Georgian PM: restoration of Georgian Orthodox Church’s autocephaly marks milestone in national, spiritual identity

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Tuesday marked the anniversary of the restoration of the Georgian Orthodox Church’s autocephaly, emphasising its role in strengthening Georgia’s national identity and independence.

In a statement commemorating the event, Kobakhidze paid tribute to historical figures who fought for the Church’s independence, highlighting the deep connection between Georgia’s spiritual heritage and statehood.

“On March 25, 1917, the autocephaly of the Georgian Orthodox Christian Church was restored, a momentous event symbolising the reinstalling of our statehood and spiritual values. Through the efforts of Ilia Chavchavadze, Dimitri Kipiani, Ekvtime Takaishvili, and many other patriots, the Church reclaimed freedom to transform into the cornerstone underpinning the unity of our laypeople and clerics, and buttressing the fight for Georgia's independence”, the PM said.

The Prime Minister underscored that the restoration of the Georgian Orthodox Church’s autocephaly in 1917 was a pivotal moment in the nation’s history, reaffirming its spiritual and cultural sovereignty.

“Notably, our autocephaly was officially recognised at the international level as late as 1990, and it became possible only through the enormous personal efforts and reputation of His Holiness and Beatitude, Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II, in this way restoring historical justice and enabling the Georgian Church to take its due place amongst the independent and equal Orthodox Christian Churches of the world. This day once again reminds us that our spiritual values, historical heritage, and state orientation are inseparable”, he concluded.