The following is an unofficial translation of a statement released by the Armenian Apostolic Council of Bishops, led by Catholicos Garegin II, regarding the coronavirus epidemic.

“We are concerned with the situation in the world, as well as the situation created by the coronavirus virus in our country. We pray for the comfort of the souls of the dead, convey our support to their families, and wish all the sick a speedy recovery.

We urge our people's sons and daughters to exercise the utmost vigilance and responsibility, to comply with the requirements and instructions of the specialized agencies in a consistent and serious manner, and to carry out all preventive measures.

Our Church has always performed its ministry of care, and today it will continue to honor the normal course of its mission by providing spiritual care to its faithful children, encouraging them to remain strong in faith, to face difficulties and tribulations in faith and prayer in God.

We pray for world peace, for the immediate overcoming of dangers and threats to mankind. We also ask for the Lord's help to those in need of care and well-being, to the physicians who work hard, and to all those involved in important health care services.

May the love, gifts, and abundant mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all. Amen.