On January 31, 2026, during the period following the feast of Saint Sava, Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia distributed gift packages to students attending religious education classes in schools within the Archdiocese of Belgrade–Karlovci.
The event took place at the Temple of Saint Sava in Vračar. Before the distribution, a short cultural program was held, led by actors Ivan Bosiljčić and Marija Bergam. More than 2,000 students and their catechists recited the Lord’s Prayer together, followed by a performance of the hymn to Saint Sava by the children’s choir “Rastko.” Students also took part in a brief recital.
At the end of the program, Patriarch Porfirije congratulated the children on the feast of Saint Sava, the first Archbishop of the Serbian Church, and addressed them with a short message. He encouraged them not only to pray to Saint Sava, but also to follow his example.
He reminded the students that Saint Sava was a dedicated learner who asked questions, studied carefully, and understood that knowledge must be joined with love. The Patriarch stressed the importance of kindness, honesty, forgiveness, obedience to parents, and care for friends. He also encouraged the children to help others and to avoid criticizing their classmates.
Patriarch Porfirije concluded by urging the students to pray to Saint Sava whenever they face difficulties and to speak truthfully, noting that honesty gives strength and helps people grow. He reminded them that Saint Sava gained wisdom through a pure heart filled with love and faith.
Following the address, the Patriarch presented gifts to fifteen fourth-grade religious education students from each elementary school in Belgrade.
The Saint Sava celebration was organized by the Committee for Religious Education of the Archdiocese of Belgrade–Karlovci, the Temple of Saint Sava, and the humanitarian organization All for Kosovo and Metohija.
Source: spc.rs
