Baku, September 18 (AzerTAc). President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed an Order to confer “Shohrat” (Glory) Order upon the head of the Albanian-Udi Christian Community Robert Mobili for his contribution to Azerbaijan’s social sphere.
The State Committee on Work with Religious Associations (SCWRA) has held an event to confer “Shohrat” (Glory) Order upon Robert Mobili.
Heads of religious confessions in Azerbaijan were present at the event.
SCWRA chairman Mubariz Qurbanly noted that representatives of all nations and religions live in peace and friendship in Azerbaijan for centuries. He said, it is very positive that historically no conflicts based on the religious differences occurred in Azerbaijan.
The Committee head noted, since Azerbaijan’s independence the government takes care of restoration of churches. One of the most ancient churches in the Caucasus, the Kish Temple in Shaki was restored in 2003. One of the three Christian temples in Gabala region’s Nij settlement - Saint Yelisey’s Chotari church has underwent a major overhaul in 2006.
SCWRA chairman noted that Nij settlement where Udis community resides also is going through the construction and renovation. President Ilham Aliyev has visited this settlement two times in the last decade, which is a vivid proof of the state’s care to this community.
Head of the Albanian Udi Christian Community Robert Mobili thanked President Ilham Aliyev. He noted that 170 years ago Russian Czar gave Albanian church to the Armenian-Gregorian church. However, Udis managed to preserve their own language, culture and their faith. Thus, they refused attending the church, worshipping in their houses. During the Soviet era religious worshipping experienced numerous pressures. Since Azerbaijan’s independence the Udis had a revival.
During the event, heads of religious confessions in Azerbaijan made speeches congratulating Robert Mobili and wishing him every success.