What if I told you that St. Gregory Armenian Church of Chicago stands as one of the oldest Armenian communities in the Midwest? It is more than just a building. It is a testament to faith and resilience.
St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church has a rich history. Its roots stretch back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The parish was officially established in 1915. This was thanks to the blessing of His Holiness George V Sourenyants. He was the Catholicos of All Armenians. His Eminence Very Rev. Fr. Arsen Vehouni also helped. He was the Primate of the United States Diocese. The first official pastor was Very Rev. Fr. Vahram Nazaretian.
Initially, St. Gregory’s did not have a permanent sanctuary. From 1922 to 1964, it was located at 1000 N. Hoyne Avenue. In 1964, St. Gregory moved to its current location at 6700 W. Diversey Avenue. His Holiness Vasgen I Baljian played a role. He was the Catholicos of All Armenians. His Eminence Archbishop Sion Manoogian consecrated it. He was the Primate of the Armenian Diocese of America. The Armenian Educational Union of Silvas Todarag and Mr. Haig Pedian made the building possible.
St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church has a history of dedicated people. They made its existence possible. The church holds cultural, religious, and educational events. A Summer Armenianfest is held annually. It has been featured in publications like Saveur. A winter festival also takes place for a single day.
The church is a family. It is a community of Armenian and non-Armenian members. They share a thirst for knowledge and a desire to be with God. The community offers many opportunities for participation. These include the Parish Council and Women’s Guild. Also ACYOA, Choir, and Altar Guild. Sunday School and Cultural and Education Committee are included.
In 1899, the first Parish Council of the Armenian Apostolic Church was organized in Chicago. It was officially designated as St. Gregory’s Parish in 1915. This marked a pivotal moment for Chicago Armenians.
Today, St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church welcomes everyone. It seeks to teach and proclaim faith. The church aims to be a place of healing. It grows together in Apostolic Faith in Christ Jesus. It sustains Christian Armenian identity. The church celebrates traditions of religious and national heritage. This is done with Christian servitude and love.
So, as you stand before St. Gregory Armenian Church of Chicago remember its journey. Remember the dedication of its community. It stands as a symbol of faith. It is a beacon of Armenian culture in the heart of Chicago.