Georgian PM highlights Orthodox Church Patriarch’s “exemplary” life, service on birthday
In his message, the Government head noted his “special respect and love” for Ilia II, who has headed the Patriarchate of the Church since 1977, and wished him “[long life], health and vigour”. Photo: Government's Press office archive.
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Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili on Thursday congratulated Ilia II, the Catholicos Patriarch of Georgia’s Orthodox Christian Church, on his 91th birthday and highlighted the religious leader's role in continuing the “legacy” of the country's “greatest sons and daughters” as a “textbook example” for future generations to emulate.
In his message, the Government head noted his “special respect and love” for Ilia II, who has headed the Patriarchate of the Church since 1977, and wished him “[long life], health and vigour”.
“Happy is a nation that has such a spiritual guide. The work of His Holiness, exceptional in wisdom and love for one's [kin], has played a vital role in the development of our civic and spiritual lives, [...] strengthening of the unity of Georgians and [...] cementing of supreme values in [our] society for almost half a century”, Garibashvili said.
He also added examples of “morality, spiritual tranquillity and [vision]” in the Patriarch’s own life were “exemplary not only for Orthodox Christians, but also for every citizen of our country”.
Ilia II, the Catholicos Patriarch of Georgia’s Orthodox Christian Church, on Monday congratulated citizens on New Year’s Eve by wishing them peace.
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili on Monday hailed the “exemplary leadership” of Patriarch Ilia II of the domestic Orthodox Christian Church on the 46th anniversary of his enthronement, personally conveying his “warmest wishes” to the religious leader at the Patriarchate in Tbilisi while accompanied by his family.
We should remember that the future of humans and nations should be peaceful, the Catholicos Patriarch of Georgia Ilia II said in his New Year address, while wishing Georgian people health and a peaceful future.
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili on Sunday “heartily” congratulated Ilia II, the Catholicos Patriarch of Georgia’s Orthodox Church on the 45th anniversary of his consecration as Patriarch, wishing him “longevity and health” for the benefit of Georgian people and Georgia.