St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church

St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church celebrated The Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ on May 5, 2013, according to the Julian calendar. Families came to worship at Divine Liturgy, Rev. Marko Matic officiating, responses by S.S.S. Karageorge Choir. Visit St. Sava every Sunday morning for Divine Liturgy at 10 a.m.

St. Sava's Serbian Historical Society honored Poet Jovan Ducic on the 70th Anniversary of his death. Guest speaker Rade Pejovic told of the lyric poet's early days and accomplishments, talents, and styles. Rev. Marko Matic introduced Mr. Pejovic along with Simeon Vasic, Jelena Milinovic, and Miodrag Djordjevic, who recited several of Ducic's famous poems. April 7, 2013 was exactly 70 years to the date when Jovan Ducic passed away in Gary, Indiana. His funeral was held at St. Sava Church on 13th & Connecticut Street. Please stop by to view the exhibit through the month of April in the south wing during fish fry Fridays and Sunday Luncheons.

Lenten Services throughout the Midwest Diocese offer an opportunity for your family to attend many area church services during this Holy period leading to the Resurrection.

Please join us for an exhibit and presentation during the Luncheon after Divine Liturgy on Sunday, April 7th. Mr. Radovan Pejovic, architect of our own St. Sava Church, will give a short and informative presentation about Serbian lyric poet Jovan Ducic on the 70th Anniversary of his death. Please join us for a delicious luncheon buffet and see the connection between St. Sava Gary and the famous poet. This event is presented by the Serbian Historical Society of St. Sava Church. Everyone is welcome!

Please join us for choir practice this Thursday, April 11th. This is a new beginning for Karageorge, our wonderful choir, who will host this year's annual SOCA Festival in early June. NEW MEMBERSHIP is encouraged - parents and children welcome, 5th GRADERS and older! Practice THURSDAY April 11th and every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in the north wing conference room. Let's recruit those young voices, and teach a new generation the joy of our music! S.S.S.Karageorge will also celebrate their 100th Anniversary during this same weekend!

Yes, Google got it right...not much more to say. Enjoy.

The Serbian Historical Society presented a plaque to the church board commemorating the couple who blessed this church with a million dollar gift. Mile and Ella also bought the main bell for the church, paid for the monument dedicated to all Serbs who served and were victims of all previous wars. He labored tirelessly to help build this church along with many others who have since passed. He also served up "vruca rakija" every Badnje Vece. The plaque was the suggestion of Historical Society member George Skrivan, himself a large donor, and designed by Paul Jancarich. Look for this plaque where it will be permanently displayed in the north wing. Fr. Marko held Parastos for Mile (5 years) and Ella (4 years) Kosanovic  and also for Milan Opacich's 40 Day Memorial. Milan's daughter Karin paid tribute to her father's memory, and hinted to a biography in the works. Luncheon Buffet was hosted by the Historical Society, and tables were decorated in Milan's favorite wine theme, Opolo wine, made by his dear Serbian friend Rick Quinn of Opolo Vineyards in Paso Robles, California. Proceeds from the luncheon will be used toward the purchase of blinds for the south wing's many windows.

St. Sava's got talent! We all look forward to the St. Sava Day program each year. Please take a few minutes to watch highlights from this year's presentation of music and poetry. Thank you to all the parents and teachers who have encouraged the students to learn new songs arranged by Joanne Samardzija, who has spent many hours practicing with the children. Both Popadija Vesna Matic and Joanne worked on song selections and translations. Most of all, we're so proud of the students - they are the future leaders, teachers, and members of St. Sava Church. Looks like we're in good hands!

Please take the time to watch both videos. Send these videos to relatives who may have missed the program or live out of town.

We all look forward to the St. Sava Day program each year. Please take a few minutes to watch highlights from this year's presentation of music and poetry. Thank you to all the parents and teachers who have encouraged the students to learn new songs arranged by Joanne Samardzija, who has spent many hours practicing with the children. Both Popadija Vesna Matic and Joanne worked on song selections and translations. Most of all, we're so proud of the students - they are the future leaders, teachers, and members of St. Sava Church. Looks like we're in good hands!

At 99 years young, Blazo Dragic was honored by Dusan Matic reading this poem "Sveti Sava", written by Blazo in January of 1947 in a displaced persons camp in Eboli, Italy. Blazo wrote many beautiful poems during those years spent in Italy and Germany. Blazo's poems have been published and can be purchased through the church office (219) 736-9191 during office hours 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. "Zivot I Ja Unjemu - Life and Me in It" is priced at only $15 with entire purchase price donated to St. Sava Church.

"This is to thank the three generations of Serb descendants in America who have for the past forty three years respected, honored, and protected the tomb of my father, King Peter II, at the Saint Sava Serbian Orthodox Church in Libertyville Illinois. Many of you I know personally having lived in Chicago as a young family man and from my many visits these past sixty years. In some cases I also knew your parents and even grandparents just as my father knew many of them.

My father’s resting place these past four decades has been among his friends, soldiers and fellow refugees from World War II at our cemetery in Libertyville. Whatever tragic consequences my father, King Peter II, suffered as a result of World War II, they were no greater than those suffered and endured by your own parents and grandparents who, like him, were wrenched from their beloved country and thrown out into a strange and sometimes hostile world. These blessed souls, your families, my father’s friends, arrived and lived with him in the United States after World War II as refugees and “displaced persons” sometime pejoratively called “DPs”.

My father was born a King and fulfilled his duties faithfully as best as he could under the circumstances. During World War II your parents and grandparents chose whether to be Royalists. They were the military professionals of the Royal Army who became prisoners of war in 1941, or they chose to join the Chetniks and other members of the Royal Yugoslav Army of the Homeland under General Dragoljub Draza Mihailovich rather than join the Partisans. For the choice your parents and grandparents made I know my father was grateful just as I am grateful today for that exercise of free will and display of loyalty.

To bring my father home required some difficult decisions in the face of possibly long and unsettling proceedings. The circumstances of my father’s death and funeral in 1970 are best left to history. Thus, a quiet and dignified transfer was arranged. I know all who respect the monarchy and my father’s memory understand that his return was necessary and long overdue. King Peter’s final resting place at the Royal Mausoleum at Oplenac nearby his father King Alexander I in the now free and democratic Serbia will be open to you at all times to come and pay the respect you were unable to demonstrate last week. Thank you again for your past and continued loyalty."

King Peter II, Crown Prince Alexander II as a young boy, and Queen Alexandra

The Karageorgevich Family

Queen Maria, King Peter II as a boy, and King Alexander I of Yugoslavia Circa 1930

Aleksandar, Isabela, and Zivana Labovic, children of Susan and Dragan Labovic, were honored to serve as Kumovi for this year's St. Sava Day celebration. With all the distractions of school sports and weekend activities, the Labovic family has consistently chosen to attend Divine Liturgy and Church School instead. Young Kum Aleksandar spoke of the significance of St. Sava always watching over his family. Just this past Friday, his father, Dragan, was involved in a serious auto accident and miraculously suffered only a black eye. Sixteen years ago, his uncle and cousin were also involved in a serous auto accident on St. Sava Day and survived! Baba always reminded them that St. Sava has protected the Labovic family and his memory should be celebrated as we did Sunday.

Read about the true story of Serbian Dusko Popov, Ian Fleming's inspiration for the character of James Bond.

Birth:	Jul. 10, 1912, Serbia
Death:	Aug. 10, 1981 Opio, France
Dusan' Dusko' Popov was a double agent working for British Intelligence Service MI5 during the Second World War under the codename 'Tricycle.' Popov was born into a wealthy family in Titel, Vojvodina (part of Austro-Hungary, at the time) and received a good education and spoke fluent German. He had many highly placed German friends - secretly he despised the Nazis and their brutal regime and aim to conquer the world. He had an unpleasant encounter with Nazi party members, during his student days at university in Freiburg, where Popov gained a Doctorate in Law. Popov joined the Anti-Hitler Abwehr agents early in the war and also joined British Intelligence MI5 as a double agent, working for the British. He came to live in London and travelled frequently to Lisbon, Portugal. Popov was able to give the Germans approved information from MI5 - this gave British Intelligence a clear insight into German thinking and operations, which were vital to the war effort. Popov carried out many perilous wartime missions for British Intelligence. He had the codename of 'Tricycle'. Popov lived a very extravagant lifestyle and was well known to be a ladies man and had many romantic encounters. He had a well known affair with French actress Simone Simon. Popov is also the inspiration for the Ian Fleming character...of James Bond. BOOKS: Seven Spies Who Changed The World. by Nigel West. Codename Tricycle:The Playboy Double Agent. by Russell Miller. A Man Called Intrepid - The Secret War. by William Stevenson. Spy/Counterspy. The Autobiography of Dusko Popov.

SAVE THE DATE: SUNDAY, JANUARY 27

Badnje Vece was a long night for Santa Claus. He listened to detailed toy requests from good children who assured him of their best behavior. Santa's many elves offered their assistance to move the line along and gave out candy canes and gift bags, Thanks, Santa!

Please click thumbnails to enlarge.

Vespers started at 6:00 p.m. as we solemnly celebrated the eve before Our Savior's birth. Sunday School students presented a short program starting with a procession of angels, shepherds, sheep, and kings awaiting the birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Karageorge choir sang hymns honoring the occasion. Fr. Marko led the faithful outdoors and blessed the burning badnjak. Hundreds packed the south wing for refreshments and caught up with old friends. Santa photos and video will be posted soon.

The angel said, "shepards, fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a SAVIOUR, which is CHRIST THE LORD. And this shall be a sign unto you, Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger."

Today we celebrate the Nativity of Our Lord according to the Julian calendar. The original artwork below was created by Adam Popovich. Thanks to Vonnie Orlich for sharing this family treasure.

Call today (219) 406-7910 or email karknezic@yahoo.com for your holiday lamb or pig order. Proceeds to Srbadija Folklore and Sunday School. Pick up Monday from Noon to 1 p.m. Details and prices below:

The south wing was filled with families celebrating the arrival of 2013. Lively Serbian music was provided for dancing by Preldzlije Band. Buffet style dining offered guests endless choices from appetizers to desserts! Club Krajina sponsored this event to raise funds for Krajina's Serbian victims. Happy New Year 2013!

The hard working ladies of the Serbian Sisters Circle let someone else do the cooking as they celebrated the Holiday Season Saturday afternoon. Poetry, Christmas stories, games, and songs were all part of the program. Mothers, daughters, grandmothers, and friends laughed until they had tears in their eyes when Olga Galich Velasquez lead the Kolo Chorus in "The Twelve Days of Christmas". "Kolo Men" Simo Glumac and Richard Vrtikapa were thanked for all their help during the past year, and first time inductee Paul Jancarich was presented with his own pair of rubber gloves, apron, and bottle of Palmolive dish soap. "Youngest" Kolo member Karavelka Petrovich (well into her 100's) was honored with a bouquet of fresh flowers by Alexis Orlich. Kolo President Beba Rudman also had a special gift for Donna Nicolich - her very own Chef's hat! Special thanks to Kathy Vrtikapa Friedlander and her daughter Susan, who traveled from Indianapolis to coordinate the party activities and games. Please join us next year and be sure to invite a friend!

