Patriarch Kirill expressed condolences on the death of Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II

Patriarch Kirill, Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church, sent an official message of condolences to the Georgian Orthodox Church on the death of Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II. The head of the Russian Orthodox Church called the deceased’s many years of service «a whole epoch» in the history of Georgia and the entire world Orthodoxy, noting his exceptional authority and wisdom.

According to the press service of the Russian Orthodox Church, in his address Patriarch Kirill emphasized the special role of Ilia II in maintaining spiritual unity between peoples. According to the Primate, the oldest Orthodox patriarch had a unique gift of prudence, which allowed him to gain deep respect not only among the clergy, but also in broad social circles.

An important part of the message was the mention of personal ties between the hierarchs. Ilia II was educated at the Moscow Theological Schools at the Trinity-Sergius Lavra and retained warm feelings for this monastery until the end of his life. Patriarch Kirill recalled the trusting relationship that developed during the Soviet period, when the joint work of the two Churches helped to resist the pressure of the godless authorities and improve the situation of believers in the then united country.

Patriarch Kirill concluded his message by expressing confidence that Ilia II’s longstanding contribution to the strengthening of Orthodoxy and his commitment to preserving unity in Christ will remain a significant legacy for future generations of clergy and laity.