On October 22, a clergy assembly of the Aragatsotn Diocese was convened under the blessing of His Grace Bishop Mkrtich Proshyan and chaired by Rev. Fr. Shnorhk Paloyan, the diocese announced.
During the meeting, participants were presented with the patriarchal directive from the Catholicos of All Armenians to form an Administrative Council for the Aragatsotn Diocese, composed as follows:
- Rev. Fr. Shnorhk Paloyan (Chairman)
- Rev. Fr. Yeghishe Barseghyan (Member)
- Rev. Fr. Mushe Vahanyan (Member)
The council will manage the diocese’s operations during the absence of the diocesan primate, whose detention is deemed unlawful by the diocese.
The assembly addressed several issues related to organizational matters, rituals, and pastoral care. Clergy also discussed the Church’s current situation and expressed concern over recent developments.
Following deliberations, the assembly decided:
- To conduct a special prayer service every Sunday after Divine Liturgy, dedicated to the imprisoned Bishop Mkrtich, as well as Bishops Mikael and Bagrat and other devoted individuals.
- To hold weekly collective liturgical services at various diocesan sanctuaries, with announcements provided in advance.
On October 15, Armenia’s Investigative Committee, accompanied by the National Security Service, conducted searches at the Aragatsotn Diocesan headquarters and at homes of several clergy. Dozens, including Bishop Mkrtich Proshyan and diocesan staff, were taken in for questioning. The court later ordered a two-month detention for Bishop Mkrtich and a one-month detention for Rev. Fr. Garegin Arsenyan, pastor of Saint George Church in Mughni and diocesan chancellor. Others were granted witness status.
According to the Investigative Committee, public criminal prosecution has been initiated against Bishop Mkrtich under two articles of Armenia’s Criminal Code—for abuse of official position to obstruct electoral rights and for coercing participation in gatherings using authority.
