Tens of Thousands Join Belgrade Procession With the Theotokos Belt
Tens of thousands joined Belgrade’s Ascension Day procession as the Holy Belt of the Theotokos was carried through the Serbian capital.
BELGRADE, SERBIA — As reported by UOJ-Serbia, tens of thousands of faithful gathered in Belgrade on May 21 for the city’s annual Ascension Day procession, which this year was marked by the presence of the Belt of the Most Holy Theotokos, one of Orthodoxy’s most revered relics.
The Belt, brought from Mt. Athos and accompanied by clergy from Vatopedi Monastery, was carried through the streets of the Serbian capital during the traditional Spasovdan Procession led by Patr. Porfirije. The route began at the Church of the Ascension and concluded at the Church of St. Sava, where the Belt was placed for public veneration through May 29.
Large crowds lined the procession route as bishops, clergy, monastics, and faithful accompanied Belt. At several points, prayers were offered for Belgrade and its residents. Upon reaching the Church of St. Sava, a prayer service was celebrated, while many worshippers remained outside due to the size of the gathering.
In his address, Patr. Porfirije said that faith must extend beyond church buildings and shape every aspect of daily life. He called on believers to grow in love, humility, and concern for their neighbors, emphasizing that Christians are judged by how they treat others. The Patriarch also encouraged the faithful to remain united in Christ and seek the intercessions of the Mother of God.
Following the service, thousands began venerating the Belt, with lines continuing late into the evening. Church officials indicated that the Holy Belt will remain in Belgrade until May 29, though an extension is possible if circumstances require.
Previously, the UOJ reported that a youth pilgrimage to Serbia was announced for August 2026.
