Head of Armenian Church charged with criminal case and imposed travel ban
Head of the Armenian Apostolic Church Karekin II. Photo: News Armenia
On February 14, a criminal case was initiated in Yerevan against Catholicos Karekin II of All Armenians. The head of the Armenian Apostolic Church is accused of obstructing the enforcement of a court decision; in addition, he has been banned from leaving the country. The lawyer of the head of the Armenian Church reported the initiation of criminal proceedings, reports the "News-Armenia" agency.
According to the defender, the General Prosecutor's Office of Armenia links the accusation to the case of former Archbishop Gevorg (Arman) Saroyan, who was previously defrocked. Zograbyan clarified that the travel ban has already been imposed. In his opinion, this may prevent the Catholicos from participating in the bishops' assembly scheduled for February 16-18 in Austria.
Earlier, Karekin II relieved Saroyan from managing the Masyacotn Eparchy and defrocked him for violating his vow of obedience. After this, the clergyman appealed to court demanding his reinstatement, and the court granted the lawsuit. Saroyan was among the bishops who supported Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's initiative to "renew" the Church.
The day before, Pashinyan stated that holding the bishops' assembly outside the country could be aimed at removing the Catholicosate from Armenia along with the treasures of Etchmiadzin. The Prime Minister emphasized that the authorities will not allow this and are ready to take additional measures if necessary.
Earlier, the UOJ wrote that in Etchmiadzin, the Primate of the Armenian Church discussed with Robert Amsterdam the observance of legality and protection of human rights in Armenia.
Read also
UOC bishops initiate correspondence discussion around Filaret's personality
Metropolitan Luke accused Bishop Sylvester of "legitimizing the schism," and the latter responded by reminding him of the decisions of the Council in Feofania.
In Volyn, "competent bodies" to deal with UOC Sunday schools, media
A deputy of the Volyn Regional Council initiated a request for inspections of all institutions engaged in Orthodox education of children in the region.
UEFA fines French club for banner with RCC saint
The Union of European Football Associations has imposed another fine for the use of Christian symbols by fans.
Evangelist Graham explains to Trump how he can definitely get to Heaven
The preacher called on the president to stop relying on his achievements and pointed out that good deeds do not save from hell without faith and repentance.
Planning for the Holy Fire Ceremony and Holy Week Services revealed
Authorities have imposed restrictions on the participation of clergy and believers in Holy Week services at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Patriarch Daniel sends solidarity message to Primate of Antioch
The head of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church expressed support for John X in connection with the ongoing violence in Syria and Lebanon.