This Nativity Lenten season, Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral was blessed to host a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy with His Eminence Metropolitan Longin and His Grace Bishop Serafim, alongside a gathering of esteemed clergy and faithful parishioners. The responses were beautifully sung by our Branko Radičević Choir, filling the church with angelic hymns of praise and prayer.
The service was concelebrated by a group of clergy:
- V. Rev. Stavrophor Miloš Vasiljević, a retired priest from Kraljevo
- V. Rev. Darko Spasojević, Cathedral Dean
- V. Rev. Stavrophor Dobrivoje Milunović
- Rev. Nikolaj Kostur
- Deacons Milovan Gogić, Theodore Sokolović, and Miloš Božić
It was heartwarming to see our church filled with so many faithful, united in prayer and devotion. During the Liturgy, Bishop Serafim delivered a poignant sermon, reflecting on the Gospel reading and the call to love and mercy. He reminded us of the timeless commandment:
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.”
This was an especially meaningful visit from His Grace Bishop Serafim, who was elected Vicar Bishop at the Holy Assembly of Bishops of the Serbian Orthodox Church in May 2024 upon the recommendation of His Eminence Metropolitan Longin. Reflecting on this appointment, Metropolitan Longin shared yesterday that this significant milestone is indicative of the growth of our Church and Diocese. He noted that the appointment of Bishop Serafim adds greatly to our resources and strengthens the Church’s ability to serve its faithful. Metropolitan Longin also reflected on the wisdom of St. Photios, saying that “everything adds up,” even in the seemingly smallest conversations with the faithful, reminding us that every action and word can have a profound impact.
Following the Liturgy, His Eminence Metropolitan Longin and His Grace Bishop Serafim joined a vibrant schedule of community engagement activities.
The bishops visited with members of the Serbian American Medical and Dental Society (SAMDS), who provided an enlightening presentation on preventive medicine. Free consultations were offered to our Cathedral parishioners, reflecting the Church’s commitment to holistic well-being—both spiritual and physical.
The day concluded with a visit to the Cathedral’s Youth Group, where the bishops cheered on the young participants in a spirited basketball tournament. Their presence brought joy and encouragement, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among the youth. The Cathedral’s youth group has been experiencing constant growth in terms of numbers, content, and activities under the well-structured leadership of Protinica Jelena Milunović. Her guidance has created a vibrant environment where young parishioners can deepen their faith, build lasting friendships, and participate in both spiritual and recreational activities that enrich their lives.
This blessed day was a beautiful testament to the strength of our faith, the vibrancy of our parish community, and the shared journey of preparation for the Nativity of our Lord. Let us continue to grow in love, mercy, and service as we prepare our hearts for Christ’s birth.
Glory to God for all things!
