Georgian parliament speaker expresses condolences on death of Patriarch Ilia II

Shalva Papuashvili, Speaker of the Georgian Parliament, has expressed sorrow over the passing of His Holiness, Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II, and released a formal letter of condolence.

Papuashvili has described the Patriarch as “a spiritual father who dedicated every moment of his life to serving Christ, protecting his homeland, and caring for his flock.” He noted that for half a century, Ilia II led the Georgian Orthodox Church, reviving faith in a nation emerging from decades of atheism and nurturing the Church through his tireless work and prayer.

Papuashvili stressed the Patriarch’s role as a source of comfort and guidance in times of despair. “He bore the weight of the cross for our nation in moments of hopelessness or distress. He was far more to us than a church leader,” he wrote.

The Speaker reflected on the Patriarch’s enduring legacy, saying, “our Patriarch has joined the heavenly assembly of Georgia’s distinguished, heroic ancestors. His work and his words will continue to live among our people.” He added that the nation remains blessed by the Patriarch’s guidance and prayers, and that his spiritual influence will continue to inspire Georgians and the Church he served.

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