“I greet the representatives of the local Orthodox Churches with special love and thank them for coming here. This is proof of the spiritual unity and Christlike love of our Churches. We believe that it is precisely through this unity and fullness that our faith and the unity of our Churches will be strengthened.

Standing before you today with humility and reverence, I once again offer my gratitude to the All-Merciful Lord for the great honor of the Catholicos-Patriarchate. On the one hand, I am aware of the greatness of this calling and the weight of the cross, and on the other hand, I feel my human poverty and weakness; therefore, your prayerful support gives me even greater spiritual strength and encouragement.

I would like to express special gratitude to the Georgian people, our spiritual children, our clergy, and monks for their prayers, cooperation, and love, which helped us during these days. It encouraged us and gave us strength and determination,” said Shio III.