Saint Gregory of Narek (c. 950–1003) was an Armenian monk, priest, and mystical poet who spent nearly his whole life at the monastery of Narek near Lake Van. He is best known for his Book of Lamentations, a collection of prayers he called 'conversations with God from the depths of the heart.' Pope Francis declared him a Doctor of the Church in 2015, and his optional memorial was added to the General Roman Calendar on February 27.
Gregory teaches us that honest prayer can hold both sorrow and hope at the same time — he poured out his grief, his weakness, and his longing to God without pretending to be anything he was not. His example invites us to bring our whole hearts, even the aching parts, into conversation with a God who listens.
Saint Gregory of Narek, teacher of prayer from the depths of the heart, help us to speak honestly with God in our sorrow and to trust His tender mercy. Amen.Enter today’s Mass → All saints →