World Council of Churches expresses deep concern regarding recent  developments involving the Armenian Apostolic Church

ArmInfo.  World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Jerry Pillay, has expressed deep concern regarding recent developments in Armenia involving the Armenian Apostolic Church, including reported law enforcement actions  at the Holy Etchmiadzin and the detention of senior clergy.

"The Armenian Apostolic Church occupies a unique and revered place in  the spiritual, cultural and historical life of the Armenian people.  Reports of  force being used within sacred spaces and the detention  of clergy raise significant concerns about the protection of  religious freedom, the sanctity of worship and the autonomy of  religious institutions," Pillay said. He added that the World Council  of Churches is also mindful of the impact that public rhetoric can  have in moments of regional tensions. "Language that may be perceived  as hostile or dismissive towards religious communities risks  deepening societal divisions at a time when unity and understanding  are most needed," the organization's secretary general added.

 Pillay called upon the government of Armenia to ensure the  protection, dignity and legal rights of all religious leaders and  institutions;  refrain from actions or statements that could be  interpreted as targeting religious bodies or fueling public  antagonism; uphold the principles of religious freedom, due process  and the peaceful exercise of faith; and encourage an open and  constructive dialogue between state institutions and religious  communities.

"The World Council of Churches stands in solidarity with the Armenian  Apostolic Church, whose historic witness and enduring role have long  contributed to the spiritual life and resilience of the Armenian  nation and the global Christian brotherhood. At this important  juncture, we urge all stakeholders to act  with responsibility,  sensitivity and  a shared commitment to the values that uphold  dignity, dialogue and peaceful coexistence," he added.