Pope Leo XIV pays tribute to Georgian Patriarch Ilia II in condolence message

Pope Leo XIV has expressed his condolences following the death of Ilia II, praising the Georgian Patriarch for standing by his people during times of hardship and profound historical change.

In a message addressed to Shio Mujiri, the Patriarchal Locum Tenens and the Holy Synod of the Georgian Orthodox Church, the Pope said he was “deeply saddened” to learn of Ilia II’s passing and offered his heartfelt condolences and братская solidarity.

Reflecting on the Patriarch’s life, Pope Leo XIV described him as a devoted witness of faith who, over many years, guided the Georgian people with kindness, wisdom and spiritual strength.

“He stood alongside the Georgian people during periods of trial and fundamental epochal change,” the Pope noted, adding that Ilia II lovingly safeguarded traditions while inspiring hope in individuals and society as a whole.

The Pope also highlighted the Patriarch’s appreciation for music, describing it as a reflection of divine beauty capable of uniting peoples and bringing churches closer together despite cultural and theological differences.

For many, Ilia II was “a voice of reconciliation and a tireless builder of unity”, the message said, recalling his warm relations with the Pope’s predecessors, Pope John Paul II and Pope Francis.

Concluding his message, Pope Leo XIV emphasised the Christian belief in the Resurrection, expressing hope that the Patriarch’s death would not lead to despair but reinforce faith in eternal life.