St. Sava Church celebrated 98 glorious years as an Eastern Orthodox Christian Serbian parish on Sunday, November 18th. Traditional memorial wreaths were used to commemorate the sacrifices of all members who served in previous wars. His Grace Bishop Longin presided Divine Liturgy as Deacon Nikolaj Kostur, V. Rev. Tom Kazich, V. Rev. Marko Matic, and V. Rev. Bogdan Zjalic held a Parastos for all deceased members and benefactors of St. Sava Church. The new outdoor Pavilion was consecrated with donors Nicholas and Eleonore Chabraja in attendance. A permanent plaque will be displayed in loving memory of Nick and Angie Chabraja, parents of Nicholas Chabraja. Nick Chabraja was a past church president and dedicated member who served our church in many capacities. Angie was an elegant woman who was an active member of our Kolo for many years. Kolo Sisters prepared a fantastic meal for the banquet that followed in the south wing. Church Board President Vonnie Orlich welcomed the guests and Keynote speaker V. Rev. Tom Kazich spoke of his personal memories and inspirational figures of growing up in a "Serbian Gary" environment.

You are cordially invited to attend the St. Sava Serbian Sisters

Annual Christmas Luncheon

Saturday, December 8th, 12:30 p.m.

Innsbrook Country Club 6701 Taft St., Merrillville

$20 per person, friends and family welcome!

Reservations a.s.a.p. to Mimi Orlich 219-310-8044 or Donna Nicolich 219-226-1758

The first American-born Serbian Saint was born in Gary, Indiana, where St. Varnava attended St. Sava Church. The Serbian Historical Society chose him for their Patron Saint, at the suggestion of Roz Opacich. After the blessing and cutting of the Slava Kolach, parishioners gathered in the south wing for a fall themed luncheon buffet. Also celebrating Veteran's Day, Paul Jancarich set up a display paying tribute to St. Sava's veterans from previous wars. Thanks to all who attended and for your continued support.

"The Deafening Cadence of Biblical Defection is more than a revelation of personal encounter. It is a written observation of the world, not as I see it, but as it truly is. Each chapter is a true-to-life account surrounding some of the most troublesome historicity of the Christian Church, all the way up to the more menacing tentacles of the anti-Christian movement in America. Of particular mention are the biased leftist media, inaccurate political propaganda from the film industry, the selling of militant humanism in our schools, political correctness, and a liberal court system that finds it appropriate to assist and legitimize Scriptural abominations into law.

Showing little regard for the Word of God, these anti-Christian agencies have become a menacing, parasitic force tearing at the very fabric of Christian ideology and the moral stability of America. The question is, what kind of world will we assign to the next generation if man’s self-serving, immoral inequities are the measuring tool that represents final authority? Important to this work is the presentation of the one true God as delineated throughout the Old and New Testament. It is by this method understanding and resolutions for conceptual issues in this book emerge. In the end, the book answers one of the most reigning questions corroborated throughout each chapter, and that is, can Christianity as we know it survive in a society that vilifies anything that represents Christian symbolic ideology?

About the author: Robert Delich, Ph.D., is the brother of St. Sava member Janice Delich. Robert grew up in South Chicago and was an active member of St. Archangel Michael parish. He is a world traveler, educator, author, drummer, triathlete, performer, and mental health professional with a Ph.D. in religious studies. The book is available at book stores or Amazon.com in hardcover or Kindle format.

Please join us after Divine Liturgy for the blessing and cutting of the Slavski Kolach in celebration of St. Varnava.

Wonderful, hard-working, devoted, loving, talented, inspiring......there aren't enough adjectives to describe our ladies of St. Sava's Serbian Sisters Circle. Once again they celebrated their Slava, St. Petka Paraskeva, with a solemn memorial service as Fr. Marko read the names of hundreds of deceased Kolo members that have passed throughout the years. Every year our mothers, grandmothers, sisters, aunts, and Kumovi are remembered in our prayers. The Kolo Sisters are the backbone of our church, and we all acknowledge the fact that we could not exist without them. The Djordjevic family and Sisters from New Carlisle also celebrated their Slava that day. After Divine Liturgy, the ladies treated us to a delicious meal served by young folklore dancers and future Kolo leaders. A new framed photo tribute to past Kolo presidents was unveiled and will now be permanently displayed in the north wing. President Milena Beba Rudman thanked all the guests as well as her sisters "Martha Stewart" (Mimi Orlich) and "Paula Dean" (Zorka Glumac). There were many more to thank, but she hasn't nicknamed them yet! Guests included  Kolo Sisters representing NWI and Chicagoland Circles. Kum Dan Sever expressed his personal admiration for and memories of our sisters. A grand Serbian dessert table offered an unbelievable assortment of homemade desserts and pastries!

Please order early for best selections. Frozen, pre - baked golden brown nut rolls and frozen ready to bake strudels to complement your holiday meal were homemade by our ladies of St. Sava's Serbian Sisters Circle. This is the only bake sale event for this holiday season. Call your order in to 219-736-9191 or Fax it to 219-736-7836 with your name, phone number, and request. Prices and details below:

Help support our Srbadija Folklore groups by attending their Luncheon Buffet this Sunday immediately after Divine Liturgy in the South Wing. Our dancers spend hours weekly practicing for upcoming performances and we're proud of them for representing our St. Sava Church family.

The Circle of Serbian Sisters of St. Sava Church - Merrillville

cordially invite you and your family to the celebration of

our Krsna Slava Sveta Petka Paraskeva

SATURDAY, October 27, 2012

Divine Liturgy - 10:00 a.m.

Blessing of Slavski Kolach and Parastos

Luncheon in South Wing Following Service

Lou Stefanovic will be remembered as one of Merrillville High School's greatest basketball players. He graduated in 1981 and went on to attend Illinois State University in Normal. Lou took their basketball team to three NCAA tournaments in four seasons. He was recently inducted to the ISU Hall of Fame. Read more about it.

We're proud to have Lou Stefanovic as an active member of our St. Sava Church family. He has been very generous, sharing his skills and time whenever the SNF Basketball Tournament is in town. Sincere Congratulations and Zivio, Big Lou!

Please visit www.sight4hopeandfreedom.com

The Brkic triplets now have a website where you can donate for surgical expenses to restore sight for Nada and Slobodan. Their Serbian names Vera, Nada, and Slobodan translate to Faith, Hope, and Freedom. Two of the triplets were born blind as a result of overdose of oxygen in their incubator, by mistake of their doctors. Dr. De Juan will treat them at the University of San Francisco. Our prayers will help as will donations to help with medical and travel expenses.
Please give what you can. So far, the first surgery has been successful. You can use PayPal for credit card donations on the website or mail a check payable to Dragisa Brkic c/o
Rev. Marko Matic
St. Sava Church
9191 Mississippi St.
Merrillville, IN 46410

Hurry, Hurry, Hurry! Order tickets today and support our own folklore group Srbadija as they host the fantastic live performance of TALIJA International Folk Ensemble from Serbia on Saturday, October 20th. The concert will start at 6 p.m. at the Memorial Opera House, 104 Indiana Avenue, Valparaiso. Enjoy an affordable evening out with family, neighbors, or friends at this convenient location. Details below, or contact Borka Grimsgard at bgrimsgard@yahoo.com for more info or group sales.

Call the Box Office soon at (219) 548-9137 for Tickets or Directions.

$21 Adults, $16 Seniors and Students

Sunday, September 16th marked the first day of religious classes. Fr. Marko read a special prayer to mark the beginning of the new season. Note the new class schedule. Children should attend Divine Liturgy at 10 a.m. with their families and class will start at  11:15 a.m. after Holy Communion and end at 12:15 p.m.. Students are welcome to enroll anytime during the school year. Luncheons will follow in the south wing after Divine Liturgy.

Don't miss the opportunity for your children to learn traditional Serbian dances and to make lifelong friends. It's so much fun for the dancers, and many performances are planned for the upcoming year. PLEASE TURN IN ALL COMPLETE COSTUMES at registration. THIS INCLUDES OPANKE, SASHES, HATS, for inventory purposes. Board positions for parents are available. Please contact Borka if you are interested at 219-617-1645 or bgrimsgard@yahoo.com - we need your continued support! Three levels are offered for dancers: Pee-wee, Juniors, and Seniors. Registration is from  6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, September 13th in the north wing and Sunday, September 16th from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in the north wing. First practice will resume on Thursday, September 27th and Pizza and Punch will be served! Hope to see you all!

Registration starts at 9:30 a.m. in north wing outside church office on Sunday, Sept. 16th. Sunday School starts at 11:15 a.m. after Holy Communion and ends at 12:15 p.m.

***Please note the change in start time for classes. Fr. Marko encourages families to attend church services together, to give our children an opportunity to experience Divine Liturgy. Divine Liturgy starts at 10 a.m. every Sunday.

Classes will be held in the downstairs learning center. Please register your children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and Kumovi.

COST: $50 First Child, $25 for Each Additional Child

Ages: 3 and up    Grades: Preschool thru 8th

In Eastern Christianity the icon is generally a flat panel painting depicting a holy being or object such as Christ, Mary, saints, angels, or the cross. These religious works of art adorn our churches and homes. Icons may also be cast in metal, carved in stone, embroidered on cloth, painted on wood, done in mosaic or fresco work, printed on paper or metal, etc. Icons served many purposes in the Orthodox Church. A person can walk into an Orthodox Church and see the whole Bible story unfolded on its walls. Icons of Old and New Testament were used to teach the faithful about the Christian Faith. At this year's Serb Fest, the Serbian Historical Society presented an exhibit of unique Orthodox icons featuring the work of iconographer Drazen Dupor. Many individuals and local priests shared their personal favorites. Sisters from The Most Holy Mother of God Monastery in New Carlisle displayed their hand embroidered icons as well as a unique icon on silk from Japan. Young iconographer Steven Kozabarich showed a work-in-progress as well as a beautiful image of St. Demetrius. On the ceiling in the center of the room was an image of St. Elijah Cathedral's cupola (dome) that has recently been adorned with hand-painted frescoes. One part of the exhibit featured photos of all the Northwest Indiana Orthodox Churches as well as an icon on loan from each parish. Hundreds of Serb Fest guests enjoyed the exhibit daily. Special thanks to everyone who shared their precious icons; many of these were treasured family heirlooms. Sincere thanks also to Fr. Marko for his support and travels twice to Madison, Wisconsin to the Dupor Studio to pick up and return the large icons. Enjoy the video below: (To play in full screen, just start the video and click on the 4 arrows in the bottom right corner: click escape to return to this page at the end)

The following letter is a direct appeal for emergency aid from St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church in North Port, Florida. The church is "in costly litigation and negotiations with the contractor to replace the entire roof and repair all the mold and water damaged interior walls". Please read the letter below and give as generously as you can.

