Archpriest David Jishkariani: 'Orthodox shrines are inviolable'

Rev. David Jishkariani with the Union of Orthodox Journalists Georgian team at Svetitskhoveli. Photo: UOJ

The Union of Orthodox Journalists Georgian branch visited Archpriest David Jishkariani at Svetitskhoveli. In an interview, the clergyman spoke about the importance of strengthening the Church among the youth, the global processes taking place, and the role of Christian media.

Father, how should we strengthen the Church among the youth and bring them closer to Christianity?

"I have been serving in the Church for 45 years, our venerable confessor Gabriel used to say, we served together, he said,
'Christianity is love.' Christian activity should be strengthened, it should be taught in schools. Not everyone may come to the church, but everyone should participate, each should lay a brick to be a part of this great love, Christianity."

Recently, there have been many conflicts worldwide - for example, let's take the events in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. In your opinion, how important is it for the state to support the Patriarchate of Ukraine so that they can resume services in the churches?

Note: The legal dispute between the Ukrainian government and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) is still ongoing — whether the churches of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra should be turned into cultural heritage only, or if services should continue to be held there.

"In the churches, the saints who rest there are untouchable, anyone who touches them will be punished, and they are placed there so that future generations can see them. There are relics of various saints there, both Georgian and from all countries. What does all this hinder them? It is said, 'The rider couldn't handle the horse, so he started breaking the saddle.' Of course, I do not consider this expedient."

And finally, what prayer-blessing will you give us, Father?

"We were talking about holy relics, what I have seen and observed (in videos and photos) the building of the church, the bringing of holy relics to Georgia, all this should continue. Giorgi Berishvili (President of the international organization 'Georgian Diaspora - Georgian Christian World') told me that he wants to create a second Jerusalem, what could be better than this, mutual respect, friendship, and love. When our children enter and pray there, nothing will bring greater joy and love."

The interview with David Jishkariani can also be watched at the Georgian UOJ's YouTube channel.

Read also