Armenian Diocese of Georgia expresses condolences on death of Patriarch Ilia II

The Armenian Diocese of Georgia has expressed deep sorrow over the death of His Holiness, Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II, calling him a spiritual father and a symbol of salvation for the Georgian people.

In its statement, the Diocese said “the entire life of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II, his dedication to the Church, spiritual service, his people, and all of humanity, is inscribed in the history of spiritual life with indelible letters. His name will remain forever as the spiritual father of the nation and a symbol of salvation for the Georgian people.”

The Diocese announced that, under the guidance of its head, His Grace Bishop Kirakos Davtyan, prayers will be offered for the soul of Patriarch Ilia II. “We pray to God that the departed may be deemed worthy of His heavenly light,” the statement added.

Patriarch Ilia II, who led the Georgian Orthodox Church for decades, passed away on 17 March at the age of 93.