Bishop Tiran Petrosyan, Patriarchal Delegate of the Armenian Church in Central Europe, has voiced strong support for Bishops Bagrat and Mikael, both detained for two months, the Sacred Struggle press service reported.

“Beloved brothers in Christ, Bagrat and Mikael, I write these lines with a heavy heart and a soul filled with emotion. Though we may be physically apart, during these trying days, you are unforgettably present in my prayers, thoughts, and spirit,” Petrosyan wrote.

He called their arrest an unlawful and disgraceful act that targets not just the individuals, but the spiritual path they have long walked with courage and devotion. Despite the injustice, he praised their calm, faith-driven response as dignified and powerful.

“Your voice, your presence, and your courageous testimony have comforted thousands. Though you have lost physical freedom, your spirit remains free, your faith unshaken, and your journey toward divine truth undeterred,” he added.

Petrosyan recalled personal memories of joint prayers and brotherly gatherings with the detained bishops, stressing that even in separation, their presence endures.

He invoked the Beatitudes from Matthew 5:10—“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake”—as a message that now resounds through their suffering and silence.

“You are not alone. Our prayers, our blessings, and our spiritual strength are with you, a ray of light amid this demonic feast,” he wrote, quoting Psalm 27:1 to reaffirm divine protection.

The message ends with prayers for resilience, peace, and imminent release, likening their trial to purifying fire and expressing hope for a renewed pastoral mission.

On June 25, law enforcement began searches at addresses tied to the “Sacred Struggle movement. The Investigative Committee accused the group of plotting terrorist acts and attempting to seize power. Archbishop Bagrat was detained for two months, along with 14 others.

On June 27, masked agents raided the Shirak Diocese headquarters. Though Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan was at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin for a scheduled clergy meeting, National Security Service officers entered the premises to arrest him. Archbishop Mikael was remanded for two months on charges of inciting actions aimed at seizing power or undermining constitutional order.