In recent months, we have followed the alarming events surrounding Holy Etchmiadzin with deep concern. On various occasions and in various ways, we have attempted to defuse the situation and encourage the parties to reach an understanding, warning against steps that could lead to a schism in the Church. Today, the situation is truly more dangerous and could have unpredictable consequences. This is stated in a statement by Catholicos Aram I of the Great House of Cilicia.
“The unshakable preservation of the integrity and internal unity of Holy Etchmiadzin and our Church as a whole, as well as its protection from internal and external threats, is a national priority.” Recognizing this and committed to it, we make the following appeal:
We call upon the authorities of the Republic of Armenia:
– not to interfere in the internal life and problems of Holy Etchmiadzin,
– to avoid steps that could create the basis for division within the Church and are unconstitutional and unacceptable, threatening the security of the Church, the nation, and the Fatherland.
To Holy Etchmiadzin: – to prevent the deepening of discord in monastic life with the utmost speed, patience, and prudence,
– to rally around His Holiness the Patriarch, as well as the monastic union and principles,
– to discuss existing problems in a fraternal spirit and in a canonical manner. “The Church is the house of God and, at the same time, the sacred hearth of the nation. Every Armenian has the right and duty to address the issues that concern the Church, but with a constructive, creative, and reformist approach aimed at strengthening its ministry,” the statement reads.