A Historic Pilgrimage in Belgrade

The Cathedral of Saint Sava in Belgrade has become the focal point of a massive religious gathering, with the Holy Belt of the Theotokos on display until Saturday, June 6. The Serbian Orthodox Church confirmed that more than 500,000 believers have already paid their respects to the relic as of June 2. The devotion shown by the crowds is evident in the kilometer-long queues stretching across the Vračar neighborhood, with some pilgrims reporting wait times exceeding ten hours.

Patriarch Porfirije personally visited the lines over the past few days to support the faithful. According to posts on the church’s official Instagram account, those who spoke with the Patriarch expressed no fatigue despite the long waits, citing spiritual fulfillment as their primary motivation.

Final Liturgy and Departure to Mount Athos

The event will conclude with a Divine Liturgy led by Patriarch Porfirije on Saturday, June 6, before the Holy Belt is ceremonially returned to the Vatopedi Monastery on Mount Athos. The church has issued a call for all clergy, monastics, and laity to participate in this historic spiritual celebration, offering thanks to the Theotokos and Jesus Christ for the blessing bestowed upon the Serbian capital and the faithful.

The relics will be escorted by Hieromonk Ephraim of Vatopedi and his brotherhood. Many public figures have also joined the queues, sharing their experiences on social media after waiting several hours. This visit marks one of the largest religious gatherings in recent years, drawing believers from across the region to witness one of Christianity’s most sacred objects.