The Georgian Patriarchate released a statement on October 22 regarding the upcoming Georgian elections. It stated that it could not take a position, but that it would support “the choice that will bring peace over the long term” and that strengthens Christian and familial traditions. The statement was made just days after the Georgian government decided to donate large plots in several Georgian village to the church.
“Our country is on a very important path today.” The Church stated that the protection of national values and religious beliefs, as well as the consolidation of our country, the preservation and peace of sovereignty, are the main goals for both state institutions and the society.
“We have repeatedly stated the Orthodox church of Georgia cannot be a party in politics, but it will unambiguously support the choice which will bring peace to Georgia for a long time and strengthen values within society, helping to strengthen Christian and family tradition,” the Church notes. This seems to echo the campaign’s pre-election pillars.
The Georgian Patriarchate emphasizes that, “in the context excessive emotions and tensions in the election period, we ask that the clergy consider, in their appeals and statements, that they have an important role to play in maintaining the public unity and peace.”
This statement comes just days after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze issued a decree gifting land to Orthodox Church of Georgia. The October 17th decree shows that the church received 3,610 sq/m of land and 160 sq/m of land in village Shuasurebi district Chokhatauri for a symbol 1 GEL. The same decree also shows that 300 sq/m in the village Salibauri (Khelvachauri District) was granted to the Church for 1 GEL. A second decree dated 18 October shows that the government has transferred 1619 sq/m non-agricultural lands and buildings/structures thereon on Jordania Street, in the town Lanchkhuti, free of charge for a period of 99 years.
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