Nicosia, October 2009: The Christianization of Armenia in 301AD has been a turning point in its national history. A new culture was started which was further rooted and implemented with the invention of the Armenian alphabet and the translation of the Bible into Armenian. Since then, the Bible has been the essence of the Christian faith for the Armenian nation and the preservation of its national identity and culture.Dr. Ari Topouzkhanian’s visit to Cyprus from October 28 to November 2, 2009, was very significant in this respect. A prominent scientist and Bible scholar-translator, Dr. Topouzkhanian stimulated the Armenian audience with his two very inspiring lectures: “Hay Asdvadsashounchi Shaheganoutioune: Badmagan Agnarg yev nerga orerou hramayagane”. (The essence of the Armenian Bible: Historical reflections and the present day challenges); “Havadk yev kidoutioun: Hay Kristonia Yeridasartin penderdouke” (Faith and Science: The Christian Armenian youths’ search for identity). Dr. Topouzkhanian was also the speaker at the Armenian Evangelical Church’s service, celebrating Tarkmanchatz.
Dr. Ari Topouzkhanian’s visit and lectures in Cyprus were organized by the Armenian Evangelical Church. Dr. Topouzkhanian had the opportunity to meet with the leadership of the Armenian community in Cyprus and visit its institutions. He visited the Armenian Prelacy of Cyprus, met with the Armenian representative in the Cyprus Parliament, Mr. Vartkes Mahdessian, and visited Kalaydjian Home. He had an audience with the students of Nareg School in Nicosia, challenging them with issues related to Christian faith and science. Dr. Topouzkhanian gave an interview to the Armenian program of the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation.The Armenian Bible is the fundamental source for the preservation of the national identity and the Christian faith of the Armenian nation, the two identities that the Armenian nation has maintained throughout the ages. The challenge today is to pass them on to the next generation.
