Metropolitan Shio: April 9 was a great manifestation of devotion and self-sacrifice for the homeland, which awakened and strengthened the national spirit and the belief in independence within us
“Thirty-six years ago, on Rustaveli Avenue, 21 innocent and peaceful people gave their lives for the idea of Georgia’s independence. It was a great manifestation of devotion and self-sacrifice for the homeland, which awakened and strengthened the national spirit and the belief in independence within us,” said Metropolitan Shio, Locum Tenens of the Patriarchal Throne, Metropolitan of Senaki and Chkhorotsku, during his sermon following the memorial service for the victims of April 9, 1989.
According to him, those who died on April 9 chose the path of self-sacrifice.
“In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Your Excellency, Mr. President; Your Excellency, Mr. Prime Minister; Your Excellency, Mr. Chairman of Parliament; Honorable Mr. Mayor; Respected Members of Government and Parliament; Most Reverend Hierarchs, Fathers, Brothers and Sisters,
April 9 is a day that holds both deep sorrow and great joy. Thirty-six years ago, on Rustaveli Avenue, 21 innocent and peaceful people sacrificed their lives for the idea of Georgia’s independence. Today, we reflect on the significance of this event for our country and our nation. It was a great act of devotion and self-sacrifice for the homeland, which awakened and strengthened within us the national spirit and the belief in independence.
In life, there are generally two paths. Some try in every possible way to achieve personal happiness and well-being, while others, for the sake of God, the homeland, and love for others, reject this. This is the path of the Christian. Therefore, there is the path of self-love, and there is the path of dedication and sacrifice. Our brothers and sisters who died on April 9 chose the path of sacrifice.
That is why the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II, called this day not only a day of mourning but also a day of spiritual elevation for our nation. He also proclaimed that ‘April 9 became the starting point for modern Georgia’s aspiration toward freedom.’ Of course, on this path of striving, there have been many falls and rises, betrayals and loyalties, wars and peace, joys, and more. Therefore, we must not lose hope, because independence requires constant struggle, work, and the overcoming of difficulties.
Exactly two years after this date, we achieved independence. However, we must now work to preserve it, as it is most endangered by the sins that are spreading among the people—sins that drive away grace and allow the Lord to permit trials such as the seizure of our territories by enemies, displacement of the population, demographic decline, and so on. These things are emphasized not only by the authors of the books of the Bible, the great prophets, and saints, but also by Georgian chroniclers and, of course, the saints of our contemporary era.
May God rest the souls of His servants—the brothers and sisters who perished on April 9. May God bless, protect, and strengthen Georgia, and may He grant us a joyful and peaceful Easter. Amen,” said Metropolitan Shio.
