While the title of this post may sound like the opening to a joke, it is actually what happened to me last Friday. In this story, I, quite obviously, play the role of the author. Although Armenian in nationality, I must confess to knowing very little about this country, its culture and its wonderful people. Growing up, there was not any of this knowledge conferred onto me. Being the knowledge-hungry and curious fellow that I am, learning this knowledge became one of my many goals.

To gain more knowledge on the subject, I did what many of us would. I looked up and watched documentaries. I also read books and listened to interviews. One of the most enlightening ways to learn about a country’s culture is to attend an ethnic festival. One great thing about where I live, is that they seem to have many of those. My lovely lady Margie and I always enjoy attending ‘Armenian Fest’ which is held at St. John the Baptist Armenian Orthodox Church. Here we find ethnic Armenian music, artifacts, delicious food, and most importantly, a vibrant and giving community.

 

Enter Fr. Guregh Hambardzumyan. He is the leader of this amazing community. That is him in the photo above. I was introduced by a fellow author at the festival this past summer. Fr. Guregh seemed quite kind and we exchanged numbers. This past Friday we met at a local Starbucks for a cup of coffee. If I am filled with little knowledge when it comes to Armenian culture, I must confess to being just this side of completely ignorant when it comes to the Armenian Orthodox Church and their beliefs. Fr. Guregh not only was born and grew up in Armenia, but has lived in Israel and traveled many places. He was generous in sharing both his knowledge of the Armenian culture as well. He is a man of great faith and has a passion for sharing that faith with others.

I cannot confess my gratitude enough to Fr. Guregh for taking time out of his busy schedule to sit down and help me get a better understanding about the great people of Armenia and their faith. I walked away with not only a greater appreciation for both of them, but for the man who was sharing the knowledge with me. It can be intimidating to meet such pious people, but this was not the case. I feel it can be so beneficial to learn all you can about not only your nationality, but about as many people and their cultures and faith as you can. It is only in this manner can we hope to bring about a peaceful world.

If you wish to do your part to bring about peace, do your best to learn and understand those you share the planet with. Once again, I wish to thank Fr. Guregh for taking the time to enlighten this author on so many different topics. I am very grateful to have had the chance to meet and talk with you. If you find yourself in the city of Greenfield Wisconsin in mid to late July, definitely check out Armenian Fest at St John the Baptist Armenian Orthodox Church. You will leave with a stomach full of good food and a spirit full of great joy from the community there. If you desire, you will also leave with a greater knowledge of the country, people and faith of Armenia.