Patriarch Shio: Pray that I may serve worthily for the good of the people

Catholicos-Patriarch Shio III. Photo: Union of Orthodox Journalists

In his address immediately after the election results were announced, the new Patriarch of the Georgian Church, Shio, asked the episcopate, clergy, and faithful to pray that he may worthily bear the obedience of primatial service.

“Most reverend fathers, brothers and sisters. It is difficult for me to express the spiritual feelings with which I receive this election. I give thanks to God, who has looked upon me with His mercy. Glory to the Most Holy Theotokos, Shio of Mgvime, and the other saints. I thank the hierarchs of the Holy Synod. Special gratitude to the Georgian people – for their prayers and love. The cross of pastoral service is heavy. I ask you to pray for me and for our people, that I may guide them worthily for the good of the nation,” Patriarch Shio said.

Earlier, the UOJ wrote that Metropolitan Shio had been elected primate of the Georgian Church.

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