The Armenian Church, also known as the Armenian Apostolic Church, is an independent and autocephalous oriental-orthodox church that traces its origins to the first-century apostles Thaddeus and Bartholomew. It has a unique theology that, while rejecting the Council of Chalcedon's wording, is often understood by both Chalcedonian and non-Chalcedonian churches as a difference in terminology rather than core doctrine. The church has a rich tradition and a distinct architectural style, with its faith based on the Holy Tradition, which includes the Bible, liturgy, the writings of church fathers, and the creeds.  

Beliefs and theology

• Miaphysitism: 

The church teaches that Christ is both fully God and fully man in a single, unified nature (miaphysitism), a position that led to its rejection of the Council of Chalcedon in 507 AD. It is considered one of the Oriental Orthodox churches. 

• Seven Sacraments:  

The Armenian Church recognizes seven sacraments: Baptism, Chrismation, Eucharist, Confession, Marriage, Holy Orders, and Anointing of the Sick.

• Creed:  

The Nicene Creed is the main statement of faith, and the church accepts the first three ecumenical councils (Nicaea, Constantinople, and Ephesus). 

• Holy Tradition: 

 Its faith is based on Holy Tradition, which includes the Bible, the writings of church fathers, and the ongoing life of the church through its liturgy, saints, and rituals. 

Organization

• Four Sees: 

The church is structured around four main sees: two catholicosates (at Ejmiadzin and Cilicia) and two patriarchates (at Constantinople and Jerusalem).

• Supreme Patriarch: 

The Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, who resides at the See of Ejmiadzin in Armenia, is generally recognized as the head of the entire church.

• Autonomy: 

Each of the four sees has administrative autonomy, though the patriarchates recognize the spiritual supremacy of Ejmiadzin. 

Distinctive practices and heritage

• Liturgy: 

The liturgy is distinct and includes unique melodies and rituals, such as the blessing of the four corners of the world. The liturgical language is a unique Armenian language called Kraar. 

• Architecture: 

The Armenian Church has its own distinctive and ancient architectural style, with many ancient monasteries serving as prime examples. 

• History: 

The church has a long and complex history, including facing persecution and genocide in the 20th century.