Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin has issued a statement urging the ruling political force to "halt the illegal anti-church campaign."
The Church also called on citizens "not to yield to provocations by the authorities and to remain vigilant and reasonable."
“On July 20, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan publicly announced plans to gather his supporters in the central square of Echmiadzin and to launch yet another encroachment on the Mother See.
Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin condemns this attempt to incite aggression and violence, which constitutes a clear interference in the life and self-governance of the Armenian Church. We urge the ruling political force to end its illegal anti-church campaign and to focus on addressing the country’s serious challenges. At the same time, we appeal to relevant state authorities and officials to take all necessary and lawful measures to prevent this illegal event.
The Mother See deeply values the pious devotion and loyalty of our people toward the Church and their dedication to protecting the spiritual center of all Armenians and our sacred heritage. We call on all Armenians not to fall for provocations by the authorities, to remain vigilant and composed, and to unite in faith and prayer to confront the current challenges,” the statement reads.
During a press conference, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, when asked how he intends to "liberate" the Catholicosate, said, "They will liberate it the same way they freed Armenia from Serzh Sargsyan in 2018." Later, he urged the public to prepare for a “great spiritual gathering in Etchmiadzin’s central square.”
