Metropolitan Nikoloz explains why Patriarch of Georgia congratulated Patriarch of Russia on his birthday
There is the so-called Eucharistic union in the church and there is a relationship between the churches within this union, which needs serious arguments to cut off, - Akhalkalaki and Kumurdo Metropolitan Nikoloz told journalists, evaluating the fact that the Patriarch of Georgia congratulated the Patriarch of Russia on his birthday.
Regarding the journalist's reply that Patriarch Kirill is the patriarch of the occupying country, the Metropolitan said that he was the Patriarch of the occupying country when the processes happening in Ukraine today were happening in Georgia.
"There are church rules. There is the so-called Eucharistic union in the church and there is a relationship between the churches within this union, which needs serious arguments to cut off.
When did he [Kyril] become the spiritual father of the occupying country? - We have already gone through everything that is happening in Ukraine. Georgia went through this first in the 90s, then in 2008. This is not a sufficient reason for the Patriarch to cut off relationship with the Russian Patriarch," he said.
Regarding the fact that "Patriarch Kirill is an open supporter of Russia's war", the clergyman said that “this is a lie”.
"The Patriarch of Russia was asked a question and he said - I am not only the Patriarch of Moscow. He is the Patriarch of all Russia and this war is taking place on his territory. Therefore, it is a lie to say that the Patriarch blesses the grenades and sends them to be fired in such a way as to kill people. It is the canonical territory of the Russian Church. The Patriarch is responsible for all this. Ukraine is a state, but its Church is the canonical territory of Russia," he said.
Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II congratulated Patriarch Kirill of Russia on his birthday. The relevant information is posted on the official website of the Russian Patriarchate.
"Your holiness! I congratulate you on your birthday! I wish you health and God's mercy in such a difficult time. I also wish you and your common efforts to restore justice and peace between Russia and Ukraine, between our states, as soon as possible. May God protect you and your congregation", reads the congratulatory letter.
