“If a grave sin, such as abortion, is prevalent in a family, then, of course, you cannot build any happiness on such a foundation; such a family is doomed,”  said the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Archbishop of Mtskheta-Tbilisi and Metropolitan of Bichvinta and Tskhum-Abkhazia, Shio III.

Speaking to parishioners gathered in the courtyard of the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi during the Day of Family Purity and Respect for Parents, Shio III also addressed demographic challenges in Georgia and the importance of strengthening family life.

He further referred to biblical teaching, noting that innocent blood “cries out to God,” and emphasized that the birth of children brings “light, warmth, and blessing” to a household.

The Patriarch also spoke about the challenges of raising large families, noting that while the beginning may be difficult, childcare becomes easier over time and contributes to greater family stability.

Addressing broader social concerns, Shio III warned about demographic trends in Georgia and the importance of strengthening family life and values. He stated that failure to address these issues could pose long-term risks to the country’s demographic balance.

“If we do not think about all this, if we do not correct our demographic situation, if we do not take care of strengthening, saving, and preserving the family, we are threatened with a real danger: in our beautiful and wonderful country, like paradise, other peoples will settle with us, who love children, do not abandon their children, and protect their religion. If we continue like this, there is a real danger that they will outnumber Georgians,”  he said.

The Patriarch also called for continued legislative support for family protection policies, arguing that such measures are necessary to safeguard family values and society. He stated that legislation on family values should not be weakened but rather strengthened, particularly in relation to what he described as concerns over “gender theories and ideology.”

“We should not abandon this legislation… but, on the contrary, we should strengthen and consolidate this direction. This is the basis for the survival and well-being of our country,” Shio III said.