Pope Francis has sent a congratulatory message to Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II, congratulating him on his 90th jubilee and 45th anniversary of the enthronement.

“Heartfelt good wishes to Your Holiness and Beatitude, together with my prayers that Almighty God will bless you with good health and abundant spiritual gifts as you carry on your long-standing pastoral ministry.

“While your many years of service to the Lord have seen a wide variety of challenges and an extensive transformation of your country, the Church entrusted to your care has always grown and prospered spiritually.

This calls to mind the Apostle’s words, “I am sure that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ” (Phil l :6). In this regard, I pray that our heavenly Father will bestow on you the strength to continue seeking the countenance of Christ as you bear witness to his love in the world and strive for the good of the flock and of all the Georgian people”, - reads the letter.