July 22, 2012
.
SRPSKA PRAVOSLAVNA CRKVA SVETOG SAVE
8 0 6 5    W.    P r i c e    B l v d.    N o r t h    P o r t,    F L    3 4 2 8 7
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As many of you know, it has been several years since we received the blessing to build our historic new church,a replica of a Church in Obilic, Kosovo and Metohija which was damaged in 1999, and in 2004 it was burned and severely damaged. As construction began and we saw our church taking shape, we were overjoyed with the progress. Unfortunately, the roof was improperly installed and began leaking into interior of the church.    Both interior and exterior independent inspections confirmed that there are major flaws in the construction of the roof which has lead to significant water damage of the drywall resulting in numerous areas of very dangerous black mold.
This was the beginning of our ongoing legal battle with our general contractor for the past 2 years.    Attorney fees and fees paid to independent inspectors has been a huge financial burden on our small church community.    The funds which were accumulating through generous donations by our parishioners and friends were needed to pay for legal expenses.    We are now approaching the final stages leading to the arbitration which is scheduled at the beginning of October.
Prior to the discovery of this negligence on the part of our general contractor, we stopped payment towards the $176,000 still owed per our contract with them.    Although we have a very solid case and strong evidence to potentially win this case, the general contractor has placed a lien on ALL of St. Sava Church property and buildings to be able to collect the $176,000 owed to him.
Most recently our attorney has been negotiating with the general contractor to settle the law suit before going to arbitration and ultimately to court.    It would be more costly for the Church to proceed to arbitration due to additional legal expenses and even if we win this case, there is no guarantee that we will be able to collect the judgment against the contractor.    The general contractor has proposed a settlement in which he has agreed to remove the lien from our property, remove the de- fective roof and replace it with a new roof and repair all the drywall damage resulting from the roof leak.    The construction would begin 60 days after St. Sava has confirmed $176,000 in an escrow account to be paid to the General Contractor upon completion of the project and only after passing inspection by our independent inspector.    The church is currently operating on a dangerously low budget.
In light of this crisis, an emergency meeting was held at St. Sava Church on July 8th 2012, with his Grace, Vladika Mitrofan in attendance.    The purpose of this meeting was to inform our parishioners of the situation and to appeal for their financial help to raise $176,000.    We were blessed with the generous donations totaling $55,400 so far.    Once we have this amount in escrow, and the reconstruction begins, the general contractor has projected completion of the project within 6 months!
As you can see, we are in a desperate situation and we appeal to you in this great time of need to ask you for your prayers and financial support.    Please consider being generous according to your means and help us to complete this very special and holy project. We invoke the Lord’s blessing upon all those who have extended their efforts and help in this holy work and upon all the pa- trons who have contributed in the past to the completion of our new church, and we pray that the Lord may reward you all with His heavenly and eternal riches.
Please make your checks payable to:    St. Sava Serbian Church Building Fund and mail to: Sava Serbian Orthodox Church
P.O. Box 7912, North Port, FL    34290
With great respect,
Rev. Dragan Zaric and Executive Church Board

St. Sava's Srbadija Folklore Group performed Sunday afternoon for Serb Fest guests. The senior group gave their skilled routines, but the younger 2 groups had technical difficulty with their music CD and were unable to perform their rehearsed dances. Drina Tamburitza Orchestra stepped up and played live music for the kids to dance a casual kolo. Moms, Babas, and friends joined in to lend their support to the disappointed children and it all turned out well! Srbadija welcomes new members, so please contact Borka Grimsgard or the church office for details (219) 736-9191.

With amazing energy, young guests from Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland enjoyed three nights of kolo dancing at St. Sava's Serb Fest 2012. Musical entertainment for dancing was provided by Orchestra Sumadija, Maestro, and DJ Spaz. See if you can keep up!

Here's a fun option for your Google page. Sign in to your account and click on "change background image", search for Serbian images. The photo below is one of many choices found for St. Sava Serbian Cathedral. It's quick and easy, and can be changed at any time. Thanks to Nenad Konjevic for the tip!

Join us today for live music by Drina from 1 to 6 and DJ Spaz for dancing from 5 to 9 pm. Be sure to stop by the fantastic Serbian Bakery and view the art exhibit "Images of Faith" in the north wing. Folklore Dancers will perform at 2:00 pm in front of the new Pavilion. Buy a chance to wind the $25,000 Grand Prize - BIG CASH RAFFLE. Everyone is welcome!

The brand new 3 Season Pavilion will offer comfortable dining - rain or shine. Hope to see you there.

Everyone's WELCOME!

In spite of the extreme hot weather, many parishioners attended the annual Serbian Day Memorial Service for General Draza Mihajlovich and other deceased members who served their country. After Divine Liturgy, a procession led the faithful to the new Legacy Tree for a short service. Special guests included Fr. Dragomir and Kristina Tuba from Akron, Ohio with their family, as they make their way to Phoenix to serve that parish. Young Lazo Knezic was in charge of the lamb and pig crew - great job, gentlemen! Thanks also to the Ajder family and Snezana for serving a delicious luncheon.

Violet Milanovich was remembered with a 40 Day Parastos when members returned into the church before the luncheon.

THIS SUNDAY, JULY 15TH, at the Serbian Day Celebration, the SECOND DRAWING for the EARLY-BIRD RAFFLE will be held in the south wing after the luncheon. It's a chance to win an extra $1000 Prize, plus your ticket will be re-entered into the drawing for the $25,000 Grand Prize and all other Prizes in the SERB FEST RAFFLE! Get your tickets soon from any church member, or contact Vinko Mancich, Mike Jaksich, or David Gerbick. Ticket price is $100. Good Luck! Winner need not be present.

NORMAL, Illinois – After helping lead the Redbirds to three NCAA Tournament appearances in the early 1980s, Lou Stefanovic is heading to the 2012 Illinois State Athletics Percy Family Hall of Fame.

Coached by Bob Donewald, the 1982-83 Redbirds stepped into the Big Dance for the first time in program history. Illinois State would make it back to the tournament the next two seasons, with forward Lou Stefanovic leading the team in scoring during the 1984-85 season.

Stefanovic will be inducted into the Hall of Fame in a ceremony Oct. 6.

“It was just a great, great experience, and I want to thank the entire Bloomington-Normal area for their support,” he said.

Eat at Fresh 3 in nearby Crown Point, save your receipt, and you'll help support our Sunday School and Folklore Group Srbadija. Just save your receipt and turn it in to Lela Jensen or Borka Grimsgard, and the generous people at Fresh 3 will donate 10% of the total purchase excluding sales tax to our organizations. It's a Win, Win!

Fresh 3 offers Fresh, Lean, Juicy Certified Angus Beef Burgers, Burritos & Healthy Bowls with a simple twist of unique seasonings and sauces at a reasonable price.

Find them at 10761 Broadway in Crown Point. Click the link for full menu and photos.

Orthodox Christian churches, including the Serbian Orthodox church, celebrate the “miracle of Easter” or Pascha on the Easter Sunday date in the Julian calendar. Many people see Easter as the most important event in the church calendar. Orthodox Easter preparations begin with 40 days of strict fasting prior to Easter Day. Faithful Orthodox Christians attend liturgies during the Holy Week that leads up to Easter Sunday. Below are three videos that show excerpts of the Easter Divine Liturgy at St. Sava Church.

Children, Moms, and Dads were in attendance for Divine Liturgy followed by Blessing of Eggs Service. Executive Board President Vonnie Orlich, KOLO President Beba Rudman, and folklore dancers Marija Novakovich, Camille Sisk, and Sofia Grimsgard passed out beautifully colored Easter eggs. Enjoy the family photos below, and be remember to click on the picture to enlarge. If you'd like a copy, email dorothyshops@gmail.com.

Please bring all children to the lower level classrooms this Sunday by 10:00 a.m. for the annual Easter Egg Hunt. If it rains, the event will be held indoors. All children are welcome to participate, even non-members, so please join the fun!

On Sunday evening March 25, on his way home from Lenten Vespers, Father John was involved in a serious auto accident in Florida. He had surgery earlier this week to put a rod in his left arm and suffered some complications. We are happy to report that he was able to attend and assist during Palm Sunday service, and wish him a full and speedy recovery. (photo by Jelena Mulin, taken February 2012 with Peter Mulin at Tradesmen's Slava)

Father Marko reminded us that every service during Holy Week offers a unique spiritual and informative experience. Please attend any of the morning or evening services listed below.

HOLY WEDNESDAY - APRIL 11

Presanctified Divine Liturgy at 9:00 a.m.

The Sacrament of Holy Unction, St. George Schererville at 6:00 p.m.

HOLY THURSDAY - APRIL 12

Divine Liturgy at 9:00 a.m.

The Great Vigil: Reading of 12 Passion Gospels at 6:00 p.m.

HOLY FRIDAY - APRIL 13

Morning Service at 10:00 a.m.

Vespers with laying of Holy Shroud & Funeral Service at 6:00 p.m.

HOLY SATURDAY - APRIL 14

Divine Liturgy at 9:00 a.m.

Resurrection Matins at 11:30 p.m.

PASCHA - SUNDAY, APRIL 15

Divine Liturgy at 10:00 a.m.

EASTER MONDAY - APRIL 16

Divine Liturgy at 9:00 a.m.

EASTER TUESDAY - APRIL 17

Divine Liturgy at 9:00 a.m.

In many Orthodox churches, Palm Sunday is marked by the distribution of palm leaves (often tied into crosses) to the assembled worshipers. The difficulty of procuring palms for that day's ceremonies in unfavorable climates for palms led to the substitution of pussy willows or other native trees.

His Grace Bishop Longin presided at Lenten Vespers on Saturday, March 17. Also serving were visiting clergy from various Orthodox parishes throughout Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. Rev. Dobrivoje Milunovic from St. George Serbian Church in Schererville was preaching. After Vespers, a delicious Lenten supper was served by our Kolo Sisters in the south wing. Thank you to Xenia Jancarich for taking photos.

Call the church office (219) 736-9191 to place order soon for roasted lamb or pig for both Easter dates.

Price is $10/Lb. for Pig, $13/Lb. for Lamb, 2 Lb. Minimun

Order Deadline is Tuesday, April 3rd for 1st Easter.

Order Deadline is Tuesday, April 10th for Orthodox Easter.

All orders will be pre-packaged, ADVANCE ORDERS ONLY, NO SAME DAY SALES

Pick up for 1st Easter is from 10 am to noon on Sunday, April 8th.

Pick up for Orthodox Easter is from noon to 1 pm on Sunday, April 15th.

Come to the north building in the rear church lot at 9191 Mississippi Street.

ALL PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT PLAYGROUND FUND

Special Thanks to Nick and Karen Knezic for their hard work once again to make these traditional offerings available for holidays, and benefiting our church.

Mike Suvajac and his family will be your hosts this Sunday, April 1st after Divine Liturgy in the South Wing Social Center. Please join us for this great meal among friends, all to support St. Sava Church. There are still open dates available for families or groups to host a Sunday Luncheon. Contact Snezana at 219-736-9191 for information.

Confession at 9:00 a.m.

Sunday School at 9:45 a.m.

Divine Liturgy at 10:00 a.m.

Don't miss the opportunity to support our youth teams, already practicing hard in preparation for the SNF Basketball Tournament.

The Sever Family is hosting a Lenten Luncheon Buffet after Divine Liturgy on Sunday, March 4 in the south wing. These players will represent our St. Sava Church at the tournament hosted by St. Elijah Cathedral in Merrillville in June.

SNF membership deadline is Wednesday, April 11; entry deadline is Monday, May 7. Contact Mr. Eli Roknich to join the SNF soon or call the church office for details.

