Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia presided on June 7, 2025, over a group baptism of children—young followers of Saint Sava and students from the Jovan Dučić and Vasa Perović elementary schools—at the Church of Saint Simeon the Myrrh-streaming in New Belgrade.
During the group baptism of young students in New Belgrade, Patriarch Porfirije emphasized the spiritual significance of the sacrament, calling it a moment of joy for both heaven and earth.
“Today heaven and earth rejoice,” he said, “because through the Holy Spirit you have come into the embrace of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has always loved and embraced you.”
He reminded the newly baptized that this was not only a personal milestone but the beginning of their life in the Church—a shared journey with the entire body of believers.
Marking the eve of Pentecost, the Patriarch noted that the grace of the Holy Spirit had come upon the children, sanctifying and enlightening them. He stressed that true knowledge and purpose come only when they are guided by the Holy Spirit.
He concluded by inviting them to receive Holy Communion on Pentecost and to remain united with God throughout their lives:
“Holy Communion is God’s embrace. When you embrace Him as He embraces you, you will always have as much love and grace as you need. Congratulations, and may God bless you all.”
Serving alongside His Holiness were Bishop Ilarion of Novo Brdo, Archimandrite Danilo (head priest of the Church of Saint Simeon the Myrrh-streaming), and clergy of the Archdiocese of Belgrade-Karlovci.
In addition to the children’s parents and relatives, the ceremony was prayerfully attended by Emilija Čolak (principal), pedagogue Mirjana Stepanović, and religious education teachers Nebojša Popović (from Jovan Dučić Elementary School) and Dragan Popović (from Vasa Pelagić Elementary School).
Source: spc.sr
