“With great sadness, I learned of the death of Catholicos-Patriarch of Georgia, Ilia II. I express my sincere condolences,” reads the condolence letter of Pope Leo XIV, released by the news agency of the Catholic Church, addressed to Metropolitan Shio Mujiri, locum tenens of the Patriarchal throne and the Holy Synod.

As the Pope notes in his letter, Ilia II, through his term of patriarchal service, stood by the Georgian people during a period of hardship and fundamental epochal changes.

“Through his service, he stood by the Georgian people during a period of hardship and fundamental epochal changes, lovingly protecting traditions and filling the hearts of people and the entire society with hope,” he said.

According to Pope Leo XIV, “For many people, Patriarch Ilia II was a voice of reconciliation, a tireless creator of unity,” recalling that he had met his two predecessors – Saint John Paul II and Pope Francis – with warmth and fraternal spirit.

“I ask Virgin Mary to cover Your Highness the Patriarchate, the Holy Synod, and the entire Georgian nation with a mantle of consolation and love,” reads the letter.

Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II passed away on March 17 at the age of 93.

Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II, will be laid to rest on Sunday, March 22, in the Sioni Cathedral.