On Sunday, May 3, 2026, the faithful of St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in San Diego gathered to celebrate their patronal feast day, which coincided with the Sunday of the Paralytic (4th Sunday of Pascha). His Grace Maxim presided over the Matins and Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, joined by parish clergy protopresbyter-stavrophor Bratislav Bratso Krsic and Presbyter Paul Germain, and later at the Slava banquet, protopresbyter-stavrophor Milovan Katanic. The faithful, actively participating in the liturgical services, reflected on the significance of the Sunday of the Paralytic, which reminds us that the joy of Pascha is found in the risen Christ, who continues to come to those who feel helpless and weary. He raises them from spiritual paralysis and brings them freedom, strength, and hope for new life. Reflecting on the Paschal joy of this Lord’s Day, Bishop Maxim emphasized that the Resurrection of Christ is the cornerstone of Christian faith, transforming mortality into immortality and offering a new creation in Christ, the New Adam. “On the Fourth Sunday of Pascha, the Orthodox Church remembers Christ’s healing of the Paralytic at the Pool of Bethesda, a radiant post-Resurrection encounter that reveals the Lord’s continuing compassion for wounded humanity. For thirty-eight years, the paralytic waited, unable to reach the waters that others hoped would bring healing. His words, “I have no man,” became the cry of all humanity in moments of loneliness and abandoned hope. Yet where human strength fails, Christ Himself comes near. The Lord asks, “Do you want to be healed?”—not because He does not know the man’s pain, but to call forth faith and desire. With a single command, Christ restores the paralytic, raising him from infirmity into wholeness. Though the man did not at first know who had healed him, he later recognized the Lord in the Temple and responded with gratitude. True healing leads not only to restored strength but also to worship and thanksgiving. In this Paschal season, the Church reminds us that the Risen Christ still comes to each of us in our weakness, healing and making us whole again.” Concluding his message, Archbishop Maxim invited the faithful to partake in the blessings of the Slava, including the procession and the blessing of the Slava kolach, which expresses the unity and shared faith of the St. George parish family. He reminded everyone that, like the saints we celebrate, we are called to witness Christ’s love and Resurrection daily through our lives and deeds. Following the Liturgy, a solemn procession ensued, featuring the cross, banners, the icon of St. George, the Slava kolach and zhito carried by the Slava kumovi, Milan and Ljubica Plavsic. The procession made stops for prayers and intercessions, invoking blessings upon the faithful, the Church, the city, the country, and all those present. The day’s festivities culminated in a joyful program led by Daniela Damjanoski in the social hall, and in a Slava lunch prepared by the Kolo Sisters, led by Sladana Mellos and Jadranka Bozinovska. The Sunday school children, under the direction of Milanka Lehman, performed a beautiful song celebrating the Paschal joy. The event was a testament to the vibrant life of St. 
George parish, where worship, fellowship, and cultural heritage intertwine, fostering astrong sense of community and continuity in the Orthodox faith. The four folklore groups performed a selection of the kolo dances, starting with the youngest group, Minnies and Peewees combined, followed by the Second and First Ensembles. These four exceptional groups are led by Marija Milasinovic and Milena Michaels and choreographed by Nikola Ilic. Slava Kum, Milan Plavsic greeted everyone, wishing them God’s blessing and furtherance in every good thing, especially the spiritual growth of the St. George community. “Here in distant California, thousands of kilometers from our homeland, this church is more than walls and a dome. It is Serbia on this soil—a living Serbian soul, a beating Serbian heart, and our true home. When we gather here, we do not simply enter a church—we come home. This community safeguards what is most precious to us: our faith, our tradition, and our identity. In a rapidly changing world, it is easy to lose our roots. This church reminds us of who we are and where we come from. It guides us to be better people, parents, and Orthodox Christians. Today, as divisions grow and people turn against one another, we know that pain—we have felt it. That is why our church stands as a beacon. It reminds us that goodness and love prevail, leading us from darkness to light and giving us strength to persevere in faith and unity.” Father Bratso, on behalf of the entire parish family, gave a gift to the kumovi, thanking them for honorably fulfilling their role and introducing the Slava kumovi for 2027, Darko and Tatjana Popovic. The day was filled with joy, celebration, and inspiration, leaving us uplifted. Fr. Paul Germain, on behalf of the parish family and His Eminence, presented the icon of Christ painted (or written) by archbishop Maxim on Fr. Bratso’s 30th anniversary of ordination. Аs the echoes of hymns and laughter linger, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who participated in this year’s Slava celebration. Zeljko Milasinovic, parish council president, thanked everyone who, through prayer, preparation, fellowship, or quiet presence, helped make this day a true reflection of faith, tradition, and community. We deeply appreciate your efforts and the value you bring to our community. May the blessings of our patron saint, St. George the Great Martyr, continue to guide and inspire us, and may we gather again, strengthened in spirit and united in love. Thank you very much! Хвала вам од срца! We appreciate you all!
