Archimandrite Dorothe Kurashvili says he will appear only before the Holy Synod

Archimandrite Dorothe Kurashvili, who is critical to the actions of the Georgian Dream government, has declared that he will appear only before the Holy Synod, stating that the Church must defend both his rights and the teachings of Christ.

Kurashvili said the upcoming diocesan meeting should focus on his teachings, not his personal life, and criticized the decision to have the case reviewed by a moral (disciplinary) commission rather than a Synodal Commission.

“This commission does not have the knowledge or the authority to evaluate theological teachings. A moral commission deals with issues of misconduct or moral failings, but they were discussing my teachings - and only a Synodal Commission has the right to do that,” Kurashvili said.

He added that his participation in the process depended on whether the Church respected the proper procedure and spiritual principles.

“I will go only before the Synod. First, my rights and Christ’s teachings must be protected; and second, the commission should discuss my teachings - not my life, but my teachings,” he emphasized.

Father Andria Jagmaidze, head of the Patriarchate’s press office, confirmed that a diocesan commission meeting regarding Kurashvili had been scheduled for Thursday. According to Jagmaidze, the archimandrite was summoned due to his public statements, but the Church has not yet received confirmation of his attendance.