Saint Andrew the First-Called Day

The holiday commemorates Saint Andrew (Andreas), one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, known as 'the First-Called' because he was the first to be called to follow Jesus. According to Georgian Orthodox tradition, after the resurrection and ascension of Christ, Saint Andrew preached Christianity in the region of Georgia, specifically in western Georgia (Colchis) and among the Kartvelian tribes. He is believed to have founded the first Christian community in Georgia and installed the first bishops, making him the patron saint of the Georgian Orthodox Church before the official Christianization of the kingdom in the 4th century.

Historical records, including the 11th-century Georgian chronicle 'Kartlis Tskhovreba' (The Life of Kartli), state that Saint Andrew traveled through Georgia, performing miracles and converting locals. While the exact dates are unclear, the tradition dates back to the early centuries of Christianity. In Georgia, Saint Andrew's day has been observed for centuries, both as a religious feast and a public holiday since the restoration of Georgia's independence in 1991, emphasizing the country's ancient Christian roots.

The holiday was officially designated as a public non-working day by the Parliament of Georgia in 2002, underscoring its significance in national identity. It is also celebrated by the Greek Orthodox Church and other denominations on November 30 (Julian calendar) or December 13 (Gregorian calendar), the latter being Georgia's chosen date.

On Saint Andrew's Day, Georgians attend special liturgical services at Orthodox churches, where prayers are offered and the life of the saint is commemorated. In many churches, a divine liturgy is held, and believers receive Holy Communion. It is customary for families to visit churches, especially those dedicated to Saint Andrew, and to light candles in memory of the saint. Many Georgians also engage in charitable acts, such as donating to the poor or visiting the sick, reflecting the apostle's missionary spirit.

Food traditions include preparing a festive meal at home, often featuring traditional Georgian dishes such as khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), mtsvadi (grilled meat), and churchkhela (nut and grape candy). Wine plays a central role, as Georgia is known for its ancient winemaking tradition, and toasts are made in honor of Saint Andrew. In some regions, the day is also associated with the beginning of the Advent fast (if it falls within the Nativity Fast), but many Georgians still enjoy moderate feasting.

Public celebrations include concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events organized by the Georgian Orthodox Church and local municipalities. In Tbilisi, the capital, Patriarch Ilia II often leads a solemn service at the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Schools and public institutions may hold educational programs about the saint's role in Georgia's Christianization. The day is also an opportunity for families to gather and strengthen bonds, with many Georgians enjoying a day off work.

Saint Andrew the First-Called Day is one of the most important religious holidays in Georgia, symbolizing the nation's ancient Christian heritage and its special connection to the Apostolic era. For Georgians, it reaffirms their identity as one of the oldest Christian nations, with a faith that predates the conversion of many other countries. The holiday honors Saint Andrew as the first preacher of Christianity in Georgia, making him a foundational figure in the country's spiritual and cultural history.

Beyond religious observance, the day serves as a symbol of national unity and resilience, reminding Georgians of their centuries-long Christian tradition despite periods of foreign domination and persecution. It is a day of pride, reflection, and community, highlighting the role of the Orthodox Church in preserving Georgian culture and language. For the diaspora, it is a way to maintain ties to the homeland and transmit faith to younger generations.