On Saturday, July 19, His Eminence Metropolitan Longin, together with Their Graces Bishop Irinej, hierarch of the Eastern American Diocese, and Bishop Maxim, hierarch of the Western American Diocese, presided over the Divine Hierarchical Liturgy at St. Sava Monastery. The celebration of the monastery’s centennial, along with the newly established tradition of “Mardarije Days,” was at the heart of this year’s spiritual festivity dedicated to God and St. Mardarije of Libertyville and All America.

Following established tradition, in the early morning hours, the faithful and pilgrims set out in a prayerful procession from New Gracanica Monastery to St. Sava Monastery. Upon arrival, at 9:00 a.m., the Divine Hierarchical Liturgy was served at the monastery pavilion. With the presence of several hierarchs and numerous clergy from our and sister dioceses, the spiritual joy of Mardarije Days was especially enriched.

In his homily, Metropolitan Longin emphasized that without prayer to God and unity among the people there can be no progress, calling upon the faithful to emulate the labor and zeal of St. Mardarije, as well as his deep love for God, the Church, and his people. He extended special thanks to the honored guests—Bishop Irinej, who began his monastic service at St. Sava Monastery, and Bishop Maxim, whose efforts were of great significance for the canonization of St. Mardarije and St. Sebastian.

The blessed rain that fell that day did not diminish the prayerful joy nor the desire of the faithful to venerate the relics of St. Mardarije and receive his blessing. A special highlight of the day was the visit to the construction site of the future Spiritual and Cultural Center, whose building is progressing and requires joint effort so that it may soon be completed.

During the celebration, students of St. Sava Faculty of Theology received their diplomas after successfully completing their four-year studies. Metropolitan Longin personally presented the diplomas, expressing hope that they would offer their knowledge and efforts in continued service to the Holy Church.

We extend our gratitude to our hierarchs and all clergy who served the Divine Liturgy, as well as to the faithful whose prayers and presence brought honor to God, St. Mardarije, and their Church.

Miroslav Sretenović