Tbilisi and Batumi host Christmas marches "Alilo"

On January 7, Christmas marches "Alilo" were held in the cities of Tbilisi and Batumi. In the Georgian capital the event was blessed by Catholicos-Patriarch Elias II. He met a festive procession and handed sweets and gifts over to the participants.

The march in Tbilisi was attended by several thousands of believers, who gathered in Revolution Square and marched through the central Rustaveli Avenue.

One of the main roles was given to children, who were dressed in white garments. Also, the marches were attended by the clergy, who were carrying icons, crosses and flags. They were followed by parishioners on foot and in carts drawn by oxen, the "Mir" CIS TV and Radio Company reports.

"Our march aims to tell everyone we meet on the way, 'Rejoice, Jesus Christ was born!'," said Father Georgiy, a participant of the "Alilo".

"Today, we've the most beautiful day. We're happy to celebrate with our fellow citizens. For 15 years already, every Christmas we go out together with the Georgian Orthodox Church and take part in the 'Alilo'. We buy fruits and sweets for children in need. I think this tradition should be ever maintained," said Gigi Tsereteli, Vice-Speaker of the Georgian Parliament.

The Feast of Nativity was marked by a march "Alilo" in Batumi. There, all the Christian Churches held solemn services, the "PIK" TV Channel reports.