Vidovdan in Kosovo: Liturgy in Gračanica, memorial at Gazimestan, strict police controls

Kosovo marked Vidovdan, a pivotal day for the Serbian Orthodox Church and the Serbian people, with religious services and commemorations. A morning liturgy was held at the Gračanica Monastery, followed by a memorial service for Kosovo's heroes at Gazimestan, drawing a large number of faithful from various regions.

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They make the greatest contribution and to their Church and to their people.

This year's observance was characterized by an intensified security presence from the Kosovo Police. Visitors underwent thorough checks, and the carrying of flags, banners, and other symbols was prohibited. At the Gračanica Monastery, following the liturgy, representatives of the Eparchy of Raška and Prizren presented the 'Mother of the Nine Jugović' awards to mothers who have given birth to four or more children and reside in Kosovo. This initiative has been organized for years with support from the Office for Kosovo and Metohija.

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Vidovdan, which gathers us wherever the Serbian people live, especially in Kosovo and Metohija, appears before our spiritual eyes in its glory and greatness, holy great-martyr Prince Lazar, as the leader of Serbian heroes and defenders of the holy Orthodox faith.

Metropolitan Teodosije of Raška and Prizren thanked the honored mothers for their selfless sacrifice, stating they make the greatest contribution to both their Church and their people. Metropolitan Joanikije of Montenegro and the Littoral remarked that Vidovdan unites the Serbian people wherever they live, especially in Kosovo and Metohija. He invoked Saint Prince Lazar, the leader in the Battle of Kosovo, describing him as a champion of the holy Orthodox faith.

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Despite the military defeat, Prince Lazar and his knights achieved a great moral victory.

Joanikije characterized the Battle of Kosovo as a significant moral victory, despite the military defeat. He asserted that this victory has inspired Serbs throughout their history, fueling their continuous struggle for freedom. He also spoke of Kosovo's sacredness, its power to unite, and its role in spiritual and cultural upliftment, urging believers to cherish their love for Kosovo, its holy sites, and its "crucified people."

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That victory has inspired us throughout our long-suffering history, so we have always fought for freedom. And today we are fighting for freedom.