Patriarch calls for peace, end to war and hatred in Christmas Epistle

The Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II has called for the end of sorrow, violence, war and hostility, urging humanity to embrace peace, unity and love of God.

In his Christmas Epistle, the Patriarch says that on this sacred day all grief, anxiety and passion should be erased, bloodshed and war must cease and hopelessness, envy and malice should disappear. He calls on believers to turn their minds, souls and hearts toward God with love, joining angels, the Magi and the shepherds of Bethlehem in proclaiming peace on earth.

The Patriarch also offers a special prayer on the holy night for Georgia and the world, asking Christ, the Holy Mother of God, heavenly hosts and all saints to bless Georgia, its people and compatriots living abroad.

He prays for peace across the world, deliverance from human weakness and blessings of unity, true love and communion with God for all.