Episode Details

St. Gregory of Narek – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson

• Born: 951 Rshtunik, Vaspurakan, Bagratid Armenia
• Died: 1003 Narekavank, Vaspurakan, Armenia
• Feast Day: 13 October (Holy Translators day); 27 February (Roman Catholic Church)

Dr. Matthew Bunson and Kris McGregor discuss the significance of St. Gregory of Narek being declared the 36th Doctor of the Church by Pope Francis in 2015. St. Gregory’s profound contributions to Christian spirituality, particularly his “Book of Lamentations,” is a collection of 95 poetic prayers that deeply resonate with themes of humility, suffering, and the longing for union with God. A mystic, theologian, and poet of the Armenian Church, is recognized for his ability to express the depths of human brokenness and the hope found in divine mercy. His writings are compared to those of St. Augustine and St. John of the Cross, emphasizing their ability to guide the faithful toward a personal encounter with God through lament and prayer.

St. Gregory’s life, shaped by early suffering and monastic formation, deeply influenced his spiritual insight. His work remains central to Armenian Christianity, with prayers from the “Book of Lamentations” integrated into the Armenian liturgy. The podcast considers how Gregory’s appointment as a Doctor of the Church invites the broader Catholic Church to engage more deeply with Eastern Christian traditions and spirituality.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. How does the Church’s recognition of St. Gregory of Narek as a Doctor deepen our understanding of the spiritual treasures within Eastern Christianity?
2. In what ways can Gregory’s “Book of Lamentations” teach us to transform our suffering into a path toward deeper union with God?
3. How does Gregory’s emphasis on humility challenge our approach to prayer and our relationship with God?
4. What does Gregory’s mystical theology reveal about the call to holiness and the pursuit of intimate communion with God for all believers?
5. How can the integration of Gregory’s prayers into the Armenian liturgy inspire a deeper appreciation for the role of sacred tradition in personal prayer?
6. How does Gregory’s work invite Latin Rite Catholics to explore the richness of Eastern Christian theology and worship?
7. What can the faithfulness of the Armenian Church, especially through suffering, teach us about perseverance in our own spiritual journey?
8. How can engaging with the writings of lesser-known Doctors, like Gregory, expand our understanding of Catholic spirituality and deepen our faith?

From the Vatican Insider:

Pope Francis has approved the decision of the Congregation for Sai