Shio (Mujiri), the Patriarchal Locum Tenens, celebrated a liturgy at Sioni Cathedral, followed by a memorial service for the soul of Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II.

According to Metropolitan Shio, the recent days have revealed the significance and greatness of Ilia II’s personality.

“These days, God has shown us the importance and greatness of his personality, so that many of us were not mistaken when we said and emphasized that the merit of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II is truly apostolic. What we have witnessed in Georgia during these days can only be described as a manifestation of apostolic service and merit. The Lord performed this wonder through him, moving the hearts of all of Georgia to express both gratitude and sorrow,” Metropolitan Shio said in his sermon.

Ilia II passed away on March 17 at the age of 93 and was laid to rest on March 22 at Sioni Cathedral.