On the joyous occasion of the Feast of St. Stephen of Dečani, His Eminence Metropolitan Longin visited the Parish of St. Stephen of Dečani in Warren, Michigan. The celebration was marked by the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, served by Metropolitan Longin in concelebration with Protopresbyter-Stavrophor Živan Urošev and the parish priest, Protopresbyter Zvonko Kostić.
Elevation of Fr. Zvonko Kostić
During the Divine Liturgy, Metropolitan Longin elevated Fr. Zvonko to the rank of Protopresbyter in honor of his 25 years of service to God and the faithful. The Metropolitan commended Fr. Zvonko for his tireless efforts both in Kosovo and Metohija and in his current parish in Warren. He noted that this recognition is both a testament to Fr. Zvonko’s dedication and an encouragement for continued zealous service in the vineyard of the Lord.
Blessing of Frescoes and the Role of Sacred Art
Metropolitan Longin also consecrated the newly completed frescoes that adorn the beautiful interior of the St. Stephen of Dečani Church. In his address, he highlighted the importance of icons and frescoes in the life of the Orthodox Church, emphasizing their role in lifting the faithful’s hearts and minds toward God. “It is easier to pray,” he said, “when the angels and saints are looking upon us.” The Metropolitan praised the artistic beauty of the church and its significance in Orthodox worship, where sacred art and architecture serve as a means of encountering the divine.
Celebration of the Patronal Feast
Following the Liturgy, Metropolitan Longin blessed the Slava bread (Slavski kolač), the central ritual of the parish’s patronal feast celebration. The festal banquet that followed was well-attended, with guests from neighboring parishes, including visiting clergy and faithful, joining the celebration.
The presence of many children at the feast was especially heartwarming and received commendation from the Metropolitan. He also praised the parish for its vitality, the dedication of its clergy, the enthusiasm of the children, and the tireless efforts of the parish’s Kolo Srpskih Sestara (Circle of Serbian Sisters), whose contributions greatly enriched the event.
Who Was St. Stephen of Dečani?
St. Stephen of Dečani, a revered Serbian saint, was the King of Serbia in the 14th century. Known for his piety and justice, he was a devout ruler who dedicated his reign to the glory of God and the welfare of his people. St. Stephen is perhaps best remembered for founding the Visoki Dečani Monastery, a masterpiece of Serbian medieval architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. His life was marked by trials and suffering, including imprisonment by his own father, yet he remained steadfast in faith. St. Stephen fell asleep in the Lord in 1336, and his relics, which have been a source of countless miracles, are enshrined in the Dečani Monastery.
A Day to Remember
The Feast of St. Stephen of Dečani in Warren was a memorable day filled with prayer, fellowship, and celebration. Metropolitan Longin’s visit, the recognition of Fr. Zvonko, the consecration of the frescoes, and the joy of the faithful all contributed to a vibrant and uplifting event. The parish continues to shine as a beacon of Orthodox faith and tradition, inspired by the example of its heavenly patron, St. Stephen of Dečani.
Let us pray that the parish of St. Stephen of Dečani in Warren continues to flourish in faith, love, and unity, always guided by the intercessions of St. Stephen and the blessings of our Lord Jesus Christ.
