Today, the regular annual meeting of the clergy of the North Chicago and South Chicago Deaneries was held in the small church hall of the South Chicago Church-School Congregation. Clergy gathered in brotherly love under the omophorion of our Archbishop and Metropolitan, Longin, and in the prayerful presence of the Vicar Bishop, Serafim.
Following the archpastoral address and words of encouragement from His Eminence Metropolitan Longin, His Grace Bishop Serafim addressed the clergy in detail regarding the ongoing renovation and expansion of the St. Mardarije Spiritual Center at the St. Sava Monastery. His Grace presented an overview of the current work, fundraising efforts, and the envisioned future organization, structure, purpose, and management of this important diocesan project. For the latest renovation updates and information on how to support this effort, please visit stsavamonastery.org.
The meeting continued with discussion on the work of diocesan organizations, preparations for Lenten services, a slight reorganization of the Deaneries, and forthcoming prayer events and jubilees throughout Chicago and the surrounding areas.
Special attention was given to the upcoming patronal feast of the St. Sava School of Theology. The School will celebrate its patron feast with a festive program on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Church (Palmer Square, Chicago). On behalf of the School, heartfelt gratitude was expressed to all parishes and faithful who faithfully support its mission through the Golden Cross fundraising efforts. The School also warmly invites and encourages others to join in supporting this vital work of theological education for the life of the Church.
The bishops and clergy expressed their sincere gratitude to the South Chicago Church-School Congregation of St. Simeon the Myrrh-streaming Church for graciously preparing the hall and providing an excellent lunch, and especially to the parish priest and host, the Rev. Dr. Mile Subotić, for his hospitality.
May the Lord continue to bless the unity, pastoral ministry, and common labor of our clergy and faithful, to the glory of God and the building up of His Holy Church.
