The Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin, the birthplace of Armenian Christianity, has been undergoing extensive and much-needed major renovations for the last few years. The Cathedral was built by the patron saint of the Armenians, St. Gregory the Illuminator in the early 4th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over the 1700 years of its long history, the Mother Cathedral of the Armenians has attracted countless pilgrims and visitors from around the world and continues to attract thousands of visitors every year.

The Cathedral of Etchmiadzin has gone through major restorations over the centuries, included works on the dome, ceiling, roof, foundations and belfries. The last extensive renovation was completed in the mid-20th century, through the generous donations of benefactors Calouste Gulbenkian and later Alex Manoogian.Today, Armenians all over the world are called to take part in the restoration of this most significant Armenian holy place through their donations to a renovation fund. Each and every Armenian in Britain is invited to participate in this national endeavour through their contributions.

Upon the invitation of our Primate Bishop Hovakim Manukyan, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, who has been appointed by His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, to oversee the fundraising initiative, will present details about this project to Armenians in Britain on October 25th at St Yeghiche Church in London (13B Cranley Gardens, SW7 3BB). You are cordially invited to attend this meeting and reception.

Take part in securing the physical structure of the Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin for centuries to come by making a donation.

Donations large or small can be made securely through the Friends of Etchmiadzin, a UK registered charity, via the following account number: Acc No: 27895718, Sort code: 50-30-10, cheques/donations payable to: “The Friends of  Etchmiadzin” to the Bishop’s House, 27 Haven donation as “Renovation”.