Georgia’s 17 Centuries of Christian Faith Honored at the European Parliament I delivered a speech at the European Parliament in Strasbourg on October 5, 2026, in tribute to the Georgian nation and its 17 centuries of fidelity to the Christian faith. The address honored the Georgian people, highlighted the historic role of Christianity in preserving Georgia’s identity, culture, and national unity, and reflected on the broader Christian foundations of European civilization. The speech also called on Europe to rediscover the Christian faith, values, and spiritual heritage that have profoundly shaped its history. ======================================= Today we give thanks to God as we honor the Georgian nation for 17 centuries of fidelity to Christian faith, a testimony to courage, strength, and national identity. For 1700 years, the Gospel of Jesus Christ has been at the heart of Georgia's national life. Through persecution, invasion, and suffering, the Cross of Christ has remained a source of hope, courage, and unity for the Georgian nation. The Church has preserved not only the faith of the Georgian people, but also their language, culture, traditions, and national identity. This anniversary also speaks powerfully to Europe. Christianity is not simply one chapter of Europe's past, but the principal foundation of European civilization. The Christian proclamation that every human person is created in the image of God has shaped our understanding of human dignity, charity, justice, freedom, forgiveness, and responsibility. Georgia reminds us that the strength of a nation rests not on material means alone, but on faith, memory, and spiritual conviction. May God bless the Georgian people, strengthen their Christian witness, and help Europe rediscover the Christian faith that has so profoundly shaped its soul. Thank you. Strasbourg, 05.10.2026