Batumi and Lazeti Eparchy issued a statement a few minutes ago. Archpriest Giorgi Mamaladze`s priesthood and divine communion were suspended at the decision of Metropolirtan Dimitri.

The head of the Batumi and Lazeti Eparchy was contacted by a representative of the Patriarchate of Georgia and informed him of the blessing of His Holiness Ilia II to give to Father Giorgi divine communion.

"Metropolitan Dimitri of Batumi and Lazeti made a decision as the bishop of the archpriest Giorgi Mamaladze, that the priesthood and the sacrament should be stopped before the investigation is over. In case the crime is proved, the issue will be passed over to the Holy Synod for further decision.