Condolences from the Prime Minister of Georgia
“I extend my deepest condolences to all of Georgia on the passing of the spiritual father of our nation, His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia.
With his passing, a great era in the history of our Mother Church and the Georgian state has come to an end. The period of His Holiness’s patriarchal ministry coincided with some of the most difficult and pivotal years for our country. Throughout this historic journey, he remained the spiritual leader of the nation and a symbol of unity. Through his wisdom, love for others, boundless patience, and capacity for forgiveness, the Patriarch strengthened faith in our hearts.
The legacy of His Holiness transcends the purely spiritual dimension. His contribution to the preservation of national identity, the safeguarding of traditions, and the strengthening of Georgian statehood is invaluable. Through his selfless service to God, the homeland, and humanity, Ilia II has secured an everlasting place among the greatest figures in our centuries-old history.
I express my sincere condolences to the Georgian Apostolic Autocephalous Orthodox Church, the Holy Synod, the clergy, the faithful, and every citizen. It is our duty, and that of future generations, to preserve with dignity the great legacy of our spiritual father.
May his memory be eternal.”
Prime Minister of Georgia
Irakli Kobakhidze
https://www.gov.ge/index.php?lang_id=GEO&sec_id=625&info_id=95619