On Saturday, April 27, 2024 at the Saint Steven’s Serbian Orthodox Cathedral in Alhambra, California, His Grace Bishop Maxim celebrated his Krsna Slava, the Feast of St. Lazarus with clergy and faithful from throughout the Western American Diocese of the Serbian Orthodox Church.

Among the clergy were the Fr. Nicholas Ceko, Cathedral Dean, Fr. Blasko Paraklis, Parish Priest from the Natavity of the Most Holy Theotokos Church in Irvine, Fr. Vasilije Gavrilovic and Fr. Vladan Radovanovic, Assistants to His Grace Bishop Maxim, and Protodeacon Paul Germain from St. George Church in San Diego.

The days festivities began with Matins and the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy celebrated by His Grace Bishop Maxim and concelebrated by the host priest and visiting clergy. The beautiful responses were sung by parishioners from local and neighboring parishes led by Vaso Katanic who is the lay assistant at the Cathedral.

Following the beautiful and prayerful Liturgical service, the faithful gathered in the pavilion where they were warmly greeted by Bishop Maxim. Guests were treated to hors d’oeuvres and the traditional Serbian Slivo as they mingled with one another. As a special and unique addition to the festivities, guests found themselves surrounded by a collection of exquisitely crafted artwork by the hand of Bishop Maxim, each imbued with the spirit of Impressionism and Byzantine style. The exhibition featured a diverse array of artworks including serene landscapes, captivating portraits of historical figures, charming animal scenes, and even the icons of the Saints. From the subtle chatter it was evident that many were moved by the beautify and meaning behind the paintings and iconography. By the evenings end, many of these precious artworks found a new space in which to dwell in the homes of guests.  All proceeds from the sale of these pieces benefit the many ministries of the Diocese of Western American. Please visit sebasitanpress.org. You might find a painting that speaks to you, ready to grace your home.

After a period of socializing with guests, the youth surrounded His Grace Bishop Maxim, eager to join in the tradition of the turning of the Slava Kolach, prepared by Duska Cvejic, and the blessing of the Wheat which was prepared by Laura Burge. The beautiful Slava icon depicting Christ calling his friend Lazarus to come out of the tomb, was humbly held by Sergej Jovic from St. Sava Church in San Gabriel. The service was officiated by Fr. Nicholas Ceko who also extended celebratory greetings to Bishop Maxim on behalf of all those present and all those in the Western American Diocese.

A delicious meal prepared and served with love by the ladies of the Diocesan Kolo Srpskih Sestara was thoroughly enjoyed by all. The ambiance and beauty of the banquet hall was complimented by a joyful greeting from His Grace as he served the dinner wine to each guest.

As guests enjoyed their meal, Dushan Pavichevich, President of the Saint Steven’s parish, introduced the beautiful array of artwork addressing each painting and icon individually and encouraging all to view and enjoy, and even purchase a piece to beautify their homes.

During the final course of dessert and coffee, Fr. Nicholas Ceko spoke about a very important and vital fundraising endeavor to support the activities of the Diocese. He introduced the Circle Circle of 100 Benefactors—Fellowship of St. Sebastian of Jackson and San Francisco, an opportunity for esteemed members and friends of the Diocese to make a commitment of $1,000 annually over a period of three years to bring this endeavor to light. Fr. Nick went on to describe the mission and goals that would be impacted by this investment in the Diocese, all of which can be found at https://westsrbdio.org/donate.

As we commemorate this major Feast Day, the Saturday of Lazarus, we remember the miracle of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ when he raised Lazarus from the dead after he had lain in the grave four days.

Thank you to all who participated in the preparation of Bishop Maxim’s Slava and to all who came to share in the joy and meaning of this glorious feast day.