Georgian Patriarch marks 41st anniversary of consecration
Georgian Patriarch, who is the most trusted figure in Georgia based on public polls, marked the 41st anniversary of consecration in the town of Mtskheta, the old capital of Georgia. Photo: 1TV.
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Georgian Patriarch Ilia II, who will turn 86 in January, has marked the 41st anniversary of his appointment to the position.
Georgian Prime Minister Mamuka Bakhtadze and other top officials came to the town of Mtskheta today to congratulate the patriarch and Ilia II delivered a holiday service in the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.
Bakhtadze stated that Ilia II’s time in the role is distinguished by “unprecedented building” in the history of the Georgian church.
Hundreds of churches have been built and restored under Ilia II. The Patriarch’s appeals for love of the motherland, tolerance, education and work are those much needed for the state development,” Bakhtadze said.
Ilia II became the patriarch when he was 44 years old.
In 1988 there were only 180 priests, 40 monks,15 nuns, 200 churches, one seminary, three convents, and four monasteries in Georgia.
Currently there are about 2,000 acting churches and monasteries in Georgia and up to 3,000 monks and nuns.
Today the Catholics Patriarch of Georgia Ilia II turned 85. He has lead the spiritual life of the Orthodox Georgian parish for the past 40 years.
The Queen of the United Kingdom Elizabeth II has sent her congratulations to Georgia’s Patriarch Ilia II today, marking the 40th anniversary of his consecration as patriarch.
Georgian Patriarch Ilia II congratulated the Russian Patriarch Kiril on the 100th anniversary of the restoration of the patriarchate.
Ilia II said that despite the harsh political situation between Georgia and Russia, "our churches keep friendly relations”.
Today the Catholics Patriarch of Georgia Ilia II turned 83. He has leaded a spiritual life of the Orthodox Georgian parish for 38 years on.
Georgian Patriarch Ilia II turned 86 today. Georgian top officials have congratulated the patriarch on the day, wished him health and long live.
The Georgian Patriarchate has marked the opening of the first Georgian church in the United States exactly one decade ago.