Georgian church urges calm ahead of election of Catholicos-Patriarch

Concerns over the upcoming election of the new head of the Georgian Orthodox Church should not lead to divisions within society, a senior Church representative has said, as the country prepares for a key clergy transition.

Andria Jagmaidze, head of the Patriarchate’s public relations department, urged the public to remain patient and respectful, stating that the decision should be left to the Church’s governing body. He emphasised that the process would follow established Church statutes and should be observed with dignity, Caliber.Az reports via Georgian media. 

Jagmaidze also noted that the election of the new Catholicos-Patriarch would serve as a continuation of the national mourning period and reflect the respect shown in recent days for Ilia II. He stressed that the selection process is not influenced by public debate or media discussion, and that the decision will be made internally by the Church.

The new Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia will be elected by the Holy Synod of the Georgian Orthodox Church at an expanded council meeting scheduled to take place 40 days after the death of Ilia II, who passed away on March 17.

By Sabina Mammadli