Diocesan Statement on the Recent Wildfires Causing Great Damage

In light of the devastating wildfires that have in recent days swept through many parts of central Serbia, Kosovo and Metohija, and the wider Balkans, destroying dozens of homes, farms, and other property, our Diocese expresses its deepest solidarity with all families affected by this tragedy. We offer our heartfelt prayers to the Lord to grant safety, comfort, and strength to all who have lost their homes or been forced to leave in these difficult days.

We draw particular attention to the suffering of our faithful in Zubin Potok Municipality and in the returnee village of Osojane in Metohija, where fires broke out several days ago, completely destroying four family homes, burning wheat ready for harvest, and endangering an entire community already living in extremely difficult conditions. Villagers, together with the nuns from the Monastery of Gorioč, risked their own lives to save neighbouring houses from destruction. Without hesitation, they carried fire extinguishing equipment through smoke and flames, persevering in their efforts to contain the blaze and prevent further damage to their community. Their selfless example has rekindled in many a renewed sense of unity, responsibility, and hope.

Despite these heroic efforts, the damage remains immense. Families who had rebuilt their homes after the suffering of 1999 have now once again been left without shelter. Many elderly and vulnerable residents have lost not only their houses but also their small personal treasures, family photographs, and memories that no reconstruction can ever restore. Residents have spoken bitterly of their homes now burning for a second time within a single generation, deepening their trauma and memories of exile.

Therefore, the Diocese appeals to humanitarian organisations, charitable foundations, church communities, and all people of goodwill to organise, according to their means, collections of funds and other forms of aid for the families who have lost everything in these fires. In particular, help is needed for the residents of Osojane and other affected villages to rebuild their homes, restore electricity connections and basic infrastructure, and regain their sense of security and dignity.

At the same time, we call upon the responsible institutions to take urgent and effective measures to address the causes of these disasters, including the unsafe and outdated electricity networks in returnee areas, which, according to local testimony, directly contributed to the outbreak of the fires. Many electrical poles remain damaged and tilted, held up only by wires, posing an ongoing danger to both people and property.

Finally, we commend the courage of all volunteers, villagers, and nuns who, through their solidarity, compassion, and fearless action, showed what it means to live as one body in Christ, where the suffering of one is carried by all in solidarity. May their witness of love, sacrifice, and humanity inspire each of us to help our neighbours in need.

May the Lord protect all who suffer, grant strength to those rebuilding their homes, and enkindle in our hearts the flame of mercy, charity, and peace.