Spirituality Day/St Sava's Day in Serbia

Date: January 27 (Gregorian calendar)

Background: Spirituality Day, also known as St Sava's Day, is a significant celebration in Serbia dedicated to St Sava, the first Archbishop of the Serbian Orthodox Church and a patron saint of education and schools. He was a prince and monk who became an important religious figure, contributing to the cultural and spiritual unity of the Serbian people.

History: St Sava, born as Rastko Nemanjić, was a member of the ruling Nemanjić dynasty in medieval Serbia. He relinquished his title and became a monk on Mount Athos. Later, he founded the Serbian Orthodox Church and became its first archbishop. St Sava passed away in 1236, and his contributions to Serbian law, religion, and education have had a lasting impact on the country’s identity.

Traditions: On Spirituality Day/St Sava's Day:

• School Celebrations: Schools across Serbia hold special programs that include performances by students emphasizing national heritage. It's considered a school slava (patron saint day), where students participate in reciting poems, singing songs, and presenting plays about St Sava’s life.

• Church Services: The Serbian Orthodox Church holds liturgies in honor of St Sava. Many attend church services to pay homage to their patron saint.

• Laying Wreaths: Officials and citizens lay wreaths at monuments dedicated to St Sava as an act of remembrance.

• Cutting Slavski Kolač: A ceremonial bread known as Slavski Kolač is prepared for this day. It is blessed during church services or at schools before being broken and distributed among those present.

• Charitable Acts: Emphasizing St Sava’s role in promoting education and enlightenment, people often engage in charitable activities related to schools or helping those in need.

St Sava's Day represents both spiritual reverence and cultural pride for Serbians by honoring their patron saint who symbolizes learning, unity, and spirituality.