Consul General Vladimir Božović, PhD, attended the solemn celebration of St. Petka at the Church of St. Nicholas in Philadelphia

27. Oct 2025.
At the invitation of the Church–School Congregation of the Serbian Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas in Philadelphia, the Consul General of the Republic of Serbia in New York, Vladimir Božović, PhD, attended the solemn celebration of St. Petka, the patron saint of the Circle of Serbian Sisters of this parish. The celebration began with the Holy Liturgy at St. Nicholas Church, where a large number of faithful gathered in prayer to honor this great saint and protector.

Following the liturgy, the official opening of the parish library took place, along with an art exhibition by academic painter and Circle member Zvezdana Stojmirović, held in the church hall. On that occasion, Consul General Božović emphasized the importance of the newly opened library as a place where children will have the opportunity to learn the Serbian language, religion, culture, tradition, and customs, thereby contributing to the preservation of the Serbian national identity.

The event represented a significant contribution to the preservation of the spiritual, cultural, and artistic heritage of the Serbian community in Philadelphia. The celebration unfolded in a warm and joyful atmosphere, and the fellowship continued throughout the day, filled with prayer, song, and togetherness.

In his address, Consul General Božović reminded that the holy relics of St. Petka were kept in Serbia for more than a century and that her church, located in Belgrade’s Kalemegdan fortress, is one of the most revered sanctuaries of the Serbian people. He first extended congratulations to all members of the Circle of Serbian Sisters and the faithful, highlighting their special role in preserving faith, tradition, and charity among Serbs living outside the homeland.

Speaking about the importance of the spiritual, humanitarian, and cultural mission of the Circle of Serbian Sisters, Consul General Božović stressed that their dedication and selflessness are a strong foundation for preserving the faith, tradition, and national identity of the Serbian people in the diaspora. He reminded that this organization, with its long and distinguished history across the countries where Serbs live, has for decades contributed to the church, cultural, and humanitarian life of the community, emphasizing that the Serbian Orthodox Church remains the spiritual pillar and support of the Serbian people, the Church, and the state.