Georgian President stresses need to safeguard spiritual foundations amid global challenges

Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili on Wednesday called for unity, peaceful coexistence and collective efforts to further strengthen Christian values in the country, stressing the importance of safeguarding Georgia’s spiritual foundations amid the complex challenges facing the modern world.

Kavelashvili made the remarks following a festive liturgy at Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, where he congratulated the public on Svetitskhovloba, one of Georgia’s major religious holidays.

“Today, we have gathered in Mtskheta, our foremost spiritual capital, on the ancient land where, centuries ago, through the preaching of Saint Nino and with the support of King Mirian and Queen Nana, the firm foundations of the Christian faith were laid. Alongside other sacred relics, this is where one of the greatest relics of the Christian world - the Robe of Christ - rests”, Kavelashvili said.

He described Svetitskhoveli Cathedral as the principal cathedral of the Georgian Orthodox Church and a central symbol of the country’s national identity, survival and eternity.

“Svetitskhoveli is the pillar connecting heaven and earth, the main cathedral of our Mother Church, and the foremost symbol of our national identity, survival and eternity. Svetitskhovloba is a day that once again reminds us who we are, where we come from and what values should underpin our future”, the President said.

Kavelashvili noted that this year’s celebration was particularly symbolic, as Georgia marks the 1 700th anniversary of Christianity being declared the state religion.

“This date once again reminds us that our history and our spiritual choice are inseparable”, he said.

“Today, as the modern world faces complex challenges, it is particularly important to safeguard our spiritual roots and fully embrace their deeper meaning. We need unity, peaceful coexistence and joint efforts to further strengthen Christian values in our state”, Kavelashvili added.

Concluding his address, the President extended his congratulations to Georgians both at home and abroad.

“May God bless Georgia!” he concluded.