
Dr. Abraham Terian, Academic Dean and Professor of Armenian Patristics, will introduce his newly-released book, Patriotism and Piety: Early Panegyrics of St. Gregory at a reception on Monday, October 3, 2005. The reception will take place in the Primate's Reception Hall (tahlij) at the Armenian Diocese, 630 Second Avenue, New York, New York.
Patriotism and Piety is a ground-breaking study of the Armenian Church's unique vision of Christ's Gospel as an inseparable component of the history and ethnic identity of the Armenian people. Terian examines how theological and patriotic themes are invariably connected in Armenian theology. The author examines a vast body of medieval Armenian homilies, hymns and odes in honor of St. Gregory, the Illuminator and patron saint of the Armenian people.
Terian's book is the second in the Seminary's AVANTseries, dedicated to the study of the Armenian theological writings. AVANT seeks to make available English translations of significant Armenian theological, liturgical and historical texts, and to explore their relevance for today.
His Eminence Abp. Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America and President of the Seminary Board of Directors, will speak at the reception. Also speaking will be V. Rev. Fr. Daniel Findikyan, Seminary Dean and Editor of the AVANT Series; and Dr. Aram Arkun, Director of the Zohrab Information Center of the Diocese.
The Zohrab Center is co-sponsoring the event.
Prof. John Erickson, Dean of St. Vladimir's Orthodox Seminary in Crestwood, New York, will also offer remarks.

The AVANT series is a joint-venture between St. Nersess and St. Vladimir's Seminary Press, whose extensive distribution network will assure that the AVANT books will enjoy optimal marketing and sales globally and via the internet.
The reception will take place on Monday, October 3, 2005 at the Armenian Diocese at 630 Second Avenue, New York, NY at 7:00 PM. Dr. Terian will be signing copies of his book, which will be available for sale. The reception is open to the public and free of charge. RSVP by calling the Zohrab Center at (212) 686-0710 or by emailing zic@armeniandiocese.org. Click here for further information regarding Patriotism and Piety, including excerpts.