Fr. Artashes Hakobyan regrets joining clergy who sided with PM

Father Artashes Hakobyan, spiritual pastor of the Surb Sahak-Mesrop Church in the village of Vosketap, Masyatsotn Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church, has expressed regret for joining bishops and clergymen who sided with the Prime Minister of Armenia.

“I, Artashes Hakobyan, spiritual pastor of the Surb Sahak-Mesrop Church of Vosketap in the Masyatsotn Diocese, deeply regret and feel pain over my statement made yesterday, which was the result of delusion, misjudgment of reality, and mental strain caused by external influence.
This statement does not reflect my true thoughts and convictions. I reaffirm the declaration of the clergy of the Masyatsotn Diocese dated January 17, 2026.

Dear parishioners,

Throughout my ministry, I have sought to serve each of you faithfully, upholding the canons of the Holy Church. With the same readiness and responsibility, I will continue my service henceforth.

I humbly ask for your forgiveness and ask you to remember me in your prayers,” the statement reads.