Venerable John lived in the 6th century and received his spiritual education in Antioch. In his youth, he became a monk and lived as a solitary ascetic. Over time, he attained remarkable meekness, humility, and the gift of working miracles. The fame of his spiritual struggles attracted numerous disciples to him.
John chose twelve disciples and, following the command of the Mother of God, set out for Georgia, where he was joyfully welcomed by the people and King Pharsman. Venerable John of Zedazeni and his disciples became the founders of Georgian monasticism. They settled on Mount Zedazeni, where a pagan shrine had previously stood, and led an ascetic life, healing the sick through their prayers.
After some time, the Most Holy Theotokos appeared to Saint John again and blessed him to send his disciples to different regions of Kartli to preach the Gospel. Once again, Saint John obeyed the word of the Mother of God. Thus, the holy fathers established the ascetic way of life throughout the country and became the second apostles of Georgia.
Saints Abib, Isa, Joseph, Isidore, Michael, Pyrrhus, and Stephen, each of whom founded monasteries and churches, preached Christianity, eradicating idolatry and strengthening the faith among the people.
Having sent out his disciples, Saint John of Zedazeni devoted himself even more deeply to prayer and ascetic struggles. In the name of Christ, he drove evil spirits out of the region of Mtskheta. Through his prayers, a spring of healing water began to flow on Mount Zaden. Venerable John received a revelation concerning his approaching death and instructed his disciples to bury him in a cave on the mountain.
Venerable John reposed between 557 and 560.