Please plan to attend this spiritual evening of prayer sponsored by the Orthodox Clergy Association of Northwest Indiana hosted by St. Archangel Michael in Lansing March 4th at 5:30 p.m. Video below is from last year's service at our St. Sava Church.

Musical highlights from this year's St. Sava Day program are presented in the videos below. Under the direction of Joanne Samardzija, the students worked hard to learn several new songs. Thank you to Fr. Marko, parents, and teachers for all their help, and to Deena Galich, whose handmade props have become a part of every St. Sava Day program. Along with the many poems recited in Serbian and English, Olga Micic gave a wonderful rendition of "Rastko". Teens Rebekah Gerbick, Sasa Labovic, and Chris and Alexis Orlich read "Life of St. Sava". Maya Radjenovich, Savka Popovic, and Rachel Gerbick sang "Vesela Je Srbadija" - what beautiful young voices! There were many proud parents, grandparents, Kumovi, and friends in the audience to cheer them on.

St. Sava's Sunday School students presented a fabulous program celebrating the Patron Saint of all Serbian children. The program included several musical numbers as well as individual poems recited in Serbian and English. Program video coming soon - check back in a couple days!

Fr. Marko blessed the Slava Kolach with the Sunday School children on Sunday, January 29 following Divine Liturgy. Each year we celebrate the Patron Saint of all Serbian children, St. Sava, and we are treated to a wonderful program of music and poetry.

Save the date! Help support our friends in Lansing by attending this fun event filled with great Serbian food, music, and dancing.

BLESSING OF HOMES

Dear Members and Parishioners,

It is time for the blessing of homes. The following schedule will inform you as to when I will be in your area.

Fr. Marko

CHESTERTON, VALPARAISO
From Monday January 23rd to Sunday January 29th
……………………………………………………………………………………………....
.
HEBRON, KOUTS, LA CROSSE, DEMOTTE,
Monday January 30th
………………………………………………………………………………………..……..
.
HOBART
From Tuesday January 31st to Thursday February 2nd
…………………………………………………………………………………………..…..
.
PORTAGE, OGDEN DUNES
From Friday February 3rd to Sunday February 5th
………………………………………………………………………………………………
.
GARY, MERRILLVILLE
From Monday February 6h to Tuesday February 7th
…………………………………………………………………………………………..…..
.
CROWN POINT
From Wednesday February 8th to Sunday February 12th
………………………………………………………………………………………………
SCHERERVILLE
From Monday February 13th to Wednesday February 15th
………………………………………………………………………………………………
DYER, ST. JOHN
Thursday February 16th
………………………………………………………………………………………………
CEDAR LAKE, LOWELL
Friday February 17th
…………………………………………………………………………………………..…..
.
GRIFFITH, HAMMOND
From Saturday February 18th to Sunday February 19th
………………………………………………………………………………………………
HIGHLAND, MUNSTER
From Monday February 20th to Wednesday February 22nd

……………………………………………………………………………………………....
CHICAGO
From Thursday February 23rd to Sunday February 26th

Dr. Jolynn Derado, Mike Suvajac, and Paul Jancarich read the Epistles during Christmas Divine Liturgy at St. Sava. Very Rev. Marko Matic gave his blessing to the readers, who read the English and Slavonic verses. Responses by S.S.S. Karageorge Choir under the direction of Ms. Kathy Baroevich. We truly appreciate the devotion of the readers who read every Sunday and are most grateful for our choir members. Mike Suvajac and Paul Jancarich also read for every funeral service and weekday services.

Mim Bizic posted this lovely sketch on Facebook during Christmas. The drawing was done by Sonja Kalember over 40 years ago, and is featured in our own St. Sava's Serbian Sisters cook book. Best of all, the carolers are Fr. John and Protinica Mirijana's daughters Vera, Nada, and Dara Todorovich. Visit babamim.com, where Mim Bizic shares a wealth of information about our Serbian history and culture.

Fr. Marko celebrated Great Vespers on Christmas Eve with a church full of parishioners. At the end of the service, we were all anointed with Holy Oil from Christ's Tomb in Jerusalem. The special oil was a gift from Sister Serafima, Fr. Marko's dear friend who lived in Jerusalem for 15 years before returning to California. This year's balmy 45 degree weather was truly appreciated by those who remained for the blessing of the Badnjak outdoors. Lenten sandwiches, relish trays, and assorted fruit trays were served in the south wing,  as well as the traditional hot tea and sljivo. Children of all ages had a great time with "Serbian Santa".

There were many GOOD boys and girls who sat with Santa Friday evening in the south wing after the blessing and burning of the badnjak. Extraordinarily mild 40+ degree temperatures allowed for a huge crowd and a comfortable service outdoors. (Click the thumbnail photo to enlarge).

Order today for pick up on Saturday, January 7 from Noon to 1 p.m. at the outside north kitchen area.

Pre-sales orders only. $12 per pound

LAMB & PIG

Proceeds benefit the Playground Fund

Contact Snezana at 219-736-9191 to order

Our devoted church choir, Serbian Singing Society Karageorge, hosted a festive lenten luncheon buffet to honor their Slava Saint, Andrew the First Called. On Sunday, December 18, the south wing was cozy and decorated for the holiday season. The beautifully prepared meal started with homemade soup and included bakalar and fried fish as well as an assortment of colorful salads, sides, and desserts. Even the kids couldn't wait to eat! Choir president Gerbick organized her team for a successful Slava celebration.

On Sunday, December 4, the wonderful ladies of our Serbian Sisters Circle relaxed and enjoyed the afternoon at Innsbrook Country Club as they celebrated the holiday season. After another year of hard work making thousands of strudels, nut rolls, sarmas, and palachinke, it was time to kick back and be served for a change. The ladies enjoyed a delicious meal and Kathy Freidlander took charge of fun and games. Kolo sister Karaveljka Petrovich was presented with a bouquet of red roses to mark her 100 plus* years. "Kolo brothers" Richard Vrtikapa, Simo Glumac, and Stanley Galich also attended. Stanley was presented with a bag of walnuts, honoring his expert nut grinding this past nut roll making season. All joking aside, the men have been a tremendous help and are greatly appreciated!

Thanks to Xenia Jancarich for taking these lovely photos.

On Sunday, November 20, St. Sava's Serbian Historical Society celebrated their patron Saint, St. Varnava The Holy Confessor with a festive luncheon in the south wing. Fr. Marko, with board members in attendance, blessed the Kolach at the end of Divine Liturgy. 40 day Parastos was also held for +Cvijeta Rajkovich. Paul Jancarich sang the Troparian and read the story of St. Varnava's life and his childhood in Gary. On display were articles and photographs showing the remarkable yet tragic life of St. Varnava, the first American - born Serbian Saint.

Thank You to all who attended the luncheon or sent donations. Thanks also for all the families who brought salads and baked goods, and for their continued support. Special Thanks to Beba Rudman, Donna Nikolich, and Mimi Orlich for their hard work.

Order your by-the-pound LAMB and PIG for December 25th and January 7th.

All proceeds will go to the playground fund.

PRICE IS $12 PER POUND, ADVANCED ORDERS ONLY

ALL ORDERS WILL BE PRE-PACKAGED. NO SAME DAY SALES

Call Snezana in the church office to order at 219-736-9191.

American Christmas order deadline is Wed., December 21st.

Pick up on Sunday December 25 from 10 a.m. until Noon.

Serbian Christmas order deadline is Tues., Jan. 3rd.

Pick up on Saturday, January 7 from Noon to 1 p.m.

PICK UP AT NORTH BUILDING BEHIND CHURCH

Sincere Thanks to Nick and Karen Knezic for preparing and packaging the lambs each holiday.............St. Sava Executive Board

Message from Borka Grimsgard:

Need to know if any of your high school kids will be attending the Gracanica Winter Retreat (for high schoolers only) at the end of the month.  It runs from December 26-29 and the cost is $85.00.  They’ve extended the registration deadline date to this weekend.

Contact Borka at bgrimsgard@yahoo.com directly.

FOR REGISTRATION FORM and INFORMATION Go to:

http://www.newgracanica.com/youth/

On Saturday, November 5, 2011, His Grace Bishop Longin blessed the construction grounds for St. Sava's new pavilion at the northeast end of the parking lot. He prayed for the safety of the construction crew and for many memorable events to be hosted in the new building. Also celebrating Divine Liturgy and the blessing were Protodeacon Milovan Gogic, Deacon Nikolaj Kostur, and our Very Rev. Marko Matic. The procession was led by flag bearers and clergy, followed by parishioners on a very blustery windy morning. A delicious luncheon was hosted by our Kolo Sisters in the south wing.

St. Sava's Srbadija senior folklore group was honored to perform for a huge crowd during St. George Schererville's 100th Anniversary Celebration program Saturday, October 22nd. The dancers proudly represented our church as they have in the past, and have reached new levels of skill, mastering lively steps and difficult routines. Congratulations to the dancers, who have matured under the direction of Nenad Nikolic. Please support all our folklore groups whenever possible. Children of all ages are encouraged to join our pee-wee, junior, and senior groups. Contact Borka (Barb) Grimsgard for information.

You are cordially invited to attend the St. Sava Serbian Sisters Annual

CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON

Sunday, December 4 at 12:30 p.m.

Insbrook Country Club - 6701 Taft Street

Reservations a must by November 29th

Call Beba Rudman (219) 462-4524

Kay Bozich (219) 980-1805

Mimi Orlich (219) 310-8044

$20 per person

Please bring a friend and join us in the holiday spirit!

St. Sava’s Serbian Historical Society
Invites you to their Slava Celebration
HolyConfessor St. Varnava
First American-Born Serbian Saint, from Gary St. Sava
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Luncheon Following Divine Liturgy
in the South Wing

Leave it to the hard-working women of St. Sava's Serbian Sisters Circle to host a delicious homemade meal with an elegant dessert table for the celebration of their Slava, St. Paraskeva. Father Marko blessed the Kolach after Divine Liturgy Sunday, October 30th and the names of all deceased Kolo Sisters were read - a touching tradition that honors the memory of our mothers, grandmothers, sisters, and aunts. Kum Dan Sever expressed his love and appreciation for the women who work tirelessly for this church. The story of St. Petka's life was read by Alex Djordjevich, Alexis Orlich, and Savka Popovich. Kolo President Milena (Beba) Rudman thanked the guests and acknowledged Zoran and Milena Andrich and family for their generosity; they paid all the expenses for the dinner. Congratulations and Ziveli! to the lovely ladies of our KOLO.

St. Sava Serbian Sisters Circle

Cordially Invites You and Your Family

to Celebrate Our Krsna Slava

Sveta Petka Paraskeva

Sunday, October 30, 2011 at 1:00 p.m.

Divine Liturgy - 10:00 a.m.

*

Blessing of Slavski Kolach and Parastos for our

deceased members following Divine Liturgy

*

Slava Banquet immediately following church services in our South Wing

Upon Milan Opacich's personal invitation, three generations of the Popovich family attended a private showing of "Tamburitza Spectacular". A section of this tambura exhibit was dedicated to the legendary Popovich Brothers, including a photo album containing hand-written personal notes and letters, comedic and political drawings, photos, and newspaper articles, many of which the family had never before seen. Milan's love, respect, and close friendship with Mikey, Adam, and Teddy triggered memories of the good times shared many years ago. On display are  Adam Popovich's drawings and wrought iron sculptures, Marko's (Mikey) hand carved miniatures, posters, and a collection of record albums. Adam's vest, worn to countless performances, weddings, and joyous occasions, is proudly displayed, on loan from the family.

