The Primate of the Artsakh Diocese's Call for Unity Among the People of Artsakh

Dear compatriots!

The challenges in our national life, the ongoing blockade of Artsakh, and serious security threats have disrupted our inner peace and the normal life of our country. The sacred history of the Bible and our own history clearly show that any nation or country faces trials due to collective mistakes and sins. Therefore, seeking blame—a regrettably common “favorite pastime” of people—will yield us nothing today. We are all responsible for this situation, each in our own way and measure. 

In these turbulent times, as the National Assembly of the Republic of Artsakh prepares to elect a new president, we must respond to every situation with wisdom and prudence. It is natural to have differing approaches and roadmaps for Artsakh’s future. However, it would be unnatural for these differences to lead to internal divisions and an atmosphere of tension. 

With the utmost respect and love for all individuals and political forces playing important roles in Artsakh, as the Primate of the Artsakh Diocese, I appeal to everyone to act with perfect wisdom and restraint in this fragile situation. We must avoid further divisions and polarization among our long-suffering people. Saint Nerses Shnorhali offers the ideal formula for harmony: “Unity in essential matters, freedom in secondary matters, and love in all things.”

 Therefore, dear people of Artsakh, above all else, fill your hearts with love and brotherhood toward one another. The most effective “roadmap” is found in maintaining a clear conscience before God and embodying love and care toward our fellow compatriots.