Controversy over defrocked priest’s wedding ceremony

A defrocked priest, Stepan Asatryan, has once again conducted a wedding ceremony — this time at Hovhannavank Monastery. During the ceremony, locals prevented journalists from entering the church.

What happens to couples whose marriage ceremony is performed by a defrocked priest?

According to Father Sargis Sargsyan of the Aragatsotn Diocese, if the couple is unaware of the defrocking of a priest, their marriage remains valid. However, if they knowingly choose a defrocked priest to officiate, the situation is different.