Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia has addressed the faithful, urging peace, prayer, and unity amid the tense political and social situation in the country. His message, delivered on the feast day of St. Andrew the First-Called, calls for a rejection of violence and mutual hatred, emphasizing the risks these pose to Georgia’s sovereignty and achievements.  

The Patriarch warned that hatred, corruption, and animosity are obstacles to resolving national challenges and are detrimental to the state. “Our Christianity ends where our love for others ends,” he stated, stressing that cynicism and disrespect have become deeply ingrained in society and must be overcome.  

Ilia II called for constructive dialogue to prevent uncontrollable outcomes. He reminded Georgians of their shared duty to foster peace and protect their homeland, declaring that love for one another and the country should unite the people in this challenging time.  

He also encouraged increased prayer efforts, blessing clergy within Georgia and abroad to ring bells and hold services to the Theotokos daily. Faithful were urged to participate in communal prayers and to pray privately at home, with the Patriarch expressing confidence in the transformative power of collective prayer to guide Georgia toward unity, peace, and progress.  

Patriarch Ilia emphasized Georgia's place within European civilization, advocating for strengthening the state through Christian spiritual heritage and traditional values.  

His message came amidst heightened tensions surrounding Georgia’s presidential elections, conducted for the first time via an electoral college vote. The sole candidate, ruling party representative Mikheil Kavelashvili, faced accusations of election fraud from the opposition, sparking protests.  

The Patriarch concluded his address with prayers for peace, prosperity, and unity in Georgia, invoking the intercession of the country’s holy patrons.