Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Shio III delivered a sermon in Tbilisi honoring the spiritual legacy of the late Patriarch Ilia II, highlighting his role in strengthening the Georgian Orthodox Church and preserving faith throughout the country.

The address was delivered on August 2 at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi following a memorial service. The date coincided with the Georgian celebration of Ilioba, commemorating the Prophet Elijah the Tishbite and Saint Elijah the Just (Chavchavadze). On this day, believers also traditionally remember the angel’s day of the former head of the Georgian Church, Patriarch Ilia II.

In his sermon, Shio III noted that three prominent figures associated with the day lived in different historical eras, yet were united by spiritual leadership and a determination to defend both faith and national values.

“During the tenure of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II, no storm could frighten him or shake him,” Shio III said. He added that the former church leader “guided the Church’s ship with unwavering faith and resolve,” leaving behind a community that was strengthened and growing.

To describe Ilia II’s life and ministry, Shio III compared his journey to the Gospel account of Jesus walking on the water. He recalled that in the Gospel of Matthew, the disciples found themselves in the middle of the sea during a fierce storm, while Christ came to them and said, “Do not be afraid, it is I. Take courage.”

According to the Patriarch, this biblical image also reflects the trials people and entire nations face. “Life’s storms” may test a person’s faith and hope, but faith, he said, enables believers to overcome fear and preserve their spiritual foundation.

Shio III also emphasized that Ilia II possessed a special spiritual gift: the ability to maintain inner steadfastness during difficult periods and to pass that assurance on to others. In the Patriarch’s view, Ilia II not only sought to follow the path of Christianity himself, but also worked to help the Georgian people keep their faith.

The sermon further referenced the 1,700th anniversary of an event linked to King Mirian III’s conversion to Christianity. Church tradition holds that a miracle on Mount Tkhoti became the reason Mirian accepted Christianity, after which Christianity was declared the state religion of Georgia. Shio III said the public affection and respect shown for Ilia II became especially evident after his death and funeral.

“Today we have gathered to remember our beloved great master and father Ilia once again, to recall his work and his character, and to express our gratitude and love,” the Patriarch said.

At the conclusion of his remarks, Shio III offered congratulations to worshippers on Ilioba and wished Georgia peace, unity, and spiritual strengthening.