Georgian interfaithfulness

In Tbilisi, religious institutions of all denominations stand side-by-side, many undergoing renovations and repair.

After Georgia was annexed by the Russian Empire, the Russian Orthodox Church took over the Georgian church in 1811. The Georgian church regained its autonomy when Russian rule ended in 1918. In the 1970s, Georgian Orthodoxy experienced a revival. In 1988 Moscow permitted the patriarch to begin consecrating and reopening closed churches, and a large-scale restoration process began. The global financial crisis halted many restoration projects, however, many have recommenced.

About 65% of Georgians are Georgian Orthodox, 11% are Muslim, 10% Russian Orthodox, 8% Armenian Apostolic and 6% are of other religions. Jewish communities exist predominantly in Tbilisi and Kutaisi.

Representatives of different religious communities meet todialogue and celebrate major events. An example of this was on the occassion of the Muslim Sacrifice Feast, Eid al-Adha, on November 17. The Ambassador the Republic of Turkey of the Turkish Embassy offered a feast. In attendance were representatives of the Orthdox Patriarchate of Georgia, the Imam of Cuma Mosque, the Chief Rabbi of Georgia, the Head of the Evangelical-Lutheran Church, and a Priest of the Georgian Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

They exchanged views on peace, tolerance and mutual understanding existing amongst the Georgian communities, showing their support for genuine inter-religious dialogue.

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