The Discovery of the Holy Cross and the Feast of the Translators: October’s Sacred Celebrations in the Armenian Church

October: A Month of Faith and Illumination

According to the 2025 liturgical calendar of the Armenian Apostolic Church, October shines with three deeply spiritual feasts. The Feast of the Translators falls on October 11. The Discovery of the Holy Cross is celebrated on October 26. Saint John Chrysostom is commemorated on October 30.

These three feasts are rooted in ancient Christian tradition. They celebrate both monumental events and timeless missions. Each commemorates figures with enduring spiritual legacies. Their influence continues to shape Armenia’s cultural soul.

Background: Faith Written in Letters of Light

The story begins in the 5th century Golden Age. Saint Mesrop Mashtots created the Armenian alphabet during this period. This was more than just linguistic innovation—it was spiritual revolution. The alphabet allowed scripture to become accessible to all.

Through this divine gift, the Bible was translated into Armenian. People could finally understand God’s word in their native tongue. This translation work laid the foundation for the Feast of the Translators. It represents enlightenment and the sacred power of language.

The Feast of the Translators — Guardians of Armenian Light

This celebration honors Saint Mesrop Mashtots and his devoted disciples. Among them were Koryun, Elishe, and Movses Khorenatsi. Also honored are Hovsep Parpetsi and Hovhannes Eghetsatsi. Eznik Koghbatsi and Levon Vanandetsi are also remembered.

Later scholars like Saint Gregory of Narek are celebrated too. Saint Nerses the Graceful is another important figure. Their translation work created a complete theological corpus. Armenia became an early Christian nation with extensive literature.

“The Translators were not merely scholars—they were visionaries,” notes Dr. Ani Harutyunyan. Their work transformed faith into enduring culture. Language became immortal through their efforts. Christian literature flourished across Armenian society.

The Discovery of the Holy Cross — From Mystery to Miracle

This stands among October’s most revered celebrations. The story weaves together faith and divine revelation. After Christ’s Ascension, His Cross remained buried at Golgotha. A miraculous healing revealed its sacred presence.

A paralyzed child touched the hidden wood. Instant healing followed this divine contact. This miracle uncovered the Cross’s holy location. James the Brother of Lord protected the precious relic.

He served as Jerusalem’s first Bishop. The Cross was later stolen and concealed. Pagan symbols were used to mislead believers. Aphrodite’s image covered the sacred site.

Queen Helena’s Pilgrimage and the Second Discovery

Centuries later, Queen Helena journeyed to Jerusalem. She was guided by deep faith and devotion. With Bishop James, she uncovered the long-lost Cross. The Holy Sepulchre was purified and restored.

A fragment of the relic traveled to Rome. Tradition says Saint Hripsime brought it to Armenia. This forever connected Armenian Church to Christ’s Cross. The relic survived persecution and concealment.

After Nero’s persecutions, the Cross disappeared again. The Edict of Milan legalized Christianity in 313 AD. The Cross was rediscovered in 327 AD. Queen Helena built the Church of Holy Sepulchre in 335 AD.

“The Discovery is about rediscovering faith,” explains Father Vahram Mkrtchyan. Truth always rises again despite suffering. The Cross symbolizes eternal hope for believers. Its message transcends time and persecution.

Saint John Chrysostom — The Golden Voice of the Church

Saint John Chrysostom lived from 347 to 407 AD. His name meaning “Golden-Mouthed” reflects his eloquence. He served as Patriarch of Constantinople. His sermons and writings illuminated Christian doctrine.

His works reached Armenia around 405 AD. This followed the alphabet’s creation closely. Armenian scholars preserved his wisdom. The nation bridged Eastern and Western Christian traditions.

“Saint John’s words still resonate today,” says Professor Mariam Stepanyan. Justice, mercy and faith flow through his sermons. Armenian translators safeguarded this precious legacy. His voice continues to guide believers.

The Spiritual Meaning Behind the Feasts

Each October feast carries profound messages. The Translators teach us to share divine wisdom. Knowledge should be accessible to everyone. Enlightenment comes through understanding scripture.

The Discovery of the Cross reveals miracles through faith. Even buried truths will emerge eventually. Hope persists through all difficulties. Saint John Chrysostom calls for truthful speech.

We must speak with love and courage. Together these feasts form sacred trilogy. They represent enlightenment, sacrifice and eloquence. Armenia’s spiritual journey continues unbroken.

Faith That Lives On

October bells echo across Armenian churches. They carry voices of saints and scholars. They represent a nation’s heartbeat. Identity was forged through faith and knowledge.

“To celebrate is to remember holiness,” says Father Vahram. Holiness is not just historical concept. It lives in every believer’s breath. Spiritual legacy continues to inspire.

Editorial Team