Record Demand for Holy Belt Relic

A new batch of blessed ribbons has arrived at the Saint Sava Temple in Belgrade, evening around 7 PM, following a surge in demand that left initial supplies completely depleted. The ribbons, which are blessed on the Holy Belt of the Theotokos relic, had vanished quickly after the relic was made accessible to the public on May 20. According to data released by the Serbian Orthodox Church, nearly 577,000 pilgrims had paid homage to the relic by early June, a number that has since climbed higher.

The sudden shortage sparked a massive volunteer response. Citizens flocked to five different addresses across Belgrade to assist parishioners in packaging the ribbons, which were then transported back to the temple for distribution. The new shipment reportedly came from the Vatoped Monastery on Mount Athos, replenishing the reserves that had been exhausted by the overwhelming crowds.

Alternatives for Pilgrims

Church officials have clarified what believers should do if the ribbons run out again. In such cases, pilgrims are encouraged to place a small cross or a personal icon on the reliquary for blessing instead. While the Vatoped Monastery website normally allows for online orders of these ribbons, it currently states that due to unforeseen demand, the items are unavailable until further notice. A message on the site thanks visitors for their patience and understanding.

The distribution efforts have extended beyond the temple grounds. Hundreds of blessed ribbons were recently delivered to the Institute of Oncology and Radiology of Serbia in Belgrade. Medical staff, nurses, and doctors presented the items to patients fighting severe illnesses, describing the gesture as one filled with care and love. The scene outside the Saint Sava Temple has become historic, with queues stretching up to five kilometers and pilgrims, including many foreigners, waiting for more than ten hours to see the relic.