The Catholicos of Armenia is the spiritual leader of the Armenian Apostolic Church, one of the oldest Christian denominations in the world. This title is held by the head of the church, who is responsible for guiding the spiritual and administrative affairs of the Armenian Christian community. The Catholicos is based in Etchmiadzin, which is considered the spiritual center of the Armenian Church. The position of Catholicos dates back to the early centuries of Christianity, with the first Catholicos, Saint Gregory the Illuminator, establishing the church's foundation in Armenia. The Catholicos plays a vital role in preserving Armenian culture and heritage, promoting unity among Armenians worldwide, and representing the church in ecumenical dialogues with other Christian denominations.