Announcement regarding Diocese of Russia and New Nakhijevan
The Armenian Church Diocese of Russia and New Nakhijevan has informed the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, that on January 21, 2004, the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation rejected Ghazaros (formerly Archbishop Tiran) Kyureghian's appeal of the 2003 decision of the Municipal Court of the city of Moscow. The Supreme Court thus upheld the decision of the lower court, which found that the organization founded by Kyureghian, and named the "Armenian Apostolic Church of Moscow", cannot be registered as an independent religious entity, as it violates the constitution of the Armenian Apostolic Church, as well as contradicts legislative requirements regarding freedom of conscience and religious organizations. The Supreme Court found therefore, that the activities of this organization are illegal, and the judicial appeal that was presented was found to be groundless.
His Grace Bishop Yezras Nersissian, Primate of the Armenian Church Diocese of Russia and New Nakhijevan, attests that the diocese, by maintaining its inner unity, can now fully realize its mission.
On this occasion, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, expresses his satisfaction and appreciation to all of the respectful members of the legislative and judicial branches of the Russian Federation, who exhibited objectivity in the fair resolution of the matter.
His Holiness is hopeful that the diocese will henceforth be able to continue its service to the faithful without obstacles, for the glory of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and the strengthening of our Apostolic Holy Church.
