Apostolic Generation
The “Apostolic Generation” program is the first phase of the CLLD program.
The purpose of the “Apostolic Generation” program is to lead young people to the church by equipping them with theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The program involves various courses, meetings, and pilgrimages with clergymen. The participants are able to gain general knowledge about the history, rituals, and doctrine of the Mother church within one year. The “Apostolic Generation” program is composed of the following three courses:
“Alpha” course
NLI has been periodically organizing Alpha courses since 2005. Alpha is designed for those who are seeking the meaning of life. Alpha is an opportunity to discover and understand life by comparing present conditions to Biblical realities. Alpha introduces the Christian faith in a simple and practical way. Speakers of the course are clergymen of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Format: one meeting per week for 2.5 hours in a relaxed atmosphere. The duration is 12 weeks. The course also includes a weekend away seminar.
“Introduction to the Old and New Testaments” course
This course develops basic knowledge about the structure of the Bible, the authors and contents of its books, and their value and role. The result is that the participants find the Bible easier to read and understand, and they are able to search for answers where the meaning looks contradictory or double. This course is also taught by clergymen.
“Traditions and feasts of the Armenian Apostolic Church” course
This course aims to introduce young Armenians to the origins and applications of the holy days and rituals of the Mother church. As a result, the participants receive knowledge of the sacred meaning of the rituals taking place in the Church, are able to distinguish the genuine Christian faith from sects, and revalue their national Christian heritage and tradition. This course is led by Armenian Apostolic Church priests.
The APOSTOLIC GENERATION program also organizes pilgrimages to learn about sacred places in Armenia. The purpose is to help young people know the medieval churches and monasteries in Armenia, and their historic and cultural value, to encourage them to maintain the Mother Church, and to be stable in their faith. Up to 70 fellows participate in the pilgrimages.