The Georgian Orthodox Church (GOC) urged the patrons of the St. Matrona icon to make necessary conversions to the icon because of the controversy surrounding the Stalin-related episode.

The statement notes that if the donors do not take action, the Patriarchate will make the changes itself.

The statement acknowledges that the icon has been a source of conflicting conversations and confrontations, taking on a political dimension. It also notes that the icon has been subjected to unjustified offensive actions, contributing to increased tension.

“Because of the recent controversies and confrontations surrounding an episode depicted on the icon of Saint Matrona in the Holy Trinity Cathedral, it is clarified that canonical rules of iconography allow the portrayal of real stories related to the saint’s life, including interactions with various individuals. However, this does not imply glorification or attribution of dignity to those individuals.

The meeting between Joseph Stalin and St. Matrona, not included in the canonical text of her life and not recognized by the Russian Church, requires reconsideration. Changes to the icon will be made to address this issue, ensuring alignment with canonical standards of iconography.

We appeal to donors to implement these adjustments themselves, or we will take the appropriate steps to address this matter,” the Patriarchate stated.