A Legacy Etched in Stone: Honouring Rev. Dr Krikor and Datevig Youmshajekian

In a ceremony held in early May, Rev. Dr. Krikor Youmshajekian and his wife, Datevig, were honoured with a permanent place on the Wall of Honour at Monument Australia. Their names, now etched in bronze that overlook Sydney Harbour, mark a lifetime of devoted service to faith, culture, and community.

Rev. Dr. Krikor Youmshajekian is widely respected for his theological and academic accomplishments, yet it is his pastoral compassion and commitment that have most deeply impacted those around him. Over five decades, he has served communities in the Middle East and Australia, fostering intergenerational connections and strengthening cultural ties—particularly among the Armenian diaspora.

By his side throughout this journey has been his wife Datevig, whose resilience and unwavering support have shaped the spiritual and communal life of their congregations.

"The honour bestowed upon them today is not merely for titles held or sermons preached, but for lives that embodied service,” said a Rev Gaby Kobrossi during the unveiling. The event drew clergy, civic leaders, parishioners, and friends—many visibly moved as the couple’s names were revealed.

Rev. Dr. Krikor responded simply: “We only did what we were called to do — to love, to serve, and to stand with our people.”

From Beirut to Australia

Born on 18 March 1958 in Beirut, Lebanon, to Armenian parents, Rev. Dr. Youmshajekian first trained as a mathematics teacher. He later earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Armenian Studies from Haigazian University and a Master of Divinity, specialising in Christian Education, from the Near East School of Theology.

On 1 July 1983, he began his ministry in Armenian villages across northwest Syria, followed by a senior minister role in Beirut. He was ordained in 1987 and subsequently served as General Secretary of the Union of the Armenian Evangelical Church in the Near East during the Lebanese civil war, overseeing churches in eight countries.

In October 1985, he married Datevig in Aleppo, Syria, on her birthday. Their son, Varak, was born in 1989.

The family migrated to Australia in 1993, where Rev. Dr. Youmshajekian was appointed to the Armenian Evangelical Uniting Church of Sydney in Willoughby. There, he led a significant rebuilding effort, culminating in the opening of a new church building in 1996 and a new manse in 2022. The couple welcomed their daughter, Lori, in 1996.

In 2011, Rev. Krikor commenced his ministry at St Andrew’s Uniting Church, Longueville. Alongside his ministerial work, he pursued further study, earning a Master’s Degree in Ministry in 2008 and a Doctorate from Charles Sturt University in 2013.

A Lasting Contribution

Rev. Dr. Youmshajekian also established the Armenian Missionary Association of Australia (AMAA) in 2001. As its volunteer President and CEO, he has led humanitarian and mission initiatives across Australia, Armenia, and the Middle East. Through educational tours, he has introduced countless Australians to Armenia’s heritage and spirituality.

In a message of gratitude post a surprise gathering after the unveiling , he addressed the Church Council Chair, Penny, and the wider church community, Rev. Dr. Youmshajekian wrote:

"We just wanted to take a moment to extend my and Dee’s heartfelt thanks for the incredible job you did organising the surprise gathering in honouring us. It was truly beautiful and memorable event, and it was clear how much time, care, and love went into every detail. Your efforts not only celebrated my achievements and years of faithful service but also brought together a group of loving and caring friends and family members, including my dear colleague and brother in Christ’s Ministry Rev. Dr. Gaby Kobrossi. The atmosphere was warm, joyful, and full of the spirit that reflects the love of our church family—thanks to you…We owe all this to the grace of God, as we are just His humble servants.”

Closure of Ministry

Rev. Dr. Youmshajekian is scheduled to conclude his active service on 31 May 2025, marking 50 years of ministry. His Closure of Ministry and Retirement service took place on Sunday, 25th May at St Andrew's Uniting Church, Longueville with ministers from across the Uniting Church and Moderator Rev Faaimata Havea Hiliau in attendance. 

"As Rev Dr Krikor moves into retirement, it is a great opportunity to reflect on the impact his ministry has had on the Uniting Church congregations, his Presbytery, our Synod and across the Assembly...Rev. Krikor has lifted our eyes to understand more fully the realities of the Middle East and Armenia, as well as promoting connections across our diverse communities within the UCA." says Rev Dr Rob McFarlane, Presbytery Relations Minister at the Synod of NSW & ACT upon witnessing Rev Krikor's Closure of Ministry in person.