Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili has issued his congratulations to both the Georgian Orthodox Church (GOC) and the nation on the anniversary of the restoration of the Church's Autocephaly.

In his statement, the President noted that on March 25, 1917, an urgent meeting of the Georgian clergy restored the Autocephaly of the Georgian Apostolic Orthodox Church. He emphasized that this crucial step played an essential role in preserving Georgia’s national identity and sovereignty, with both secular and religious patriots fighting to restore historical justice and, in turn, reinforcing the nation's statehood.

The President also acknowledged that while the Church’s Autocephaly was restored in 1917, it was only formally recognized by the World Patriarchate in 1990, thanks to the tireless efforts of His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia. For this, President Kavelashvili expressed his deep gratitude. He highlighted the Church as a vital pillar of Georgia’s social life, spiritual strength, and national unity.

In closing, the President extended his heartfelt congratulations on this historic day, wishing peace and spiritual fortitude to the Church and the people of Georgia. “May God bless our Church and homeland,” he concluded.

Today marks the 108th anniversary of the restoration of the Autocephaly of the Georgian Apostolic Orthodox Church.