TBILISI, Georgia (AP) — The Georgian Orthodox Church is mourning the loss of Patriarch Ilia II, who passed away at age 93 after serving as the church’s leader for almost half a century.
The patriarch died Tuesday evening following hospitalization for severe internal bleeding that left him in critical condition.
Shio Mujiri, who has stepped in as interim church leader while a new patriarch is selected, described the loss as monumental. “He was an epochal figure; it is a tremendous loss for the entire Orthodox Church,” Mujiri stated.
Ilia II took on his leadership position in 1977 during Georgia’s time under Soviet rule, when religious worship faced significant restrictions. He continued to serve as a powerful spiritual and public presence throughout Georgia’s transition to independence and beyond.
The church will select a new patriarch within the next two months.
