According to a post made by the Patriarchate of Georgia on social media, Saturday, the 25th of April, marks the 40th day since the repose of Patriarch Ilia II, a moment of profound spiritual significance in Orthodox Christian tradition.
In its statement, the Patriarchate emphasized that, according to Christian teaching, the 40th day after death is when the soul is established in its place until the Second Coming, when a final judgment will take place, taking into account not only the deeds of the departed during their lifetime but also the good works performed in their name afterward.
Describing the day as “extremely important,” the Patriarchate noted that all of Georgia is united in prayer for the late Patriarch, with many seeking ways to offer spiritual support for his soul.
Beyond prayer, the faithful were encouraged to perform acts of kindness and charity, particularly toward others in need, as a meaningful way to honor his memory. The message also recalled a personal wish often expressed by Ilia II—that each person strive, for the glory of God, to correct at least one personal flaw and permanently overcome it.
“If each of us does this also in the name of our Patriarch,” the statement concluded, “imagine how great God’s grace and mercy will be poured upon our nation, how much joy it will bring to His Holiness and Beatitude, and how great a help it will be for both our souls and his.”