Milan was 19 years old when he first met the Popovich Brothers on a night out with returning WWII veterans. They visited CLUB SELO in South Chicago, owned and operated by the Popovich family. The brothers played to a full house every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night on a corner stage. This is where Milan would court his lovely Roz, who later became his wife. Mikey, the prima player, came to Milan's house for the first time in 1974. Adam and Teddy showed up later. Every December 19, (Sveti Niloka - the Popovich family Slava) Adam, Teddy, and Eli brought bread to Milan's house and enjoyed coffee with Slivo added for dunking their bread. Milan played several occasions with the brothers and substituted for Adam when his wife was ill. When the Crljenica Brothers from California visited Milan's home, Adam hosted a party for them at his home. It was Mikey who first loaned photographs of tamburitza orchestras to Milan for preservation. All in all, this was not just a traditional friendship, but a friendship full of tradition. May their Memories Be Eternal!

If you've never known of the Popovich Brothers and their story, watch the documentary video hosted on Folk Streams The Popovich Brothers of South Chicago.

Pictured are standing, l to r, Stephanie Sims, Chris Ozment, Harry, Marco Glumac, Dan Glumac (holding Noah Bilgi). Middle row: Jim Kundrat, Natalie Peinovich, Melanie Ozment Evancevich, Elaine Glumac. Front row: Sarah Kundrat, Jackson Kundrat, Madeline Kundrat, Tina Bilgi, Sofia Bilgi.
Elaine and Melanie are the daughters of the late +Adam N. Popovich, and Natalie Peinovich is the daughter of the late +Ted N. Popovich.

Also visiting the exhibit during Serb Fest weekend were Sophie Popovich Ostoich (the only surviving sibling of the 10 Popovich's) along with her daughters, Ljubi Hayden, Martha Teshich, Ljubi's husband Bato Hayden, and Sophie's nephew Marco Trbovich and niece Vonnie Orlich, children of +Mila Popovich Trbovich.

On Sunday, October 9, His Grace Bishop Longin presided Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at St. Sava Church, along with guest clergy Diocesan Dean Nikolaj Kostur, Very Rev. Lazar Kostur, Very Rev. Bogdan Zjalic from Chisholm, Minnesota, and our Rev. Marko Matic. This was a remarkable day for new altar boy Ilija Roknich. It was his first church service in the altar, and he had the honor of serving with His Grace Bishop Longin.

Sts. Peter & Paul Church parish in South Bend held their gala 100th Anniversary celebration this past weekend. His Grace Bishop Longin gave blessings for the occasion and presided over the festivities along with several clergy members in attendance: parish priest Rev. Sasha Nedic, Rev. Lazar Kostur, Rev. Marko Matic, Rev. Aleksandar Novakovic, and Rev. Dobrivoje Milunovic. Milan Medich, church president, directed the combined choirs from Sts. Peter & Paul South Bend, St. Elijah Merrillville, and St. Sava Merrillville, who sang opening prayers and gave a fantastic choral performance accompanied by MISMO Tamburitza Orchestra. Bishop Longin addressed the guests and presented Gramatas to Rose Mandich, Bud Medich, and Eve Balaban for many years of hard work and dedication to their church. Rev. Sasha Nedic, Milan Medich, Rev. Kostur, Valerie Phillips, and Rose Mandich all spoke of their experiences of church life through the years. David Medich, event chairman and vice president, also made remarks. A 100 year commemorative video played throughout the evening, made by Robert Medich. After a delicious dinner, SUMADIJA Orchestra played for all the kolo dancers as they danced the night away. Our sincere Congratulations to Sts. Peter & Paul Church on this joyous celebration. Special thanks to Paul and Xenia Jancarich for the photos and contributing story.

On Sunday, August 28, Proto Dobrivoje blessed the new picnic pavilion recently completed at St. George Church grounds in Schererville. The parish is extremely grateful to Jovica Tica, Momir Keric, Michael Radjenovich and all the parishioners who came to help under their direction to construct this pavilion. Now the Midwest weather won't be such a factor when planning future picnics and outdoor events.

New Gracanica Diocese of Midwestern America

40th Annual Bowling Tournament Hosted by your Family, Friends & Kumovi at

Holy Trinity Serbian Eastern Orthodox Church – Saint Louis MISSOURI

Hello Friends,

St Louis is once again proud to host another New Gracanica Diocesan event. We’ve been hard at work
preparing for your arrival. Please find below an itinerary of events for the weekend as well as information for
Registration and Event Sponsorship. Visit us on Facebook at Gracanica Bowling for updated info!

There are absolutely no Entry Restrictions, Come One Come All, Serbian Orthodox & all other’s Welcome!

Welcome Back To St Louis – Welcome Back To Good Times

Friday October 7th 2011

Registration & Welcome dance featuring the music of Orchestra MLADOST 6:00pm, Tambura TBD

Food & Drink available throughout evening

Saturday October 8th 2011

8:30am Check in at Tropicana Lanes, 8:50am Prayer, 9:00am Bowling begins

1st Team Event – 2nd Doubles Event – 3rd Singles Event

6pm Banquet Facility Opens for Casual Style Dinner & Cocktails – Music Starts at 7:30pm

Featuring Mladost in Main Hall and Tambura (TBD) Music on Patio

Awards Presentation at 9:00pm

Sunday October 9th 2011 (Traditional “Serbian Day Celebration” in St Louis)

Hierarchal (Pending) Liturgy 9:45am – Annual Serbian Day Banquet to follow

For Registration, Sponsorships, and all info. contact:

Branko Puhar     puharstl@sbcglobal.net

Dave Lekich (314) 267-9659 or Branko Puhar (314) 496-5169

Deacon Marko Bojovic from St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Church, Indianapolis, organized a day trip to Northwest Indiana this past Tuesday for Fr. Dragan Petrovic  and several parishioners. Their first stop was to see The Shrine of Christ's Passion in St. John and, of course, lunch at Bronko's, where host Nick Tarailo served up his signature pizza and chicken.

Milan Opacich was there to greet everyone and gave a brief presentation about his many vintage string instruments on display in the exhibit "Tamburitza Spectacular!". Nut rolls and cookies were served by Xenia and Roz as everyone relaxed before the church tour. Paul Jancarich played background music on the piano for a sing-along. The visitors left with a bundle of commemorative books for each family.

For many of our guests, it was their first visit to St. Sava Church, where Fr. Marko gave a detailed tour inside the church. Among the group was our dear Nena Popovich, who is truly missed. It was great to see her again! We enjoyed making new friends and look forward to visiting them in Indy one day soon. Special Thanks to Fr. Dragan and Deacon Marko for treating us to a wonderful afternoon with our new friends.

To complete their busy day, they stopped at Fair Oaks Dairy Farm on the way home.

Thank You to everyone who purchased a chance to win a "Smithsonian Prima" built by Milan Opacich. He spent many hours in his workshop crafting the prima, with the entire proceeds donated to the Serbian Historical Society. Sarah Gerbick pulled the winning ticket belonging to Mike Stoyshin from Canada. Congratulations, Mike!

Steven Kozobarich, 36, is a young man from Cleveland who studied Iconography in Russia and painted icons for several years. He visited our Tamburitza Spectacular Exhibit at Serb Fest, where he enjoyed all the wonderful instruments, photos, and artifacts. Tamburitza is a tradition in his family that goes back several generations. His mother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather all played tamburas. His great-grandfather had orchestras in Serbia and the United States at the turn of the century, and was constantly moving his family back and forth. His grandfather had a small folk group of his own. "I grew up with the music because my parents had an orchestra called "Vatra Ziva" that practiced at our house every week. My dad was the lead prim player, and my mom was the bassist. We had boxes of old 78 rpm records that I used to take out and listen to sometimes, and I was always amazed at the passion and raw talent of those early tamburitza orchestras. Years later I bought a turntable made especially for 78 rpms so that I could transfer them to CD's. Eventually I just wanted to hear more and realized that the only way was to find the records and digitize them myself. Before I knew it I had a real collection on my hands. I started the blog with the hope of building some appreciation for the music, as well as possibly inspiring some current or future tamburasi. But, most of all I just wanted other people like myself to be able to enjoy these old records. There's a lot of history there too that needs to be remembered. Some of those recordings were made before 1910 and are important historical documents".

Visit http://www.tamburitza78s.blogspot.com for a musical treat that should inspire memories of good times.

The site is a blog so it's made up of individual posts that start from the most recent date added. You can go through page by page. When you get to the bottom of a page click "Older Posts". Or you can look for names or subjects in the "Categories" column on the left side of the page and click on those. To listen to music just click on the photo of the record label you want to hear.

Children of all ages enjoyed this year's Serb Fest, where they can run around and enjoy the inflatable slides and amusements in a safe, friendly environment. This year's "Tamburitza Spectacular" Exhibit was a big hit with children who enjoyed playing various string instruments. Perhaps this would be a good time to start a new youth tamburitza group like the ones at St. Sava in the 1960's and 1970's?

Where do they get the energy? Not a single pair of opanke was spotted in this young crowd, but you'll see some great dance moves. Young adults and teens from all over the Midwest came to St. Sava's annual Serbian Festival to meet up with old friends and make new ones. Music all three nights was provided by "DJ Spaz" and "Nocna Smena".

Serb Fest relies solely on the army of volunteers who spend months planning, organizing, selling tickets, baking, and preparing for the 3 day event. Some church members even take unpaid time off from work to help out. Many of these volunteers are not pictured below, but our sincere THANKS and appreciation goes out to anyone who helped in any capacity. Whether you're a palachinka princess, krofne queen, or lamb roaster, it seems that working for a common goal among your Serbian friends can be lots of fun.

Live background music is performed at Saturday's music tent by "Srpski Sinovi".

Thanks also to Borka Grimsgard for sharing some of the photos below.

Srbadija Folklore Groups - Pee Wee, Junior, and Senior - performed for the crowd at Serb Fest on Saturday, August 6th. Some of these children even worked the food line, kitchen, and Sunday School tent during the weekend. We applaud them for dressing and performing in full costume in 90 degree heat. Still don't know where they get their energy! Their instructor is Nenad Nikolic. Thanks to all the groups for sharing an important part of our Serbian Culture with the northwest Indiana community.

Chicagoland's DUNAV Orchestra has performed at St. Sava's Serb Fest for many years, as far back as we can remember, even at the old hall on 49th Avenue. The band members include Walter Pravica on violin, Frank Jovanovich on bugarija, John Miksich Sr. on brach, John Miksich Jr. on bass, and Mike Hairlich on brach.The original DUNAV Orchestra has had many different members over the last 50 plus years. The current band members have performed as a group for more than 10 years. Read more about Walter Pravica below.

