Ararat Armenian Congregational Church, Salem, New Hampshire

The Ararat Armenian Congregational Church in Salem, New Hampshire, traces its origins to the late 19th century when Armenian refugees fleeing persecution in the Ottoman Empire settled in the Lawrence, Massachusetts area. Initially worshiping in an American Congregational Church, the community established the Bethel Armenian Congregational Church in Lawrence with the help of Rev. Sahag Hovsepian. As Armenians moved to Andover and Salem, the need for a local church led to a meeting in 1912, resulting in the construction of the Ararat Church. The church was completed and dedicated in 1913, becoming a central hub for the spiritual and cultural life of the Armenian community in the area.

Over the decades, various ministers led the church, including Rev. Kapriel Bedrosian, Rev. Vahan Tamzarian, and Rev. Socrates Mackitarian, each contributing significantly to its growth. The church expanded its facilities, established choirs, Sunday schools, and community organizations, and incorporated both Armenian and English services to meet the needs of successive generations.

Mergers with other congregations, such as the Armenian Congregational Church of Haverhill in 1977, further strengthened the church’s presence. The sanctuary underwent major renovations in 1993, and new programs, including youth groups and Bible studies, flourished under leaders like Rev. Ara Heghinian and Pastor Samuel Katchikian, who oversaw the church’s 100th-anniversary celebrations in 2013.

The church continues its mission of preserving Armenian culture and faith while adapting to the needs of its community. With a rich history of dedicated pastors and parishioners, the Ararat Armenian Congregational Church remains a vibrant spiritual and cultural institution in the region.