French Embassy mourns Patriarch Ilia II, calls him a unifying figure in Georgia

The French Embassy in Georgia has offered its condolences to the Georgian Orthodox Church and the people of Georgia following the death of His Holiness, Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II, the 141st leader of the Georgian Church.

In its statement, the Embassy praised the Patriarch as a unifying figure for the Georgian people and a guardian of the Church’s long-standing national unity. 

“Through both tragic and joyful moments in Georgia’s modern history, he guided the nation and played a crucial role in preserving the country’s cultural and spiritual identity. Serving as a spiritual anchor for nearly half a century, His Holiness leaves a legacy of love, steadfast faith, spiritual renewal, and nearly 50,000 baptised faithful,” the statement read.

The Embassy highlighted Patriarch Ilia II’s leadership during periods of transition and challenge, noting his dedication to Georgia’s sovereignty and national independence. “At this time of national mourning, France wholeheartedly joins the Georgian people in their grief,” it added.

Patriarch Ilia II passed away on 17 March at the age of 93.