To hire DUNAV Orchestra, call Walter at (773) 481-8375 or (847) 852-6167

As you may already know, most musicians have "real jobs". Walter Pravica, pictured below with his buddy Milan Opacich, is not only an accomplished violinist, but also is a Professor of Chemistry at Wilbur Wright College in Chicago, and Chair of their Physical Science Department. Walter also plays concert violin with the Northwest Symphony for over 20 years. Best of all, he's a really great Serb with a heart of gold!

What Is a Liturgy?

We as Orthodox Christians, having been brought up in our
faith do not see anything foreign or out of the ordinary when
approaching our most celebrated service, Divine Liturgy. Have
you ever wondered what it is that goes on? Why is it mostly the
same week after week and even weekdays? Why does the choir
sing a long Amen instead of a short one? What are those changes?

The Liturgy is complex in its simplicity and dynamic in the way
it is always the same. Nearly all Orthodox Christians everywhere
in the world will celebrate Liturgy in the same way since the last
part of the 4th century! Why is this?

The Liturgy is an invitation. We have been called to not only sit
at the table with Our Lord and Savior and all the Saints, but to
partake of the life giving mystery which is Holy Communion.
This invitation has remained unchanged and so too the Divine
Liturgy remains unchanged.

At the start of the service, the doors are open and the Kingdom of
Heaven is open to us as well. The service begins with the main
celebrant taking The Word of God, (the Gospel) and making
the sign of the cross over the antimens. Soon enough, we find
ourselves separated, as the Royal doors are closed. Each time
the doors are re-opened typifies an event where God interacts
with man, culminating with communion when the doors remain
open until the end of the service. We should look at the service
in the same way. It is not a series of pieces thrown together but
instead, one long prayer where the goal is communion with
our Lord and Savior. It has triumphant moments, moments of
sadness, moments of instruction, and ends in joy. The prayers
and responses are specifically designed to bring us to this goal.
The long amen and To Thee O Lord, are just as important as the
incense and candles. All these details are important and should
not be overlooked and should come together in such a way as to
magnify the invitation. Nothing in the Church has been put there
by chance, but is there to serve a particular service. To unite us as
one Church in communion with Him who created us, to the Glory
of God.

What a treat! Bob Bratina, Mayor of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, honored us all with an impromptu frula (flute) performance of "Cacak" with Srpski Sinovi Orchestra. Bob and his wife Carol perform with "Balkan Strings" Orchestra in Hamilton. Tambura fans from all over the US and Canada attended Serb Fest - Florida, California, Utah, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and all throughout the Midwest region - so make plans to visit next year's event. Oh yes, and VOTE FOR BOB!

DJ Spaz will entertain the dancers this Sunday on the patio, starting at 6:00 p.m., ending at 10:00 p.m. There's always lots of food available. This is a great way to spend an otherwise boring Sunday evening. Bring a friend.

Do you really think you can keep Serbs from celebrating? The food kept coming, the bar kept serving, and we got just a little wet early Sunday evening.  Grilling volunteers used their strengths to hold down tents. Mother Nature can't ruin our fun! We won't be inviting her next year. Seriously, "Ako Bog Da", we'll have a new Four Seasons Building built in time for next year's Serb Fest, so rain will never again be a problem. Borka Grimsgard, always a good sport, looked lovely in her fashionable rain bonnet.

Our sincere THANKS to everyone who visited our Serb Fest celebration this past weekend. We hope you enjoyed all the traditional food offerings and all the talented orchestras that performed non-stop music. Our culture is worth celebrating and very contagious!

Our folklore dance groups are fun to watch and remind us of how important it is to keep these traditions alive. The youth dance tent was filled with hundreds of teens and young adults dancing and singing the night away. It warms your heart to know that they still feel a connection and passion for our music and traditions.

"Tamburitza Spectacular", an exhibit of vintage string instruments was viewed by many, and may have inspired some future tamburasi, the brotherhood of musicians who seem to have a special bond and love for the music of the southern Slavs.

Once again, our sincere thanks to everyone who came to dine, enjoy the music, purchased baked goods, bought raffle tickets, sponsored our golf outing, and supported our main fund raiser. Please check back daily for many videos and photos from Serb Fest 2011, and always check the "Events" listing to see what's happening at St. Sava and other churches.

This video by Mike Paunovich is just a small sampling of the weekend events.

Today's hours are from Noon to 9:00 p.m., so this is your last chance to enjoy the food, music, and fun. Be sure to visit the Tamburitza Spectacular historical exhibit in the north wing. Tonight's highlight will be the BIG CASH RAFFLE Drawing for several prizes, including the $25,000 Grand Prize, plus the Smithsonian Prima made by Milan Opacich.

Pictured above are veteran tamburasi George Tatalovich, Wally Pravica, and Milan Opacich in the Serbian Historical Society's exhibit "Tambura Spectacular!"

Lucky Gordon Gerbick would like to sell you that winning raffle ticket, so what's his secret?.....Must be that hat!

We'd like to welcome Srpski Sinovi Orchestra from Pittsburgh to perform at St. Sava for the first time. Although everyone knows Marco Trbovich, Vonnie Orlich's brother, the band is new to our entertainment schedule. Here's a little info:

The five member Srpski Sinovi Orchestra is comprised of all 1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation American Serbians. Accordianist, Aleksandar "Sasha" Slavkovic, born in Cacak, Serbia, and Brock Belich, bassist and the only Pennsylvania native in the group, both studied and performed with the Duquesne Tamburitzans. Mark Doncic, originally from Toronto, Ontario, plays cello with the group and is also the director of the Tsar Lazar Male Chorus. Dan Jovanovich, originally from Joliet, IL is on the bugarija and Marco Trbovich, originally of Hammond, IN plays  brac.

The orchestra features Slavkovic's accordion virtuosity and unique three-part harmonies among the group's three elite singers. Srpski Sinovi has been performing for five years throughout the Northeastern US and has occasionally appeared in the Midwest.

New hours:

FRIDAY 4 - Midnight

SATURDAY - Noon to Midnight

SUNDAY - Noon to 9 pm

This is your last chance to buy a chance to own a replica of the tamburitza PRIMA that  was displayed at the Smithsonian Exhibit "Old Ways In The New World" in Washington, D.C. Milan Opacich built the prima to raise funds for the Serbian Historical Society of St. Sava Church. Buy Raffle Tickets at the Tamburitza Spectacular Exhibit during Serb Fest, or at the food ticket tables, the Bar, or from any member of the Historical Society. Drawing will be held Sunday evening, August 7th during the BIG CASH RAFFLE Drawing. Good Luck!

Price: $5 each or 5 for $20. All proceeds benefit the Serbian Historical Society.

Just in time to get you in the mood for Serb Fest, Jay Leno kicks it off with guest Super Serb Novak Djokovich on Tuesday's Tonight Show. Novak Djokovich has been a positive representative and role model for all Serbs, and Jay Leno has taken a liking to our World Champion Tennis Player. Who would have imagined Serbian kolo dancing on the Tonight Show.........maybe Kolo Dancing with the Stars is in the near future?

This is your invitation to a memorable 3 day weekend of non-stop Serbian music, great food, dancing, and a whole lot of culture! Bring the family, co-workers, and friends to enjoy the sights and sounds of old country traditions. Take a few minutes to visit "Tambura Spectacular", a free exhibit of Milan Opacich's personal collection of 60 vintage tamburitza string instruments, photos, sheet music, and artifacts. Children will  enjoy amusements on Saturday and Sunday. You can golf with your Serbian friends Friday. BIG CASH RAFFLE TICKETS will be sold for the $25,000 cash prize!  Everyone's welcome!

Please copy and share the link below to this commercial with friends by email or facebook.

http://youtu.be/3CYaa5g4KQU                                Hope to see you there!

NOCNA SMENA is the featured entertainment for this Sunday night. Cevap Pita Pockets, Krofne, and cool drinks will be available for purchase. Plan a relaxing night among friends before next weekend's Serb Fest.

There's still time to purchase a sponsor package for this year's 46th Annual Serb Fest Golf Classic. Your signage will be viewed by thousands all weekend at Serb Fest and at Summer Tree Golf Course. Contact the church office at (219) 736-9191 for details and sign-up. Details on printable form below. Packages priced at $100, $200, and $500.

NOTE: Deadline for Sponsors has been extended to July 31st. Please print the form below and email it to Vonnie Orlich at: v_orlich@comcast.net or Fax to the church office at: (219) 736-7836.

Download & Print Golf Sponsors Form

Join us for music and dancing outdoors and under the stars!

Sunday Evening July 17, 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m

St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church

9191 Mississippi St., Merrillville

Featuring music by:

DJ SPAZ

FOOD AND DRINKS AVAILABLE for purchase.

Sunday Nights don't have to be boring any more!

Photos from last Sunday night with Nocna Smena:

There's still time to sign up for this year's Serb Fest Kick-Off Golf Classic, always a great time on the course and at the luncheon. You'll be treated all day with great food and refreshments, and end with a luncheon buffet of traditional Serbian food and prizes at the church grounds. Registration begins at 6:30 a.m., Shotgun Start at 7:30 a.m. at Summer Tree Golf Course. Please print the form below and email it to Vonnie Orlich at: v_orlich@comcast.net or Fax to the church office at: (219) 736-7836.

Click on the link below to print the registration form.

Golfers Flyer

The S.O.C.A. Executive Board hosted it's 46th Annual Festival several weeks ago , June 4, 5, and 6, at the New Gracanica Monastery in Grayslake, Illinois. Several choirs performed, including St. Romanos Choir, Toronto, Canada - S.S.S. Karageorge, Merrillville, IN - Stevan Stojanovic Mokranjac Choir, Old Holy Resurrection, N. Chicago, IL - Stevan Mokranjac Choir, Hamilton, Canada - S.S.S. Branko Radichevich, Chicago, IL - and S.S.S. Draza Mihailovich, Cudahy, WI. The audience was treated to a variety of choral selections, performed beautifully by all the participating choirs. Both nights were spent dancing and of course singing along with Mismo Tamburasi. Thanks to Xenia Jancarich for sharing her wonderful photos. You'll notice that the music caught the attention of an unexpected guest - a small deer, who obviously has great taste in music!

ST. SAVA SERB-FEST 2011 ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE!

FRIDAY AUGUST 5TH!
DINING FOOD TENT (TAMBURA MUSIC)

"T-RROMA" - from Chicago, (4 to 8PM)
"DRINA" - from Northwest In., (8 to midnight)

MAIN BAR TENT

Featuring Singer "Milana Anicic"
Accomp. By "Danny Danilovich" & "Bojan Jasnic"(7:30 to midnight)

PATIO AREA (YOUTH MUSIC/KOLO DANCING)

Orchestra "DELIJE" - from Northwest In., (7:30 to midnight)
****************************************

SATURDAY AUGUST 6TH!
DINING FOOD TENT (TAMBURA MUSIC)

"DUNAV" - from Northwest In., (noon to 3PM)
"SRPSKI SINOVI", from Pittsburgh (4 to midnight)

MAIN BAR TENT

Featuring Singer "Milana Anicic"
Accomp. By "Danny Danilovich" & "Bojan Jasnic"(7:30 to midnight)

PATIO AREA (YOUTH MUSIC/KOLO DANCING)

Featuring "DJ SPAZ" from Chicago!!!! (7:30 to midnight)
********************************************

SUNDAY AUGUST 7TH!
DINING FOOD TENT (TAMBURA MUSIC)

"DUNAV" - from Northwest In., (noon to 4PM)
"PRAZNA FLASHA" - from Milwaukee (5 to 9PM)

MAIN BAR TENT

Featuring Singer "Milana Anicic"
Accomp. By "Danny Danilovich" & "Bojan Jasnic"(5 to 9PM)

PATIO AREA (YOUTH MUSIC/KOLO DANCING)

"NOCNA SMENA" - from Indiana (5 to 9PM)

Novak Djokovic makes every Serb proud today, not only for defeating World Champion Rafael Nadal, but for his journey leading to this wonderful day. He has won over audiences and fans for his character, sense of humor, and poise both on and off the court.

