Father Asoghik Karapetyan stated on Facebook that the current situation in Armenia is the fault of both past and present political figures and parties.

“The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin is a sacred place where people come to kneel before the Lord, pray, fulfill spiritual needs, and strengthen national identity, faith, hope, and love for God, the nation, and the homeland.

Throughout history, Armenians have endured and persisted without straying from their historic mission. Only a few bandits in the past have stormed the holy grounds like jackals, desecrating the sanctities and attacking the Lord’s Anointed. All such attackers faced divine retribution in this world.

Now, as we monks at the Mother See experience peace through prayer and unity with the Armenian nation and homeland, we hear troubling news that godless, soulless aggressors intend to attack Etchmiadzin. Really? Do you have the audacity?

Do not dare play your vile political games within these sacred grounds. You’ve already turned Armenia into a valley of blood and mourning through your shameful roles.

Do not incite conflict between the Church and the state while rubbing your hands in glee. The Church and faithful clergy will never bow to the transient and always act in the nation’s and state’s interest, above individual or factional concerns.

What is happening now in our country is your fault—Armenian politicians, parties, former and current officials. Now is not the time to say more. You will have to answer before God.

Wake up. Cast out the darkness from your minds, hearts, and souls. Love your people and homeland, and with unity and dignity, dedicate yourselves to rebuilding the country.

Remember: our past tragedies were caused by cowardice, hatred, and disunity among leaders. Do not repeat these shameful historical mistakes.”

Earlier today, around 30 masked men stormed the Shirak Diocese, according to lawyer Mihran Poghosyan. Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan, the head of the Diocese, is currently in Etchmiadzin.

A priests' council meeting was scheduled in Etchmiadzin for June 27. According to PanARMENIAN.Net sources, the National Security Service is on-site and may plan to search the Catholicosate headquarters.

Former Bar Association head Ara Zohrabyan reported that a criminal case has been initiated against Archbishop Ajapahyan and that a legal defense team is being formed.