Lighting of the Second Advent Candle Dedicated to Education

On December 7, the second Advent candle was lit at the Peace Cathedral, symbolically dedicated to education. During the event, Elene Kalatozishvili delivered a thoughtful reflection on the meaning and importance of education in today’s world.

She emphasized that education is a living and transformative process—one through which we acquire knowledge, develop skills, and grow into conscientious, responsible, and compassionate members of society. Education, she noted, enables us to understand the world around us, think critically, ask questions, and contribute to a better future—whether through science, art, or everyday actions.

Kalatozishvili highlighted that in the modern interconnected world, education must also foster global citizenship. It must teach us to value diversity, understand and respect various cultures, and approach international challenges with openness, empathy, and intellectual curiosity.

However, she pointed out that in Georgia today, education faces serious threats. There are attempts to limit access to education and turn it into a privilege, rather than a right. There are efforts to strip education of its genuine purpose and instead use it as a tool of control. Institutions that provide not only factual knowledge but also essential values and skills are being weakened, dismantled, or sold.

She stressed that education must never become a luxury. Every individual, regardless of origin, social background, or political views—whether their own or those of their family—must have equal access to education. Reflecting on this idea, she referenced Ilia Chavchavadze’s words at the opening of a school in Tsinamdzgvriantkari:

“Knowledge is good precisely because it knows no hierarchy. Like the sanctuary, like the church, like God Himself, it equally welcomes, shelters, and adopts both the peasant wrapped in rags and the noble adorned in ornaments.”

Education, she continued, is the most valuable investment for the future. As Ms. Mzekala Shanidze once said, “Education is a very delicate issue, and nitpicking with it brings great harm.”

In closing, Kalatozishvili reminded the audience that it is our responsibility to ensure that education remains accessible and protected, and that we do not allow our fundamental right to be taken away.