The Mother See called on the state to refrain from divisive interference in church life

The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin has resolutely condemned the alarming phenomena that have recently taken place in Hovhannavank. This refers to the holding of inappropriate events on the monastery grounds, specifically a party, which undermines the spiritual and prayerful atmosphere of the monastery and causes concern among residents of nearby settlements.

This situation is a direct consequence of the open patronage and negligence of the authorities regarding Stepan Asatryan, who was declared innocent (deposed – ed.), in direct violation of the laws of the Republic of Armenia and the rights of the Holy Apostolic Church of Armenia.

The fact that the Hovhannavank church has been seized, and the lawlessness prevailing there, offend the pious feelings of the faithful, violate their rights, and mislead pious visitors with invalid rituals and ceremonies.  

Considering such phenomena unacceptable, the Mother See once again calls on the relevant state bodies to refrain from divisive interference in church life and to restore the legal status of all seized churches, the statement says.