Armenian Catholicos Visits Restored Ushi Monastery

armenianchurch.org and OCP News Service – 21/04/2024

Yerevan-Armenia: His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, visited the Holy Sargis Monastery complex in Ushi, Aragatsotn province, on April 20,2024. The monastery is currently undergoing a complete restoration with the financial backing of the Vardanyan and Mkrtchyan families.

The restoration project, led by architects Samvel Ayvazyan and Amiran Badishyan, will focus on the Church of the Holy Mother of God in the first phase. Catholicos Karekin II expressed his appreciation for the ongoing work during his visit.

He offered blessings to the benefactors, architects, and builders involved in the project. The Catholicos expressed his hope that the restoration’s successful completion will strengthen the Armenian people’s faith and hope. He also envisioned the restored monastery serving as a source of spiritual solace and guidance during these challenging times.

Catholicos Karekin II was accompanied by Bishop Proshyan, Director of the Mother See’s Administrative and Economic Department, Bishop Babayan, and members of the clergy from St. Etchmiadzin Cathedral.

The restoration of the Holy Sargis Monastery complex signifies the revival of a significant historical and spiritual landmark for the Armenian people. It also highlights the ongoing commitment of philanthropists and the Armenian Church to preserving the nation’s cultural and religious heritage.

Despite its past grandeur, centuries of neglect and destruction left Saint Sarkis Monastery of Ushi in ruins. However, a recent restoration effort is breathing new life into the historic complex. The project aims to preserve the remaining structures, including the 10th-century chapel and surrounding walls. This restoration not only safeguards a significant piece of Armenian architecture but also ensures the continuation of the monastery’s role as a pilgrimage site and center of spiritual education.

Source:
OCP News Services and armenianchurch.org