Pat. Bartholomew to Georgians: Rejoice – your patriarch is now among saints

Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople addresses the Georgian flock from Holy Trinity Cathedral. Photo: UOJ

At the Holy Trinity Cathedral, Patriarch Bartholomew addressed the faithful after the funeral service for Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II. “He now lives in the radiant Kingdom of the Triune God, in honor of Whom and in Whose name he raised this magnificent cathedral,” the Patriarch of Constantinople said.

The hierarch urged the flock to seek the prayerful help of the saints of the Georgian land, mentioning St. Nina Equal-to-the-Apostles, the Great Martyr Ketevan, Venerable Hilarion and David, the Tbilisi martyrs, and Elder Gabriel. Patriarch Bartholomew called on those gathered not to surrender to grief and to remain faithful to the legacy of the departed Primate. “Preserve and keep with reverence his exhortations and teachings – this will be the finest offering in his memory,” the hierarch stressed in his address.

According to the head of the Phanar, Ilia II has become an even more powerful intercessor in eternity. “Rejoice, for now your father, Patriarch Ilia, glorified in the land of the living, is far more powerful than when he dwelt among you. And standing before the Throne of God, he is more helpful and beneficent for you,” Patriarch Bartholomew added.

In closing, the hierarch called on the faithful to venerate with reverence the holy right hand of the departed Patriarch and ask for his blessing. Patriarch Bartholomew concluded his remarks with the exclamation, “Christ is Risen!”, which he called the victorious cry that abolishes death.

The UOJ is providing a live online broadcast of the events.

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