Patriarch Shio to lead 73rd mass baptism of children in Georgia
Patriarch Shio confirmed the preservation of his predecessor Ilia II's tradition.
In Tbilisi on June 7, 2026, on the day of All Saints, the 73rd mass baptism of children will take place. The new Primate of the Georgian Orthodox Church Patriarch Shio will head this solemn service for the first time after his election to the throne, reports the UOJ in Greece.
The Sacrament will be performed at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in the capital of Georgia. Patriarch Shio confirmed his intention to preserve the tradition established by his predecessor, the ever-memorable Ilia II. The Primate, even while serving as Locum Tenens of the Patriarchal Throne, noted that mass baptisms bring enormous benefit and joy to the entire Georgian people.
Ilia II began this initiative back in 2008 to improve the demographic situation in the country. According to the established tradition, the Patriarch and hierarchs of the Church become godfathers for children from families facing difficulties. Over the years of this tradition's existence, Ilia II became personal godfather to more than fifty thousand children throughout Georgia.
As the UOJ reported, a UOC priest concelebrated with the Patriarch of Georgia in Tbilisi.
