Georgia celebrates Orthodox Christmas
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Adherents of the Georgian Orthodox Church, together with other members of the Orthodox world, are celebrating Christmas today according to the Julian calendar.
The special liturgy commenced at Tbilisi's Holy Trinity Cathedral at midnight as Georgia's Patriarch Ilia II led the customary Christmas epistle with a congregation of followers of the Georgian Orthodox Christian Church, including government officials.
Alilo, a traditional Christmas march in Georgia. Photo by Tako Robakidze
The midnight church service is traditionally followed by a march in the streets - called Alilo - during which participants sing Christmas carols, exchange gifts and give clothes, food and other items to the needy.
On Christmas night, believers light candles in their homes and place them next to the windows so that the light may be seen from outside. This tradition is observed in memory of the biblical story of Joseph and Mary, who searched for a shelter where Mary would be able to give birth to Jesus.
The Georgian Orthodox Church celebrates Christmas on January 7 due to the two - week difference between the Gregorian and Julian calendars.
Religious followers will also celebrate a second New Year on January 14.
Georgian leaders offer holiday wishes to those who celebrate today
Today a major part of Christians all over the world are celebrating one of the most important religious events – Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ.
In one of the most original shows of the Christmas festive season in Tbilisi, the city's newest professional dance troupe will premiere a production that brings together contemporary ballet and jazz.
Georgia has launched a new campaign to prevent illegal cutting of trees before New Year. The new initiative encouraged people to choose a fir tree anywhere in Georgia and decorate it, without cutting the tree.
People who want to sample delicious food and traditional crafts from all over the world, and help raise funds for charitable projects in Georgia, are invited to visit the Winter Fair 2016 in Tbilisi today.
Ilia II’s Christmas epistle was notably different this year in its mentioning of differences between divine and State laws.