Catholicos Karekin II Received Archbishop Aksy of Podolsk and Lyubertsy and Discussed Collaboration and Regional Challenges

armenianchurch.org

armenianchurch.org

armenianchurch.org

OCP News Service – 10/02/2024

Yerevan-Armenia: In a significant meeting on February 10,2024, His Holiness Karekin II, the Catholicos of All Armenians, welcomed Archbishop Aksy of Podolsk and Lyubertsy, the newly appointed temporary administrator of the Diocese of Yerevan and Armenia of the Russian Orthodox Church. The leaders discussed issues of mutual interest, including spiritual care for communities, interfaith relations, and the ongoing challenges in the region.

Catholicos Karekin II congratulated Archbishop Aksy on his new role and expressed hope for a fruitful mission in strengthening the spiritual life of the Russian community in Armenia. He also conveyed greetings and congratulations to Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia on his 15th anniversary of enthronement. Both leaders emphasized the long-standing friendship between the Armenian and Russian peoples, with their respective churches playing a key role. Catholicos Karekin II expressed confidence that faith will help both nations overcome current challenges and achieve peace.

The Catholicos raised concerns about the depopulation of Artsakh and Azerbaijan’s encroachment on Armenian shrines, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage. He expressed appreciation for the prayer support and advocacy efforts of the Russian Church towards a peaceful resolution. Archbishop assured the Catholicos of his commitment to nurturing the spiritual life of the Russian community and fostering closer relations between the two communities and churches. Both leaders concluded the meeting with prayers for peace and divine guidance for their respective communities and for the region.

Source:
OCP News Services and armenianchurch.org