Action was not directed against anyone; it was silent demonstration – Sargis Zelveyan on incident at St. Leon Cathedral in United States

Speaking with Alpha News, Armenian community activist and businessman Sargis Zelveyan addressed the incident that took place at St. Leon Cathedral of the Western Diocese of North America and the statement issued by the diocesan primate, describing it as “utterly false.”

Zelveyan explained that community members had gathered in the church courtyard to express their support for the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and the Catholicos of All Armenians. He denied claims that there had been any “intrusion” or aggressive actions.

“The day’s action was not directed against anyone; it was in support of the Mother See and the Patriarch. There was nothing aggressive on the posters—it was a silent demonstration,” Zelveyan said.

According to him, the tension was not caused by the faithful but by certain members of the parish council, who tried to block filming and remove people from the church grounds.

“We do not need anyone’s permission to be in our church courtyard. The church belongs to the faithful people. The priest and the diocesan primate are not rulers—their mission is to provide spiritual service,” he emphasized.

Zelveyan also stated that community members have long been trying to meet with the diocesan primate, but he has avoided dialogue. Instead, statements have been issued that, according to him, do not reflect reality.

The community leader expressed hope that the spiritual pastor will eventually facilitate a meeting with the diocesan primate, as the accumulated issues require urgent clarification.