THE ARMENIAN CHURCH MOURNS THE PASSING OF POPE FRANCIS

The passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis I, is a moment of mourning for all who were touched by his moral clarity, humility, and dedication to justice for the underprivileged. His Holiness Catholicos Aram I praised the late pontiff for opening “a new chapter in the life and thinking of the Church” through bold reforms, ecumenical engagement, and a deep concern for the oppressed. 

Pope Francis will be remembered by Armenians not only as a spiritual leader but as a courageous voice who recognized the Armenian Genocide in 2015, calling it “the first genocide of the 20th century.” He also stood in solidarity with the Armenians of Artsakh during their trials, offering his moral support in times of war and displacement. 

His Eminence Archbishop Anoushavan, Prelate, recalled meeting Pope Francis as “a father in our faith” and “a defender of the rights of the Armenian Church and the Armenian people.” He emphasized the Pope’s lifelong devotion to those in need. 

At a time of existential challenges for the Armenian nation to which the Vatican was not always immune, the Armenian Church remembers him as a friend and a moral voice for truth and justice. May he rest in eternal peace.