The Tavush Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church has issued a statement:
“On January 10, the first meeting of the clergy for 2026 was held at Haghartsin Monastery.
Among the issues discussed, the clergy of the Tavush Diocese reflected on the painful and shameful statements of recent days by nearly two dozen priests who have excluded themselves from the canonical and hierarchical process of the See of Holy Etchmiadzin.”
The clergy of the Tavush Diocese, led by the Diocesan Vicar, His Eminence Father Samvel Vardapet Mkhitaryan, unequivocally reaffirmed their vow to remain faithful to the Orthodox teachings of the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church, the canonical provisions, and the enthronement of the Throne of Saint Thaddeus, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians.
In light of the unacceptable situation that has arisen, we affirm that we will continue our spiritual service with the same devotion, with a high sense of justice and integrity, faithful to the truth of Holy Scripture and the Sacred Tradition of the Church, out of love for our faithful people.
The Fathers of the Congregation also decided to hold a prayer service every Wednesday at 11:00 AM in all active churches of the Tavush Diocese for the inviolability and steadfastness of the Armenian state, our compatriots throughout the world, and the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church.
May your prayers to the Lord instill in the hearts of our beloved and suffering people a spirit of unity, not division. “With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, striving to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:2-3).
May God protect you all.