“We express our resolute opposition to the establishment by the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia, under the direction of the Armenian prime minister’s anti-Church actions, of a commission of inquiry to investigate the so-called crisis within the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church. This initiative once again violates the internationally recognized fundamental principles of religious freedom and Church autonomy, seriously calling into question the rule of law in the country.

The ruling political force is attempting to interfere in the internal affairs and self-governance of the Armenian Church through the use of all manner of unlawful measures, repression and the deliberate obstruction of Church activities.

It is deeply concerning that the National Assembly itself is becoming a platform for unlawful conduct, with its prominent parliamentary rostrum being used to foster anti-Church sentiment and spread hatred, baseless accusations and insults against the Church and its clergy. The newly established commission of inquiry has been granted powers and authority not provided for by law, enabling it to determine, in place of the Church’s competent canonical bodies, the canonical propriety of various matters concerning the Church’s internal affairs and governance.

We call on the parliamentary majority to demonstrate sound judgment and responsibility and to act strictly within the limits of its constitutional powers. We demand that every member of our Holy Church entrusted with state authority refrain from any unlawful action and renounce the abuse of official position. Attempts to establish political control over the Church’s internal affairs or to usurp the powers of its canonical bodies cannot be justified under any circumstances.

This process, founded from the outset on falsehoods, slander and misleading claims, will inevitably have a negative impact on national life, create new divisions and fuel hostility and intolerance within society. Yet the internal and external challenges facing our homeland oblige us all to remain united, harmonious and steadfast. We urge the faithful of our Holy Church to maintain spiritual vigilance and prayerful composure and to express their opposition to these unacceptable anti-Church developments solely through dignified and lawful means.

The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin will resolutely pursue every lawful means to protect the rights of the Armenian Church and its faithful flock.

May the Heavenly Lord preserve the land of Armenia in peace and tranquility, keep our faithful people united and the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, together with all its institutions throughout the world, unwavering. May wisdom, faith and abundant hope be granted to us all so that we may overcome the trials of our time with dignity,” the statement reads.