In recognition of his selfless support for blind and visually impaired individuals, as well as for the exceptional cooperation between the Serbian Orthodox Church and the Union of Blind People of Serbia, a commemorative plaque was presented to Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia by the Union of Blind People of Serbia.
At the beginning of the cordial meeting with distinguished guests at the Patriarchal Palace in Belgrade, the Patriarch warmly welcomed the delegation of the Union of Blind People of Serbia. For many years, and especially since ascending to the throne of Saint Sava, Patriarch Porfirije and the Serbian Orthodox Church have consistently supported the work of the Union of Blind People of Serbia. Their joint efforts on various projects have fostered a solid and meaningful partnership, as well as a sincere friendship, inspiring new, commendable initiatives for the benefit of the faithful and, in particular, their visually impaired and blind brothers and sisters.
“If we were to speak about who helps whom and in what way, I must confess that I personally feel deeply that I am the one blessed by your love. Regardless, we know well that we are all one body and one organism. Wherever there is understanding and love, wherever there is mutual support, everyone fulfills the role assigned to them within this body. There are no more or less important roles. Whoever performs their task with love and sacrifice is equally important. In the end, no one can exist without the other. We are all indispensable to one another. This is the experience of the Church, and it is the truth the Apostle Paul reminds us of,” Patriarch Porfirije emphasized.
The Patriarch also noted that his encounters with members of the Union of Blind People of Serbia at their numerous events always inspire him, reminding him of the Lord’s words: “I am the Light of the World” (John 8:12):
“We know that where there is no light, there is darkness. In other words, without light, it is impossible to see, let alone perceive. Since our God, Jesus Christ, is the Light of the World, only those in communion with Christ and who carry Him in their hearts can dwell in the light and truly see. Sight is a profound, existential dimension of human existence. It is not primarily linked to external vision but to spiritual, inner sight, which expresses our relationship with God. Whoever possesses this sight sees the essence of existence: that every person is an image of God, that we are all brothers and sisters, and that the only true path in life is the path of love. Though this path is challenging, there is no alternative. It is the path of light, the path of perfection, leading a person to fullness and true completion. This path is endless because Christ, the Light, is both the beginning and the end—He is the eternal God, transcending the boundaries of time and space.”
In closing, Patriarch Porfirije expressed his joy at the meeting in the Patriarchal Palace and the opportunity to present Braille calendars to all members of the Union of Blind People of Serbia. He remarked: “You are always welcome. May God bless and protect us all.”
With heartfelt words of gratitude for the long-standing and selfless support of the Serbian Orthodox Church, Mr. Milan Stosic, President of the Union of Blind People of Serbia—a union representing over twelve thousand visually impaired and blind individuals—presented the Patriarch with the commemorative plaque of the Union.
Also in attendance were Bishop Petar of Toplica, Archimandrite Nektarije, Protopresbyter Djordje Stojsavljevic, and other representatives of the Serbian Orthodox Church.
