A portrait of St. Gregory the Illuminator
St. Gregory the Illuminator
c. 257 – c. 331
Feast
September 30 · IV c.
Patron of
Armenia · The Armenian Apostolic Church · Armenian Catholics
Order
Bishop / Apostle of Armenia
Apostle and patron saint of Armenia, traditionally credited with converting King Tiridates III of Armenia in 301, making Armenia the first nation in the world to adopt Christianity as a state religion. After enduring imprisonment and torture for his faith, he became the first head of the Armenian Apostolic Church. His feast is solemnly observed by both Armenian Catholics and the Armenian Apostolic Church.
Life & Times
Also known as: Grigor Lusavorich; Apostle of Armenia · Born: c. 257 · Died: c. 331 · From: Parthia; Armenia; Cappadocia.
Patronage
St. Gregory the Illuminator is invoked as the patron of armenia, the armenian apostolic church, armenian catholics. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
Shop St. Gregory the Illuminator Products
Devotional items honoring St. Gregory the Illuminator, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.
About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Gregory the Illuminator, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.