Georgia national mourning

Thousands pay tribute to Patriarch Ilia II in Tbilisi Cathedral

Thousands of Georgians are paying their final respects to Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia at his coffin in the Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba) in Tbilisi. The transfer of the patriarch’s coffin from the Patriarchal Residence drew large crowds in a solemn procession through the streets of Tbilisi. According to Orthodoxia News Agency, senior state officials…

Mar 20, 2026Aurelian Iftimiu

Georgian Ambassador mourns Patriarch Ilia II, praises humility and ‘quiet strength’

The Ambassador of Georgia to Romania, Tamar Beruchashvili, said the late Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia was “a spiritual shepherd in the truest sense,” guiding his people with humility, wisdom and quiet strength through times of trial and change. Speaking to Basilica.ro after news of the patriarch’s death, she described it as “an immense loss…

Mar 19, 2026Aurelian Iftimiu

Georgia to bury Patriarch Ilia II on March 22 at Sioni Cathedral in Tbilisi

His Beatitude Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia will be laid to rest on Sunday, 22 March, at the Sioni Cathedral of the Dormition of the Theotokos in Tbilisi, the Georgian Orthodox Church announced. The decision was presented by Metropolitan Jobi of Urbnisi and Ruisi, who described the late patriarch as “an epochal figure” with immeasurable…

Mar 19, 2026Aurelian Iftimiu