Georgian Patr. Shio III Welcomes Metr. Emmanuel of Chalcedon

TBILISI, GEORGIA — Catholicos-Patriarch Shio III of All Georgia welcomed Metr. Emmanuel of Chalcedon, a representative of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, to the Patriarchate of Georgia on Aug. 16, with the meeting highlighting the longstanding friendship between the Churches of Constantinople and Georgia.

Metr. Emmanuel conveyed fraternal greetings from Patr. Bartholomew and congratulated Patr. Shio on his election and enthronement. He emphasized the desire of the Ecumenical Patriarchate to preserve and strengthen the longstanding relationship between the two Churches, describing Patr. Shio’s election as a positive development for their continued cooperation.

Patr. Shio warmly welcomed his guest and expressed gratitude for Patr. Bartholomew’s support, particularly following the death and funeral of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II. He recalled the Ecumenical Patriarch’s presence in Georgia for the funeral and praised the warmth and brotherly affection expressed during that difficult period.

The two sides also discussed Patr. Shio’s upcoming visit to Constantinople, which was described as an important opportunity to further strengthen relations. Patr. Shio asked Metr. Emmanuel to convey his greetings and request for prayers to Patr. Bartholomew.

The meeting concluded in a warm atmosphere, with Patr. Shio presenting gifts to Metr. Emmanuel, including one intended for the Ecumenical Patriarch.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Pope Leo XIV and Metr. Emmanuel visited the tomb of St. Peter after the Vatican liturgy.