The geographical center of Russia - the city of Krasnoyarsk is famous for its rich history, developed infrastructure, sports and educational facilities. The significance of religion and faith is reflected in the numerous temples and churches located in this city.
Construction of the Church of St. Sargis in Krasnoyarsk: how it was
The Armenian diaspora in the Krasnoyarsk Territory has always been numerous. According to the 2017 census, more than 10,000 Armenians lived in the province.
The decision to build the first Armenian church in Siberia was made in 1998, at the same time the foundation was laid, consecrated by Archbishop Despot. Areg Sarkisovich Demirkhanov (People's Architect of the Russian Federation) - the main developer of the temple project. Due to various circumstances, construction was repeatedly postponed, but in 2000 it entered the active phase.
In 2001 Bishop Ezras Nersisyan consecrated the cross of the temple. March 15, 2003 was marked by the completion of the construction of the Church of St. Sargis. On May 15, 2003, Catholicos Garegin II, pronouncing the words of blessing in the name of preserving the Armenian cultureand traditions, consecrated the church, which opened its doors to parishioners. Other honorary representatives of the Armenian diaspora also took part in such a significant event: Armen Smbatyan (Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to the Russian Federation), Artur Chilingarov and many others.
White doves released into the sky during the consecration of the temple and a spruce planted in the garden were symbols of the beginning of the unity of believers who sacredly guard the history of the people.
The Church of St. Sargis in Krasnoyarsk was built at the expense of voluntary contributions from Armenians. A great contribution to the construction was made by patron Sargis Muradyan.
Recommended for a visit: description of the Church of St. Sargis in Krasnoyarsk
Armenian traditions do not imply excesses and pretentiousness in architecture, so the temple is simple and concise, while representing all the best traditions of Armenian architecture. Even through the video materials and photos from the Church of St. Sarkis in Krasnoyarsk, one breathes both spiritual greatness and restrained modesty.
The size of the temple is relatively small: 10 x 14 meters. Taking into account the growth rate of residential infrastructure in Krasnoyarsk, a platform (ground floor) was erected in advance, in which a meeting room, study rooms, a library and auxiliary premises (dressing room) are located. In total, the height of the temple is 28 meters.
On the territory adjacent to the church, there are monuments to the victims of the 1988 Spitak earthquake and the 1915 Armenian genocide.
The Church of St. Sargis in Krasnoyarsk is a holy and significant place for the Armenian people. Here oftencultural and religious events are held. The courtyard at the church is used for various holidays: Christmas, Epiphany, Vardavar and others.
Saint Sargis: history transformed into faith
Sarkis (Sergius) was the commander and commander-in-chief of the troops of Emperor Constantine the Great. He played a big role in religion, spreading Christianity and building churches on the site of the destroyed temples that served as a haven for the pagans.
During the reign of Julian the Apostate, Sargis paid for his faith by refusing to worship the pagan gods. The unshakable belief in the Holy Trinity brought disgrace on him and his soldiers from the ruling authorities.
Many different legends surrounding the death of Sargis and his warriors are unanimous in that at the moment when the order to kill him was received, one of the women, having fallen in love, could not accept this sin and saved the warrior's life.
The death that overtook the commander in 363 (according to other sources, the date of death is 370), according to legend, was accompanied by the light of his body, which contributed to the fact that the face of Sargis was ranked among the saints as a martyr who accepted death for faith.
Military feats and deeds significant for religion led to the fact that in 2007 the feast of St. Sarkis became an official holiday in Armenia and was renamed the Day of Blessing of the Young.
Traditions today
Flour or porridge from fried wheat, on the final "Forward Post" night (end of January - beginning of February), exhibited at the house of Armenians fromYear after year, blessings are expected in the form of the hoof print of the horse Sargis. Dreams seen that night are considered prophetic, they reveal the mystery of married life.
The solemn liturgy, the blessing of the young, the gifts of lovers to each other - this part of faith and culture can be touched in the Church of St. Sarkis in the city of Krasnoyarsk, which is a truly strong spiritual place not only for the Armenian diaspora.
