Georgia Marks 40 Days Since Passing of Patr. Ilia II

Photo: vaticannews.va

TBILISI, GEORGIA — The Georgian Orthodox Church observed the forty days since the repose of His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, on Saturday, April 25, with Church officials emphasizing prayer, repentance, and remembrance among the faithful.

In a statement issued by the Church’s Public Relations Service, the significance of the commemoration was explained in theological terms: “According to Christian teaching, based on deeds accomplished in this life, on the 40th day the soul is established in a place that will not change until the Second Coming; at the Second Coming, there will again be a final assignment of place for the deceased, taking into account other good deeds performed in his name thereafter. Thus, the 40th day is of great importance.”

Clergy and faithful across the country are invited to continue prayers for Patr. Ilia II, while also honoring one of his expressed wishes to correct at least one personal shortcoming and abandon it permanently, viewing such acts of repentance and charity as a way to bring spiritual benefit and consolation for the faithful of Georgia and joy to the beloved Patriarch.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the Georgian Church marked the autocephaly anniversary amid mourning for Patr. Ilia II. 

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