On the third day of his canonical visit to the Diocese of Canada, Serbian Patriarch Porfirije celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Church of Saint Sava in Toronto, home to a growing and influential Serbian community in the capital of Ontario.
The first Serbian immigrants arrived in Toronto at the beginning of the 20th century. The Serbian Home was inaugurated on Savindan in 1954, with its first Holy Liturgy celebrated on Easter of that year. On September 3, 1954, Bishop Nikolaj Velimirović consecrated the building. The following year, on May 22, the Church of Saint Sava was consecrated at the corner of Gerrard and River streets. With its humble beauty and dignified simplicity, the church reflects the character of its parishioners—Serbs who came to Canada seeking peace and sustenance.
Under the care of the church dedicated to Saint Sava, Serbian youth engage in religious and cultural education, attending the School of Serbian Language and Religious Studies, singing in the “Kir Stefan Srbin” church choir, and preserving their heritage through the “Stražilovo” Folklore Society.
On Sunday morning, many devout parishioners gathered at the St. Sava Church to witness and participate in the historic visit of Patriarch Porfirije. They joyfully welcomed their spiritual father and other bishops present.
In his homily, the Patriarch reflected on the power of faith, stating: “Brothers and sisters, it is important to understand that nothing has such strength, such freshness, and such reach as faith. Every person believes in something, but through the prayers and efforts of Saint Sava, we believe in Christ and see through Christ. The Orthodox faith has shaped and built us throughout the centuries. Everything we are, we owe to our Orthodox faith. That is why it is crucial to hold on to this faith—it is the fullness and perfection of God’s revelation.”
Source: Patriarchate of Serbia
