April 19, 2008
Georgian Public Broadcaster

The Orthodox Christendom celebrates the Lazarus Saturday on April 19. The day is also marked in Georgia.

Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II has conducted a festive prayer regarding the holiday at the Holy Trinity Cathedral early this morning.

According to the New Testament, Jesus resurrected Lazarus, who had already been dead in the tomb for four days. It was the Lord’s last miracle ahead of his crucifixion. The Georgian Patriarchate reported that this day had a particular importance for Georgians.

With the blessing of Catholicos Patriarch of All Georgia, Lazarus Saturday is marked at every acting church across Georgia. Devout believers, keeping the fast, are allowed to have fish on the Lazarus Saturday.