Another Armenian priest calls for Catholicos's removal

Armenian cleric Tade Tahmazyan (Ter Tade) addressed the country’s residents, calling on them to visit Etchmiadzin and help “liberate” it from Catholicos Garegin II.

“Beloved Christians, we call on each of you today at 5:00 p.m. to be at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, so that together we can liberate our Holy of Holies from those who serve foreign interests,” the priest said, Caliber.Az reports via Armenian media.

This appeal echoes a similar call earlier today from defrocked priest Father Ter Aram (Stepan Asatryan), head of Hovhannavank Monastery, intensifying fears of potential confrontations at the historic site. Rival groups are mobilising, with pro-government clergy and supporters planning gatherings to demand Garegin II's resignation.

The priest's statement aligns with broader accusations from pro-government figures that Garegin II's administration serves "foreign interests" and threatens national security—rhetoric mirroring Pashinyan's own claims.

On December 17, ten bishops of the Armenian Apostolic Church addressed the public, calling for a gathering at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin at 5:00 p.m. on December 18. Following this, the Aragatsotn Diocese announced that its joint service, originally planned for 7:00 p.m. at St. Hovhannes Church in Byurakan, would be moved to 5:00 p.m. at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, aligning with the bishops’ call.

Supporters of former President Robert Kocharyan and detained Russian businessman Samvel Karapetyan are expected in Etchmiadzin today. According to Armenian Deputy Speaker Ruben Rubinyan, these groups may attempt to obstruct the service organised by the rebellious bishops. The Armenian police have warned that any provocations during the gathering would be promptly prevented.

Tensions erupted in mid-2025 when Pashinyan accused senior clergy, including Garegin II, of personal misconduct (e.g., violating celibacy vows), ties to opposition networks, and obstructing national policy—particularly peace negotiations with Azerbaijan following the 2020 and subsequent conflicts over Karabakh. Since then, the premier has repeatedly urged him to step down as Catholicos.

By Khagan Isayev