AAC Georgian Diocese shocked by encroachment on Saint Norashen ChurchMay 16, 2008 - 15:04 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The Georgian Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church expressed indignation at the encroachment on Saint Norashen Church and its surroundings instigated by Father Tariel Sikinchelashvili of the Georgian Orthodox Church, the press office of the AAC Georgian Diocese told PanARMENIAN.Net Saint Norashen Church was built in the middle of 15th century. In 1930-ies along with other places of worship, it was closed and used as a book depository. After restoration of state independence, the Georgian government did not return the Church to its legal historical owner. During the recent several days a brigade of workers has been building an iron fence with depiction of religious elements typical for the Georgian Orthodox Church. The Armenian Diocese views the act as violation of the agreement to find a civilized solution to the problem of belonging of Saint Norashen and four other churches in Tbilisi. Meanwhile, Father Tariel informed that in the near future he plans to start "reconstruction works" within the church for holding divine services by Georgian clergy. The AAC Georgian Diocese called the Patriarchy of the Georgian Orthodox Church to take action to prevent infringement of constitutional rights and to observe the agreement, violation of which can bring to irreparable injury. Top stories Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev arrived in Moscow on April 22 to hold talks with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". Partner news | Armenia, Turkey discuss restoration of historic bridge The meeting took place on May 17 in Ashgabat on the sidelines of an international conference of ministers of culture. India wants Armenia’s proposals on use of Chabahar port India is expecting proposals from Armenia regarding the use of Chabahar port in Iran, Indian ambassador says. EU welcomes Armenia-Azerbaijan “progress” The EU has welcomed “progress” made in the framework of the Armenia-Azerbaijan border delimitation process. Belarus opposition leader slams Lukashenko for Karabakh trip Belarusian opposition politician Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya has harshly criticized the visit of Lukashenko to Karabakh. |