Gregory the Illuminator

Saint Gregory the Illuminator was born around 257, likely of Parthian noble lineage, and as a child was taken to Caesarea in Cappadocia, where he was raised in the Christian faith. As a young man he returned to Armenia and entered the service of King Tiridates III. When Gregory refused to offer sacrifice to a pagan goddess, he endured cruel tortures and was cast into the deep pit of Khor Virap, where he remained for many years. By God’s providence he survived, and through the prayers and visions granted to the king’s sister, Khosrovidukht, he was finally released. Gregory then brought Tiridates to repentance, healed him, and led him and the Armenian people to Baptism. Through his preaching and pastoral labor, Armenia embraced Christianity as a state faith, and Gregory was consecrated bishop, establishing churches, schools, and the foundations of the Armenian Church. In later years he resigned his office, living as a hermit until his holy death around 331. He is honored as patron of Nardò. His feast day is September 30.