“Today, here, in this magnificent cathedral— a symbol of our state revival, the strength and eternity of the nation—Georgia bows before the immortal soul of its Patriarch, His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II,” said the President of Georgia, Mikheil Kavelashvili, at the funeral ceremony held at the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi.

According to the President, Ilia II taught Georgians that even in the most difficult times, the path forward lies in faith in the Lord and love for one another.

“Today, we reflect on an era that can rightfully be called ‘Patriarch’s Georgia.’ Your Holiness, your life’s work united the civic duty of a Georgian citizen with his spiritual mission. This path shaped our national identity and showed us how to share in the grace of drawing closer to the Lord.

After the restoration of independence, when our country faced its greatest challenges, you stood as the main pillar of the nation. When despair prevailed, your calm voice brought us consolation and hope. You taught us that even in the hardest trials, the answer lies in faith in God and love for one another,” the President said.

According to Mikheil Kavelashvili, Ilia II was and remains a unifier of the nation.

“Your contribution to preserving national identity and culture is immeasurable. You returned us to our historical roots and reminded us that being Georgian is not merely a legacy of the past, but a living and enduring spiritual force. You were, and continue to be, a unifier of the nation and a steadfast defender of our unity.

We feel this even more strongly today. In these silent rows and sorrowful faces, there is an invisible, divine bond woven by your love. ‘Patriarch’s Georgia’ is not only a historical era—it is the embodiment of our national character. Today, both at home and abroad, it has been clearly seen that no matter the pressure, the Georgian spirit remains unchanged. The nation’s true face is seen in this temple, in unity and shared grief.

Even at the end of your earthly path, you gave us one final lesson—you united us once again and reminded us of our true essence: love, humanity, and an unbreakable unity that no earthly storm can destroy.

Your Holiness, we will continue along the path you have bequeathed to us. May God bless your immortal soul, and may God bless Georgia,” President Kavelashvili said.