President Kavelashvili offers condolences on death of Patriarch Ilia II

President Mikheil Kavelashvili has expressed his condolences to the Georgian people following the death of His Holiness, Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II, describing his contributions to the Church and the nation as invaluable.

In a statement, Kavelashvili said “the death of His Holiness, Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II, has caused profound grief in each of our hearts. His lifelong dedication to strengthening and restoring our Mother Church, his half-century of epochal service to the homeland and the nation, remains an unparalleled example of loyalty. His wisdom and love have left a deep imprint on all of us.”

The President added that the Patriarch selflessly cared for Georgia and became a steadfast support for its people. “His wisdom and fatherly love will be greatly missed. I extend my condolences once again to the entire country, to the Patriarch’s family, clergy, and faithful, wishing them spiritual strength and the Lord’s assistance in this difficult time,” he said.

Patriarch Ilia II, who led the Georgian Orthodox Church for decades, passed away on 17 March at the age of 93.