In Georgia, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II has died at the age of 93. He was the spiritual leader of the country and had headed the Georgian Orthodox Church for more than four decades. According to official information, the cause of death was complications related to chronic illnesses, including heart, kidney, and respiratory failure. In recent years, the Patriarch rarely appeared in public due to his health condition, but he remained one of the most respected and influential figures in Georgian society.

Following his passing, national mourning has been declared across the country: state flags have been lowered, memorial services are being held throughout Georgia, and thousands of believers are expected to have the opportunity to bid farewell to their spiritual leader. The farewell ceremony is expected to gather a large number of citizens, members of the clergy, and foreign delegations, and the funeral will be held with the highest church honors.

Condolences over the death of Ilia II have been expressed by state officials, politicians, and public figures. The founder of the ruling party, Bidzina Ivanishvili, called him “a pillar of peace and spiritual unity”, emphasizing his special role in maintaining stability in the country. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze noted that Georgia has lost a man who united society for decades and played an important role during key moments in modern history.

Ilia II became head of the church in 1977 and was one of the longest-serving Orthodox hierarchs in the world. During his leadership, the role of the church in public life significantly increased, many churches and monasteries were restored and built, and the church itself became one of the most trusted institutions in Georgia. He was also known for his peacemaking stance and repeatedly called for unity, dialogue, and the preservation of public harmony during times of political crisis.

 

The death of Ilia II is widely seen in Georgia as the end of an era, as his figure for decades was associated with spiritual stability, national identity, and social balance, far beyond the sphere of religious life.

#GEORGIA

18.03.2026 05:44