• The World Council of Churches has voiced concern over reported law-enforcement actions at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and arrests of senior Armenian Apostolic clergy, citing risks to religious freedom and church autonomy.
• WCC General Secretary Jerry Pillay urged Armenian authorities to ensure due process, protect religious institutions and avoid harsh rhetoric that could deepen internal divisions, while calling for constructive dialogue.
• In a related development, the judge assigned to the case involving Catholicos Karekin II and six bishops has recused himself after a brief closed hearing.

The World Council of Churches (WCC) has expressed concern over developments surrounding the Armenian Apostolic Churchin Armenia.

According to a statement by the organization’s general secretary, Rev. Prof. Jerry Pillay, reports of law enforcement actions at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, as well as arrests of senior clergy, have prompted concern, Auroranews.amreports.

The World Council of Churches emphasized that the Armenian Apostolic Church plays a significant role in the spiritual, cultural and historical life of the Armenian people and also holds an important place within the global Christian community.

According to the organization, reports of the use of force at holy sites and arrests of clergy have raised questions regarding religious freedom, the inviolability of places of worship and the autonomy of church institutions.

The WCC also noted that harsh public rhetoric could further deepen internal divisions.

The organization urged Armenian authorities to guarantee the rights of religious leaders and institutions, ensure due legal process and refrain from actions or statements that could be perceived as targeting religious institutions.

The World Council of Churches also called on state authorities and religious communities to engage in open and constructive dialogue, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect.

Judge Hakob Manukyan has recused himself and declined to hear the case involving Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II and six bishops. Lawyer Ara Zohrabyan announced the decision outside the courthouse.

The hearing at the Court of General Jurisdiction of Armavir province was held behind closed doors and lasted about 30 minutes.