Icon Containing Holy Relics of Saint Gabriel of Georgia in Montreal

Article by: Fr. Vladimir Vranic

“Wonderful is God in His saints” (Psalm 68:35).

In an atmosphere of solemn prayer and spiritual joy, reminiscent of the unity and grace of Pentecost, the Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church in Montreal welcomed the holy icon containing the relics of Saint Gabriel of Georgia, a great ascetic and confessor of the Orthodox faith.

Upon the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop of Toronto and Metropolitan of Canada Kyr Mitrofan, on October 21, 2026, the prayer service was presided over by His Grace Bishop Saba (Intskirveli), Bishop of the North American Diocese of the Georgian Apostolic Orthodox Church, who brought the holy icon to Montreal accompanied by Mitred Archpriest Thoma Bekurishvili. A Moleben — Paraklesis to Saint Gabriel of Georgia was served, gathering faithful from various Orthodox communities of Montreal in common prayer, venerating the holy relics and seeking the saint’s blessing.

This blessed event took place within the celebrations marking the 1,700th anniversary of Christianity becoming the state religion of Georgia. The holy icon containing the relics of Saint Gabriel is visiting communities throughout the United States and Canada before returning to Georgia. Montreal was among the select Canadian cities blessed by the presence of this sacred treasure.

“That they all may be one” (John 17:21). These words of our Lord reveal the deeper meaning of our gathering: that, united in the love of Christ, we may be one in faith, prayer, and communion in His Holy Body. The blessing of Saint Gabriel reminded us that holiness is not merely a witness from times past, but a living calling for each of us to bear witness to Christ through faith, humility, and love.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Milan Vojinovic for the beautiful photographs that captured this blessed occasion and preserved the memory of this prayerful gathering.

Holy Father Gabriel, pray to God for us!