Saint John of Zedazeni and His Disciples Icon - S629

This beautiful icon features the 13 holy fathers who are considered to be the founders of Georgian monasticism. Their names are: John of Zedazeni, Abibus of Nekresi, Anthony of Martqopi, David of Gareji, Zenon of Iqalto, Thaddeus of Stepantsminda, Jesse of Tsilkani, Joseph of Alaverdi, Isidore of Samtavisi, Michael of Ulumbo, Pyrrhus of Breti, Stephen of Khirsa, and Shio of Mgvime. All of them were 6th century natives of Syria. 

Saint John struggled in the wilderness near Antioch. He was faithful and devout, and crowds flocked to him to witness his holiness. He finally decided to withdraw deeper into the deserts, taking twelve of his disciples with him. After this, the Theotokos appeared to him and sent him to Georgia.

They settled on the mountain of Zedazeni, where they lived simply and continued their life of prayer. Word spread among the Christians of Georgia, and many came to visit their monastery, which began to grow with new brothers.

The Theotokos again appeared to Saint John. This time, she told John and his 12 disciples to go throughout Georgia to preach the Gospel. They did so, some with suffering, some working miracles, and all of them bringing countless souls to Christ and saturating Georgia with divine grace. They are all commemorated together on May 7.

Icon courtesy of Saint Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral in Washington, DC. A portion of the sale of this icon is given to the Cathedral to support their ministry.