Tianeti, Georgia: Under the prayer-blessing of the Bishop of Tianeti and Pshav-Khevsureti, Bishop Michael, the head of the Church of the Holy Virgin of the Assumption of the Holy Virgin, Archpriest Giorgi Berberashvili led the paraklis of the Holy Trinity. Their spiritual guidance and presence added a deep reverence and connection to the event.
The head of the Iveria Virgin of Tbilisi, Archpriest Jacob Ushikishvili, clergymen from Tianeti and Pshav-Khevsureti Eparchy Archpriest Vakhtang, Archpriest Toma, Priest-Monazon Gabriel, Priest George, and Deacon Jacob also participated in the priestly service.
Anointing, a sacred ritual symbolizing the blessing and protection of the parish, was held. Representatives of the Mother Church, the highest authority in the Georgian Orthodox Church, blessed the parish, Tianeti, and Georgia, signifying the unity and support of the entire Church community.
Paraklisi, along with the gathered community, was attended by the Mayor of Tianeti Municipality, Levan Tsiklauri, the Deputy State Commissioners of Mtskheta-Mtianeti Side, Gocha Kavtaradze and Giorgi Kapanadze, representatives of local self-government of different municipalities, heads of regional services, representatives of Tianetis Municipality Hall and Sakrebulo, and guests.
Lashari, the revered shrine of Pshavi, holds a special place in our hearts. The main holiday of Pshavlebi, dedicated to Saint George, is a testament to its historical importance. This celebration, embraced by the Psha people and other mountaineers of East Georgia and Georgians from Bar, underscores the deep-rooted significance of Lashari in our culture and history.
Inspired by the power of St. George of Lashari, Georgians have repeatedly won battles against foreign invaders, just as Tush-Pshav Khevsurs won over Persians in the Battle of Bakhtrion. This historic event symbolizes the bravery and resilience of the Georgian people.
It is noteworthy that in connection with the holiday, with the prayer and blessing of the Catholic Patriarch of Georgia, His Holiness Ilia II, the service of God has been performed in the Orthodox way for several years in Lashari Shrine.
