A distinctive Armenian cross-stone, known as a “khachkar,” will be consecrated at St. Gregory A. & M. Hovsepian School in Pasadena on Thursday, Sept. 19, Pasadena Now reports.
Weighing 4,010 pounds and standing over 10 feet tall, the khachkar is made of tuf stone native to Armenia. It features the original 36-letter Armenian alphabet at its base and is the only khachkar worldwide showcasing the eight melodic modes of Armenian Church hymns.
Sculpted in Yerevan, Armenia, the artifact blends ancient traditions with modern educational purposes. The consecration, using Holy Muron from the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin in Armenia, will be presided over by Archbishop Hovnan Derderian of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America.
“The khachkar will deepen students’ appreciation and understanding of Armenian culture at St. Gregory Hovsepian School by providing a tangible connection to their heritage,” said the school’s Principal Shahé Mankerian. “It will serve as a daily reminder of the rich traditions, struggles, and spiritual strength of the Armenian people, fostering a sense of pride and continuity.”
The khachkar, donated by Dean Shahinian of Washington, D.C., is being dedicated in memory of the late Deacon Kevork Panoyan. The intricate design includes a traditional Armenian cross, Mount Ararat, and symbols representing life, fertility, and abundance. Notably, it features the first sentence translated into Armenian from the Bible (Proverbs 1:2).
“The presence of the khachkar reinforces St. Gregory Hovsepian School’s mission to nurture a strong sense of cultural identity, faith, and community among its students,” Mankerian said. “It symbolizes the school’s commitment to preserving Armenian heritage while promoting spiritual and academic growth.”
The school, which serves 250 students from preschool to 8th grade, plans to integrate the khachkar into its curriculum. Lessons in Armenian art, religion, history, language, and social studies will explore the khachkar’s significance and symbolism. The school has prepared educational activities including student processions, workshops, and discussions led by Armenian clergy and cultural experts.
“The khachkar will serve as a focal point for engaging the broader community by offering opportunities for cultural events, heritage tours, and lectures,” Mankerian said. The school is considering an annual assembly or prayer service to mark the occasion.
The consecration event is part of ongoing efforts by Armenian-American communities to preserve their cultural heritage while adapting to contemporary educational environments. It also demonstrates how ancient artifacts can be meaningfully incorporated into modern learning settings to promote cultural identity and understanding.
