The search for ethnic identity leads to objects that define a comprehensive material culture. Objects are symbolic representations of inherent beliefs that define a specific community - “. . . that group identity is not a stable, objective fact, but a construct, a product of human belief, human communication, and human action.” In this manner material objects of the Armenian Orthodox Church are more than physical manifestations. They are connected to Armenian Christian doctrine, the unity of the Christian community, the Armenian people’s unwavering attachment to the Divine mysteries expressed in Christ’s life and finally the glorification of God. Making objects for the Church was a pious act and each item produced and donated was considered a personal statement of faith. Such objects transcended the world of physical matter. Family prestige and social standing in the community were enriched by the donation of precious objects. Contributions from one’s own hand and of oneself instilled within the maker a sense of personal fulfillment and involvement in the spiritual life of the community, a deep attachment to Armenian secular and religious values, and finally adherence to Christian beliefs in an otherwise Muslim world. In this manner the objects produced by the community became symbols of faith and dedication to Christian religious culture.