We, the AGBU Central Board of Directors, are watching with grave concern events in Armenia, especially the escalating situation between the State and the Church, two foundational institutions that, together with the Armenian Diaspora, are essential to our national survival.
AGBU reiterates a call for restraint and national unity. As we have repeatedly noted, the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia and its democratic process must be respected, as should the self-governance, policies and protocols of the Armenian Apostolic Church, which has stood as the consistent pillar of Armenian identity for over 1700 years.
Since our inception, AGBU has spoken out on issues of moral conscience at critical moments in our nation’s history, irrespective of Armenia as an independent state or as a country without borders living under Ottoman or Soviet rule.
At this critical moment in the Armenian nation’s history amidst geopolitical uncertainty, we need all our national institutions to remain strong and able to play their roles. While our government works to steer our young democracy through the complexities of balancing security, reform and societal harmony, our Church continues to play its vital, historic role in safeguarding our identity, heritage and faith.
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Any actions that might weaken either the State or our Church’s ability to fulfill its mission, including the recent arrests of bishops and priests and threats to the Catholicos of All Armenians, also stand to weaken our nation, internally and on the global stage.
At this time of opportunity and risk for our nation and people, it is more important than ever for our critical national institutions to be built up rather than torn down, so they can each play their role in the advancement of our nation.
As always, AGBU draws inspiration from the motto of its founders, “In Unity is Strength”.
The Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) is the world’s largest non-profit organization devoted to uplifting the Armenian lives through educational, cultural, socio-economic and humanitarian programs. Each year, AGBU is committed to making a difference in the lives of 500,000 people across Armenia and the Armenian diaspora. Since 1906, AGBU has remained true to one overarching goal: to create a foundation for the prosperity of all Armenians. To learn more visit www.agbu.org.
