King Charles of the United Kingdom has expressed his sorrow over the passing of His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia.

According to a letter sent to the Holy Synod, the life and service of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II were marked by wisdom and high moral authority, which brought him immense respect both within Georgia and internationally.

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of His Holiness Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia. He will forever remain in our memory as a man who devoted his entire life to serving the Georgian Orthodox Church, providing spiritual guidance, and tirelessly supporting the Georgian people. His work was distinguished by wisdom and great moral authority, which earned him the highest respect both in Georgia and beyond.His Holiness’s visit in 2011 and his meeting with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II stood as a clear testament to the warm and mutually respectful relations between our Churches and peoples.I extend my sincere condolences to the clergy and faithful of the Georgian Orthodox Church, as well as to all those who mourn his passing,” the letter to the Holy Synod of the Georgian Orthodox Church states, as reported by the Public Broadcaster.

For reference, His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, passed away at the age of 93. He will be laid to rest today at Sioni Cathedral.