“I will build My Church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.”
Matthew 16:18
How comforting and true these words are. Our history reflects their enduring truth. Through the tragedy of the First World War, during which our parish sent so many volunteers, to the hardships of the Great Depression, and the devastation of the Second World War, our Saint Sava Church has been a steadfast source of aid and comfort. In more recent history, during the painful war of the 1990s, the church once again stood as a refuge for those in need.
Like a good and fruitful vineyard, with countless dedicated workers and families, Saint Sava Church has offered not only material support but also spiritual nourishment for over 100 years. It has provided everything necessary for life and salvation, remaining a home and sanctuary through every trial.
Here we are today, celebrating 110 years of St. Sava Church’s life and legacy. Established in 1914 on 20th and Connecticut in Gary, Indiana, the church relocated in 1939 to a new building on the same street. In 1978, it moved once again to 49th Avenue in Hobart. Finally, in May of 1991, we consecrated one of the most beautiful Serbian churches in America, located on Mississippi Street in Merrillville, Indiana.
Now, thirty-three years later, we celebrate this milestone anniversary. We were blessed with the presence of the newly ordained Bishop Serafim, along with:
- Very Rev. Stavrophor Jovan Todorovic, former parish priest at St. Sava Church
- Very Rev. Stavrophor Mijoljub Matic, parish priest at St. Sava Church in Cleveland, Ohio
- Rev. Milorad Jancic, parish priest at Indiana Harbor
- Deacon Milos Bozic
Many visitors from neighboring parishes joined us, including the entire membership of Indiana Harbor Parish, which closed its doors for the day to celebrate with us.
Following the Divine Liturgy and a memorial service honoring the departed founders, members, and parishioners of our holy church, the celebration continued with a banquet in the social center. The program featured beautiful performances by our choir and folklore groups and culminated in an inspiring keynote speech by Very Rev. Jovan Todorovic. His Grace Bishop Serafim concluded the event with his blessing, wishing us many more years and special anniversaries to come.
Written by: Very Rev. Stavrophor Marko Matic