“Save the ArQ” movement dedicated to safeguarding heritage of Armenian Quarter in Jerusalem

· October 13, 2025

World Council Churches

During a plenary session at the World Council of Churches on 9 October, co-founders of the Save the ArQ movement—an initiative dedicated to safeguarding the Armenian Quarter and the heritage of the Armenian Patriarchate—presented on “Preserving the Christian Heritage in Jerusalem – The case of the Armenian Quarter.”

Setrag Balian and Hagop Djernazian shared firsthand perspectives on the ongoing efforts to protect the Patriarchate’s land, the challenges faced by the Armenian community, and the broader implications for the Christian presence in Jerusalem.

The encounter offered an opportunity for dialogue, reflection, and solidarity with the Armenian community in their cause to preserve their historical and spiritual legacy in the Holy City.

Balian began with a brief historical introduction of Armenians in Jerusalem. “The Armenian Patriarchate as an institution was established in 638,” he said. “Throughout history, the importance of the Armenians has been undeniable.”

He touched upon why the Armenian Quarter has become, from a geopolitical perspective, a very important piece of land.

Djernazian explained how, through legal action, Armenians are protecting their land. He remains hopeful that the issue will be solved in a fair, transparent way within the legal system, ensuring the rights of future generations.“It is considered an historical move,” he said.

The Armenian Quarter of Jerusalem is home to one of the oldest Christian communities in the world, with a presence spanning many centuries. At the heart of current legal and territorial dispute lies the Armenian Gardens (Cows’ Garden), a 19,000-square-meter area on Mount Zion. Historically, this land served as an agricultural hub, a refuge for pilgrims and Armenian genocide survivors, and a defensive stronghold. Its historical, cultural, and strategic importance has made it a focal point in ongoing disputes.

Balian and Djernazian are urging the international community to ensure legal protections, and advocate for resolution of the dispute strictly within the legal system.

They also condemn violence and intimidation as attacks on Armenians continue. They call to preserve the Status Quo, and oppose unilateral actions that endanger Jerusalem’s religious and cultural equilibrium.

The Save the ArQ movement is also engaging with Israeli authorities to press for respect of property rights and prevent settler expansion in the Armenian Quarter.

They continue to advocate across the world for the preservation and protection of the Armenian Quarter and the Christian presence in Jerusalem.