Serbian Patriarch Porfirije delivered an opening speech at the scientific meeting titled “Kosovo and Metohija – History and Cultural Heritage” held at the Orthodox Theological Faculty of the University of Belgrade on March 26, 2024.
In his address, the Patriarch emphasized the significance of Kosovo and Metohija as the ancestral homeland of the Serbian people, rich in cultural heritage with over 1,300 temples and churches. He lamented the challenges faced by the Serbian Orthodox Church and its faithful in the region over the past twenty-five years, including the destruction of religious sites, loss of lives, and identity changes.
Despite the hardships, Patriarch Porfirije reiterated the Church’s commitment to dialogue, extending an invitation to Kosovo-Metohija Albanians to engage in meaningful discussions. He asserted that the Serbian Orthodox Church cannot be part of political negotiations regarding the region’s status but emphasized the importance of respecting and protecting human and religious rights, which are universal values enshrined in international law.
The Patriarch clarified that the Church does not seek special privileges but demands the safeguarding of its cultural heritage and rights, which are essential for preserving its identity and spiritual legacy. He warned against any legal or political model that contradicts the Gospel’s principles and reiterated the Church’s unwavering stance on upholding its rights and freedoms in Kosovo and Metohija.
In conclusion, Patriarch Porfirije affirmed the Church’s commitment to defending its beliefs and assets while advocating for peace, justice, and respect for all in the region.