Orthodox Christians in Georgia marked the Feast of the Beheading of John the Baptist on September 11, with a Divine Liturgy celebrated at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi and led by Catholicos-Patriarch Shio III.

Following the service, the Georgian patriarch congratulated worshippers on the feast and delivered a sermon focusing on repentance, prayer and faithfulness to the truth.

Patriarch Shio III said repentance is an essential part of a person’s spiritual life. He noted that calling people to repentance was one of the central missions of John the Baptist, who, according to Christian tradition, prepared the people for the coming of the Gospel.

“Without repentance, it is impossible for a person to open his heart to God and receive grace,” the patriarch said, emphasizing that repentance should not be viewed as a one-time act but as a practice accompanying a person throughout life.

The head of the Georgian Orthodox Church also urged believers to devote greater attention to prayer, describing it as one of the most important means of maintaining a spiritual connection with God. He recalled that the apostles asked Jesus Christ to teach them to pray, just as John the Baptist had taught his disciples.

Patriarch Shio III further emphasized the importance of truth and courage. He said John the Baptist became a martyr for truth, and that his memory reminds Christians of the need to remain faithful to their convictions and not be afraid to speak the truth.

“If we are unable to give our lives for it, then at least we must be able to live for truth and righteousness,” Shio III said.

Concluding his sermon, the patriarch encouraged the faithful to turn to prayer more often, overcome the distractions and concerns of everyday life, and strengthen their faith. He wished worshippers strength to pursue repentance, prayer and a life guided by Christian principles of truth.

The Orthodox Church commemorates the Beheading of John the Baptist on September 11. According to the Gospel accounts, John was executed on the orders of King Herod after publicly denouncing the ruler’s actions.