Wedding in a Georgian church

A wedding is a unique ceremony filled with deep spiritual significance and ancient traditions. This event is steeped in the heritage of Orthodoxy and respect for millennia-old religious canons. Georgia was among the first countries to adopt Christianity, so spiritual customs, especially the sacrament of marriage, hold particular importance here. Couples from all over the world come to Georgia to hold their ceremonies in ancient churches and monasteries, many of which have been saved for centuries.

Preparation for the wedding

Preparing for a wedding in Georgia requires careful spiritual consideration. An essential prerequisite is that both partners must be Orthodox baptized; without this, a wedding in Georgian churches cannot take place. A few days before the ceremony, it is advisable for the couple to fast, confess, and receive communion, which can be done in their home church before arriving in Georgia. This ritual symbolizes their readiness to receive blessings and embark on a new life together. In the Orthodox tradition, a wedding is viewed as more than just a ceremony; it is a union of souls before God, which demands purification and a deep understanding of the significance of this commitment.

Choosing a Church for a Wedding

Georgia is renowned for its ancient churches and monasteries, such as the Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba) in Tbilisi, Jvari Church in Mtskheta, Betania Monastery, and Anchiskhati Monastery. Each church offers a unique atmosphere and spiritual energy. For instance, Jvari Church sits atop a mountain with stunning views of the confluence of the Kura and Aragvi rivers. Dating back to the first half of the 7th century, it is one of the most revered landmarks of ancient Georgian architecture. Similarly, the 6th-century Anchiskhati Monastery, one of the oldest churches in the country, imbues the ceremony with a profound sense of holiness and historical importance.

The Sacrament of Marriage

The wedding ceremony in Georgian churches adheres to Orthodox canons and is rich in symbolism. At the beginning of the ceremony, the priest reads prayers and places crowns on the heads of the newlyweds. These crowns represent the royal dignity of the couple and symbolize their readiness to accept mutual responsibility in front of the Lord and the church. During the ceremony, the couple holds lighted candles, which symbolize the purity and luminosity of their love, as well as their sincere intentions and commitment to a life together.

The sound of church singing and prayers creates an atmosphere of tranquility and reverence. After the prayers, the priest reads a passage from the Gospel, highlighting the sanctity of marriage and its role as a path to spiritual fulfillment. The wedding ceremony is not only a joining of lives but also a blessing for a shared journey, where each day is dedicated to love and mutual care.

The wedding moment is accompanied by special prayers and hymns that fill the church with sacred energy. Participation in this sacrament leaves each guest with something more profound than just a memory; it becomes a foundation for a new life and spiritual growth. For those wishing to hold this ceremony in Georgia, please reach out to us. You will gain more than just a beautiful ceremony; you will experience deep spiritual immersion and connection with Georgia's rich history and culture.

Important note: after the wedding, you will receive a certificate that includes the bishop's signature and the church's seal. However, in Georgia, this document is not considered official and doesn’t have any legal power. Therefore, if you plan to legalize your marriage in your home country in the future, we recommend conducting an official registration in addition to your spiritual ceremony. We can assist with this process also, which can be completed even in one day and without any unnecessary hassle!