The Mekhitarist Congregation of Venice has released a statement expressing unequivocal support for the Armenian Apostolic Church and His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians — a move widely interpreted as a response to mounting pressure and attacks on the Church by Armenia’s current political leadership, particularly following the arrest of Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan.
In their declaration, the Fathers of the Congregation praised the Church’s historical role as a guiding force for the Armenian people through centuries of adversity, indirectly rejecting recent narratives and policies that seek to undermine the institution’s influence.
“For centuries, under the guidance of its Patriarchs, the Armenian Church has led the nation with patriotic spirit and self-sacrifice, navigating through the dark and stormy trials of history. The survival of the Armenian people has been secured despite hostile enemies,” the statement reads.
The message concludes with a pointed prayer for the resilience of the Church and its leader, as well as a plea for deliverance from “evil and all its satellites” — phrasing that some observers have interpreted as a veiled rebuke of the current authorities in Yerevan.
“With our constant prayers, we appeal to the All-Savior Only-Begotten, asking that He keep the Patriarchal See of All Armenians unshaken, along with its enthroned Catholicos and the Armenian nation. Almighty Lord God, save us from evil and all its satellites.”
The statement comes amid growing concerns over the Armenian government’s antagonistic stance toward the Church and other traditional institutions. Critics accuse Nikol Pashinyan’s administration of systematically eroding the pillars of national identity, including the Church, through political rhetoric and legislative action.
It is worth noting that Archbishops Mikael Ajapahyan and Bagrat Galstanyan were recently arrested by direct order of Nikol Pashinyan — an act many see as part of a broader campaign against the Armenian Church.
