AAC did all in its power to preserve Norashen ChurchMay 20, 2008 - 17:50 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The Armenian Apostolic Church did not convene the Synod in Holy Echmiadzin to discuss the fate of Norashen Church, Tbilisi, an informed source told a PanARMENIAN.Net reporter. "The AAC did all in its power to preserve Norashen Church under the jurisdiction of the AAC Georgian Diocese. Now, it's the state's turn," the source said. 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. 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 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". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. |