Georgia celebrates Easter tomorrow

Orthodox Christians around the globe and in Georgia will celebrate the most important day in the religious calendar – Easter - tomorrow.

The Orthodox world will celebrate Easter Sunday on May 1 this year.

Tonight, on the eve of Easter, a holy liturgy will be held in all churches across the country, which will be attended by Georgian believers and anyone who wished to attend.

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The festive service will start at 11pm and continue until the early hours of tomorrow morning, during which prayers will be shared and clergy and parishioners with icons, crosses and candles walk around the church chanting.

Traditionally the Easter Eve liturgy will be attended by Government officials.

Also, the Easter Eve liturgy will mark the end of 46 days of fasting, which started on March 14 this year.

The Holy Bible said Jesus Christ gave his life to repay all sins and deliver salvation of humanity, died on the cross and rose on the third day. With the Lord’s resurrection, the doors of heaven opened for people.

Traditionally, Georgians dye boiled eggs red during Easter festivities and bake special sweet cake with raisins called paska.

Georgians bring food and wine to cemeteries and feast near the graves of their loved ones on the day after Easter Sunday. Photo by N. Alavidze/Agenda.ge

The day after Easter Sunday is also special as it is the day families traditionally go to ceremonies and visit their deceased relatives.

Good Friday, Easter Sunday and the day after Easter Sunday are public holidays in Georgia.