Zivio Nole!

Congratulations to our Sunday School students for another fun year of learning about their church and religion. Betsy Kirby's 2nd and 3rd grade classes were joined by several other students who wanted to participate by keeping their own personal journals. Students shared their personal thoughts about sacraments, family, heaven, and marriage. You may be surprised at the depth and maturity of their thoughts. This short program was presented Sunday, May 22nd after Divine Liturgy. Thanks to Fr. Marko, Marie Baroevich, all teachers, and parents for another great year!

We couldn't be more proud of our Olga. She grew up in our St. Sava Church community, attending Sunday School, participating as a dancer in our Folklore Group, and is still an active member of Karageorge Choir. She even manages to donate time to help at Serb Fest, in spite of her demanding schedule as the Mayor of the City of Portage, Indiana.

Olga is the daughter of +Nikola and Tamara Galic, and is married to Julio Velasquez with sons Adam and Daniel. Congratulations, Olga!

HOBART | Some 550 people came together Thursday to honor women from 11 business, nonprofit and political fields at the inaugural Influential Women of Northwest Indiana Awards Banquet at Avalon Manor.

More than 120 Northwest Indiana women were nominated for the honors. An "Influential Woman of the Year Award" and an "Up and Coming Woman of the Year Award" were presented in the 11 categories.

Read the entire article in The TIMES.

45th ANNUAL S.O.C.A. FESTIVAL

June 3, 4, & 5, 2011

New Gracanica Monastery, Grayslake, IL

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Friday

Afternoon Welcome Desk at the Comfort Suites, Grayslake, IL
6 :00 p.m. Vesper Services – New Gracanica Monastery
7:30 p.m. Liturgical Concert – New Gracanica Monastery
Stevan Stojanovic Mokranjac Choir, OHR, N. Chicago, IL
Otpuscajesci & Opelo (part of Requiem)
Stevan Mokranjac Choir, Hamilton, Ontario
Bogorodice Djevo & Tebe Pojem

8:30 p.m. Welcome Social/Dance – Camp Hall
Admission: $10.00 • 12 & under free
• Mismo Tambura Band from Merrillville, IN
• Dinner & Bar

Saturday, June 4

1:00 p.m. Festival Concert – New Gracanica
7:00 p.m. Dance – New Gracanica

THE ANNUAL SOCA BANQUET WILL BE ON SATURDAY, JUNE 4TH WITH THE DANCE FOLLOWING IMMEDIATELY AFTER.

Dance Only Admission: $15.00 • 12 & under free
Sloboda Band from Milwaukee, IL
• Mismo Tambura Band from Merrillville, IN
• Bar open all night, food & refreshments available

Sunday, June 5

10:00 a.m.
Holy Liturgy – Mass Choir – New Gracanica

• 50/50 Draw Winner Announced

The weather was absolutely delightful for all Moms on their special day. Srbadija Folklore Group hosted the event, and some of the Dads helped with preparations and serving. Thanks to all the Kolo ladies for their dessert and salad donations.

Special Thanks to Borka Grimsgard for the lovely photos.

The Tennis Channel interviews Novak Djokovic. You won't believe what he's packing.

Fr. Marko Matic officiated this year's Easter Divine Liturgy Service, celebrating The Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ. You can watch small clips from this service and children receiving eggs and Fr. Marko's blessing below.

Hristos Voskrese! Voistinu Voskrese!

Christ Is Risen! Indeed He Is Risen!

Last year's joint festival "One Love Serbian Song" inspired choirs to sing together for the first time since the mid 1960's. St. Sava and St. Elijah from Merrillville and Sts. Peter & Paul  from South Bend combined their 3 choirs and recruited director Milan Medich to lead them on their musical journey. Mismo Tamburitza Orchestra members volunteered their talents along with Nicky Sever. The festival preparation turned out to be such a wonderful experience, so they agreed to keep the group together. Since then, they have performed spiritual music and folk songs at Lifeline's Fundraiser, several festivals, Slavas, and Anniversaries. They practice hard, and celebrate when they're done. Last year was filled with fun and outstanding performances, and there's always great food available - many bring a side dish. New friendships for a lifetime were made. The choirs finished the season with a Christmas Party.

Join this choir!

The first practice of the season is scheduled for Sunday, June 26th at 4 PM at Nick & Melanie Sever's home in Ogden Dunes. New members are encouraged to join. Teens and young adults, boomers and seniors are all welcome! Milan Medich is the director of this lively group. Call Melanie at (219) 762-9652 for details and directions.

Thank you to all the families who colored and donated eggs for sharing on Easter. Special thanks also to our folklore dancers for passing out the eggs after Divine Liturgy.

At the personal invitation from Portage Mayor Olga (Galich) Velazquez, St. Sava's Serbian Historical Society proudly participated in the first ever Portage Cultural Festival on Sunday, April 10th. Several countries were represented at the event hosted by the Portage Youth Commission. Samplings of art, national costumes, music, food, and culture were beautifully presented at the many booths. "First Mom" Tamara Galich  showed off her Latvian roots and a collection of hand - decorated eggs that she decorated many years ago. Congratulations to the Portage Youth Commission for celebrating the diversity that is such an important part of Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland. The Serbian Historical Society was also invited to set up a traveling exhibit last October for Lifeline Humanitarian Organization's Gala Fundraiser at the Chicago Cultural Center. We're proud of our Mayor Olga for all she has accomplished and congratulate her on her recent re-election!

Congratulations to Mileva Savich and Nancy Samardzija for successfully organizing a blanket swap to benefit children in orphanages in Serbia. On Sunday, March 13th, blanket donors received one of 280 Gold Canyon Candles or one of 50 pieces of  Lia Sophia Jewelry, donated by Mileva and Nancy. St. Elijah Church provided a spacious facility for the Sunday afternoon event. Donna Stojsavljevich Kennedy and Branka Manojlovich set up a bake sale with pastries baked by ladies from local parishes. Diane Gligich and friends are busy crocheting colorful slippers with a goal of 1400. To date, they have finished more than 400 pairs., made from  donated yarn. Lifeline Humanitarian Organization will soon distribute the twin sized blankets to children in poorly furnished Serbian orphanages. Please support this valuable organization. Monetary donations are always welcome.

St. Sava Folklore Group is hosting this year's Mother's Day Luncheon in the South Wing after Divine Liturgy. What a great way to spend the day with Mom! Everyone is welcome.

"Springtime In The Park" was the perfect theme for an afternoon of fashion, food, and fun at the recent event co-hosted by St. Sava and St. Elijah Kolo Sisters. What a pleasure it was to see so many young, beautiful Serbian children and teens model current fashion trends available for purchase at Piper Children's Boutique in Valparaiso and THE BUCKLE in Westfield Southlake Mall. Kolo Sisters attended from St. Louis, South Bend, Milwaukee, and many other midwest parishes. Enjoy the videos and be sure to post them on your facebook pages. Click on the video outside the arrow, and it will take you directly to YouTube, where you can get the video link, or click on the blog title, go to the top of the page and copy the new URL and post the entire story with the videos.

Many Thanks to all the volunteers who worked for weeks planning and organizing this successful event. The combined Kolo Sisters from St. Sava and St. Elijah donated and solicited Silent Auction Items and Door Prizes, sold tickets, served tables, made horsd'oeuvres and baked cookies. Simo Glumac, Arfin Grimsgard, Steve Baroevich, and Nick Knezich served cocktails. Kathy Friedlander made aprons in spring colors for all the servers. Sladjan prepared a fabulous Lenten dinner. Melanie Sever coordinated the style show, and Borka Grimsgard was the commentator. Thanks also to the numerous vendors who tempted us all with their merchandise and services.

Special Thanks to Nancy Van Santen, owner of Piper Children's Boutique in Valparaiso  and Vido Ivanovic, assistant manager of THE BUCKLE in the Mall for their patience and assistance throughout the planning and day of the show.

A bottle of wine or Rakija is a typical Slava gift, so why not dress it up with an embroidered cloth gift bag? It's re-usable and tastefully embroidered with "Srechna Slava" and matched with a ribbon to tie at the top. The bottle bag is available in white, and embroidered in assorted colors. Priced at only $10, just in time for The Feast of St. George. Contact Dorothy at (510) 289-9862 or email at dorothyshops@gmail.com to order and choose colors. (Can be mailed for $2 S&H in the US) Proceeds will go to St. Sava Church.

*Fondly remembering our sweet Teta Milica, who worked tirelessly for our St. Sava Church.

KOLJIVO (ZITO)

Ingredients:

1 lb. ground walnuts

1 lb. sugar or powdered sugar

1 lb. wheat

1 tsp. vanilla, rum, or almond flavor

1 tsp. cinnamon

Clean wheat and wash thoroughly. Put wheat in pan in which you are going to cook it. Then put hot water, not boiled, and let stand for 1 hour. Wash it well in lukewarm water 2 times. Put on to cook in 4 quarts hot water; add a little salt. Cook until tender; do not overcook. When wheat is done, strain in lukewarm water 2 times. Put in strainer and wash again. Then let it stay overnight in a strainer. Put where it will drain.

When you want to mix the wheat, put in pan or bowl where you could mix the best. Mix it thoroughly, put in wheat, nuts, sugar, flavor you want and cinnamon. Sugar may be added if desired. When all mixed, put in glass bowl; shape it up. Put ground walnuts on top of wheat; let some nuts on a side from top, make a cross in the center with cubed sugar, decorate around the cross with raisins, and around the side of the bowl.

Thank you to all the hard working ladies of the Serbian Sisters Circles from St. Elijah and St. Sava, who jointly hosted this year's camp kick-off fund raiser luncheon. The event was a huge success and very well attended. This video is a reminder of all the fun and wonderful memories that our children take away from attending camp at Gracanica and St. Elijah's day camp, thanks to our Kolo ladies and very dedicated volunteers. Check back in about a week for the style show video.

St. Sava Church hosted this year's Sunday of Orthodoxy Vespers Service, Restoration of the Icons, sponsored by the NWI Orthodox Clergy Association. Presiding the service was Chancellor of the Chicago Greek Orthodox Diocese, Archbishop Demetrios., assisted by Dean Kartsimas. Guest speaker was Rev. Ted Poteres of Sts. Constantine and Helen Cathedral. Also serving were Rev. James Greanias, Rev. Aleksandar Novakovich, Rev. Dobrivoje Milunovich, Rev. Peter Bodnar, Rev. David Hudson, Rev. Sergei Alexeyez, Rev. Luka Lukich, Rev Ioan Ionita, Rev. Aleksandar Savich, and our own Rev. Marko Matic. Also in attendance were Rev. Evagoras Constantinides and Rev. William Bass. Special Thanks to the combined choir from local Orthodox Churches under the direction of Gene Adamczyk from St. Elizabeth Orthodox Church in Chesterton for the beautiful responses.

