Patr. Ilia II of Georgia’s Body to Lie in State for Public Veneration
Georgia mourns as Patr. Ilia II, "The Angel of the Georgian Church," begins his final journey to the cathedral.
TBILISI, GEORGIA — The body of Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, is being transferred today, March 18, to the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, according to the Patriarchate’s public relations office.
A solemn procession will depart on foot from the Patriarchal residence at 4:00 p.m., escorting the late hierarch to the cathedral. The Patriarchate confirmed the details in an official statement. The revered church leader reposed on March 17 at the age of 93, concluding nearly five decades of spiritual leadership over the Georgian Orthodox Church. Authorities have declared a period of national mourning, with flags lowered to half-staff nationwide.
Tributes have poured in from Orthodox hierarchs and international figures. Metr. Shio Mujiri described him as “a man of an entire era,” whose loss is deeply felt throughout the Church. Patr. Daniel of Bulgaria called Patr. Ilia “The Angel of the Georgian Church," who "was the pillar of unity for the Georgian people during some of the most turbulent and challenging moments in their recent history,” adding that he “was a fervent intercessor and wise guide for his flock.” He further stated that the Patriarch “supported, guided, and unified the Georgian people and was a radiant and inspiring example for all of us,” and that he was a lamp that “lights up everyone” and gave only good “out of the good treasure of his heart,” concluding that he “was truly a man of God.”
Previously, the UOJ reported that U.S. Vice President Vance spoke warmly of Georgia and Patr. Ilia II.
