Armenian Nazarenes recently conducted their first district assembly as an independent Phase 1 District. Jesse C. Middendorf, Eurasia Region jurisdictional general superintendent, presided over the historic gathering. 

Nazarene work was opened in Armenia in 2002. Until very recently the nation has been part of the Russia North District under the leadership of District Superintendent Davide Cantarella with Karen Khachatryan serving as assistant district superintendent with responsibilities in Armenia. 

The inaugural district assembly was held in one of two Nazarene churches located within about 15 kilometers of one another in the city of Gyumi. The Alabaster-constructed church building was filled beyond capacity. Excitement was high as delegates heard the final report of Cantarella and received Middendorf's appointment of Khachatryan as the first superintendent of the newly organized Armenia District. Members of their first District Advisory Board were then selected. 

The Armenia District is now composed of six organized congregations with several Bible studies and small group meetings. 

"These courageous believers are intent on establishing and organizing more churches," said Middendorf.

Emphasis is being placed on establishing ministries to reach children and youth. The early dividends of this investment were evident in the number of young people involved in the district assembly music. The two translators assisting Middendorf were recent university graduates, both of whom speak at least four languages. 

Armenia's national history has involved a dispersion of their people, resulting in only 3.5 million people in Armenia and 18 million scattered in nations around the globe. The Church of the Nazarene has Armenian churches in almost every region of the world. 

In an environment not always receptive of evangelical outreach, Nazarene disaster relief efforts opened the door for a Nazarene presence following the devastating earthquake in 1988. With the 2011 installation of the new district superintendent and district leadership team, Nazarenes are poised to continue the mission of making Christlike disciples in Armenia. 

"Optimism is high," said Middendorf. "We have an impressive corps of pastors and young lay leaders who seem ready to develop a strong presence for the holiness message in Armenia."
--Board of General Superintendents