Saint Mary's Day, also known as the Assumption of Mary, is a significant holiday celebrated in the country of Georgia among other countries worldwide. It's a Christian festival that honors the departure of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, from this world. The day is celebrated by the Orthodox Church on August 28, following the old Julian calendar, whereas the Catholic Church and some Protestant denominations, following the Gregorian calendar, celebrate it on August 15.
The celebrations in Georgia are marked with great honor and devotion, as Saint Mary, called 'ghvtismshobeli' in Georgian, holds a special place in the hearts of Georgians. Several churches and cathedrals nationwide are named after Saint Mary, making the holiday a large communal event. Celebrations typically involve a beautifully orchestrated church service, filled with prayers, hymns and the reading of scriptures. The day is also marked by processions or pilgrimages to shrines dedicated to Saint Mary.
In addition to the religious aspect, Saint Mary's Day also carries social and cultural significance in Georgia. It is a day when families and friends come together to share meals and create memories. Traditional Georgian dishes are prepared and shared, contributing to the communal atmosphere that characterizes the day. The occasion also symbolizes the end of summer and the beginning of the harvest season, adding to its significance. All these factors make Saint Mary's Day one of the cherished holidays in Georgia, reflecting the strong religious and cultural heritage of this remarkable country.