Shio III: Relying solely on human effort will not unite Georgia without divine will

“Human effort alone is insufficient to strengthen and reunite Georgia without God’s grace and divine will,” stated Catholicos-Patriarch Shio III during a liturgy in Martvili.

Reflecting on the symbolism of the vineyard entrusted by God, the Patriarch emphasised that every person’s life and calling must be carried out as a sacred duty.

“What is the vineyard entrusted to us by the Lord? Symbolically, it represents life, mission, and labours of each one of us. Whether our work is grand or modest, we must perform it as before God, who observes us, knows all things, and awaits our fruit. Living thus brings true Christian peace. Jesus Christ did not say in vain that even the hairs of your head are numbered; such is God’s protective love for us.

Saint David the Builder and Saint George of Chqondidi offer the finest examples of this path. Standing today in the magnificent Martvili Monastery—where Saint George laboured and King David sought his counsel and blessing—we recall how their spiritual synergy expanded Georgia from Nikopsia to Derbend.

As we reflect on Georgia’s present and future, we are reminded of the Biblical truth: if we believe that our own intellect and strength alone can save, unite, and strengthen our nation, we are gravely mistaken. Human effort must be paired with God’s will and help.

Let us pray that the Lord, through the intercession of Saint David and Saint George, grants our nation such synergy towards the goal of Georgia’s salvation and unification. In this great cause, Samegrelo holds a vital role as the historical guardian of our country’s integrity, a mission it will surely continue to fulfil. May God bless the Eparchy of Chqondidi, Samegrelo, and all of Georgia with peace, salvation, and divine grace,” stated the Patriarch.