Faith and spirituality priority for Georgian Gov't - Parliament Speaker

"Strengthening the faith and paying special attention to it is a matter of particular care for our government," declared Shalva Papuashvili, Speaker of the Georgian Parliament, as he addressed an international conference dedicated to the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea.

Speaking in Tbilisi’s historic surroundings, Papuashvili underscored the significance of this international gathering, which brought together lawmakers, clergy, and scholars to reflect on the enduring spiritual and historical importance of the council convened in 325.

“It is a great honor for me to represent the special relationship and respect we have for the Church, spirituality, and the clergy on behalf of the Georgian Parliament,” Papuashvili said. “Strengthening the faith and safeguarding religious values are not just spiritual imperatives but also part of Georgia’s national interest.”

Papuashvili emphasized that the conference plays a crucial role in reviving a “living faith,” fostering theological dialogue, and presenting Orthodox dogmas to modern audiences — all of which, he noted, are core to the Church’s mission and spiritual vitality.

“This conference, held in Tbilisi’s ancient and historic setting, marks 1700 years since the First Ecumenical Council in Nicaea, which convened to affirm the truth, defend the faith, and strengthen the unity of the Church,” Papuashvili noted. “Georgia has remained faithful to this legacy throughout history. This devotion, steadfastness, and faith are what set the Georgian people apart.”

He recalled that two Georgian bishops attended the original council and described its enduring importance not only for the Christian Church but for the development of world history and the relationship between empire and Church.

Papuashvili highlighted the Georgian Church’s tradition of annually honoring the 318 Holy Fathers of the Nicaean Council and faithfully upholding the 20 canons they adopted.

“Our Church is the oldest institution of our state, woven into the fate of the Georgian people,” he said. “Georgia, its people, and its autocephalous Apostolic Church are inseparable. No enemy has been able to tear them apart. This unity is our true strength.”

He concluded by citing Saint Irenaeus of Lyon: “Where the Church is, there is the Holy Spirit; and where the Holy Spirit is, there is the whole truth.”

The conference was attended by representatives of the legislative and executive branches of Georgia, clergy members, and scholars from across the country and beyond.