Vidovdan in Gračanica: Divine Liturgy, Medals for Mothers, and a Call to Faith and Perseverance

On Vidovdan, 28 June 2025, one of the most significant dates in Serbian history was solemnly celebrated at Gračanica Monastery – commemorating the Battle of Kosovo and the holy sacrifice of Saint Prince Lazar and the Serbian martyrs.

The Holy Liturgy was officiated by His Eminence Metropolitan Joanikije of Montenegro and the Littoral, with the concelebration of Metropolitan Pahomije of Vranje, Metropolitan Teodosije of Raška and Prizren, Bishop Jovan of Slavonia, and Bishop Petar of Toplica, Vicar of His Holiness Serbian Patriarch Porfirije.

The prayerful gathering was attended by abbots and abbesses from numerous monasteries of the Serbian Orthodox Church, including Abbess Jelena of Žiča Monastery with her sisters, as well as a large number of clergy, monastics, and faithful from all parts of the Serbian lands and the diaspora.

In his inspired homily, Metropolitan Joanikije reminded the faithful of the profound meaning of the Kosovo sacrifice and called for love towards Kosovo and Metohija:

“On the Field of Kosovo, where we experienced our greatest sorrow, we also gained our greatest glory. The sacrifice of Saint Prince Lazar reminds us to safeguard our holy sites, our people, and our homeland. We see that love for Kosovo and Metohija does not diminish – young people are coming, praying, bearing witness that this is not a lost land. The faith of our people is alive.”

He particularly praised the long-standing and unwavering service of Metropolitan Teodosije:

“He carries the cross of his people with peace, faith, and hope. His words resemble those of Patriarch Pavle – that we should fear nothing except sin. His perseverance is an encouragement to us all.”

Traditionally, the Raška–Prizren Diocese, with the support of the Office for Kosovo and Metohija, presented the Mother of Nine Jugović Medal to mothers with four or more children, as a sign of respect and gratitude for their sacrifice and love for life. Metropolitan Teodosije addressed words of encouragement to the mothers:

“There is nothing greater than when the Lord is with us. Who can be against us? Let us remain, let us endure, let us not allow everything to disappear with us. Our ancestors drenched this land with their blood, sweat, and tears. It is up to us to show that we are worthy of that heritage.”

A certificate of gratitude for Christian love and dedication in helping the Serbian people in Kosovo and Metohija was also awarded to the youth organisation “Youth for Kosmet.”

After the Liturgy, the celebration continued at Gazimestan, where a memorial service was held for all who perished in the Battle of Kosovo.

This year, the Vidovdan celebration in Gračanica once again gathered the entire nation around living faith and the holy places, reminding all that Kosovo is not only a land of suffering, but also of spiritual glory, faithfulness to Christ, and love for one’s people.