The institution of deaconesses in the tradition of the Armenian Apostolic Church

Abstract

The article presents the main points on the history of the institution of deaconesses in the Armenian Apostolic Church. While the testimonies to the Armenian deaconesses date back to the 10th century, the analysis of these fragmentary passages raises various problems of textual and content-related character. The institution of deaconesses reached its peak in the 19th century, being associated with monastic circles. In the 20th century, with the disappearance of a small number of Armenian women’s convents, the institution declined, although today there are some local efforts to re-establish diaconal service of women in the parish life.

Keywords

• диаконисса
• армянская апостольская церковь
• женское монашество
• армянское монашество
• армянские монахини