Saakashvili accuses Georgian metropolitan of working for Russia

Mikheil Saakashvili accuses Georgian clerics of working for Russia. Photo: UNIAN

Former Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili, who is now under arrest, reacted sharply negatively to Metropolitan Ioane (Gamrekeli) of Kutaisi-Gaenati 's words about the terms of his pardon on his Facebook page.

Metropolitan Ioane said the former president could only be forgiven if he admitted his crimes.

"Mr Gamrekeli has long been known for speaking directly in Russian and preaching in a way that Patriarch Kirill would envy his pro-Russian sentiment," Saakashvili wrote.

The former president of Georgia stated that the "fifth column" embedded in the church should be removed from the Georgian clergy. He expressed the belief that the majority of Georgian Orthodox Church members have a "patriotic" position and will support the idea of national reconciliation between the ruling party "Georgian Dream" and the opposition, led by Saakashvili's party "United National Movement" initiated by Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili.

As reported, Patriarch Ilia of Georgia received the mother of jailed former president Saakashvili.

Read also

Interview with His Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas, First Hierarch of ROCOR

The Southern Clergy Retreat and the Growth of Orthodoxy in the South

Christian Orthodox Coalition Calls for Action Amid Syrian Crisis

March 19, 2025 – The Christian Orthodox Coalition in the United States has issued a powerful statement condemning the ongoing persecution of Orthodox Christians in war-torn Syria.

EP Hopes US Visit Will Boost Abp. Elpidophoros' Declining Influence

The National Herald reports that Patriarch Bartholomew will travel to America to seek new connections with Washington and support Archbishop Elpidophoros.

Metropolitan Joan of Korca elected as Primate of the Albanian Orthodox Church

Albanian Orthodox Church Elevates Met. Joan (Pelushi) to Primate After Archbishop Anastasi’s Repose

The 17th Anniversary of the Repose of Met. Laurus (Shkurla), First Hierarch of the ROCOR

Parishes of the Eastern American Diocese (ROCOR) lifted up their prayers in remembrance of the much-loved Vladyka Laurus on the anniversary of his repose.

"The entire family has been massacred in Baniyas, Syria. They were Orthodox Christians. Humanity has failed!"

Social media is telling the stories Corporate Media will not, and people are taking notice.