02/05/2026
Oxford`s University Church hosts Armenian Vespers to honor the Holy Martyrs of the Armenian Genocide.
On April 24, the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin in Oxford hosted a traditional Armenian Vespers to commemorate the 111th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide and honor the Holy Martyrs.
The evening began with a warm welcoming address by the Reverend Canon Dr. Alvyn Pettersen, who highlighted Armenia's historical significance and the imperative of perpetually remembering the Holy Martyrs of the Genocide. He emphasized that it is vital for Christians to confront acts of inhumane violence and uphold the Church's critical role in fostering remembrance and supporting Armenians and Armenia. The Church of England is steadfast in its prayers for the Holy Martyrs and actively advocates for peace and security in Armenia.
Grachia Margarian, founder and director of the White Cross Foundation and an alumnus of Oxford University, delivered a speech on the enduring legacy of the Armenian Holy Martyrs. He articulated their vital role as witnesses to the faith, whose sacrifices advanced Christianity in the hearts of many and preserved their Christian homeland. He called on today's generation to carry forward this legacy, encouraging modern Armenians to embody principles of holiness in their everyday lives and relationships. He also stressed the importance of fostering Christian unity from Armenia to the United Kingdom, linking the communities through shared values and heritage.
The Vespers were celebrated by Father Nshan, a priest from the Armenian Apostolic Church in London, and featured uplifting spiritual choir performances and organ music. Organized by the University Church and the White Cross Foundation, with support from the Diocese of the Armenian Church of the United Kingdom, this event served as a vital platform for education, commemoration, and unification of Christian communities.
