Abp. Michael Leads Pilgrimage Across Serbia

BELGRADE, SERBIA — From June 2 to June 13, 2026, Abp. Michael led a 32-person pilgrimage organized by St. Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary across Serbia, Kosovo, and North Macedonia under the theme “In the Footsteps of Saint Nikolai Velimirovich.” The group included clergy such as Fr. John Parker, Fr. Daniel Degyansky, Fr. Josiah Trenham, Fr. John Vitko, and Protodeacon Ephraim Rivers.

In Belgrade, the pilgrims concelebrated Divine Liturgy with Patr. Porfirije at the Cathedral of St. Sava and met with him afterward. The group also venerated the Belt of the Most Holy Theotokos brought from Mt. Athos, encountering large crowds of faithful gathered in the Serbian capital. Their itinerary included visits to the Patriarchate, monasteries, churches, and theological sites connected to the Serbian Church.

Traveling to Valjevo and Lelić, the group venerated the relics of St. Nikolai Velimirovic and also visited Celije Monastery, where they honored St. Justin Popovic. Additional stops included Studenica Monastery and Visoki Dečani in Kosovo, where Abp. Michael served the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. In Kosovo, the delegation also observed traditional cultural performances highlighting Serbian heritage.

In North Macedonia, the pilgrims met Abp. Stefan and stayed near Lake Ochrid, a location closely associated with St. Nikolai’s writings. Participants reflected on the region’s monasteries, frescoes, and hospitality, drawing connections between the landscape and Orthodox spiritual tradition.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Stefan welcomed St. Tikhon's pilgrims to a historic Macedonian monastery.