On Sunday, May 4, 2025, the faithful of St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in San Diego gathered to celebrate their patronal feast day, coinciding with the Sunday of the Myrrhbearing women. His Eminence Archbishop Maxim presided over the Matins and Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, joined by parish clergy Protopresbyter-stavrophor Bratislav Bratso Krsic and Presbyter Paul Germain. The congregation, actively participating in the liturgical services, reflected on the significance of the myrrhbearing women and their encounter with the risen Christ, which affirmed the reality of the Resurrection, deepened the faith of the early Church, and affirmed the truth of blessing and rewards of service to Christ, His Church, and ministry.

Reflecting on the Paschal joy of Myrrhbearers Sunday, Archbishop Maxim emphasized that the Resurrection of Christ is the cornerstone of Christian faith, a powerful force that transforms mortality into immortality and offers a new creation in Christ. He highlighted the importance of tangible communion with the Lord, contrasting it with the transient nature of virtual realities, and called the faithful to experience the joyous reality of God’s presence in the Holy Eucharist.

Archbishop Maxim parallels St. George’s faith and other biblical figures’ devotion in his homily. He spoke of St. George’s unwavering trust in the Lord, even unto martyrdom, as a testament to authentic Christian witness. Similarly, he honored the faith of the Myrrh-bearing Women, St. Joseph of Arimathea, and St. Nicodemus, who, despite societal norms, boldly approached the tomb of Christ, demonstrating profound love and devotion. The bishop also reflected on the righteous actions of St. Joseph and St. Nikodimos, who, in their quiet faithfulness, played pivotal roles in the burial of Christ, demonstrating that true discipleship often manifests in humble and unseen acts.

Archbishop Maxim’s homily underscored that the essence of Christian witness lies not in grand gestures but in steadfast faith and devotion, even in the face of adversity. He encouraged the congregation to emulate these saints by nurturing a personal relationship with Christ, grounded in trust and love. This personal connection with Christ is a source of comfort and strength, a profound reminder that we are never alone in our faith journey. It makes us feel deeply connected, loved, and part of a larger family.

Concluding his message, Archbishop Maxim invited the faithful to partake in the blessings of the Slava, which include a procession and the blessing of the Slava kolach. These blessings symbolize the communal sharing of faith and strengthening bonds within the parish family. This communal sharing of faith makes us feel profoundly united and strengthened, knowing we are not alone in our journey. He reminded everyone that, like the saints celebrated, we are also called to witness Christ’s love and Resurrection daily in our lives with actions 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, Nikola and Mirjana Dzodzo with their sons Marko and Filip. The procession made stops for prayers and intercessions, invoking blessings upon the faithful, the Church, the city, the country, and all those present. This ritual underscored our community’s unwavering unity and commitment to faith, extending their prayers beyond the church walls to encompass the broader world and God’s creation, which we are called to transform by God’s grace. It was a powerful demonstration of our shared purpose and belonging in the St. George Serbian Orthodox Church.

In recognition of their dedication and selfless service, Archbishop Maxim bestowed the Episcopal Gramata upon Joulia Rezvoukhina, Vladimir Kezic, Jadranka Bozinovska, Sladana Mellos, Miro Copic, Nebojsa’ Nesa’ Rajkovic, Marija Milasinovic, Milos Belcevich, Maja Topalovic, and Snezana Pantovic. The Episcopal Gramata is a formal document of recognition and appreciation, acknowledging their significant contributions to the Church and inspiring others to follow their example.

The day’s festivities culminated in a joyful program led by Daniela Damjanoski within the Church’s social hall, and Slava lunch prepared by the Kolo Sisters led by Snezana Pantovic. 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 our parish, where worship, fellowship, and cultural heritage intertwine, fostering a strong 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, then PeeWees, followed by the Second and First Ensembles. These four exceptional groups are led by Marija Milasinovic and Milena Michaels, and choreographed by Nikola Ilic. The Slava Kum, Nikola Dzodzo, greeted everyone, wishing them God’s blessing and furtherance in every good thing, especially the spiritual growth of the St. George community. Kum Nikola said that he always felt welcomed at St. George’s and is honored to be a part of such a welcoming community. Father Bratso, on behalf of the entire parish family, gave a gift to the kumovi, thanking them for honorably fulfilling their role and giving a piece of the Slava kolach to the following year’s kumovi, Milan and Ljubica Plavsic, with their children, Natalija and Mihailo. The day was filled with joy, celebration, and inspiration, leaving us uplifted and inspired.

As the echoes of hymns and laughter linger, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who participated in this year’s Slava celebration. Kate Thickstun, 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—Hvala vam od srca.