SOCIETY

CHURCHES What happened in the patriarchate yesterday?

Istanbul Governor’s Office interfered in the patriarchal election. During the election of değabah, a notice signed by the deputy governor was sent to the patriarchate, claiming that starting the election process is “legally” impossible. Ateşyan and Maşalyan will try to meet with the governor and explain the process.
CHURCHES “His Eminence Aram’s resignation would solve everything”

Emphasizing that the notice from the governor’s office rendered the patriarchate dysfunctional, His Eminence Sahak Maşalyan stated that a meeting should be held in governor’s office immediately, His Eminence Aram should resign and His Eminence değabah Karekin Bekçiyan should take up the position.
CHURCHES Three candidates for değabah election

In the process of patriarchal election, Armenian society waits for the değabah (trustee) election. The election will be held on March 15. The result is expected to be announced on the same day.
CHURCHES The solution of Bekdjian against Ateşyan

Metropolite of the Diocese of Gougark Archbishop Sebouh Chouldjian, one of the natural patriarchal candidates, spoke to Agos and stated that Armenian Primate of Germany Archbishop Karekin Bekdjian should be supported in değabah election. He also stated that he will come together with Armenians of Turkey as the patriarchal candidate.
CHURCHES Crises in Armenian Patriarchate in 19th century Ottoman Empire

Crisis in the patriarchate is not new for the Armenian society of Turkey. During 19th century, many patriarchs had been forced to resign. We talked to Richard Edward Antaramian, faculty member at University of Southern California Contemporary Armenian Studies, about these crises in 19th century.