The regular session of the Holy Assembly of Bishops of the Serbian Orthodox Church was held at the Church of Saint Sava in Belgrade from May 13 to 17, 2025. The Assembly began with a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy presided over by Serbian Patriarch Porfirije, joined by bishops from both Serbia and the diaspora.
In his opening address, Patriarch Porfirije emphasized the conciliar nature of the Church, noting that bishops do not gather merely to manage diocesan affairs but to bear prophetic witness to the Church’s unity and mission amidst a turbulent world. He underlined that the Church transcends secular divisions, acting as a community of love and faith.
This year’s Assembly was marked by the celebration of two significant anniversaries: 1700 years since the First Ecumenical Council in Nicaea and 850 years since the birth of Saint Sava. These jubilees will be commemorated throughout the year with liturgical celebrations, academic conferences, cultural events, and exhibitions.
One of the most profound moments of the session was the announcement of new saints to be added to the diptychs of the Serbian Orthodox Church. Based on the findings of the Canonization Commission, the Assembly joyfully recognized the holiness of several confessors, martyrs, clergy, and lay faithful, calling upon the faithful to emulate their virtuous lives. Among those canonized are Bishop Nikodim (Milash), Fr. Kiril Cvjetković, Fr. Mihailo Barbić, Fr. Ilija Rodić, the Hieromartyr Jovan of Stjenik, Blessed Ana (mother of St. Basil of Ostrog), and groups of martyrs from various regions.
The Assembly also:
Approved the establishment of new feast days, including a joint commemoration of Holy Fathers who taught or studied at the Faculty of Orthodox Theology in Belgrade.
Established the Order of Saint Prince Lazar as a new church decoration awarded for general merit, particularly highlighting the Church’s enduring bond with Kosovo and Metohija.
Approved the introduction of a four-year secondary education system in Orthodox theological schools, effective from the 2025/26 academic year.
Reviewed canonical amendments concerning diocesan titles and episcopal designations.
Discussed challenges in Kosovo and Metohija, the position of the Church in neighboring countries, and pastoral care in the diaspora.
Assessed reports from church institutions such as the Patriarchal Administrative Board, the Museum, Library, and Archive, and charitable foundations like Philanthropy.
The Assembly also addressed global crises and urged international institutions to protect Christians suffering in Ukraine, Syria, Palestine, and Kosovo and Metohija.
A session was dedicated to reviewing the progress in completing the Church of Saint Sava in Belgrade, and the Assembly made a traditional visit to the Royal House of Karađorđević, hosted by Crown Prince Filip.
Changes were made in the composition of the Holy Synod: Metropolitan Ignatije of Braničevo and Archbishop Gerasim of Gornji Karlovac concluded their terms, while Metropolitan Irinej of Bačka and Bishop Metodije of Budimlje-Nikšić were elected as new members. Metropolitans Fotije and Teodosije remain in the Synod for the next term.
This year’s Assembly reaffirmed the spiritual strength and unity of the Serbian Orthodox Church in the face of modern challenges, and continued its mission of pastoral care, cultural preservation, and witness to Christ in the world.
Source: Patriarchate of Serbia
