SERBIAN COMMUNITY IN CYPRUS MARKS VIDOVDAN IN LARNACA 28.06.2025.

28. Jun 2025.
On Saturday, June 28, 2025, a Holy Liturgy was held in the Church of Saint Lazarus in Larnaca, with the blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Nektarios of Kition, to mark Vidovdan — one of the most important spiritual and national holidays of the Serbian people.

The Serbian community from all parts of Cyprus gathered in this ancient Orthodox church to prayerfully commemorate the day of Serbian Prince Saint Lazar and the heroes of Kosovo. The Divine Liturgy was held in the Serbian language by Father Panteleimon from Limassol and Father Borislav from Paphos, both of whom have long been devoted to pastoral work among the Serbs on the island.

Following the Liturgy and the ceremonial blessing of the bread (slava cake), H.E. Ambassador Suzana Bošković-Prodanović addressed the gathered community members. In her speech, she emphasized that Vidovdan is not merely a remembrance of historical events, but a living testament to honor, faith and Serbian identity. She highlighted the spiritual connection between the Gospel account of Lazarus’ resurrection and the sacrifice of Serbian Prince Lazar, underlining the importance of preserving both national and religious identity in the diaspora. The Ambassador also pointed to the deep historical and spiritual ties between the Serbian and Cypriot peoples, who share similar experiences in their struggles for territorial integrity, identity and justice.

Special words of gratitude were extended to Metropolitan Nektarios for his brotherly support and his blessing, as well as to Fathers Panteleimon and Borislav for their continuous care for the spiritual life of the Serbian community in Cyprus. Particular appreciation was also expressed to Ms. Dragana Christou, the teacher of the Serbian supplementary school, whose dedicated work greatly contributes to preserving the Serbian language and culture among the younger generations.

Following the service, the Embassy hosted a reception for members of the Serbian community at the Urban Art Hotel in Larnaca.

The Vidovdan celebration concluded in a spirit of unity, warm fellowship and mutual encouragement. Through this gathering, the Serbian community in Cyprus reaffirmed that even far from their homeland, in spiritual togetherness and harmony, it remains faithful for its heritage.