Archbishop Mikael to be Discharged from Izmirlian Medical Center and Transferred to Gyumri
Yerevan, February 16, 2026 – Archbishop Mikael is expected to be discharged from the Izmirlian Medical Center today, February 16, 2026, and will subsequently be transferred to Gyumri, Shirak Province, Armenia. This information was reported by Deacon Artashes Ajapahyan.
The discharge comes after the Court of Appeals recently granted a motion by Archbishop Mikael’s lawyers to change his detention. The judge announced that house arrest would be applied to the Archbishop, with a ban on absence.
During this period, the Archbishop had undergone surgery and was in the recovery phase at the Izmirlian Medical Center. His transfer to Gyumri marks a new phase following his medical treatment and the court’s decision.
Background of the Case
The decision to change Archbishop Mikael’s detention to house arrest was a significant development in his legal proceedings. While the specifics of the initial charges are not detailed in the provided information, the court’s ruling allowed for his recovery outside of a detention facility.
The move to Gyumri is anticipated to be a return to his spiritual and community base, where he is expected to continue his recovery under house arrest conditions.
Community Reaction
The news of Archbishop Mikael’s discharge and transfer has been met with anticipation within the community, particularly among his supporters. Deacon Artashes Ajapahyan’s report suggests a close monitoring of the Archbishop’s situation by those connected to him.
The Armenian Apostolic Church has been a central institution in the lives of many, and developments concerning its clergy often attract significant public attention. The transition of Archbishop Mikael to Gyumri is likely to be a focal point for his followers and the broader religious community.
Future Implications
The transfer to Gyumri and the continuation of house arrest will likely shape the Archbishop’s public and pastoral activities in the coming period. While under house arrest, his ability to engage in certain public functions may be restricted, but his presence in Gyumri could still offer a sense of continuity and leadership to the local community.
Further details regarding the ongoing legal process and the Archbishop’s future activities are expected to emerge as he settles in Gyumri.
Source: Deacon Artashes Ajapahyan
