As part of the celebrations marking the 1,700th anniversary of the declaration of Christianity as the state religion of Georgia, the Embassy of Georgia to the United States hosted a delegation from the Patriarchate of Georgia and representatives of the Georgian diaspora, at the initiative and with the support of the Government of Georgia and the Patriarchate of Georgia. Bishop Saba of the North American Diocese of the Georgian Apostolic Autocephalous Orthodox Church.

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Georgia to the United States Tamar Taliashvili addressed the attendees. She emphasized the historic significance of the declaration of Christianity as the state religion in shaping Georgia’s path as a state and its national identity. The Ambassador highlighted the importance to the Georgian diaspora of the events held throughout the anniversary year at the initiative and with the support of the Georgian state and the Georgian Orthodox Church. She noted that Georgians living abroad had been given the opportunity to take part in commemorating this momentous anniversary.

Bishop Saba of North America and Archimandrite Ioane, head of the delegation from the Patriarchate of Georgia, also addressed representatives of the Georgian diaspora. Other members of the delegation also offered remarks on the occasion.

As part of the visit, icons of the Most Holy Saint Mary and of Saint Gabriel were brought to Washington DC. These icons hold special significance for the Georgian Orthodox community living in the United States. Following the reception, Bishop Saba held a liturgy at the Washington church of Saint Tamar. The visit also included similar events in various US cities, with the participation of the Georgian diaspora.