Appeal of Supreme Spiritual Council on RA Presidential Elections
On February 14, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, presided during a meeting of the Supreme Spiritual Council in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. Following the meeting, the Council made the following exhortation to the people on the occasion of the upcoming presidential elections in the Republic of Armenia:
"The upcoming presidential election in the Republic of Armenia on February 19 is a significant event in the life our country and people.
"Seventeen years ago, our people elected to live in liberty and independence. The reestablishment of Armenian statehood became the commencement of a new process aimed at the building of a country that is just and noteworthy for its societal unity. It is the righteous expectation of our people, that the election of a new president should become the guarantor of stability in our country and the progress and reinforcement of solidarity.
"In view of this consequential event, it is our exhortation to our people to display a high understanding of patriotism and be guided by the highest awareness of the country’s reputation. Let no action or expression cast a shadow on our election or divide the unity of our people. We are patriotic to the extent we know how to respect, tolerate and love one another. We are patriotic to the extent we know how to place the national interest before our personal aspirations and emotions.
"We pray that our Lord guide our country to new successes in peace, solidarity, and unity of love.
"Honor all men, love your brother and fear God" (1 Peter 2:17)
