On November 13, Georgia observes the annual Day of the 100,000 Martyrs, honoring the Georgians martyred in 1227 for refusing to renounce their faith. Clergy and faithful of the Georgian Orthodox Church gathered in the historic center of Tbilisi at the Metekhi Bridge to pay tribute to the 100,000 Georgians who were beheaded and thrown into the Mtkvari River by order of Khwarezmian ruler Jalal ad-Din, who had captured Tbilisi, according to the Georgian Patriarchate's press service.

During the ceremony, Metropolitan Shio of Senaki and Chkhorotsku conveyed the blessings and greetings of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II of All Georgia, emphasizing that the martyrs' example continues to inspire the Georgian people to preserve their faith and cultural heritage despite challenges. He highlighted that the martyrs' suffering symbolizes the Church's beauty, their sacrifice demonstrates the strength of faith, and their steadfastness serves as a call to spiritual loyalty and devotion to God.

“By commemorating the holy 100,000 martyrs, the Holy Church sets their example before us, that we too, inspired by their contribution, may remain faithful to the Savior and the Church He established,” said Metropolitan Shio.

An icon of Jesus Christ and a cross were brought from the church to the Metekhi Bridge, where a prayer service was held, followed by hymns. After the service, wreaths were placed on the Mtkvari River in memory of the martyrs, whom Metropolitan Shio described as a lasting source of inspiration for future generations.