Holding Episcopal Assembly in another location was wise and appropriate decision – Fr. Vrtanes Baghalyan

In the life of the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church, holding Episcopal Assemblies in different places has historically been an accepted and natural practice, Fr. Vrtanes Baghalyan, the spiritual pastor of the St. Hovhannes Church of Byurakan, said in an interview with Alpha News.

According to him, it has never been mandatory for church assemblies to be held in the same place.

“Assemblies have taken place in Etchmiadzin, Shapivan, Artashat, Dvin, Manazkert, Sis, Ani, and even in Artsakh in 2016. So this is a completely normal and accepted phenomenon,” the priest noted.

Fr. Vrtanes Baghalyan believes that in this case, the choice of location for the Episcopal Assembly is not only normal but also a very appropriate and wise decision. In his view, it will allow the participants to express themselves freely and avoid external pressures.