Catholicos Invites Armenian Government to Re-Consecration of Holy Etchmiadzin Cathedral Despite Tensions

In a gesture of reconciliation despite ongoing tensions, Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II has extended an invitation to the Armenian government for the re-consecration ceremony of the Holy Etchmiadzin Cathedral. The event is scheduled for September 29, following the blessing of the Holy Chrism (Myron) on September 28.

According to sources from the Armenian Apostolic Church, Karekin II's invitation comes despite a strained relationship with the current Armenian authorities. The Prime Minister's office, led by Nikol Pashinyan, had previously indicated that it had not received an invitation from the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin for these significant ceremonies.

The discord between the Armenian Apostolic Church and Pashinyan's government began shortly after Pashinyan assumed office in 2018. Analysts have speculated that some elements within the government may have contributed to anti-Karekin II sentiment. Tensions escalated further following the 44-day war in 2020, when the Armenian clergy called for Pashinyan’s resignation and criticized his administration's handling of the war.

Despite these past conflicts, Karekin II’s invitation aims to bridge the gap between the church and the government, emphasizing a commitment to unity and national reconciliation. The re-consecration of the Holy Etchmiadzin Cathedral, a historic and sacred site for Armenians, represents a significant moment for both the church and the nation.