The Dormition of the Mother of God was celebrated by the Orthodox community on August 28. The Catholicos-Patriarch of all Georgia, His Holiness Ilia II, celebrated the festal liturgy at the Sioni Cathedral at 9.00 a.m.

During his sermon, Patriarch Ilia blessed the nation to hold a mass protest demonstration against Russia, which will take place all over the world on September 1, 2008. Ilia II particularly stressed the recent developments in Abkhazia and South Ossetia, stating that “currently the nation is exposed to danger, although God’s favour and grace will inevitably follow.”

“We live in a tough period, although we should not be afraid of the danger vested upon Georgia. The Georgian nation is strong in spirit and will resist. The danger has come for our sins, it comes from God and therefore God will grant us joy as well,” Ilia II stated.

http://www.messenger.com.ge/issues/1679_august_29_2008/1679_patriarch.html