On March 21, 2025, Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia attended the premiere screening of the documentary film Heritage of Honor and Knowledge at the “General Jovan Mišković” barracks in Belgrade. The film was produced by the Military Film Center “Zastava Film” under the Public Relations Department of the Ministry of Defense, marking the 175th anniversary of the Serbian Military Academy.
In celebration of this important milestone, the Serbian Post issued a special commemorative stamp collection. The first copy of the stamp was presented to Patriarch Porfirije by the head of the Military Academy during the ceremony.
“It is a great joy and exceptional honor for me to participate this evening in marking a highly significant jubilee—the 175th anniversary of this esteemed military higher education institution,” the Patriarch said in his address.
Recalling a previous visit to the Academy, Patriarch Porfirije reflected on the inscription he saw at the entrance: Honor is our property. “As a nation of Saint Sava, despite countless hardships and grave trials, we have remained on a spiritual height worthy of our glorious ancestors,” he remarked.
He emphasized that in today’s world, the principle of honor is not only a reflection of identity and aspiration but also a necessity for salvation. Drawing parallels between the priestly and military callings, he noted: “Throughout our often painful but brave and admirable history, the spiritual and military services—priestly and officer alike—have always been remarkably aligned. That is because both share a nearly identical calling: to serve God and one’s fellow man, the nation and the homeland.”
Quoting the Gospel, Patriarch Porfirije reminded the audience: “Even Christ Himself said that the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28). He continued, “To view the officer’s vocation through this Gospel lens is to begin to understand its noble character, but also the immense responsibility it carries.”
Patriarch Porfirije expressed particular joy that Serbia, though small in size and population, is home to a Military Academy of such proud tradition and legacy—evident in both the high-quality education it provides and the caliber of leaders it has produced.
He concluded his address by extending heartfelt congratulations to all cadets, commanders, and professors on behalf of himself and the entire Serbian Orthodox Church:
“In my own name and on behalf of our Holy Church, I congratulate you on the Day of the Military Academy with the words of prayer: Lord God of Hosts, turn us again, cause Your face to shine, and we shall be saved (Psalm 80:7,19). Long live the Serbian Armed Forces! Long live the Serbia of Saint Sava! May the blessing of the Lord be upon you all.”
Source: Patriarchate of Serbia
