Georgia Marks Assumption of St. Mary

August 28 marks one of the most important religious holidays in Georgia: Mariamoba, known as the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This day commemorates the assumption of the Virgin into heaven. All churches throughout Georgia hold special ceremonies and religious services in relation to this day.

Mariamoba is a public holiday in Georgia. On this day, thousands of Georgians go to churches to light candles and pray. This time of year, all Georgians visit their friends and family to celebrate the holiday together.

Traditionally, the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, His Holiness Ilia II, serves a special liturgy on this occasion. 

The President of Georgia Salome Zurabishvili this morning congratulated the citizens on the Virgin Mary holiday.

"Congratulations on Virgin Mary Day! May the grace of the Mother of God protect you and all of Georgia! May the Mother of God give us spiritual peace, help us overcome our hatred, aggression and the violence caused by it! May the Mother of God protect young people, our children, and give us the power to stand by each other!" reads the President’s message.

By Ana Dumbadze