The Ambassador of Georgia to Romania, Tamar Beruchashvili, said the late Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia was “a spiritual shepherd in the truest sense,” guiding his people with humility, wisdom and quiet strength through times of trial and change.
Speaking to Basilica.ro after news of the patriarch’s death, she described it as “an immense loss for Georgia and for the entire Christian world,” adding that his legacy as a great spiritual leader will endure.
The ambassador also expressed gratitude to Patriarch Daniel of Romania for being the first primate of an autocephalous Orthodox Church to send a message of condolence on Tuesday evening, shortly after the patriarch’s passing.
Patriarch Ilia II—Archbishop of Mtskheta and Tbilisi, Metropolitan of Bichvinta and Tskhum-Abkhazia, and Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia—reposed in the Lord on Tuesday evening, 17 March 2026, at the age of 93.
Georgian authorities have declared a period of national mourning, with flags to be flown at half-mast on all administrative buildings nationwide.
Photo: Embassy of Georgia to Romania
