Shio III addressed Georgia’s younger generation during an event dedicated to the country’s Independence Day, saying they are “called to freedom” and represent the hope and strength of the nation.
In his speech marking Georgia’s Independence Day, the Catholicos-Patriarch emphasized the importance of understanding the true meaning of freedom, referencing the words of Apostle Saint Paul.
“I would like to address our future generation — as the Apostle Saint Paul says, you are called to freedom, you are the hope and strength of Georgia, therefore it is important to correctly understand the essence of freedom,” Shio III stated.
The Patriarch warned against misconceptions surrounding freedom in the modern world, saying it is often wrongly understood as the rejection of all restrictions.
“In reality, true freedom is, first of all, responsibility, faith in God and inner strength, an honest and moral life. It is overcoming vicious traits and passions and the obligation to do what is right and good for God,” he said.
Patriarch claimed that a generation raised with an understanding of these values will be capable of preserving Georgia’s unity and state independence.
Shio III also stressed that freedom should not be viewed solely as a political achievement or part of the country’s historical legacy, but rather as something that must be strengthened and protected daily.
“We should not make freedom just a political achievement and a legacy of the past, but we should work hard and take care of its strengthening every day,” he said, adding that Georgia’s independence should be based on “love for God and the motherland, justice and peace, unity and tolerance.”
The Patriarch concluded his address by congratulating the public on Independence Day and blessing the country.
“May God bless, strengthen and unite all of Georgia,” he said.
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