Patriarch Kirill congratulated Shio III on his election to the throne of the Georgian Orthodox Church

Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia sent an official congratulatory letter to the new Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Shio III, on his election to the high priestly throne. The Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church noted that this event has become a source of special joy for the faithful of the Russian Orthodox Church during the celebration of Easter. This is reported by the press service of the Russian Orthodox Church’s Department of the Russian Orthodox Church.

In his message, Patriarch Kirill emphasized the deep historical connection between the two sister Churches, which for centuries have witnessed to the Gospel truth. His Holiness emphasized the importance of steadfast adherence to «the faith once delivered to the saints,» which is the foundation of the unity of Orthodox peoples.

The Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church also shared his personal memories of his visit to Georgia, pointing to the deep «spiritual kinship» of the two co-religionist nations. He expressed the hope that Patriarch Shio’s ministry will be a worthy continuation of the traditions laid down by his predecessors. Special mention in the text was made of the late Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II, whose authority is recognized throughout the Orthodox world.

At the end of his address Patriarch Kirill wished the new Primate of the Georgian Church good health, constant help from above and «many peaceful and blessed years of patriarchy».

Metropolitan Shio (Mujiri) was elected the new Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia on May 11, 2026.