Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia delivered a lecture at the Faculty of Law of the University of Banja Luka, in the presence of Rector Prof. Dr. Radoslav Gajanin, Banja Luka Mayor Draško Stanivuković, representatives of academic and public institutions of Republika Srpska, as well as bishops, clergy, monastics, and a large number of students and professors.
Rector Radoslav Gajanin noted that, for the first time in its fifty-year history, the University had the honor of hosting a Serbian Patriarch, describing the visit as a special distinction for the academic community. He also expressed gratitude to the Student Parliament and the Student Union for their role in organizing the event as part of the “Student Days” celebrations.
In his address, Patriarch Porfirije emphasized the vital role of education, stating that “the school, with the University as its crown, represents both the present and the future of a nation and a state.” He highlighted that universities are not only places where knowledge and skills are acquired, but also environments where ethical values and cultural identity are shaped.
The Patriarch stressed that his visit aimed not only at delivering a lecture, but also at engaging directly with students and listening to their thoughts. Addressing young people, he encouraged them to strive for goodness, continuous self-improvement, and growth in virtue.
He underlined that living with the awareness of pleasing God leads to a life filled with integrity and positive values, reminding students that one should not wish upon others what one would not wish for oneself. Such a path, he said, brings peace, joy, beauty, and love.
Source: Patriarchate of Serbia
