Saint George of Matskvereli (IX-X Century)

📅 Commemoration: April 2 Julian Calendar ( April 15 )

Saint George of Matskvereli was the Bishop of Atskuri, a renowned writer, and an esteemed ecclesiastical figure of his time. Although he was widely recognized in medieval Georgia for his literary contributions, sadly, none of his written works have survived to the present day.

Historical Mentions of Saint George Mtskvereli

References to Saint George Matskvereli can be found in the works of George the Merciful and Basil of Zarzma (Commemorated on October 5).

George the Merciful, in his “Life of Saint Grigol of Khandzta,” writes:

“I believed that this life would be recorded by the wise and perfect fathers of our time.”

He then lists renowned ecclesiastical writers of the period who were expected to chronicle the life of Saint Grigol of Khandzta, among whom he names Saint George Matskvereli.

Basil of Zarzma describes Saint George Matskvereli as a spiritual leader of the ecclesiastical life in Samtskhe, stating:

“He emerged from the valley of Shuarthli, born to noble and God-fearing parents, and was raised in the famed desert of Opiza.”

Contributions to Georgian Ecclesiastical History

One of the most significant contributions of Saint George Matskvereli was his role in preserving the history of Saint Serapion of Zarzma (Commemorated on October 29). According to Basil of Zarzma:

“All these miracles and deeds that occurred in the early episcopate and later years, were narrated to me by an eyewitness, George Mtskvereli.”

Saint George Matskvereli was deeply connected with Saint Serapion of Zarzma, attending his burial and playing a crucial role in documenting his life.

Leadership in the Church

Following the passing of Prince Giorgi Chorchaneli, a powerful feudal lord in Samtskhe, a period of great turmoil ensued in the region. There was strife, feuds, and bloodshed among noble families as they contested his inheritance.

In the midst of this chaos, Saint George Matskvereli assumed leadership over the governance of Samtskhe. He restored order, pacified disputes, and ensured that churches and properties previously disturbed by internal conflicts were reestablished and placed under rightful spiritual care. His leadership was instrumental in stabilizing both the religious and social structures of the region.

Blessed Repose

Saint George Matskvereli peacefully reposed in the first quarter of the 10th century. His spiritual legacy continues to be venerated in the Georgian Orthodox Church, and his contributions to the Church and his people remain invaluable.

A Prayer to Saint George Matskvereli

“O Holy Bishop George, wise and righteous shepherd of the faithful, intercede for us before the Lord, that He may grant us His abundant mercy and peace!”

🕊 May his memory be eternal!

“Lives of Georgian Saints,” Tbilisi, 2004.

Translated by Father Thomas Bekurishvili