EU delegation: Patriarch Ilia II played vital role in preserving Georgia’s national identity, faith

The European Union delegation to Georgia on Wednesday expressed deep sorrow over the passing of His Holiness and Beatitude, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II.

In a social media message, the statement emphasised Ilia II’s vital role in preserving national identity and faith.

“We express deep sorrow for the passing of the spiritual father of Georgia, His Holiness and Beatitude, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II. We extend our sincere condolences to the Georgian Orthodox Church, the clergy, and the entire nation”, the statement said.

“His Holiness played a vital role in preserving national identity and faith, and remained a unifying presence for the generations of believers”, it concluded.