On the occasion of the name day of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II of All Georgia, according to the old calendar, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow sent a heartfelt congratulatory message, honoring the Georgian Church leader for his spiritual strength, unwavering faith, and decades of pastoral service.
“Your Holiness and Beatitude, beloved Brother and Concelebrant in the Lord! I warmly congratulate you on your name day,” Patriarch Kirill wrote.
Recalling the heavenly intercession of the Prophet Elijah, the namesake of Ilia II, Patriarch Kirill praised the Georgian Patriarch’s example to his flock: “Strengthened by the prayers of your heavenly patron, the Prophet of God Elijah, you offer your faithful a living example of obedience to the Lord’s commandments and steadfast trust in His all-good Providence. You strengthen the people in true faith and call them to preserve the ancient traditions of Iveria.”
Patriarch Kirill also acknowledged Ilia II’s decades-long Patriarchal ministry, noting his dedication to righteousness, piety, and humble love: “For many decades, you have faithfully fulfilled your high Patriarchal service with tireless care for the Georgian Orthodox Church, growing in righteousness, piety, love, patience, and meekness (1 Tim. 6:11).”
Concluding his message, Patriarch Kirill assured Ilia II of his prayers and fraternal love: “On this holy day, I offer fervent prayers for Your Holiness and Beatitude, asking the Lord—through the intercession of His wondrous Prophet who enlightens minds like the dawn—to grant you strength and abundant help in your leadership for the good of Holy Orthodoxy.”
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
