In the Georgian city of Zugdidi, the foundation of a new Church of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker has been consecrated, with construction set to begin on the site of an earlier church destroyed during the Soviet era, according to announcements by the Zugdidi Diocese of the Georgian Orthodox Church and the parish of Saint Nicholas Church.

The rite of consecration was performed by Metropolitan Gerasim of Zugdidi and Tsaisi together with clergy from the diocese. “God’s will has been fulfilled—where a church destroyed during the totalitarian regime stood, a blessing for rebuilding has once again been sounded,” said the diocese in its statement.

Local parish representatives noted that the original Saint Nicholas Church, located on the same street, was demolished in the mid-20th century. Decades later, work has resumed to restore the church. During the ceremony, Metropolitan Gerasim consecrated the started foundation and laid a cornerstone for the future building, and a memorial cross was also erected at the construction site.

At the conclusion of the service, Metropolitan Gerasim offered prayers for the successful and peaceful completion of the project. He presented an icon of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker for the future church, while local benefactors donated an intricately carved wooden crucifix.

The organizers say the new Church of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker will become one of the city’s important spiritual centers and serve as a lasting reminder to future generations of Christian heritage and the region’s history.