GEVORG II GARNETSI – CATHOLICOS SYMBOLIZING THE RESTORATION OF THE ARMENIAN KINGDOM

Abstract

The end of the IX century in the history of Armenia was marked by the restoration of the
kingdom, which was destroyed four and a half centuries ago. The restoration of the kingdom
led by the Bagratuni was the result of the united struggle of all strata of the Armenian people. It
was implemented with the active support of the Armenian Church, which sought to get rid of
the religious intolerance and persecution of foreigners. In cooperation with Ashot I Bagratuni,
Gevorg II Garnetsi, within the limits of his spiritual and political competence, improved
relations between the Armenian princes and, through an intermediary mission, created an
atmosphere of relative solidarity in the country. Confirming the high position of the Armenian
Church in the state, Patriarch Gevorg actively participated in solving foreign and domestic
political issues of the country. For the sake of the country’s security and prevention of
bloodshed, the noble spiritual leader repeatedly faced imminent dangers and endured untold
sufferings. Gevorg Garnetsi organized and headed the coronation of alternating kings, Ashot I
and Smbat I Bagratuni, strengthened the spiritual and legal basis of their rule. Enthroned as
Catholicos, the Armenian Patriarch consecrated and legitimized Bagratuni's rule, thereby
emphasizing the idea that the restoration of the kingdom is not a gift from foreign rulers, but
the result of the struggle of the active forces of Armenia.