On 6 July 2026, Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia, together with Pastor Mark Burns, an advisor on spiritual matters to President Donald Trump of the United States of America, visited the Serbian Orthodox Monastery of Gračanica. This is another sacred monument included on UNESCO’s list of endangered World Heritage Sites in Kosovo and Metohija.
In front of the imposing medieval church dedicated to the Most Holy Theotokos and founded by the Holy Serbian King Stefan Milutin, the Primate of the Serbian Orthodox Church and the distinguished American guest were welcomed by the brotherhood of the Holy Monastery of Gračanica and a large number of clergy under the guidance of Metropolitan Teodosije of Raška and Prizren.
Following the official reception, Pastor Burns toured the magnificent frescoes decorating the Gračanica Katholikon, becoming acquainted with the turbulent history of this important Serbian spiritual, cultural, and artistic centre.
Accompanying Patriarch Porfirije during the visit were Bishop Ilarion of Novo Brdo, his vicar bishop, and Archimandrite Danilo, Director of the Patriarchal Administrative Office.
