Armenian history includes many devastating events, but the Armenian Genocide is by far the most heinous and gut-wrenching. Over 1.5 million Armenians died. Many were slaughtered and countless others forced to march in the deserts. So many of those who died could have lived if only they would have renounced Christianity. But, they did not. They refused to deny Christ, refused to deny their faith.
Every April 24, Armenians and those who feel their pain, take time to remember the genocide. It is tradition to march up the hill to the memorial and put flowers at the everlasting flame. Of course, I marched again this year alongside Armenian friends and American friends.
There is an Armenian spiritual song that I really love, which also reminds me of the Armenian heroes who died for the faith. The words are translated something like this:
I won't forget my faith
I won't deny my Lord
The cross on my shoulders,
I will go until I am with Jesus.
As we remember the genocide, let's also hope that faith will once again be vibrant here.
2 comments:
It's amazing how this tragedy in history is forgetten by most of the world and history books. I feel honored to have been able to visit the memorial while I was in Armenia.
How beautifu and yet how tragic.... I like the song. Renouncing out faith.... would we suffer as they did?
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