Message of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians

Message of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians 19.04.2018

Dear Faithful,

In recent days, the internal life of our country and people is accompanied by stormy and tense events, in connection with the election of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia.

We express our concern over the situation that interrupts normal public life. Every Armenian has his own vision of love for the homeland, regarding which his attitudes and perceptions can be expressed through legal means. But it never requires a departure from love and reasonableness, infringement of rights of others, especially endangerment of human life. In the ranks of the demonstrators and law enforcement are the children of our people and Holy Church.

Incitement of hatred and hostility and any kind of conflict and violence are unacceptable.

We urge the children of our nation to maintain thoughtfulness and insight, respect of the law in patriotism and the zeal of peace, showing respect and forgiveness towards one another. The challenges facing the homeland can only be overcome when there is solidarity, mutual understanding, universal responsibility, and unity. Our country today has a demand for this spirit.

We offer our prayers to God, asking for the Lord’s wisdom and guidance of the Holy Spirit.

“Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” (2 Corinthians 13:11) NRSV.