Patriarchate of Georgia celebrates Feast of the Iveron Icon and Georgian Language Day
On Bright Tuesday, 14 April 2026, the Orthodox Church of Georgia solemnly commemorated the Feast of the Iveron Icon of the Mother of God, one of the most revered feasts, with festive celebrations across the country.
The Divine Liturgy was celebrated at the Church dedicated to the Iveron Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos on Mount Makhata by Metropolitan Shio (Mujiri). Concelebrating with him were Metropolitan Daniel of Chiatura and Sachkhere, Archimandrite Shio (Lomidze), and numerous clergy.
A large number of faithful attended the service, gathering in a spirit of Paschal joy and devotion to honour the Mother of God and seek her intercession.
Following the Divine Liturgy, Metropolitan Shio blessed the congregation and delivered a homily, highlighting the deep spiritual meaning of the feast. He emphasised that through the Iveron Icon, God reminds the faithful that He never abandons Georgia, while the Most Holy Theotokos continually cares for and intercedes on behalf of the people. He noted that the very presence and history of the icon stand as a powerful testimony of divine protection and mercy, offering believers strength to overcome sin and strive for the salvation of their souls.
In addition to the religious significance of the day, the Metropolitan also referred to the celebration of Georgian Language Day, underlining the importance of preserving the nation’s linguistic and cultural identity. He described the Georgian language as an ancient, beautiful, and invaluable treasure bestowed by God, comparing it to a form of divine, spiritual music. He stressed that safeguarding the language has played a crucial role in the survival and continuity of the Georgian nation throughout history.
The celebration concluded in an atmosphere of unity, faith, and gratitude, bringing together spiritual devotion and national consciousness, while reaffirming the enduring role of the Church in the life of the Georgian people.
Photographs: Nino Sozashvili
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