Dear Editor:

Things have gone from bad to worse in Armenia. This year's drought has destroyed much of its crops, there has been no significant improvement in the economic situation, and the possibility of famine lingers in the air. The bulk of the people get poorer, the government and the mafia get richer, and much of the Armenian Church leadership, the so-called shepherds, have neglected their flock. Where is the head of our church and his bishops, our chief shepherds?

Where is the voice of righteousness to stand and speak up to corruption and deceit of the government and the mafia? Who will look after the flock? (Ezekiel 34:1-10) Can it be that his H.H. Karekin II is blinded with spending millions on his 1700th anniversary project and showing its architectural splendor to the elite while impoverished children and people decorate its exterior landscape?

There is so much that the church can do to help correct Armenia's woes. First and foremost, win the hearts of the people, be their good shepherd and strive for righteousness. Make sure that the newly appointed Supreme Spiritual Council, which shall meet on November 6-7, stays focused on Christ's Church, His teaching and His compassion for the meek.

What can we do to help? Right now, I feel one of the most effective means is to send your concerns via e-mail to Patriarch Mesrob Mutafyan. He is a champion for righteousness and truly a good shepherd to his church and people. He is one of the key people on the Supreme Spiritual Council and his voice is always one of great spiritually and strength. He is truly the church's mortal and moral voice of conscience. Let us help him help our people. Send him and find others to e-mail our desire for the Holy See and the church as a whole to be the spiritual shepherd and the country's voice of conscience. If you can't find the time to write, then just forward this letter to him. It takes one second of your time to make a difference for so many. You can reach the Patriarch via e-mail at: [email protected]. He carries his laptop even to Armenia.

Hayrabed Andonian