Kavelashvili hails Patriarch Ilia II’s role in strengthening Georgian Orthodox Church in birthday message

Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili on Sunday congratulated Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II on his birthday, praising his lifelong service to the Georgian Orthodox Church and the nation.

In a message published on social media, Kavelashvili said the spiritual leadership of Ilia II deserves special gratitude for the revival and strengthening of the Georgian Orthodox Church.

“The service of our spiritual father, Ilia II, in reviving the Georgian Orthodox Church merits our particular appreciation. Through his efforts, the Church has once again become the spiritual pillar of our nation and a strong foundation of Georgian statehood,” the President wrote.

He stressed that the Patriarch’s decades-long spiritual leadership has been of vital importance for peace in the country, as well as for the spiritual resilience and unity of the Georgian people.

Kavelashvili also highlighted Ilia II’s contribution to promoting tolerance, harmony and love within society.

Wishing the Patriarch good health and peace, the President expressed hope that Ilia II would continue his service for the benefit of the country and its people for many years to come.