Bishop
Saint Joseph, Bishop of Alaverdi, was one of the thirteen Syrian fathers, founders of Georgian monasticism. From an early age, he chose the monastic life and, arriving in Georgia with Saint John Zedaznishvili, settled in the Alaverdi steppe, where he began his ascetic feats. His spiritual strength was so great that even wild beasts did not touch him.
The fame of Saint Joseph spread, and zealous devotees of piety began to flock to him. Thus, a monastery was established, and a church was built in honor of Saint George. Elected as the abbot, Saint Joseph cared for the brethren of the monastery and for the spiritual enlightenment of Kakheti, preaching the Word of God.
The people, seeing the holy life of Joseph, willingly accepted the Gospel teachings and abandoned pagan customs. He composed a catechism, by which he taught his flock. At the end of his life, Saint Joseph withdrew into his cell for silence.
In the year 570, he peacefully passed away and was buried in the church of Saint George in Alaverdi. In the 9th century, on the site of the former church, the Alaverdi Cathedral was erected, where the body of Saint Joseph rests under the altar.
