Bulgarian FM sends condolence letter to Maka Botchorishvili on passing of Catholicos-Patriarch of Georgia Ilia II

Bulgarian Foreign Minister Nadezhda Neynsky has conveyed a heartfelt letter of condolence to Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili following the passing of Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II.

In her message, Minister Neynsky expressed profound sorrow and highlighted the remarkable legacy of Ilia II, noting that throughout his nearly five decades of patriarchal service, he led with exceptional wisdom and love in fortifying Georgian spirituality and cultural identity, whilst steadfastly maintaining the unity of the Georgian nation.

“Your Excellency, on the occasion of the blessed repose of His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II, the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, I wish to extend my deepest and most sincere condolences to you and the Georgian Orthodox community, who have suffered a profound loss with the passing of their spiritual father. Throughout his almost fifty years of service, he guided with exemplary wisdom and love, strengthening Georgian spirituality and cultural heritage, and preserving the unity of your nation. His significant contributions will be remembered for generations, not only within Georgia but beyond its borders. Please accept my heartfelt condolences to you and the people of Georgia. May he rest in peace, and may God grant his soul eternal repose in the Kingdom of Heaven. May his memory endure forever,” the letter reads.

Catholicos-Patriarch of Georgia Ilia II passed away on March 17 at the age of 93. His funeral will be held at Sioni Cathedral on March 22.