History

The strong Armenian Apostolic Church community of Fowler together with the Armenians in the nearby city of Selma, had been holding religious services in the Episcopal Church in Fowler, with Father Sahag, pastor of Holy Trinity Church of Fresno officiating. Bishop Hovsep and other visiting clergy also officiated at various times. During this time the congregation consisted of 70 to 100 families. The need for a church edifice of their own was being felt as early as 1903.The construction of the church building began on February 8, 1910, and in an impressive ceremony the church was consecrated on April 17, 1910 by Bishop Hovsep Sarajian, and named St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church. Thus it became the fourth Armenian Apostolic Church in America.

Over the years, the original church structure has been enlarged and repeatedly improved. Also a church hall and rooms for Sunday School classes were added, as well as athletic facilities. The later addition of a dome-belfry lends and Armenian character to the church.It is of further interest to note that the parish of St. Gregory of Fowler is still in its original building (though with the changes made from time to time.) As such, it may be said that it is the second oldest Armenian Church edifice in use today in America.