Story perspectives

National Mourning: Funeral for Georgian Patriarch on March 22

3/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew will preside over Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia's funeral.
The funeral is on March 22 at Sioni Cathedral, following a Divine Liturgy at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi.
A national mourning period has been declared, with public viewings.
The procession will include military honors and a live corridor for mourners.
International delegations, including leaders from Armenia and Azerbaijan, are expected to attend.

History

Historical Context

The funeral of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II on March 22, 2023, highlights his pivotal role in the Georgian Orthodox Church, which he led since 1977. His efforts unified the church, which now has over 3 million followers, and fostered national identity. The attendance of leaders from Armenia and Azerbaijan at his funeral underscores the church's influence on regional stability and dialogue.

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Story summary

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew will preside over Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia's funeral.
The funeral is on March 22 at Sioni Cathedral, following a Divine Liturgy at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi.
A national mourning period has been declared, with public viewings.
The procession will include military honors and a live corridor for mourners.
International delegations, including leaders from Armenia and Azerbaijan, are expected to attend.

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