Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated that the country would “firmly protect Christianity, Orthodoxy, and the values that form the foundation of Georgian identity.” He made these remarks at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi during a ceremony dedicated to May 17 — the Day of Family Purity (Family Holiness Day).
Kobakhidze noted that this year’s holiday holds special significance, as it marks the first time the divine service on this day was led by the new Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Shio III.
The head of government emphasized that the Patriarch assumed this post “by the will of God,” in accordance with the testament of the late Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II and with the support of the Holy Synod.
“Under the protection of the Lord and the spiritual guidance of the Patriarch, we will firmly defend Christianity, Orthodoxy, and all the values that constitute the essence and substance of the Georgian people,” he stated.
Shio III also noted that in 2026, this day is being observed for the first time without Ilia II, who established the holiday and played a key role in the country’s spiritual life for decades.
According to Kobakhidze, the death of Ilia II caused society to “become particularly acutely aware of the significance of Christianity, love, and unity.”
He thanked the late Patriarch for his contribution and noted that his legacy “will continue to guide the country for a long time to come.”
