St Gregory the Illuminator and St Elias Armenian Catholic Cathedral
Beirut, Lebanon
Welcome to our Cathedral
The Cathedral at the heart of the city and its people
The Armenian Catholic Cathedral of Beirut has served as a vital spiritual and community gathering place since the first Armenian Catholic settlements in Beirut in the nineteenth century.
The Cathedral represents an important part of Beirut's and Lebanon's historical heritage, having witnessed numerous chapters of a rich and diverse history. Today, it continues to provide traditional religious services to its community while also hosting cultural events.
In 2024, the Cathedral has been included in the official tourism list of religious sites in Lebanon.
The Patriarch Cardinal Agagianian
His patriarchal motto: "Peace and Justice"
Pope Paul VI said on the day of Patriarch Agagianian's death, March 26, 1971: "History will tell what Christian Armenia, the Catholic Missions, the Holy See, and the entire Church owe him."
With his renowned modesty, Cardinal Agagianian (1895-1971) was a man of "Justice and Peace." He was an effective and altruistic intermediary in political and religious reconciliation namely across Lebanon and Levant region.
The Cardinal was on the verge of being elected Pope twice, during the conclaves of 1958 and 1963.
A Miraculous phenomenon
In September 2024, the Cathedral received from Rome the remains of Cardinal Agagianian that were miraculously preserved intact after this death in 1971.
Religious and cultural influence
Armenian Catholic Beirut Cathedral: A Welcoming Community
With the aim of sharing and openness to all Lebanese citizens and foreigners, the Cathedral hosts various cultural events that reach and captivate the public. In addition to religious and pastoral events, the multipurpose halls, the theater, and the church host classical and modern music concerts, exhibitions, competitions, comedies, conferences, and round tables. These activities showcase talent and cover societal topics, such as the modern history of Lebanon, its great figures, as well as that of the Armenians of Lebanon and the region.