Patriarch Ilia II of All Georgia, Archbishop of Mtskheta–Tbilisi, and Metropolitan of Bichvinta and Tskhum–Abkhazia, has reposed in the Lord at the age of 93.
His Holiness departed this life in the 49th year of his patriarchal ministry, having faithfully shepherded the Georgian Apostolic Autocephalous Orthodox Church with wisdom, humility, and unwavering devotion. During his long and blessed service, he became a spiritual father to the faithful and a guiding voice for the Church and the nation of Georgia.
Earlier today, March 17, according to an official announcement by the Patriarchate of Georgia, Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia was hospitalized following a sudden deterioration in his health, and was receiving treatment at the Caucasus Medical Center.
With the news of his repose, the Patriarchal Throne of the Georgian Church has become vacant. In accordance with the canonical order of the Church, the administration of the Georgian Apostolic Autocephalous Orthodox Church will be carried out by the Locum Tenens of the Patriarchal Throne, Metropolitan Shio Mujiri, until the election and enthronement of a new Catholicos–Patriarch.
His Holiness Ilia II served as the 141st Primate of the Georgian Orthodox Church, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual leadership, pastoral care, and dedication to the life and unity of the Holy Church.