Syriac Patriarchate backs Armenian Apostolic Church

PanARMENIAN.Net - The Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and All the East has released a statement expressing full support for the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church.

As reported by Panorama.am , the statement highlights the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin as the oldest institution in Armenia, carrying immense spiritual, historical, and national significance—not only for the Armenian people, but for the entire Oriental Orthodox family.

“The Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate is deeply concerned by recent actions from the Armenian authorities directed against the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and the Armenian Apostolic Church,” the statement reads.

On behalf of the Syriac Orthodox Church and the Holy Synod, His Holiness Patriarch Ignatius Aphrem II conveyed his unconditional support and deep fraternal solidarity to His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, to the clergy, and to the faithful during these challenging times.

“Any attempt to diminish the sanctity of Etchmiadzin, interfere in its internal governance, or target its clergy is a grave violation of religious freedom and the integrity of the Church,” the Patriarchate noted.

It condemned the arrest of bishops and priests, desecration of holy sites, and interference in canonical life, warning that such actions threaten the spiritual foundations of the nation and the Church’s long-guarded independence.

The Syriac Orthodox Church reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to defending religious freedom and church sovereignty, offering prayers for peace, wisdom, and strength for the Armenian Church.

The statement urged Armenian authorities to initiate dialogue and act with respect and justice toward sacred institutions that have safeguarded Christian heritage for centuries.

In a recent Facebook post, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that “the House of Christ has been seized by an immoral, anti-national group and must be liberated,” adding that he would “lead this liberation.” The World Council of Churches has also expressed solidarity with the Armenian Apostolic Church.