Patriarch Ilia II calls for peace, dialogue, and prayer in ‘troubling times’

Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II, has issued a call for peace and unity in the face of escalating tensions in the country. In a statement released by the Patriarchate of Georgia, the Patriarch urged all individuals—regardless of their status—to distance themselves from violence, stressing that a sharp escalation of the situation threatens the country’s core achievement: statehood and sovereignty.

The Patriarch emphasized the need for constructive dialogue to prevent uncontrolled processes and urged the nation to unite in prayer for Georgia’s peace and well-being. He also highlighted the importance of turning away from hatred and division, calling out the destructive sins of lovelessness and disrespect that have permeated parts of society.

“The language of hatred and physical retaliation will only harm us and our state. Our Christianity ends where love for our neighbor ends,” Ilia II declared.

As a sign of solidarity, the Patriarch has blessed clergy in Georgia and abroad to ring the bell daily at 1:00 PM and perform a prayer service.
The Patriarch’s message also marked the commemoration of St.

Andrew the First-Called, the founder of the Georgian Church, and other Georgian saints, asking for divine intercession for the unity, peace, and prosperity of the country. Ilia II called upon Georgians to unite in love for their homeland and contribute to the development of a European-style national state rooted in Christian spiritual and cultural heritage.
“Praying for you, Ilia II – Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia,” concluded the statement.