Armenia Update 3: Places of Worship

Wednesday, March 5, the team drove to the Garni Temple, a structure originally built as a pagan temple and later rebuilt and regarded as an important pre-Christian monument. We stopped here and prayed for a number of Armenians who are beginning to participate in pagan worship in attempt to connect to their heritage. 

We drove to the Symphony of Stones in the Garni Gorge, a natural rock formation created by cooled volcanic lava. What a stunning display of artistic geometric pattern from our marvelous Creator. The rocks indeed cry out “Praise the Lord!” I was personally reminded that the rocks will cry out if I do not.

Our third stop was at The Monastery of Geghard, a temple carved into the mountains in a breathtaking display of perseverance and artistry. Founded originally by Gregory the Illuminator, this place of worship stands as a symbol of the prosperity Christians experienced there by bringing the gospel to unsaved people. 

Our last destination was to a church an hour outside the city of Yerevan, where we participated in a night of worship. It was a blessing to hear such talented musicians and passionate believers worship God in their native language. In alignment with the holiday Ramadan, we prayed for Muslims burdened under the pressure of striving and working to get into Heaven, when we know Jesus alone is the Way.

– Alyssa