Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem Calls on Pashinyan Government to Stop Interfering in Church Affairs

The Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem, Archbishop Nourhan Manougian, has issued a strong statement in support of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and Catholicos of All Armenians, Karekin II, urging Armenia’s authorities to refrain from intervening in the internal matters of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

According to the statement, the recent actions taken by a defrocked clergyman—allegedly with the backing of Armenian state institutions—are described as illegal and against church laws. These actions, the Patriarch said, undermine the authority of the Armenian Apostolic Church, offend the faith of believers, and pose a danger to Armenian national identity and spiritual values.

“In these difficult times, when our people face internal and external challenges, the Armenian Apostolic Church continues to be an important pillar of national unity, faith, and hope. Therefore, every action directed against the [Armenian Apostolic] Church is also a strike at our historical memory and spiritual values,” the statement reads.

The Patriarch’s message addresses concerns about interference by state bodies in church matters, particularly regarding the reported support for defrocked individuals attempting to take control of the Hovhannavank monastery and perform unauthorized religious services there. The statement condemns these efforts as “illegal and dishonorable,” calling them a direct challenge to the Church’s independence and sacred traditions.

Archbishop Manougian appealed to the Armenian authorities to “stop interfering in the [Armenian Apostolic] Church’s internal life, restore justice and legality, and ensure the safe and peaceful work of the [Armenian Apostolic] Church’s ministers.”

He concluded by expressing his full solidarity with Catholicos Karekin II and the entire clergy of the Armenian Apostolic Church, praising their faithful service and dedication. The Patriarch also voiced hope that Armenia’s state institutions will act wisely to maintain peace in society, respect the rule of law, and protect the spiritual and national heritage that unites Armenians around the world.

—

Support independent reporting from the region by subscribing to The Armenian Report. Our team is funded solely by readers like you.