Armenian Church to appeal to international bodies over government pressure
The decision was made by the Supreme Spiritual Council in Etchmiadzin against the backdrop of criminal cases, pressure on the clergy, and the state's attempts to interfere in church life.
On December 19, 2025, the Armenian Apostolic Church announced its intention to appeal to international bodies in connection with the ongoing pressure from the authorities. The corresponding decision was made following the meeting of the Supreme Spiritual Council, which took place the day before in Echmiadzin, reports "Voice of Armenia".
The statement notes that the Church plans to convey its position to relevant international bodies to counteract informational attacks and, as emphasized, false narratives spread by the authorities regarding the Church.
Members of the Supreme Spiritual Council condemned the encroachments on the Armenian Apostolic Church, the criminal prosecution of hierarchs, as well as the actions of rebellious bishops, which, in their assessment, lead to schism and undermine church unity. In view of the alarming situation, it was decided to convene an Episcopal Council in the near future, for which appropriate organizational instructions were given.
The Council also reaffirmed the demand for law enforcement agencies to ensure legality and justice regarding the arrested clergymen and philanthropist Samvel Karapetyan, as well as to return confiscated relics. Separately, the interference of the authorities and personally the Prime Minister in church affairs and canons was condemned. It was called contrary to the Constitution and offensive to the religious feelings of believers.
The statement recalls that on December 17-19, clashes occurred in Echmiadzin between supporters and opponents of the Catholicos Karekin II of All Armenians. According to the Church's assessment, what is happening has become another act of encroachment on the Armenian Apostolic Church.
Earlier, the UOJ wrote that the Armenian Church urged the hierarchs who supported the authorities to return to canons.
