Hierarch Saint Joseph, Bishop of Alaverdi

Saint Joseph of Alaverdi was one of the Thirteen Syrian (Assyrian) Fathers who came from Syria/Mesopotamia to eastern Georgia in the mid-6th century under Venerable John of Zedazeni, to strengthen Christianity and monasticism in the region.

Arriving in Kakheti, Joseph settled in the deserted Alaverdi steppe, living a strict hermit's life. A Kakhetian nobleman who encountered him while hunting was so struck by his holiness that he took monastic vows; a brotherhood gathered around Joseph, and a church dedicated to the Great Martyr George was built, giving rise to Alaverdi Monastery. Joseph became abbot of the monastery and the first head of the Alaverdi diocese established there, preaching among the local population.

He reposed in 570 and was buried in the Church of St. George at Alaverdi. In the 9th century, the imposing Alaverdi Cathedral was built on the site, where his relics still rest today.