Gergetoba: Pilgrimage to the Holy Trinity Church in Kazbegi

The religious Georgian people sacredly revere ancient traditions and strictly observe the customs of their country. Gergetoba is a relatively new holiday, having only been adopted by the Georgian Orthodox Church in 1980, but it has already become a favorite among every resident of the country. In this article, we'll discuss how this day is celebrated in Georgia and what special features this holiday has acquired.

The History of Gergetoba

In the second half of the 20th century, throughout the world, including in Georgia, societal development was focused on material wealth. Western attitudes promoted the idea of ​​achievement, while spiritual development lagged far behind.

Then, Catholicos Patriarch Ilia II proposed establishing a day entirely dedicated to God. This is how the idea of ​​celebrating Spiritual Love Day emerged. Given the Patriarch's influence, the church and government supported this idea and established July 16 as Gergetoba Day.

How Gergetoba is celebrated

On the eve of Gergetoba, Ilia II delivers a solemn speech, reminding his fellow citizens of spiritual values, the ancient traditions of the Georgian people, and the love of God. He calls on all Orthodox Christians to dedicate July 16th to prayer and to show kindness and selflessness to their neighbors and those in need.

On the feast day itself, the patriarch attends a service at the ancient church in Gergeti, the Gergeti Trinity Church, and celebrates the Divine Liturgy. The main events are held in this church, as it is considered a symbol of Christian love. It is located at an altitude of over 2 km in the Kazbegi region.

The Legend of the Church in Gergeti

This church has its own ancient history, which captures the imagination of every listener. During the time when Georgia was part of the USSR, all religious services were banned. The Gergeti Fortress was completely closed to visitors. Since many people, despite the ban, came to the ancient church and prayed to the Icon of the Mother of God housed there, the Bolsheviks decided to burn the church down. The fire raged for three days, but neither the walls nor the icon were damaged. This miracle is truly considered a divine sign, and since then, no one has attempted to damage the church.

In 1980, Patriarch Ilia II designated this church as the central location for Gergetob, to annually remind people of God and His miracles.

Services are also held in other cities, and the Patriarch receives parishioners in Tbilisi at the Cathedral after reading the liturgy at Gergeti. So anyone can spend this day with God, filled with a sense of endless love.

Read about other religious holidays celebrated in Georgia in Madloba's catalog. We provide detailed information about each annual holiday, its traditions, and unique features. Share in the comments which Georgian customs struck you most!