Church Slava in London Celebrated with Holy Hierarchical Liturgy

In the spirit of Saint Sava's joy, Saint Sava Church in London celebrated its church Slava – the feast of Holy Father Sava – with prayer and great solemnity on Sunday, February 1, 2026. Although the winter days in Canada were harsh, and the temperature did not rise above minus twenty, love for the Church and the joy of common prayer gathered a large number of children and the faithful at the Holy Liturgical assembly.

The Holy Hierarchical Liturgy was presided over by His Eminence Metropolitan of Canada, Dr. Mitrofan, who, guided by pastoral love and not sparing himself, chose to continue his archpastoral visits even in these weather conditions. His Eminence was concelebrated by Protopresbyter Jovan Marjanac, Deacon Petar Marjanovic, as well as Father Dusko Markovic, parish priest and host of this solemn gathering.

This time, the singing of the choir of the Church of Saint Sava gave a special beauty to the service with its dignified, beautiful, and above all prayerful singing, to the joy of all the believers.

The godparents of this year's church Slava were Janko and Divna Bojic, while Milenko and Dostana Jovic were chosen as future godparents, which testifies to the living and blessed continuation of the Saint Sava tradition in this parish.

In his archpastoral sermon, Metropolitan Mitrofan referred to the Sunday Gospel of the Pharisee and the Publican, teaching the congregation that humility is the foundation of a true Christian life. He reminded that none of us is without weakness and that God does not look at external righteousness, but at a contrite heart and sincere prayer. The true path to God, he emphasized, leads through repentance, efforts to be better, and through love for our neighbors, without judgment or pride.

After the Holy Liturgy, a festive luncheon was held in the church hall, prepared with much love and effort by the Ognjena Marija Circle of Serbian Sisters, showing once again that silent service and selfless sacrifice are recognized as a great asset to the parish community.

Those present were also greeted by the president of the Church–School Congregation Dragan Arezina who extended words of welcome and gratitude to the Metropolitan for his pastoral visit, the clergy at the service, the godparents of the Slava, as well as to all those who, with their work, prayer and presence, contribute to the life and unity of this community.

The ceremony was completed by our brother and gusle player Gojko Grcic who heroically and inspiredly played two songs, returning the audience to the roots, feats, and spiritual strength of the Serbian people.

The godfather of the Slava, Janko Bojic, addressed the congregation with a meaningful and instructive sermon dedicated to Saint Sava, emphasizing his spiritual greatness and the enduring call to all of us to live in the spirit of Saint Sava — in faith, humility, harmony, and love.

At the end of the gathering, Metropolitan Mitrofan once again greeted all those present in a fatherly manner, calling for mutual harmony and brotherly love, emphasizing that only as we gather around Christ and His Church can we remain steadfast and blessed, regardless of the coldness and temptations of this world.

Other photos from the celebration can be seen HERE.