Who started Christianity in Armenia?

The credit for establishing Christianity as the official religion of ancient Armenia is traditionally given to Saint Gregory the Illuminator or Enlightener (previously known as Grigor Lusavorich, c. 239 – c. 330 CE). Gregory is credited with converting king Tiridates the Great (r. c. 298 to c.

How did Christianity start in Armenia?

According to tradition, Armenia was evangelized by the apostles Bartholomew and Thaddeus. Armenia became the first country to adopt Christianity about 300 ce, when St. Gregory the Illuminator converted the Arsacid king Tiridates III.

How old is Armenian Christianity?

4000 years
Armenians can legitimately claim, through Urartu, an historical continuity of some 4000 years; their history is among those of the most ancient peoples in the world.

What is unique about the religious history of Armenia?

Armenia is the first country to adopt Christianity as a state religion. In the 1st century AD, Christianity was introduced to Armenian people by apostles Bartholomew and Thaddeus. At these times the main religion in Armenia was Armenian paganism.

Where did Armenians first accept Christianity?

Armenia was the first country in the world to adopt Christianity as a state religion in 301 A.D. Christianity has played an immensely important role in the shaping of the Armenian people for over 1,700 years. Religion has been an essential part of Armenian identity and has reshaped the course of history.

Why does Armenia celebrate Christmas?

Armenian Christmas is a culmination of celebrations of events related to the birth and baptism of Christ. The reason for the different date is that until the fourth century, Christ’s birth was celebrated by all Christian churches celebrated Christ’s birth on January 6th.

How long has Christianity been in Armenia?

​​First to Adopt Christianity ​​ Armenia was the first country in the world to adopt Christianity as a state religion in 301 A.D. Christianity has played an immensely important role in the shaping of the Armenian people for over 1,700 years.