Eastern Diocese urges respect for Armenian church protocols

Panorama

The Primate and Diocesan Council of the Eastern Diocese have issued the following statement on the unfolding events in Armenia:

“We, the Primate and Diocesan Council of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), are seriously concerned about the recent events unfolding in Armenia, involving the escalating situation between the State and the Church.

These two foundational institutions, together with the Armenian Diaspora, are essential to our survival as Armenians.

We call for restraint and national unity. The Constitution of the Republic of Armenia and its democratic process must be respected, as should the self-governance, policies, and protocols of the global Armenian Apostolic Church—protocols that have stood as consistent pillars of the Armenian Church throughout its history.

At this critical moment for the Armenian nation—in a time of geopolitical uncertainty, and in full view of the world—we need all our national institutions to remain strong and able to play their respective, vital roles. Our government must steer our young democracy through the complexities of balancing security, reform, and societal harmony. Our Church must continue to play its vital and historic role in safeguarding our identity, heritage, and faith.

Any actions that might weaken either the State or the Church’s ability to fulfill its mission—including the recent arrests of bishops and priests, and threats to the Catholicos of All Armenians—also stand to weaken our nation, internally and on the global stage.

At this time of opportunity and risk for our nation and people, it is more important than ever for our national institutions to be built up rather than torn down, so each can play its critical role in the advancement of our nation. We should all rejoice that our nation is free with its democratic process. Likewise, the historic role of the Church must be respected: the Church that has been the spiritual guide for the Armenian people throughout the centuries, enduring persecution, exile, and genocide.

In times such as these, our hope and strength rest in Christ and in the unity of our Church. We turn to prayer, trusting that the Lord will grant peace, healing, and wisdom to all His children. As the psalmist proclaims: “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me” (Psalm 50:15).

We invite our clergy and faithful to remain steadfast in faith and spirit, keeping the Mother See and His Holiness in their daily prayers; asking God to guide our Church and our nation with compassion and hope.

May the Lord preserve and protect His Holy Church, strengthen the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and the Republic of Armenia, and fill our entire Armenian family with peace, unity, and love.”