The WallBuilders Show Faith Under Fire: Armenia's Christian Lighthouse with Dan Harry
Armenia stands as the world's first Christian nation—an ancient beacon of faith surrounded by hostility on all sides. When the Armenian king was miraculously healed by St. Gregory the Illuminator in 301 AD, Christianity became the state religion, creating a legacy that has endured for over 1,700 years despite relentless persecution.
The spiritual roots of Armenia run astonishingly deep. Three of Jesus' own apostles—Jude (Thaddeus), Bartholomew, and likely Thomas—brought the Gospel to this land. Mount Ararat, where Noah's Ark came to rest after the flood, dominates the skyline of Armenia's capital. This nation literally connects us to the foundations of biblical history and the early spread of Christianity.
Today, Armenia faces existential threats from its neighbors. To the west lies Turkey, perpetrator of the Armenian genocide that slaughtered 1.5 million Christians a century ago. To the east is Azerbaijan, which recently ethnically cleansed 120,000 Armenians from the historic region of Artsakh, reducing the population to single digits in one of the most complete ethnic cleansings in recent history. When your "best" neighbor is Iran, you know you're in a tough spot—the next closest Western-aligned nation is thousands of miles away in South Korea.
Former President Trump recently brokered a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, creating the framework for what's called TRIP (Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity). This economic corridor bypasses both Russia and Iran while offering Armenia vital development opportunities. American companies are already investing, with NVIDIA committing $500 million to Armenian artificial intelligence projects.
For American Christians, Armenia represents both our spiritual heritage and our present responsibility. With more Armenians living in America than in Armenia itself, this connection bridges continents. The Armenian Church has given more martyrs to Christianity than any other tradition, yet their faith endures against overwhelming odds.
Join us in supporting our Armenian brothers and sisters through prayer, advocacy, and practical assistance. Visit savearmenia.us to learn how you can help protect this ancient Christian lighthouse in one of the world's most dangerous neighborhoods.