IDEA
"Renaissance" cultural and intellectual foundation announces a sculpting competition, dedicated to the poem "Book of Lamentations" by Saint Gregory of Narek. The participant sculptors can be from Armenia, as well as from other countries in the world. The memorial statue will be located in the very heart of the capital: in the adjacent area of Katoghike Holy Mother of God Church and the newly built Saint Anna church, and will become a unique combination of freedom, spiritual and secular worlds.
ST. GRIGOR NAREKATSI (Gregory of Narek) (circa 947 - 1003) - Armenian poet, exegete, musician, celebrated saint of the Armenian Apostolic Church, the youngest son of Bishop Khosrow Andzevatsi. Supposedly, he was either born in the village of Narek (in the province of Vaspurakan of the Rshtunik region), or in the region of Andzevatsik.
He got his education and underwent preparation for becoming a celibate priest at the high school of the Monastery of Narek, under the tutorship of abbot and headmaster Anania Narekatsi (most probably, the son of Grigor's maternal grandfather's brother). Mastering both translated and independent spiritual-philosophical literature of the school, Grigor Narekatsi later became on of the cornerstones of the aforesaid school. Grigor Narekatsi is famous for his rich theological heritage. He is considered to be the apex of Armenian spiritual thought. His creative heritage dating back to 10th century is thought to be one of the best pieces in the range of international literature. In 2016, he was recognized as 36th ecumenical Vardapet of Catholic Church.