PRESS OFFICE
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Contact: Jake Goshert
Tel: (212) 686-0710; Fax: (212) 779-3558
E-mail: jakeg@armeniandiocese.org
Website:

September 24, 2004
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DIOCESE OF THE ARMENIAN CHURCH OF AMERICA (EASTERN)
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate

* * * C O M M U N I Q U E * * *

The recent debate over the use of the vernacular in the Badarak has
mischaracterized the position of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of
America (Eastern). It should be clearly stated that the Diocese is
committed to preserving the traditional Badarak, which has sustained our
church and people around the world for 1700 years.

Through its long history, the Armenian Church around the world has had
to confront a number of challenges. To this day it continues to address
new concerns and challenges. Some have been unique to our culture and
faith; others are challenges we share with all Christians facing the
modern reality around us. The responsibility of the Armenian Church
leadership is to identify and address those issues while remaining
steadfast in its commitment to our long and distinct traditions.

Currently some of the issues that have been raised have centered around
the church’s role in today’s contemporary life. When our members raise
concerns, we will responsibly explore them, while always coordinating
with our Mother Church in Etchmiadzin. As our community evolves, we
recognize the need to incorporate some degree of flexibility within our
church and community life to make it more accessible and relevant, and
to continue to reach out to as many Armenians as we can.

This entire process will only make our church stronger. But regardless
of what findings emerge as a result of this thoughtful process, the
Armenian community here and around the world should know clearly that
the Diocese remains committed to the traditional Armenian Badarak.

–Chancellery of the Diocese
September 24, 2004

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