St. Peter the Apostle Church Celebrates 74th Annual Petrovdan Slava
On Sunday, July 13, 2025, St. Peter the Apostle Serbian Orthodox Church in Fresno joyfully celebrated its 74th annual parish Slava—Petrovdan. The day began with Matins at 8:30 a.m., followed by a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at 9:30 a.m., presided over by His Grace Bishop Maxim, together with parish clergy Protopresbyter-Stavrofor George Gligich and Deacon Christopher Menges. Liturgical responses were beautifully offered by the St. Peter’s Church Choir, directed by Djakonica Peggy Matthews.
In his homily, Bishop Maxim reflected on the Gospel reading for the Fifth Sunday after Pentecost (Matthew 8:28–9:1), focusing on Christ’s healing of the demon-possessed men. His Grace emphasized the boundless compassion of Christ and the healing power of faith—even in the face of great spiritual affliction.
Following the Divine Liturgy, the traditional slavski kolač (Slava bread) and koljivo (boiled wheat) were carried in a joyful procession (litiya) around the church and blessed. This year’s honored kumovi, Greg and Noël Salata, were recognized for their many years of faithful service to the parish. Greg currently serves as vice-president of the parish council. As a token of appreciation, they were presented with an icon of the Holy Apostle Peter during the luncheon.
Over 175 parishioners gathered in the newly renovated social hall for a festive Slava meal. Special thanks to Kitchen Chairpersons Ernie and Cheryl Duran for organizing and overseeing the luncheon, and to the many volunteers whose efforts ensured a warm and welcoming celebration. Gratitude is also extended to Theadora Clemensen for baking the beautifully decorated slavski kolač, and to Protinica Elena for preparing the koljivo.
Looking Ahead to the 75th Anniversary
Excitement is already building for the 75th Anniversary Slava, scheduled for the weekend of July 11–12, 2026. All faithful throughout the Serbian Orthodox Diocese of Western America are warmly invited to take part in this milestone celebration—a time to glorify God, honor our patron saint, and gather in joy and fellowship with our diocesan family.
