of this crime. This act profoundly impacted the Armenian community sparking divisions and altering its religious loyalties.
After the assassination the church underwent further changes. Manoug Exerjian oversaw the addition of a crypt in 1934. He also renovated the entire church between 1952 and 1953. These renovations are a testament to the community’s determination to rebuild and to persevere in the face of unspeakable loss.
Today the Holy Cross Armenian Church remains a vital part of the Armenian-American community. While its congregation may be smaller than in its heyday it continues to serve as a spiritual anchor and a cultural center. The stained glass windows depict important figures in Armenian history. The wooden pews have witnessed countless prayers and celebrations. The majestic chandeliers still illuminate the space. This is more than just a church. It is a symbol of faith resilience and the enduring spirit of the Armenian people. It’s a place where history whispers through the stained glass and echoes in every hymn. A place where the past lives on and the future is built on the strong foundation of faith and community.