Georgia: Tradition and Transformation
Tucked between Europe and Asia, the nation of Georgia is a land where mountains guard ancient monasteries and cobblestone streets carry the prayers of centuries. It is a country shaped profoundly by faith, where history and spirituality are inseparable, and where identity is deeply intertwined with the Church.
A Foundation of Faith
In the early fourth century, Georgia embraced Christianity as its state religion, becoming one of the first nations in the world to do so.
The Church has preserved the nation’s culture, and identity despite invasions, occupations, and political upheaval. The Eastern Orthodox faith united the country, deepening their commitment to this tradition.
Today, approximately 85% of Georgians identify with the Eastern Orthodox Church. For many, to be Georgian is to be Orthodox. There are also small populations of Armenian Christians and Muslims, along with evangelical believers. Georgian Evangelicals represent only about 0.2% of the population.
Tradition Without Transformation
Many Orthodox believers view evangelicals with suspicion, often labeling them as sects or even cults. To step outside Orthodoxy can feel like betraying one’s heritage and going against long-standing tradition.
Though tradition is not inherently bad, it has become the greatest obstacle to a true relationship with Jesus. Many Orthodox Christians are Christians in name only. They have deep commitment to the church, but inside their hearts are apathetic toward the gospel.
Evangelical Christians are not trying to dismantle this historic faith, rather they are trying to breathe new life into it.
A Quiet but Purposeful Work
The spiritual climate in Georgia today is complex. There is resistance, yes. But there is also openness, especially among the younger generation.
In the 1990s, after the collapse of the Soviet Union, Georgia was spiritually curious and unusually open. There was a hunger for truth and exploration of the gospel. That window narrowed over time, but seeds were planted.
Today, young people seem especially receptive. They are more globally aware, and more comfortable with differences. While older generations may see evangelical faith as dangerous, many young Georgians are willing to listen. They are asking deeper questions. They are open to authentic relationships.
And in Georgia, that is key.
The gospel moves forward here, not through programs or platforms, but through long-term, personal, relational presence. Trust is everything. Discipleship must be slow, intentional, and deeply rooted in love.
How SEND Is Stepping In
In 2020, SEND International entered a season of recasting vision and renewed commitment to expansion in this region. That renewed vision led to a 2021 exploratory trip, which developed into an approved strategy to unite the Trans-Caucasian region (Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan) with Georgia serving as the starting point.
In 2023, SEND partnered with local believers for a launch trip in Georgia, marking a new chapter of collaboration. Today, the team is new to the country yet deeply experienced across Eurasia. They come not as outsiders with quick solutions, but as long-term servants ready to build relationships, learn the culture, and walk alongside local believers.
Praying for Georgia
Pray for revival and spiritual awakening.
Pray that idols of tradition would gently fall.
Pray for courage for those who choose to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
Pray for the SEND team, that God would strengthen them and fill them with steadfastness.
God is not absent in Georgia. He is moving — quietly, steadily, and purposefully.
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