It is time to abandon divisive steps and heresy: Arrested leader of the Aragatsotn Diocese

The detained leader of the Aragatsotn Diocese, Bishop Mkrtich Proshyan, has issued a statement.

“I join my spiritual brothers, His Eminence Archbishops Michael and Bagrat, in condemning the statements and actions of some bishops in recent days, which are divisive and defamatory.

It is obvious that these statements and actions are not aimed at spiritual sobriety or "reform," but rather, as a result of the influence and pressure of political orders, will lead to the loss of brotherly love, faith, and church loyalty.

The Church is founded not on human interests, but on divine orders: “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation” (Matt. 12:25).

These clergy, taking advantage of the restraint and fraternal tolerance of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, are trying to strengthen their own position by questioning the Throne, thanks to which they have achieved good and progress for years.

It has been forgotten that His Holiness the Patriarch is not only the leader of the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church, but also the guardian of the unity of the faith of the Armenian people. Opposing him is not opposing a person, but a blow to the foundation of the Church. The Church is not a structure subject to political pressure, but a holy body founded on God.

To betray the Armenian Patriarch means to betray the Church and one's own flock, to deny the faith. The Church is not anyone's tool, nor is it a servant of the interests of the authorities.

It is time to abandon divisive steps and apostasy, returning to brotherly love, obedience, and spiritual discernment.

The Church is not preserved by the signature of some declarations, but by faith, canonism, fidelity, and truth. Sober up and remember that this behavior is not in harmony with either evangelical brotherhood or ecclesiastical canonism; it endangers the authority of our Holy Church and the trust of the faithful.

Realizing this, it is worth remembering: “It is impossible that a stumbling block will not come, but woe to the one through whom it comes! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea” (Luke 17:1-2).