“It is with continued sorrow that we remember His Holiness Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, on the eve of his funeral."

“It is with continued sorrow that we remember His Holiness Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, on the eve of his funeral.

I assure the Hierarchs and faithful of the Georgian Orthodox Church, and the people of Georgia, of my prayers at this time of mourning. I have written privately to the Chancellor to convey my condolences on behalf of the Church of England.

I am grateful that the Right Reverend David Hamid will represent me and the Church of England at the funeral, as we stand in prayerful solidarity with all who grieve.

May the Lord grant him rest and let light perpetual shine upon him.”