Serbian Patriarch Porfirije attended the ceremonial academy “From Century to Century” yesterday, marking the 100th anniversary of Radio Belgrade. In his address, the Patriarch highlighted the importance of the media in shaping the cultural and moral fabric of society, drawing from the words of the Gospel to underscore the Church’s missionary role. He emphasized the media’s responsibility to the people and the state it serves, quoting the words of Jesus Christ: “What I say to you in the dark, speak in plain sight; and what is whispered in your ears, preach from the rooftops.” He noted that these words reflect the Church’s mission and its approach to modern media.
The Patriarch reminded the audience that the era of electronic media in Serbia began a century ago, with Radio Belgrade’s first broadcast. He also called attention to an earlier moment in July 1923, when the foundation of the dispatch radio-telegraph station in Rakovica was consecrated. This act of blessing, he said, showed the media workers’ desire to start their mission with the Church’s blessing and prayers.
Patriarch Porfirije blessed the media’s role in fostering communication and cooperation across different social groups, highlighting its importance in promoting mutual respect, cohesion, and societal progress. He recognized the media as “the most important instrument of the culture of this nation” and praised Radio Belgrade’s century-long legacy, which has shaped its program into a cultural institution in its own right.
Source and photo: Patriarchate of Serbia
