About Vemkar
Vemkar places access to the Armenian Church within reach—anytime, anywhere.
In Armenian, a “Vemkar” is the specially anointed stone that serves as a movable altar, which can be used for ritual functions in the absence of a permanent sanctuary. As a portable tablet, it allows the sacred power of the Armenian Church to be brought to people in even the most remote places. Here you can read the daily Scripture verses, listen to Armenian spiritual music, request prayers, find events, and more.
Belong , Inspire and Make Change
Last weekend in Cleveland, I had the joy of visiting the Ararat Judo Center with Der Hratch and the young people from our Cleveland parish. The center is run by Ghazar, who began practicing judo in Armenia shortly after I left, training at the same school under the same coaches.
The moment I stepped inside, a flood of childhood memories came rushing back. From the age of six until I was thirteen, I practiced judo. Those seven years taught me discipline, balance, patience, respect, and self-control. But the most important lesson came on the very first day.
The first thing they teach you in judo is how to fall. Before learning to throw anyone, you learn to protect yourself by positioning your hands, protecting your head, and moving with the fall rather than resisting it. The more you stiffen your body, the greater the risk of injury. The secret is to relax, accept the fall, and move in a way that reduces its impact.
Videos
Podcasts
Listen to our podcasts on a range of spiritual topics. Learn about the Divine Liturgy, listen to spiritual music, and more.
Vemkar Topical Series
This series delves into various facets of our Christian faith, offering a profound understanding of its beliefs, practices, and traditions. Whether you have been a devoted Christian for years or are simply curious about the faith, this series will inform and inspire.
