Mounting Tensions Between Armenian Government and Apostolic Church
Amidst escalating tensions, Christian organizations are urging the Armenian government to halt what is perceived as the “persecution” of the Armenian Apostolic Church.
The appeal has been made by Christian Solidarity International (CSI), Coptic Solidarity, and SOS Chrétiens d’Orient, reflecting deepening concerns about the strained relationship between the church and the state.
Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan’s recent arrest on charges of advocating for the government’s overthrow underscores these tensions. Prosecutors highlight statements by the archbishop, such as one to News.am where he said, “I called for a coup to save the country from this madman, they are not saving it, they are also guilty of all this. This is not just a call, it must be done.”
In addition to the arrest, the Armenian security forces have conducted operations at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, raising concerns among church supporters.
CSI expressed “grave concerns over the intensifying campaign by the Armenian government against the Armenian Apostolic Church and its supporters.” The group criticized the detention of senior clergy, confiscation of property, and police actions within sacred areas, including the Mother See.
According to CSI, the government’s actions suggest an attempt to control the church by potentially replacing the church’s Catholicos with a state-appointed committee.
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has acknowledged these efforts, asserting that the aim is to protect the church from “anti-Christian” and “anti-state” factions allegedly influencing it.
CSI has called for the release of detained clergy, including Archbishop Ajapahyan, and urged the government to stop meddling in the church’s affairs, advocating for fair treatment by the judiciary.
The World Council of Churches (WCC) has also voiced “deep concern” regarding the ongoing situation earlier this month.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
