Ilori church of St. George and beliefs related to it

The church named after St. George of Ilori is considered as one of the most important worshiping places for all of Western Georgia. As the main, most powerful shrine of Samegrelo-Abkhazia, it was loaded with various functions. On St. George's holidays, especially in November, many worshipers gathered here from all over the Western Georgia to ensure the protection. The miracle was connected to the place. On the eve of
the holiday the church was locked and on the next morning the people were coming to see an ox inside the locked territory, which was considered to be brought by St. George himself. According the color and position of the ox the future was foreseen. The ox was slaughtered and shared. St. George of Ilori was considered to be a healer and judge. Several rites connected to St. George are discussed in the paper