“He confirmed his readiness, and the result was not delayed. He undertook the work so the vicar could be welcomed by the Turkish authorities”, referring to the resignation of the former Deputy Patriarch of Constantinople Archbishop Aram Ateshian, said Grace Bishop Arshak Khachatrian, during the meeting with journalists at the Mother See.
He spoke about Archbishop Aram’s recent letter to the Turkish authorities, according to which the organization of the Patriarchal elections is legally impossible. “Turkish authorities have changed their posture, they have recognized the Vicar Archbishop Karekin, who has the power to organize the elections”, Bishop Arshak noted.
In response to the question, whether Fr. Archbishop Aram Ateshian eventually gave any explanations to the Holy See on his resignation, he said, “He was in a difficult situation, and had to make a hard choice. Thank God, everything went fine”.
Let us note, that the dates for the upcoming Constantinople patriarch elections will soon be defined.
Luiza SUKIASYAN
