Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem expresses his support for  Mother See   and  Catholicos of All Armenians

ArmInfo.  The Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem, Archbishop Nourhan Manougian, has expressed his support for the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and the Catholicos of All Armenians, Karekin II.

"It is with deep pain and concern that we follow the extremely  alarming and painful events that have occurred in recent months  surrounding the heads of dioceses and high-ranking clergy of the  Armenian Apostolic Holy Church. The actions committed by discredited  clergy with the open patronage of state bodies are not only illegal  and contrary to church regulations, but also undermine the authority  of the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church, offend the spiritual feelings  of the Armenian people and threaten our centuries-old identity and  faith. In these challenging times, when our people are facing  internal and external trials, the Armenian Apostolic Church remains  our spiritual support and moral shield, uniting our people around  faith and hope. Therefore, any attack on the Church is an attack on  our historical memory and spiritual values. Government officials  interference in the internal life of the Church is unacceptable,  especially the support of lawless individuals trying to seize the  Monastery of St. John and violate lawful rites, committing "illegal  rituals. 

We strongly condemn these illegal and dishonorable actions and call  on the state authorities to stop any interference in the internal  affairs of the Apostolic Church, restore justice and the rule of law,  and ensure the safe and peaceful work of the ordained clergy of the  Church. We express our sincere support to His Holiness Karekin II,  Catholicos of All Armenians, and the clergy, who continue their  pastoral mission with selflessness and unwavering faith, without  succumbing to political and administrative pressure. Their faith,  patience, and selfless service continue to be a living testimony to  the immortal spirit of our people. We pray that the Lord will  strengthen the Armenians. May our Holy Apostolic Church grant the  Patriarch of All Armenians good health and long life, may it  enlighten our authorities on the path of justice and truth, and  preserve our people in faith, peace, and unity," the statement reads.