Saint Mamai, Catholicos of Georgia β A Martyr for Christ (Memory May 3/16)
On May 3rd (16th on the Julian Calendar), the Georgian Orthodox Church commemorates Saint Mamai, who served as Catholicos of Georgia from 731 to 744. His life, though not well-documented, is marked by his unwavering faith and ultimate martyrdom for Christ.
A Shepherd of the Faithful in Turbulent Times
Saint Mamai lived during one of the most tumultuous periods in Georgian history, when the country faced relentless invasions. He was not only a spiritual leader but also a guardian of the Georgian people, as during that time, both the Catholicos and the King of Georgia were often the first targets of invading forces.
Before his enthronement as Catholicos of Georgia, Saint Mamai served as abbot of Zedazeni Monastery, a revered center of monastic life and spiritual strength in Georgia. His deep spiritual wisdom, holiness, and unwavering devotion made him a natural leader for the Georgian Church in an era of persecution.
A Martyr for Christ
Saint Mamai ultimately sacrificed his life in the name of Christ, dying as a martyr for his faith. His dedication to defending Orthodox Christianity and shepherding his flock remains an inspiration to all faithful today. Though historical details are limited, his legacy lives on through the veneration of his name in the Georgian Orthodox Church.
A Prayer to Saint Mamai
βWe rejoice in thy memory, O Holy Hierarch Mamai, and ask thee to beseech God to send down upon us His rich and abundant mercy. By thy holy prayers, embrace us with thine eternal love!β
May the blessings and prayers of Saint Mamai, who courageously led and protected the Georgian Church, continue to strengthen and guide us all in our spiritual journey.
π May his memory be eternal! π
Β
βLives of Georgian Saints,β Tbilisi, 2004.
Translated by Father Thomas Bekurishvili