Khachkar Studios has taken a significant step in its previously announced $100 million initiative to strengthen Judeo-Christian communities across the United States. In its latest update, the organization confirmed the allocation of $10 million to go directly to the “Faithful” of the Armenian Eastern Diocese, marking what it describes as a transformational push to increase church participation and enhance measurable social impact.
The move is part of a larger effort built on two years of research into attendance patterns, parish performance, and financial transparency across the Armenian Christian ecosystem. According to the findings, only 3% of U.S. Armenians regularly attend church—a figure that places the community at the bottom among peer groups. Khachkar Studios aims to double that number to 6% within five years.
This $10 million disbursement is structured to support both individuals and parishes that collaborate with Khachkar Studios’ Biblically inspired management “Framework”—a benchmarking model the organization views as central to revitalization efforts. Eligible “Faithful” or parishes may receive up to $500,000 over five years if they contribute to improving attendance and raising Social Return on Investment (SROI), which currently stands at a median 3.7x. The new target is a 7.0x SROI.
Khachkar Studios has also released a series of public assessments—from short memos to in-depth analyses—highlighting the importance of financial discipline and transparent governance across the Eastern Diocese’s key institutions. These include the Diocese, Endowment, FAR, and St. Nersess Seminary, all of which have begun implementing aspects of the “Framework.”
The organization is rolling out a broad communication effort across Armenian and major U.S. media outlets to promote understanding of the initiative. The goal is to encourage clergy, donors, and parishioners to embrace a culture of measurement and accountability.
Leaders at Khachkar Studios argue that longstanding assumptions have obscured the need for change, particularly the widespread belief that 30% of Armenians regularly attend services. By channeling funds directly to the people most engaged in parish life—and supporting them at unprecedented levels—they believe community transformation is now achievable.
















