Georgia Prepares to Mark 1,700 Years of Christian Heritage

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (Living Pillar Cathedral) in Georgia, the burial site of Christ's Robe. Photo: Wikimedia Commons

TBILISI — As reported by UOJ-Georgia, the country of Georgia is preparing to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the declaration of Christianity as the state religion with a series of educational, cultural, and scholarly events scheduled throughout 2026.

Plans for the anniversary celebrations were reviewed during a meeting of the joint commission of the Government of Georgia and the Patriarchate of Georgia, held at the Government Administration. The commission is co-chaired by Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and Shio III, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia.

According to organizers, anniversary events will begin on May 26 and expand significantly from June 1. The program will feature a broad range of cultural and educational initiatives, including academic conferences, public events, and expeditions for students. The celebrations are intended to highlight the historical significance of Christianity in Georgian national life and its enduring influence on the country's spiritual and cultural identity.

The commemorations will continue throughout the year and will include events surrounding the Feast of Svetitskhoveli, one of the most important celebrations in the Georgian Orthodox tradition. A major symposium titled "God, Homeland, Man" is scheduled for Oct. 14 and is expected to bring together participants from academic, cultural, and ecclesiastical circles.

The anniversary program is being organized jointly by the Government of Georgia and the Patriarchate of Georgia, reflecting cooperation between state and Church in marking a milestone that occupies a central place in Georgian history.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Shio III was enthroned as Patriarch of Georgia.

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