Statement by Priest Artashes Hakobyan, spiritual pastor of St. Sahak Mesrop Church in Vosketap.
“Dear believers,
In recent days, some representatives of the village of Vosketap have been spreading information about me that is untrue and likely to mislead the uninformed.
I would like to point out the following:
1. Interference by a government agency in the internal affairs of the Church is contrary to current legislation.
2. The statement, which unintentionally involved minors, also inappropriately used the Facebook page of the village’s educational institution – an elementary school.
3. The attitude expressed toward me in the aforementioned statement is based solely on the fact that I do not serve any personal or group interests, but am guided solely by the principle of preserving the Armenian Apostolic Church and the state interests that flow from it.
4. The reasons for my actions have been repeatedly clarified in various forums, yet an attempt is nevertheless being made to mislead the public by suggesting that pressure was exerted on me.
Those who have confirmed that such situations are difficult for them and feel caught between two rocks are currently under pressure.
I repeat my previous appeal to you: this situation is temporary, and it is important that we act in a way that will leave us with no reason to be ashamed when we look each other in the eye tomorrow.
Anyone can reject me, but I have no spiritual, moral, or human rights, and I do not wish to reject any member of my church.
I am sure that deep down you agree with me.
I remain in prayer for all of you and look forward to soul-strengthening encounters.
Father Artashes, Priest Hakobyan
“And you shall know the truth, and it shall set you free” (John 8:32).