Restoration of Church Autocephaly Reflects Ilia II’s Legacy - Irakli Kobakhidze

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said the restoration of the autocephaly of the Georgian Apostolic Orthodox Church is one of the clearest reflections of the legacy of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II.

In a statement marking the anniversary of the Church’s restored independence, Kobakhidze said this year’s date is overshadowed by national mourning, as Georgia marks the ninth day since the Patriarch’s passing.

He said that while the Georgian Church restored its autocephaly on March 25, 1917, the process was brought to its full conclusion in 1990, when the Ecumenical Patriarchate officially recognized the Church’s historical autocephaly and Patriarchal title.

According to Kobakhidze, the recognition was achieved through Ilia II’s “tireless work” and “high international authority” and represented an important step both for the Church and for Georgia’s state sovereignty.

Kobakhidze said preserving the unity and legacy left by Ilia II remains a national responsibility.