Georgian Patriarch awarded for “strengthening spiritual, patriotic spirit” in defence forces

Ilia II, the Patriarch of Georgia, has been awarded the medal of Giorgi Chkondidel-Mtsignobartukhutsets of the Ministry of Defence for his “special contributions to the strengthening of the spiritual and patriotic spirit” in the country’s defence forces. 

Ilia II, 91, has taken the position since 1977.