1700 Anniversary: More Relevant Than Ever!

by Dér Stépanos Dingilian, Ph.D. © 2001

     Commemorating the 1700 Anniversary of accepting Christianity as the national Faith of the Armenian people is more relevant after the September 11, 2001, events than before. The commemoration affirms at least three points: The inner sense of peace and security that the Christian Faith offers, the ability for Christianity to face evil and passionately uphold life, and the empowerment that helps in overcoming the aftermath of an evil act.

     First, during the events of September 11, the sense of security and carefree living disappeared. The United States was the only remaining place where citizens had a sense of security - people could live without fearing that something terrible may suddenly happen to them. Sure, we had seen individual persons going on a murder rampage, or the events such as the Oklahoma City bombing where hundreds of people died instantly. Certainly even one senseless death is one too many. Yet, the instant death of thousands is so overwhelming that it is impossible for the human being to come to terms with it. It was not just sad enough that so many people died senselessly. But there was an additional cause of anger and rage: Thousands watched nearby, millions watched over television as people were throwing themselves to their death, and no one, not one person, no technological advancement could save them! At that moment of despair, helplessness, and rage, we realized that God is God, man is man, and only God gives and saves lives. In such tragedies, only a miracle from God could help! These events brought home that without God’s blessings, a people and a country stands no chance of being secure! The Armenian people are celebrating the 1700th anniversary of realizing this truth, of learning this lesson.

     Second, these events will change the Christian perspective of the American people and those living in this country forever. Whenever the issue about the devastation of the Genocide was discussed in Christian circles, the Armenians were always told that there are two sides to every story, that they need not be so passionate about issues, but instead forgive those committing the atrocities. The September 11 events showed that there are certain events such as what happened on that day, and what happened during the Genocide, where there is nothing to dialogue about: It is absolute evil to kill innocent people, and there are no two ways about it! Even though there are numerous prayers and prayer services being offered, there is not even the slightest hint of ‘forgiveness’ in the air! As the patriotic fervor escalates in the United States, it is becoming clearer to all that there are life and death issues about which human beings must be passionate! This is the meaning of the affirmation “God Bless America”! Celebrating the 1700 Anniversary affirms this very basic spirit: It is worth being passionate about upholding life and eradicating evil!

     Third, the commemoration of the 1700 Anniversary affirms another reality: God is the God of the living, and not of the dead! How often did the Armenian people rebuild their lives from devastation and ashes over the past 1,700 years? The power to rebuild came not from military might, diplomatic finesse, nor financial resources! It came from the shear power of faith, and human blood, sweat, and tears! One of the best ways we can commemorate the 1700 Anniversary is to help the devastated people rebuild. Perhaps more meaningful and lasting than all the banquets and conferences, is for the Armenian people to be involved in the United States and elsewhere to help guide and strengthen the people spiritually.

     Yes, this truly is the appropriate time to celebrate the 1700 Anniversary - commemorating the power of God to give peace, to protect against evil forces, and to heal and empower as no human entity or power can ever do! It is our responsibility as Armenians to be the beacon of hope and encouragement to all those who suffered, and to help them rebuild, because in all things God works for the good of those who love Him!

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Cover Page for
Physical Attack, Spiritual Response:
September 11, 2001 Events!

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