Saint John of Zedazni and his 12 disciples, who came from Cappadocia to Georgia in the mid-6th century, became the founders of Georgian monasticism. John, having received spiritual education in Antioch, chose 12 disciples and, fulfilling the command of the Mother of God, went to Georgia, where they were joyfully welcomed by the people and King Parsman.
The saints established monasteries, preached Christianity, destroyed idolatry, and erected churches. Each of the disciples, such as Saint Aviv, Bishop of Nekresi, Saint Zenon, Saint Thaddeus, Saint Isidore, and others, worked in various territories of Georgia, founding monasteries and churches, strengthening the faith of the people.
Saint John, opposing evil spirits, performed many miracles, healed the sick, and left behind a spiritual legacy. Before his death, he called his disciples and bequeathed to be buried in a cave on Mount Zedazeni. His passing occurred between 557 and 560 AD. After his death, the disciples transferred his body to the monastery, but the earthquakes ceased only after the body was placed in the cave, as he had bequeathed.
In the 10th century, a church was built in honor of John the Baptist, and the holy relics of John of Zedazni were placed in its sanctuary, where they were glorified by many miracles.
