The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin has issued a statement saying:
“The Mother See strongly condemns the organization of ‘Liturgy’ ceremonies in various diocesan churches by the authorities, led by the Prime Minister, carried out through forceful intervention by law enforcement bodies. These actions constitute gross violations of church order and rules, as well as the Constitution and laws of the Republic of Armenia, offending the spiritual feelings of believers and sowing division.
Any bishop’s participation in such ‘Liturgies’ – bypassing the spiritual authority of the diocesan leader and ignoring established church order and canons – is a serious violation of canon law. Such a violation occurred in the Holy Mother of God (Seven Wounds) Primate’s Church of the Shirak Diocese.
While still refraining from imposing strict disciplinary measures, the Mother See urges the bishops who have violated the canons to cease their misguided actions and public statements containing false and fabricated claims. They are called to return to the canonical framework, uphold the centuries-old traditions of our Holy Church, and act solely within the spiritual sphere with a deep sense of responsibility for preserving legality and unity – the duty, calling, and mission of every bishop entrusted with apostolic succession.
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