This Sunday, June 4, the Armenian Church remembers Elijah, one of the greatest prophets of the Old Testament recorded in 1 and 2 Kings. He appeared along with Moses at the Transfiguration as the prophet of life and the new covenant. The Armenian Church (like all the Eastern churches) holds Elijah in the highest esteem. Most importantly, Elijah did not experience death; he was taken to heaven, like the Holy Mother of God. He is mentioned in the Armenian hymn Ee Verin Yerousaghem, sung during the Requiem Service.
“Receive us in Jerusalem above, in the dwellings of the angels, in Eden, the paradise where Enoch and Elijah live worthily resplendent in dove-like purity and in old age. O merciful Lord, have mercy upon the souls of ours who have fallen asleep.”
From the Armenian hymn Ee Verin Yerousaghem (In Jerusalem above), sung during the Requiem Service.