” I first met Archbishop Pargev Martirosyan in Artsakh during my first visit after the liberation of Artsakh in June 1993.
With a doctorate in theology, Archbishop Pargev was among the few clerics whose deep academic training complemented their spiritual leadership. He selflessly dedicated himself to Artsakh, playing a vital role in every stage of its development, since 1989 when he was appointed as a Primate of Artsakh diocese. He worked tirelessly to restore churches, including the Saint Ghazanchetsots Church in Shushi, where he relocated soon after liberation of Shushi in 1992.
It was Archbishop Pargev who first introduced me to one of the hidden wonders of the Holy Savior Ghazanchetsots Church in Shushi — a basement room, right under the Altar, with remarkable acoustic properties. It remains one of the most memorable experiences of my life.
During my frequent trips to Artsakh—every few months until my last visit in June 2022—I would always stop to see Pargev Srbazan. Each time, I left renewed, filled with an energy that stayed with me long after.
He also played a significant role in the reopening of Gandzasar Monastery, one of the finest examples of Armenian architecture from the mid-1200s. Gandzasar Magazine, closely affiliated with the monastery and the Artsakh Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church, was instrumental in promoting the cultural, spiritual, and historical heritage of Artsakh. While Archbishop Pargev is best known for the physical restoration of the monastery, the magazine functioned as an intellectual extension of his mission — dedicated to preserving and disseminating Armenian Christian identity.
His Grace Pargev stood on the frontlines during the First Artsakh War, not only as a spiritual leader but as a devoted presence among the people. Decades later, during the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War, he remained by their side, calling for strength, unity, and resilience in the face of devastation. He played a direct and influential role within the state and was present at all key meetings — alongside government officials, the president, and national leaders.
A devoted soldier for Artsakh and a true Armenian intellectual, he embodied both courage and wisdom, bridging the spiritual and national struggle with unwavering dedication.”
Ashot Ghazaryan
Executive Director of AGBU Armenia (Armenian General Benevolent Union) from 1991 to 2011.
Vice President of AUA(American University of Armenia) / COO from 2011 to present
