Patriarch Shio III of Georgia performs his first Mass Baptism (VIDEO)

Catholicos-Patriarch Shio III of All Georgia delivered a homily on June 7, 2026, following his first mass baptism ceremony at the Holy Trinity Patriarchal Cathedral in Tbilisi, emphasizing the profound spiritual significance of Holy Baptism and the responsibility of Christians to preserve its grace throughout their lives.

The mass baptism ceremony is a tradition that has become one of the most significant pastoral initiatives of the Georgian Orthodox Church, and especially of late Patriarch Ilia of Goergia.

Addressing the faithful on the Feast of All Saints, Patriarch Shio noted the special significance of the day, which coincided with another round of mass baptisms established by Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II. He expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to continue this tradition, which has brought “so much joy and blessing” to Georgia and its people.

Reflecting on the mystery of Baptism, the Patriarch recalled Christ’s conversation with Nicodemus, in which the Lord taught that “unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the Kingdom of God” (John 3:5). He stressed that Baptism is the essential gateway into the life of the Church and the Kingdom of…