The celebration of St. Sava, the patron saint of education and the Serbian Orthodox Church, holds profound significance for Serbs around the world. As one of the most important cultural events in Serbian tradition, St. Sava Day is observed annually on January 27. The occasion commemorates the life and contributions of St. Sava (1175–1236), a revered spiritual father, educator, and nation-builder.

One of the most distinctive aspects of St. Sava Day is its strong association with education. In Naples, Florida, on Sunday eve, January 26, the Serbian community gathers to honor the legacy of St. Sava through vibrant programs and activities. As the youngest community in the Serbian diaspora, the Meeting of Our Lord Parish has infused this celebration with fresh energy and enthusiasm, reflecting its growing commitment to preserving Serbian traditions.

A main part of the celebrations is the participation of children. They recite poems, perform songs, play musical instruments, and even paint icons of St. Sava, showcasing their creativity and connection to Serbian culture. Additionally, the children take part in traditional folklore dances, which are a key element of Serbian heritage. The entire program was prepared in a very short period of time, and we commend everyone involved, especially the children, who joyfully accepted the invitation to participate. These activities brought the community together and set the tone for the day’s observances. The evening was filled with children’s laughter and the joy of all present, creating a truly heartwarming atmosphere.

Special thanks go to everyone who participates in the church school and folklore activities. We extend our gratitude to Popadija Sara for her dedication to the church school, as well as to all those assisting in this God-pleasing work: Natasa Muškinja, Anamarija Jovanović, Lidija Pandžić, Gordana Radmilović, and others. Folklore instructor Dijana “Didi” Batanjski plays a very important role in leading the folklore program, and we deeply appreciate her efforts. Additionally, a special thank you goes to the president of the Church School and Folklore Parents Association, Ana Mirković. The parents played an integral role in organizing the celebration, whether by helping prepare the children, donating tambourines that will be used for many future performances and events, decorating tables or preparing a delicious dinner for all who came to support our children and their growth in faith.

We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to those whose generosity and support made this celebration possible. A special thank you goes to Irina and Strahinja Lackovic for offering their studio for our classes and folklore rehearsals. Their kindness provided a space for the children and community to come together in preparation for this meaningful day.

We owe a big thank you to the Kolo of Serbian Sisters for generously providing the children’s books for the St. Sava gift bags. Their thoughtful contribution helped make the gifts even more special for the children. Additionally, we are deeply grateful to the Mirkovic family, who provided the rest of the gifts. Their support added a personal touch to the celebration, ensuring that all attendees could take home a memento of this important day.

Also, we express our gratitude to our sister organization, St. Stephen Tammies from Lackawanna, NY, for providing the beautiful traditional costumes - nosnje, for our children. These costumes helped the children feel a deeper connection with our roots and heritage, making the celebration even more meaningful.

The celebration of St. Sava in Naples is deeply rooted in Serbian customs and traditions. This year, the Slava kumovi (hosts) were the Slepcevich family: William (Bill) and Kimberly, along with their sons William and Evan. Their dedication and hospitality added a warm and personal touch to the celebration, making it a memorable occasion for all attendees. Looking ahead to next year, the new kumovi (hosts) will be Aleksandar and Andrej Nikolić and their family. This decision marks a new tradition in which kumovi will be chosen from the students of the church school and their families, further emphasizing the involvement of younger generations in preserving Serbian traditions.

While the celebration in Naples, FL, has its unique local flavor, it is part of a broader global tradition. Serbian diaspora communities in cities like Chicago, Toronto, Sydney, and Vienna similarly host events that bring together people of all ages. These gatherings often include cultural performances, traditional Serbian music and dance, and shared meals.

St. Sava’s legacy continues to inspire Serbs to value education, preserve their cultural identity, and maintain their faith. His teachings emphasize the importance of unity, humility, and service to others, values that resonate across generations. In an increasingly globalized world, the celebration of St. Sava serves as a reminder of the rich heritage and enduring spirit of the Serbian people. It is a day of reflection, gratitude, and hope, honoring a saint whose life remains a beacon of faith and enlightenment.

The celebration of St. Sava is more than a religious holiday; it is a testament to the enduring cultural and spiritual values of the Serbian people. By honoring St. Sava’s contributions to education, faith, and nationhood, Serbs in Naples and beyond reaffirm their commitment to preserving their heritage and passing it on to future generations. Whether through educational activities, communal gatherings, or acts of charity, St. Sava Day remains a cornerstone of Orthodox faith and Serbian identity.

Finally, we would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our official photographer of the evening, Ms. Olga Hayes with Photography by OH, for doing an amazing job capturing the spirit of the celebration. She took wonderful photos that beautifully document this special day. If you ever need her assistance in capturing your moments of joy for the future, she can be reached via her Instagram profile @photography_by_OH.

Source: meetingofourlord.com