Jerusalem patriarch expresses support for Catholicos Karekin II

Archbishop Nourhan Manougian, Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem, on Monday issued a statement expressing solidarity with the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II.

The patriarch voiced deep concern over recent “painful and troubling” developments surrounding the Hovhannavank Monastery, condemning the state-supported liturgy officiated by a defrocked priest. He stressed such acts violate church law, damage the Armenian Apostolic Church’s reputation and offend the spiritual feelings of the Armenian people.

He warned that the Armenian leadership’s interference in the church affairs and support for defrocked clergy seeking to seize church property were unacceptable.

Archbishop Manougian called on the government to stop intervening in the church’s internal affairs, restore legality and ensure the safe service of clergymen. He reaffirmed support for Catholicos Karekin II and all clerics who continue their mission with “strong faith and selfless devotion” despite political and administrative pressure.