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.
The construction of the church of St. Sarkis 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 region.
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) is the main developer of the temple project. Construction due to various circumstances was repeatedly delayed, but in 2000 it moved into the active phase.
In 2001, Bishop Yezras Nersisyan consecrated the cross of the temple. March 15, 2003 was marked by the completion of the construction of the Church of St. Sarkis. On May 15, 2003, Catholicos Garegin II, pronouncing blessings in the name of preserving Armenian culture and traditions, consecrated the church, which opened its doors to parishioners. Other significant representatives of the Armenian diaspora participated in such a landmark event: Armen Smbatyan (Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to the Russian Federation), Arthur Chilingarov and many others.
The white doves released during the consecration of the temple into heaven and the spruce planted in the garden were symbols of the beginning of unity of believers who sacredly protect the history of the people.
Church of St. Sarkis in Krasnoyarsk was erected at the expense of voluntary contributions of Armenians. A great contribution to the construction was made by the patron Sarkis Muradyan.
Recommended for visiting: a description of the church of St. Sarkis in Krasnoyarsk
Armenian traditions do not imply excesses and pretentiousness in architecture; therefore, the temple is simple and concise, at the same time it represents all the best traditions of Armenian architecture. Even through videos and photos from the church of St. Sarkis in Krasnoyarsk, it blows at the same time spiritual greatness and restrained modesty.
The temple is relatively small in size: 10 x 14 meters. Given the growth rate of residential infrastructure in Krasnoyarsk, a platform (ground floor) was erected in advance, which houses a meeting room, study rooms, a library and auxiliary rooms (dressing room). Total, the height of the temple is 28 meters.
In the territory adjacent to the church, there are monuments to the victims of the 1988 earthquake in Spitak and the 1915 Armenian genocide.
The Church of St. Sarkis in Krasnoyarsk is a holy and significant place for the Armenian people. It often hosts cultural and religious events. The courtyard at the church serves for various holidays: Christmas, Epiphany, Vardavar and others.
St. Sarkis: a story transformed into faith
Sarkis (Sergius) was the commander and commander of the troops of Emperor Constantine the Great. He played a large role in religion, spreading Christianity and building churches on the site of ruined temples, which served as a haven for pagans.
During the reign of Julian the Apostate, Sarkis paid for his faith by refusing to worship pagan gods. An unshakable belief in the Holy Trinity brought him and his warriors to disgrace from the ruling authorities.
Many different legends around the death of Sarkis and his warriors are united in the fact 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 life of a warrior.
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 Sarkis was counted among the saints as a martyr who took death for faith.
Military exploits and actions significant for religion led to the fact that in 2007 the holiday of St. Sarkis became an official holiday in Armenia and was renamed the Day of the Blessing of the Young.
Tradition today
Fried wheat flour or porridge on the night of the "Fasting" ending (late January - early February) exhibited at the house of Armenians from year to year await blessings in the form of a footprint of Sarkis' horse. Dreams seen that night are considered prophetic, they reveal the sacrament of married life.
Solemn liturgy, blessing of the young, 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 powerful spiritual place not only for the Armenian diaspora.