At the Patriarchate of Georgia, His Holiness and Beatitude, the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Archbishop of Mtskheta-Tbilisi, and Metropolitan of Bichvinta and Tskhum-Abkhazia, Shio III, has met with representatives of the Gelati Academy of Sciences. The Patriarchate of Georgia released this information.

“His Holiness and Beatitude cordially welcomed the members of the Academy and thanked them for their dedicated service. Furthermore, the Catholicos-Patriarch highlighted the vital importance of cooperation between the Church and the scientific community. He noted that overcoming contemporary challenges and complexities is only possible through combined spiritual and intellectual efforts.

On behalf of the academics, the President of the Gelati Academy of Sciences, Metropolitan Ioane (Gamrekeli), expressed his gratitude to Catholicos-Patriarch Shio III for his keen interest in the Academy’s work and for his warm hospitality.

The meeting focused on the ongoing revival of the Gelati Academy of Sciences, its historic mission, its core fields of activity, and the research achievements secured to date. The leadership of the Academy presented their strategic vision and future action plan, which aims to strengthen scientific potential whilst fostering research into national and cultural heritage.

Discussions also emphasised the importance of supporting young researchers and explored opportunities to integrate Gelati’s rich scientific and educational heritage into the contemporary academic landscape. Particular focus was given to advancing digital humanities, developing digital archives, and adopting innovative technological solutions. The participants further examined the current challenges facing the Academy and considered potential strategies for overcoming them.

A special emphasis was placed on the Gelati Academy of Sciences’ unique mission to advance Georgian Studies (Kartvelology), preserve the nation’s collective memory, and ensure the transmission of intangible cultural heritage to future generations. It was noted that the Academy remains dedicated to advancing the spiritual, educational, and scientific traditions established centuries ago by the original Gelati Academy, whilst adapting to contemporary demands.

At the conclusion of the meeting, by the unanimous petition and decision of the members of the Academy, the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, His Holiness and Beatitude Shio III, was elected a Member of the Gelati Academy of Sciences,” the statement from the Patriarchate of Georgia concluded.