George II

patriarch of Armenia, was born at Karnhi. Educated in the patriarchal palace, he was raised to the patriarchate in 876, after the death of Zachary III. He was a prudent man, who governed well his Church. He was one of the principal signers of the petition addressed to the caliph, requesting the title of king for the prince Achod, governor of Armenia. Being sent as ambassador by Sempad, successor of Achod, to Afshin, the Arab general who came to invade Armenia, he Vas retained as a captive, and did not regain his liberty until near the conclusion of the treaty, and by means of a ransom. He died in 897. He is the author of a letter addressed to John a Syrian patriarch, in which he exposes the rites of the Armenian Church. His successor was Machdots II (Elivardzetsi). See Hoefer, Nouv. Biog. Generale, s.v.