Head of the Phanar to lead the funeral of Georgian Patriarch Ilia II in Tbilisi

Active preparations are underway in Georgia for the farewell and burial ceremony for the newly deceased Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II. Despite the difficult international situation and logistical difficulties caused by the hostilities in the Middle East, high-ranking delegations from many autocephalous churches are expected to arrive.

According to the Greek Orthodoxia News Agency, the funeral rite of the deceased Primate will be led by Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople. Priest Teimuraz Tatarashvili in a conversation with journalists confirmed the visit of the head of the Phanar, noting that he may arrive in Tbilisi as early as Saturday. At the same time, it was emphasized that the tense situation in the region and mass cancellations of flights create certain obstacles for foreign guests, but the full list of official delegations will be published as soon as possible.

The body of Patriarch Ilia II is currently in the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity (Sameba), which is open to the faithful around the clock. According to the rector of the cathedral, Archimandrite John Mchedlishvili, the funeral will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026, immediately after the Divine Liturgy. According to the Patriarch’s last will, his body will be consigned to earth in the historic Sioni Cathedral.

The Government of Georgia has decided to create a special state commission headed by the Prime Minister to organize the funeral. National mourning has been declared in the country, state flags have been lowered on administrative buildings. To facilitate the access of believers to the cathedral, the authorities have organized free travel by public and railway transport. At the moment the waiting time in line to worship the shrine is about an hour. Metropolitan Shio of Senaki and Chhorotskuysk is performing the duties of the patriarchal throne.

Recall, Georgia and the entire Orthodox world mourns the death of Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II, who passed away on March 17, 2026 at the age of 93. His Holiness headed the Georgian Orthodox Church for 49 years, becoming a symbol of national unity and the true spiritual revival of the country.