Alexandre Okropiridze was an Eastern Orthodox bishop born in 1824 in the village of Disevi. After completing his theological studies in Kazan, he held several ecclesiastical positions, including serving as the bishop of Abkhazia, Gori, and eventually the Gurja-Mingrelian diocese. He is widely recognized for his extensive missionary work and his efforts to restore Christian life in regions devastated by conflict. He died in 1907 at the Shio-Mgvime monastery, where he was buried.
Ecclesiastical career
Following his monastic tonsure in Tiflis, Alexandre studied at the Kazan Theological Academy. He served as a teacher and administrator of various religious schools before being ordained as a bishop. His leadership spanned several dioceses, including Abkhazia and Gurja-Mingrelia. Throughout his service, he promoted the study of ancient Georgian church singing and supported the establishment of educational institutions.
Missionary work
During his tenure as the bishop of Abkhazia, he worked to rebuild the faith in areas heavily impacted by Turkish invasions. By traveling to numerous villages to preach and baptize locals, he earned the title of the "second apostle of Abkhazia." He also focused on education by founding parish schools and a spiritual school in Ilori.
Legacy and veneration
Alexandre contributed significantly to the restoration of several monasteries, such as Shio-Mgvime and Zedazeni. He was canonized as a saint by the Georgian Orthodox Church in 1996. He remains honored for his dedication to both the spiritual and educational advancement of the Georgian church.