Zurab Pataradze attends the groundbreaking ceremony for the Charity and Educational Center "Betlemi"

Irakli Kobakhidze, Prime Minister of Georgia together with Zurab Pataradze, Chairman of the Government of the Autonomous Republic of Ajara attended the construction commencement ceremony of Charity and Educational Center ‘Betlemi.’

Charity and educational center Betlemi is scheduled to be constructed on Giorgi Antsukhelidze street and will cimbine a shelter for the elderly and disabled persons, a day care center for the elderly and a preschool center, where the inclusive learning group will function. The center is being built with the blessings of His Holiness Patriarchs Ilia II and Shio III and the initiation of Metropolitan Dimitri of Batumi and Lazeti.

The Chairman underscored that the synchronized and coordinated collaboration between the ecclesiastical institution and the private sector serves as a vital catalyst in the successful execution of socio-economic projects inherently designed to advance public welfare and elevate the community’s collective well-being.

“This marks a profoundly auspicious and significant milestone for our region. An inspiring vision has materialized into reality as we commence the construction of this charitable and educational center - an institution fully dedicated to serving our community and advancing regional development. Today, our shared commitments transition into concrete action as we officially lay the foundation for this landmark project.

I wish to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone whose dedication has brought this initiative to fruition. In particular, I want to thank His Eminence, Metropolitan Dimitri, for his enduring devotion and years of tireless service. Through your prayers, spiritual guidance, and direct leadership, generations have been nurtured and inspired - a legacy that each of us holds in the highest esteem.

Furthermore, I express my sincere appreciation to the Prime Minister of Georgia, Mr. Irakli Kobakhidze, for his unwavering support of initiatives vital to both our nation and the Autonomous Republic of Ajara. His proactive approach and decisive leadership remain fundamental to the successful implementation of these critical regional projects,” stated Zurab Pataradze.

 Metropolitan Dimitri of Batumi and Lazeti blessed the foundation of the charity and educational center and performed a prayer service.

Members of the Government and Parliament of Georgia; the Chairman of the Supreme Council of the Autonomous Republic of Ajara; members of the regional government; representatives of local self-governments; and clergy attended the ceremony.

Today, the Head of the Government of Georgia, accompanied by the Chairman of the Government of Ajara, conducted an official site inspection of the ongoing construction of the St. Kvirike and Ivlita Church-Monastery Complex in the village of Kvirike.

Currently under development, the St. Kvirike and Ivlita Church-Monastery Complex is a comprehensive landmark project featuring three domed churches, a bell tower, a refectory, and a dedicated gymnasium facility. Beyond its spiritual function, the complex is designed to serve as a vibrant community hub; the gymnasium building will house an advanced training and educational center for local youth. This center will offer an integrated curriculum, combining traditional theological studies with cutting-edge academic disciplines, including computer science and modern technologies.