Patriarch of Jerusalem Theophilos III has sent a letter of condolence to the Locum Tenens of the Patriarchal Throne, Metropolitan Shio of Senaki and Chkhorotsku, on the repose of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II.

The letter notes that owing to the ongoing conflict, Patriarch Theophilos is unable to attend the burial in person and will be represented by His Grace Bishop Nektarios.

The letter reads:

“We offer our heartfelt condolences to the holy flock and to the Church of All Georgia on the repose of His Holiness and Beatitude. His legacy will forever remain a luminous and imperishable example. As we are unable to attend in person due to the war, we are sending as our representative His Eminence Archbishop Nektarios of Adrianoupolis, Exarch of our Patriarchate in Constantinople. We ask Your Holiness, the worthy members of the Holy Synod, and the devout people of the Church of Georgia to accept our patriarchal prayers.

From the Holy City of Jerusalem, this March.
Your beloved brother in Christ, Theophilos III, Patriarch of Jerusalem.”