St. Andrew's Day in Georgia

St. Andrew's Day, known as "სანდრობა" (Sandroba) in Georgian, is celebrated on May 12th annually and honors St. Andrew the First-Called, who is considered to be the 'First Preacher of Christianity' in Georgia. According to tradition, St. Andrew preached in various parts of Georgia and left his footprints on Georgian soil, which gave rise to numerous shrines and places of worship associated with him.

The history of St. Andrew's association with Georgia stems from the belief that he traveled to the region of Kolkheti (present-day western Georgia) during his missionary journeys, spreading Christianity along the eastern shores of the Black Sea.

On St. Andrew's Day, Georgians engage in religious observances such as attending church services where special liturgies are performed in honor of St. Andrew. It is a day for prayer and reflection rather than one marked by large-scale public festivities or national holiday activities.

In addition to religious ceremonies, some local traditions may include family gatherings and communal meals where stories about St. Andrew and his connection to Georgia are shared among generations.

While not as prominently celebrated as other religious holidays in Georgia, such as Orthodox Christmas or Easter, St. Andrew's Day remains an important occasion for those venerating the role of Christianity throughout Georgian history and culture.