New Gracanica, IL, May 22, 2024 – In a heartfelt appeal, Bishop Longin urges the clergy and faithful of the Diocese of New Gracanica – Midwestern America to unite in prayer in light of a critical vote in the United Nations tomorrow. This vote has the potential to label the entire Serbian nation as genocidal, undermining the tremendous suffering of the Serbian people during the war.

“Dear Fathers, Brothers, and Sisters,” begins Bishop Longin’s message, “We ask all the clergy and faithful of our diocese to turn to the Lord and All Serbian Saints in prayer today and tomorrow for the salvation of our people.” The hope is that these prayers will “reach the throne of God and be heard unto the stopping of enemies and adversaries of the Serbian people.”

This call to prayer, blessed by God, underscores the deep spiritual foundation of the Serbian Orthodox community. Under Bishop Longin’s guidance, the diocese is called to demonstrate its faith and resilience.

The Diocese of New Gracanica – Midwestern America has a rich history of responding to calls for prayer and support. Bishop Longin’s latest appeal continues the mission to uphold the spiritual and communal values of the Serbian Orthodox tradition. By coming together in prayer, the clergy and faithful reaffirm their commitment to their faith and each other.

In these moments of collective prayer, Bishop Longin hopes to invoke the protection and guidance of the Lord and All Serbian Saints, trusting in their intercession for justice and the well-being of the Serbian people. This call to prayer is a profound expression of faith and hope, aimed at bringing about divine intervention and relief in times of need.

As the faithful respond to Bishop Longin’s call, their prayers testify to the enduring spirit of the Serbian Orthodox Church and its unwavering belief in the power of divine grace.