Khachkar Studios’ systems map offers a rare, unsentimental look at the institutional health of the U.S. Armenian Christian community. By treating churches and related institutions as parts of a single system, the analysis reveals how underperformance compounds over time.

The baseline finding is stark. Only 3 percent of Armenian Americans are “Faithful”, defined as regular non-holiday church attendees. This figure is grounded in verified attendance data. Yet many leaders believe participation is dramatically higher, creating a persistent blind spot.

The systems map divides the ecosystem into 12 body parts and evaluates each using explicit indicators. Armenian churches rank near the bottom among U.S. Orthodox Christian communities in weekly attendance, youth retention, and leadership development.

Only 1 percent of Armenians aged 18 to 29 remain active in church life, despite strong cultural and educational institutions. The analysis identifies this as a failure of continuity rather than a generational rejection of faith.

Khachkar Studios also highlights inefficiencies in philanthropy. Over decades, a small share of Armenian charitable giving has been directed toward religious life, often without expectations for outcomes. The resulting social impact is significantly lower than peer benchmarks.

A central finding is the absence of benchmarking. No systematic effort exists to measure success, compare performance, or replicate effective practices. Without data, improvement is accidental rather than intentional.

The analysis avoids assigning blame. Instead, it emphasizes responsibility. Institutions that do not measure outcomes cannot manage them.

By identifying clear leverage points, the systems map offers a framework for renewal grounded in discipline rather than nostalgia.