The relationship between the Armenian Apostolic Church and the Armenian government has reached a critical point, drawing international attention and concern. A call for intervention has been issued by various Christian organizations, urging the Armenian government to halt what they describe as “persecution” of the church.
Among those expressing concern are Christian Solidarity International (CSI), Coptic Solidarity, and SOS Chrétiens d’Orient, who have collectively signed a statement condemning recent actions against the church.
The tension escalated with the arrest of Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan, accused of promoting a government overthrow. Prosecutors highlight a statement he made to News.am, “I called for a coup to save the country from this madman, they are not saving it, they are also guilty of all this. This is not just a call, it must be done.”
Beyond arresting religious leaders, the Armenian security forces have been active at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, conducting several law enforcement operations.
CSI has voiced serious concerns, stating, “Over the past few weeks, we have witnessed the apparently arbitrary detention of senior members of the clergy and of prominent supporters of the church, the expropriation of their property, and the use of police force within sacred spaces, including the Mother See of the Armenian Apostolic Church at Etchmiadzin.”
The organization also criticized the government’s attempt to replace the church’s Catholicos with a state-controlled committee, which Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has defended, claiming his actions are to protect the church from “anti-Christian” and “anti-state” factions.
CSI is demanding the release of those detained, including Archbishop Ajapahyan, and calling for the government to stop interfering in church affairs, ensuring fair treatment through the judiciary.
Earlier in the month, the World Council of Churches (WCC) also expressed “deep concern” about the unfolding situation, highlighting the global implications of the conflict.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
