Ancient Armenian churches shine in AECT lecture
As Armenians, we take great pride in being the first nation to adopt Christianity as a national religion. That pride was reinforced on Friday, June 13, 2025, during a special public lecture.
It was a true privilege to gather at the Armenian Evangelical Church of Toronto (AECT) alongside fellow supporters of Armenian heritage, faith, and culture, as well as non-Armenian guests, to attend a lecture titled 'Monasteries and Churches of Ancient Armenia.' The presentation was delivered by a most distinguished guest, Mr. Ronald Arthur Altoon, FAIA, LEED AP, an internationally renowned architect. The public lecture was graciously organized by the Armenian Missionary Association of Canada (AMAC), in collaboration with the Armenian Evangelical Churches of Toronto and Montreal. The same lecture was presented the following day, Saturday, June 14, at the Armenian Evangelical Church of Montreal.
A short historical documentary was screened about the Armenian Evangelical Movement, which began in 1846. The film highlighted the establishment and initiatives of the Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA, founded in 1918) and the AMAC (founded in 1984).
Welcoming remarks were delivered eloquently in English and Armenian by the Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Remy Guirguis, an active member of the AECT Youth Group and a board member of AMAC. He emphasized the noble vision of AMAC's founding members, whose legacy continues today through impactful educational, social service, childcare, and evangelistic ministries in 24 countries, in partnership with the AMAA. Musical interludes included a performance of 'Pari Arakil' by Mr. Levon Kalemkerian, and 'Im Ani' — a song dedicated to the ancient Armenian capital of Ani, once home to more than a thousand churches—sung by Mrs. Aline Buchakjian.
Mr. Altoon was then introduced. An Armenian-American architect and past president of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), he is also the author of seven books on design. His lecture was the culmination of 18 architectural research visits to Armenia and Artsakh, focusing on monasteries and churches dating from the 5th to the 14th centuries.
Mr. Altoon shared a personal account of his family history as a third-generation Armenian-American. Through a compelling photographic and narrative journey, he took the audience on a historical pilgrimage to 41 ancient Armenian spiritual landmarks. He explored the soul of a people carved in stone — monasteries, chapels, and churches that have endured the elements and centuries of trials, invasions, migrations, and deportations. These sacred sites continue to bear witness to the Armenian people's Christian faith and indomitable spirit.
Mr. Altoon illustrated how Armenian builders overcame enormous challenges in constructing these monumental structures in remote, mountainous regions. He described the architectural and engineering brilliance of Armenia's ancient sanctuaries, arguing that they likely influenced the development of global church architecture. Many of these churches predate Europe's most iconic cathedrals, revealing a rich heritage of spiritual significance and innovation.
Following the lecture, a lively Q&A session was held, during which Mr. Altoon thoughtfully answered numerous questions from the audience. A memorable gift was presented to Mr. Altoon on behalf of AMAC and AECT representatives.
Closing remarks were offered by Rev. Zohrab Sarkissian, Pastor of AECT, who emphasized the importance of maintaining the faith of our forefathers. He extended his gratitude to Mr. Altoon and the event organizers. Father Hayari Tanashian, Minister of the Armenian Holy Trinity Church, was invited to offer the closing prayer. He expressed heartfelt thanks to the lecturer and organizers, and the event concluded with the 'Bahbanich' prayer. Attendees were then invited to a reception and fellowship at the Rev. Movses Janbazian Church Hall, where many continued conversations with the guest speaker and signed up to receive updates about Mr. Altoon's forthcoming publication, Monasteries and Churches of Ancient Armenia. ֎
This article was published Torontohye's Aug. 2025 (#216) issue.
