Saint Abo of Tbilisi

A life of faith

Abo was a young perfumer from Baghdad who came to Georgia with Duke Nerse. He learned Georgian, attended Christian worship, and spoke with priests as his interest in the faith grew. He later received baptism in Khazaria. Returning to Tbilisi, he lived openly as a Christian despite the danger attached to his conversion. Arrest and imprisonment did not change his commitment. The traditional life remembers his care for local churches and his reception of Communion before execution. His commemoration joins careful learning and conversion with steadfast faith in the setting of ordinary urban work.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Consider the value of asking questions and learning a community’s language. Seek a patient teacher, and give yourself time to understand the worship you encounter.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.