Church of Cyprus expresses condolences over death of Patriarch Ilia II

The Church of Cyprus has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of His Holiness, Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia, sharing in the grief of the sister Georgian Orthodox Church.

The Cypriot Church recalled Patriarch Ilia II’s 2014 pastoral visit to the island at the invitation of His Beatitude Chrysostomos II, Archbishop of Cyprus. During the six-day visit, Ilia II visited key holy sites, including the historic Church of Saint Lazarus in Larnaca, and conducted a solemn hierarchical liturgy. 

He also toured the Kikkos Monastery, the Monastery of Saint Iraklidius, the Panagia Angeloktisti Church, the Monastery of Saint Neophytos, and the Georgian monastery in Paphos dedicated to Panagia Chrisogiolitis, where many pilgrims gathered to receive his blessing.

Before departing, the Patriarch prayed for the peace, love, and unity of the people of Cyprus, leaving a spiritual legacy of goodwill.

The Church of Cyprus extended heartfelt condolences to the Georgian Orthodox Church, its clergy, and faithful, praying for the repose of the late Patriarch’s soul.

Patriarch Ilia II, who led the Georgian Orthodox Church for decades, passed away on 17 March at the age of 93. His funeral will be held at Sioni Cathedral in Tbilisi on 22 March.