St. John the Baptist Serbian Orthodox Church Celebrates 50 Years of Faith and Community
Anniversary marked with Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, awards, and cultural festivities honoring decades of devotion and spiritual life.
PATERSON, N.J. — On Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, St. John the Baptist Serbian Orthodox Church joyfully marked its 50th anniversary, celebrating a half-century of spiritual life, service, and fellowship.
The day began with a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy presided over by His Eminence Archbishop Maxim and His Grace Bishop Irinej, joined by clergy from the surrounding area, and attended by faithful parishioners and guests, including Dr. Vladimir Božović, Consul General of Serbia in New York. Protopresbyter-Stavrophor Djokan Majstorović and Deacon Vladimir Srbljak are the parish priest and deacon at the church.
Youth perform during a banquet and cultural program. Photo: Savo Majstorovic
Following the liturgy, Episcopal Citations were awarded to families and individuals who have faithfully supported the parish over the decades. The celebrations continued with a banquet and cultural program at Serbian Land, featuring performances from the church’s folklore group “Drina,” Youth Choir, and Sunday School students.
Bishop Irinej honored clergy and parishioners of the parish with awards. Photo: Savo Majstorovic
Bishop Irinej offered words of blessing and encouragement, reminding all present:
“We all know that God is love, and where God is present, love is present. Where love is present, God is also present. May you continue to be a perfect community of Christ’s love, and may God continue to bless, protect, and guide you.”
The celebration reflected the parish’s enduring spirit and unity, built over 50 years through love, faith, and dedication. Parish leaders expressed heartfelt thanks to the clergy, parish council, volunteers, and guests who made the anniversary a truly memorable and blessed occasion.
Previously, UOJ reported that the Serbian Orthodox Church’s Eastern American Diocese, under the blessing of Bsp. Irinej, will host the first-ever Iconography Camp at St. Sava Shadeland Monastery near Erie, Pennsylvania.
