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In the year 1166, the Eastern Roman Emperor Manuel I made a request of the head of the Armenian church to compose a short explanation to the history and constitution of their church structure, so that it might remain independent from the Imperial church in Asia Minor. The result of that request is this document, composed by the the contemporary Catholicos of All Armenian, Nerses IV, who explained the unique features of Armenian liturgy and ecclesiology, and how it differed from the more familiar Greek and Latin traditions.

This medieval work is a poignant lament that seeks to evoke memories of the past and the ancestors, particularly focusing on the figure of Nerses, Catholicos of the Armenians. It reflects on the sorrow experienced by humanity, drawing attention to the struggles faced in the present time. The author expresses a desire for solace through the acknowledgment of shared grief and a call for understanding and compassion among people. The text emphasizes the importance of remembrance and the connection to one's heritage as a source of strength in difficult times.

In the year 1166, the Eastern Roman Emperor Manuel I made a request of the head of the Armenian church to compose a short explanation to the history and constitution of their church structure, so that it might remain independent from the Imperial church in Asia Minor. The result of that request is this document, composed by the the contemporary Catholicos of All Armenian, Nerses IV, who explained the unique features of Armenian liturgy and ecclesiology, and how it differed from the more familiar Greek and Latin traditions.

Nerses of Lambron (1153-1198) is one of the most significant figures in Armenian literature and ecclesiastical history. As author of numerous biblical commentaries and translator of legal and other texts he is noted as a prolific scholar, and as Archbishop of Tarsus he played a major role in the religious life of Cilician Armenia. In 1179 he made a new translation of the Book of Revelation, not unknown earlier in Armenia but not yet integrated into the Armenian canon of scripture. In the same year he adapted the Greek Commentary on Revelation by Andreas of Caesarea with appropriate additions and changes to reflect Armenian tradition. In this first translation of the Armenian text (based on the 1855 edition with a comparison of the copy made in 1284 by the noted Esayi Nc'ec'i), R.W. Thomson emphasizes the differences between Nerses' adaptation and the original Greek, and places this reworking in the context of the Armenian-Byzantine discussions on possible reunion of the churches. In the Introduction he studies the use of the Book of Revelation in Armenia prior to Nerses, reviews Nerses' career, and highlights the theological characteristics of the adaptation.

This medieval work is a poignant lament that seeks to evoke memories of the past and the ancestors, particularly focusing on the figure of Nerses, Catholicos of the Armenians. It reflects on the sorrow experienced by humanity, drawing attention to the struggles faced in the present time. The author expresses a desire for solace through the acknowledgment of shared grief and a call for understanding and compassion among people. The text emphasizes the importance of remembrance and the connection to one's heritage as a source of strength in difficult times.

Der Nerses's well-crafted, heart-felt messages have enriched the life of St. Gregory's parish over the years. They give a new appreciation pastoral calling of the Armenian Church's patron saint, St. Gregory: to enlighten and guide his flock. They are a light unto our feet and a window into the life of a vibrant parish. Tom Samuelian This newest source of spiritual renewal is a must read especially for us as Armenian Orthodox Christians in our search for the truth and the Good News of our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ and should serve as a source of much needed spiritual renewal among our people. Fr. Vartan Kassabian 'From the Pastor's Desk' gives an enlightening account of the Sacraments, Feast Days, Armenian Church customs, etiquette and traditions, Canon Law, and local and global issues. Archpriest Rev. Fr. Nerses Manoogian has eloquently woven Scripture, poetic prose, and humor in his book that teaches, inspires and reaffirms one's faith in Christianity. A must-read for young and old alike. Jeanette Nazarian, Sunday School Superintendent