The Armenian General Benevolent Union issued an announcement on Wednesday voicing concern about what it called “the persecution of the leadership of the Armenian Church.” The Armenian General Benevolent Union is deeply concerned about the persecution of the leadership of the Armenian Church. AGBU respectfully calls for the withdrawal of this indictment, which we believe has no basis in law or in our historical traditions. Under its Constitution and national laws, the Republic of Armenia recognizes the Armenian Apostolic Church as the National Church, acknowledges its right to self-governance, and protects religious freedom. AGBU respects Armenia’s democratically elected government, its political authority, and the Constitution and laws of the Republic of Armenia.