“You are an integral part of the motherland, our thought and pain, as well as our hope, because the physical existence of many families is the result of your work,” reads the appeal of Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II to Diaspora representatives.

As the Patriarch says, the most important thing of diaspora representatives’ stay abroad is to preserve the Georgian language, spirit, traditions and customs for children, the next generation.

“Another year passed celebrating Georgia’s independence, but everyone greets you again with special love, because you are an integral part of the motherland, our thoughts and pain, as well as hope, because the physical existence of many families is the result of your work.

However, during your stay abroad, the most important thing is to preserve the Georgian language, Georgian spirit, our traditions and customs for your children, our future generation. I would also like to point out that the Georgian Orthodox Church abroad, as far as possible, also works with this purpose, but the role of parents is essential.

Always remember and instill in the little ones that you are the face of our nation and each of you represents Georgia in your place of presence.

May God bless you and strengthen you. May God bless Georgia and all the countries where you and our other compatriots currently live. May the Holy Trinity pray that you will be able to return to your homeland soon. Praying for you with love,” reads the Patriarch’s letter.