Armenian Apostolic Church Pushes Back on Political Encroachment
A meeting of the Supreme Spiritual Council of the AAC. Photo: Press Service of the Armenian Apostolic Church
ETCHMIADZIN, ARMENIA — On December 19, 2025, the Armenian Apostolic Church announced plans to appeal to international bodies in response to escalating pressure from the government. The decision followed a meeting of the Supreme Spiritual Council in Etchmiadzin, convened amid criminal cases, interference in church affairs, and tensions involving rebellious bishops.
The Church condemned what it described as attacks on its hierarchy, including the prosecution of clergymen and philanthropist Samvel Karapetyan, as well as the confiscation of relics. Leaders emphasized that state interference, including directives from Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, violates the Constitution and offends the religious sentiments of the faithful.
The Council affirmed its commitment to preserving church unity and called for an Episcopal Council to address ongoing challenges. It also intends to communicate with international organizations to counter false narratives and informational attacks, asserting the independence of the Armenian Apostolic Church and defending the rights of its clergy and faithful.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Armenian clergy were ordered not to mention Catholicos at any services attended by PM Pashinyan.
Read also
ROCOR Priest Reflects on Trip to Capitol Hill
Archpriest Victor Boldewskul participated in the Society of St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco's Day of Action to raise awareness about the persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
Hundreds of Chinese Christians Arrested in Pre-Christmas Crackdown
Hundreds of Chinese Christians face spending Christmas in detention after authorities launched a sweeping pre-holiday crackdown on churches under Beijing’s campaign to control religious life.
Ukraine Adviser: UOC Not Banned, but Offered a 'Choice' of Jurisdictions
A Ukrainian presidential adviser said the UOC is not banned but pressured to choose between joining the OCU, submitting to Constantinople, or remaining unregistered, while dismissing international concerns as propaganda.
Indiana Reports 98% Drop in Abortions Under Stricter Law
Indiana’s latest health report shows a 98% drop in reported abortions under stricter laws, though dozens still occurred under legal exceptions and concerns persist about unreported pill abortions.
Armenian Apostolic Church Pushes Back on Political Encroachment
The Armenian Apostolic Church plans to appeal to international bodies to resist government interference and defend its clergy and sacred relics.
Attempted Takeover at Armenian Etchmiadzin Cathedral Thwarted by Faithful
Supporters of Armenian PM Pashinyan attempted to storm Etchmiadzin Cathedral amid calls for the Catholicos’s resignation but were blocked by parishioners and security.