The WCC said it hoped the dispute would be resolved “in a way that will foster the flourishing of the whole Armenian people,” adding that it would continue to uphold the Armenian Church and its faithful “in prayer and support during this time.” The Armenian Patriarchate of Istanbul similarly expressed solidarity with the Catholicos Karekin II and the other bishops of the Armenian Apostolic Church, against whom a criminal case has been opened in Armenia. The Armenian Church, with all its devotion, headed by His Holiness Karekin II, the Catholicos of All Armenians, continues its Christian, patriotic and national mission,” the Istanbul Patriarchate added. The patriarchate said that the criminal case against the clergy “deeply offends the patriarchal dignity of the Armenian Church.” “Therefore, as the Armenian Patriarchal See of Turkey, we express our solidarity with His Holiness Karekin II, the Catholicos of All Armenians and the holy bishops.