Aram I declares 2026 ‘year of renewal of spiritual life’

Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia, Aram I, has proclaimed 2026 as the “Year of Renewal of Spiritual Life.” From now on, his declaration will be read annually during the liturgy on the Sunday following Christmas.

Aram I emphasized that dedicating this year to the renewal of spiritual life is not a random decision but a pressing necessity, given the diminishing central role of spirituality among Armenians. He noted that, in the current situation, the spiritual life of the Armenian people no longer reflects the same vitality and distinctive character it once did.

“The Armenian Church has become predominantly ritualistic, and it is therefore both urgent and essential to reform its ritual life, aligning it with contemporary conditions and needs, while ensuring active participation of the people. Without disregarding the importance of national values, the Church must develop special initiatives that highlight spiritual values,” reads the declaration.