Saint Tamara,

Queen of Georgia

May 14th (May 1st old calendar).

St. Tamara (Thamar, 1184-1213), a queen of Georgia, was the daughter of the beautiful Bourduhan and George III. During her mother’s time Christianity had already spread into various parts of Georgia. Tamara left a good impression of herself on the people. Many Georgians venerate Tamara as the healer of infirmities. Georgian narratives extol her meekness, love of peace, wisdom, piety and beauty.

It is also known that St. Tamara was solicitous to the poor, widows, orphans and assisted in the spiritual development of Georgia. Besides this, she was the patroness of poets and writers, she built many churches as well as the sumptuous Vardziskiy palace. For her cares and generous gifts, the church added Tamara to the roster of saints.

St. Tamara called for a Church assembly, which put aside the confusion and replaced the unworthy hierarchs. Due to her successful activity within the government the Georgian kingdom spread and became stronger. 


 

Holy Protection Russian Orthodox Church

2049 Argyle Ave. Los Angeles, California 90068

 

(tamara_georgia.doc, 08-15-2000)