Georgian archimandrite banned from ministry for violating church ethics

Archimandrite Dorotheos Kurashvili near the parliament building in Tbilisi. Photo: currenttime

On December 15, 2025, the priestly ministry of Archimandrite Dorotheos (Kurashvili) was suspended in Georgia. The corresponding decree No. 105 was signed by Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II. This was reported by UOJ in Georgia.

According to the document, the disciplinary measure was imposed due to repeated violations of canonical church ethics committed by the archimandrite, despite earlier warnings issued to him. The decision was based on the 55th Apostolic Canon, which provides for responsibility for actions directed against the Church hierarchy.

A statement from the Georgian Patriarchate notes that in recent times Archimandrite Dorotheos had systematically made accusatory and insulting statements against members of the Holy Synod and individual hierarchs of the Church. According to the Patriarchate, such remarks were voiced both in the media and during sermons.

Previously, explanatory conversations were held with the archimandrite, and official warnings and admonitions were issued to him, calling on him to cease such rhetoric and return to obedience within the Church. However, as noted, these measures did not lead to a change in his behavior.

As a result, the Church authorities decided to suspend Archimandrite Dorotheos’ right to perform priestly ministries. Information about the decision was published through the official channels of the Georgian Patriarchate.

Order No. 105 of the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II on the suspension of priestly service of Archimandrite Dorotheos (Kurashvili).

Earlier, the UOJ reported that a procession in honor of St. Gabriel (Urgebadze) took place in Georgia.

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