The Sunday of Orthodoxy is the first Sunday of Great Lent. The dominant theme of this Sunday since 843 has been that of the victory of the icons. In that year the iconoclastic controversy, which had raged on and off since 726, was finally laid to rest, and icons and their veneration were restored on the first Sunday in Lent. Ever since, this Sunday has been commemorated as the "Triumph of Orthodoxy." Read more about this day.

Support our talented folklore dancers by attending this All-You-Can-Eat Pasta Buffet Dinner with all the trimmings and dessert! Traditional and Lenten selections will be available. While they last, Bakalar dinners will be available, for separate purchase, as well as Palachinke. Bring the entire family to this fund raiser to help pay an instructor and travel expenses. Monetary Donations are always welcome. See you there, and bring a friend for a delicious meal. 

St. Sava and St. Elijah's Kolo Sisters will together host a Luncheon to raise funds for this year's summer camp season. This relaxing afternoon event will feature a delicious meal, children's style show, cocktails, silent auction, door prizes, and even a Martini Bar! Bring a friend or the entire family. Doors open at 11:30. Details below:

PRICES: Adults $20 - Children 12 & Under $5 - Teens 13 to 18 $10

In an extremely urgent appeal, the Serbian Community has pulled together to rally fellow Serbs to be tested to be a match for bone marrow transplant. Jelena Stojakovich, a 31 year old college student from Trbinje, is working on her P.H.D. at the University of North Carolina. She is suffering from Lukemia. A Serbian donor gives her the best chance for survival. The testing is simple - a cheek swab. The current testing schedule is posted below. Please watch the videos for more information.

Anna Pavichevich wrote: They are keeping Jelena in remission with chemotherapy. They are making arrangements to take her to Seattle to do a transplant with cord stem cells that are not a match. This is very risky and does not have a high chance of success. WE HAVE TO FIND THE MATCH quickly!

Schedule of drives:
* St. Basil of Ostrog, 27450 N Bradley Rd, Mettawa-Lake Forest, IL 60045 – Sunday, March 20, after Divine Liturgy from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
* Old Holy Resurrection, 3062 W Palmer Sqr, Chicago Sat, March 19, 3 – 8 p.m.
* Holy Resurrection Cathedral, 5701 Redwood Dr, Chicago Sunday  3/20, 3/27, April 3, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
You can also partner-up with other churches in your geographic area!

Thanks to Lifeline Humanitarian Organization's efforts to inform us of the urgent and immediate needs of countless Serbian orphan children, there has been an aggressive campaign to gather necessary items to send to Serbia. St. Sava's choir, folklore group, Kolo, and Sunday school participated in crafting homemade twin-sized fleece blankets for the children to cozy up. What a wonderful way to show that someone far away cares about them. Beanie Babies, games, and new clothing will also be tucked into the blanket packs for an extra surprise! If you would like to help with Lifeline's continuing efforts, contact Melanie Sever or visit Lifeline's website for information or to DONATE.

Thanks to the following individuals who spent many Saturdays making blankets. Fabric was donated by Kolo - Serbian Sisters Circle, Srbadija Folklore Groups, S.S.S. Karageorge Choir, and St. Sava Sunday School. Special Thanks to Violette Kristoff, who  also made many personal sized blankets and donated fabric.

Smilja Andric, The Baroevich's - Helen, Kathy, Marie, Lauren, & Caitlyn,   Goran Bilbija, Ruth Ann Bjelopetrovich, The Gerbicks - David, Gordana, Sarah, Rachel, & Beki,   Zorka Glumac, Borka & Sofia Grimsgard, Desa Halstead, Sarah Jackovich, Lela Jensen, Millie Kokotovich, Sonja Mancich, Dusan Matic, Radmila Milivojevic, Millie Moncilovich, Snezana, Marija, & Sasha Novakovich, The Orlich's - Vonnie, Millicent (Mimi), Nada, & Danilo,   Dara Perry, Beba (Milena) Rudman, Violet Sekulich, Stana Sesto, Dawn Sisk, Florence Stefanovich, Dragica Trikich, Richard & Polly Vrtikapa, and many more.

Children from St. Elijah and St. Sava parishes came dressed in their National Costumes and waited in anticipation for a rare event; a chance to see Patriarch Irinej of Serbia at Vespers on Tuesday. St. Elijah Cathedral and Fr. Novakovich hosted the spiritual evening, attended by many priests from nearby parishes as well as a surprise visit from our own Father John, who came up from Florida. The banquet that followed services was well attended in the nearby church hall. Special Thanks to Mileva Savich for providing the wonderful photos for the slide show below.

Sunday of Orthodoxy will certainly be a busy one. This will be a fun afternoon event for the girls, and you'll feel better knowing that you've help keep a Serbian orphan child warm. After the blanket swap, join us for Sunday of Orthodoxy Vespers at St. Sava, starting at 6:00 p.m.

St. Elijah Parish

Is pleased to welcome

His Holiness Irinej

The Patriarch of Serbian Orthodox Church

At our St. Elijah Cathedral

On Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Vesper service starts at 6pm

Followed by the banquet at St. Elijah Hall

We would like to invite all parishioners,

Friends from neighboring parishes

And all people of faith

To join us in prayer as we welcome His Holiness

Our talented Sunday School students once again worked hard to memorize their poems. In case you were unable to attend or couldn't see from the back of the room, you can watch it here. Send it to family and friends, or facebook it. Click on the movie itself to get the YouTube link, or send this entire blog (click the blog title, go to the top of the page, copy the URL, and send it in an email. Enjoy the show, and watch the other 2-part videos in the blog below to see the musical performances.

Thanks also to the older teens for reading stories about the Life of St. Sava and Life of St. Varnava. GREAT JOB!

Great Vespers and Burning of the Badnjak (Yule Log) were celebrated on the evening of January 6, 2011 by Fr. Marko. S.S.S. Karageorge Choir sang the responses to a church full of parishioners. Sunday School children performed Christmas songs and were anointed with Holy Oil. All the traditional treats: Lenten sandwiches, fruit, figs, and vrucha rakija were served in the South Wing Social Center after burning of the Badnjak.

Dear members and parishioners of St. Sava Church,

It is time for blessing of homes. The following schedule will inform you as to when I will be in your area.

---Fr. Marko Matic

The sanctification of the home takes place with prayer and the sprinkling of Holy Water. The priest, at this annual visit, asks God to have mercy on the house, to rid it of every evil and to fill if with every blessing. Everyone of the house, prays together for the living and the dead of the family, and all who live and have lived in the house. They all sing the hymn of salivation and progress from room to room while the priest blesses the house.

Winter Blues got you down? Cheer Up! "Plavi Safir" is Coming to Town!

Great Vespers will start at 6:00 p.m. followed by the Burning of the Yule Log and refreshments in the South Wing. Bring the entire family for this wonderful traditional celebration. Santa will greet the children.

Yes, it was finally their time to sit back, have a glass of wine, and be served. This past year proved to be among the busiest. The Serbian Sisters Circle members made thousands of strudels, nut rolls, palachinke, and baked goods for seasonal bake sales and Serb Fest. Holiday gift baskets and boxes of Thanksgiving turkeys (donated anonymously) with all the dinner trimmings were packed and delivered to members who can't come to church for health reasons. Kolo sisters prepared and served many Sunday Luncheons and participated in events hosted by other churches and Kolos, always ready to help with charitable causes. St. Sava's sisters hosted the 4 KOLOs Humanitarian Banquet this year.  Innsbrook Country Club was beautifully decorated for the Annual Christmas Luncheon and Kathy Friedlander kept it lively with fun Holiday games. Donna Erceg read Holiday poetry. It was wonderful to see Kay Bozich, Violet Milanovich, the Mileusnic sisters, and many faces back again as well as daughters of Kolo members. Please join us again next year.

This has been an exciting year for our Srbadija Folklore Groups. All 3 groups performed for the church's 96th Anniversary. The Senior group recently visited Phoenix, Arizona for a dance festival and made new friendships as well as lifelong memories. President Borka  Grimsgard keeps the dancers busy hosting luncheons and fundraisers, and concerts. They performed at Serb Fest and several Chicago area Serbian Churches. Under the direction of Nenad Nikolic, the dancers have excelled to a new level. We are always happy to watch them perform and are very proud of them. Somehow they maintain a balance between school, sports, and church activities. Congratulations to all the dancers!

St. Sava's parishioners celebrated 96 joyous years of church history on Sunday, November 14th on a very cold, windy day. Sts. Peter & Paul parish members, Fr. Sasa Nedic, and their Aleksa Shantich Choir came by bus from South Bend to help us celebrate this special day. We were honored by their participation and support. Also in attendance were Mother Antonina and Sister Marina from Nativity of the Mother of God Monastery in New Carlisle. After Divine Liturgy, the faithful joined the procession to the war memorial monument for a solemn Parastos and laying of a red, blue, and white wreath by guest speaker Desko Nikitovic. St. Elijah's Hall catering served a delicious meal, and we were all treated to a fabulous Kolo - style endless dessert table. Program highlights included a performance by the combined choirs of St. Sava and St. Elijah from Merrillville, and Sts. Peter & Paul from South Bend, and a lively dance performance by our own Srbadija Folklore Groups. Church President Dennis Svilar touched on his own personal memories of growing up at St. Sava, and guest speaker Desko Nikitovic inspired us to strive to stay in touch with our strong Serbian roots. Mismo Orchestra treated everyone to a sing - along before and during the meal, and they also accompanied the combined choirs. A slide show of old and new photos was played on 2 large screens. The photos honored the memory of deceased family members, the church on 13th & Connecticut, and recent events, perhaps to inspire us to recognize the responsibility we have to keep this church strong.

There are hundreds of innocent children living in orphanages in Serbia. Through no fault of their own, these children have lost parents, siblings, and loving homes. LIFELINE members recently visited the orphanages to assess the needs and challenges that are still ahead. Please help by reviewing the list for basic items that would be greatly appreciated. You can print the form below and mail your donation to:

Lifeline Humanitarian Organization
200 N. Michigan Ave, Suite 502
Chicago, IL. 60601

(312) 781-9300

Download the PRINTABLE Version of the form:

Lifeline Appeal Flyer

For many years we've enjoyed a sing - along with the guys from MISMO at our anniversary banquets. This year they also accompanied the combined choirs from St. Sava and St. Elijah in Merrillville and St. Peter & Paul from South Bend. Band members are Steve Baroevich, Mike Jaksich, Dan Orlich, and Mike Ticich, along with special guest musician Nick Sever. Enjoy the samplings in the video below.

When: Friday November 26^th

Where: St George Serbian Hall

Time: 7:00pm until 12:00am

Admission: $5.00 / 16 and under free

Serbian & American Music

Food Will Also Be Served

DJ: Vinko

All proceeds will go towards the St George Basketball fund!

TELL ALL YOUR FRIENDS

Only a few days left, so hurry in your order for take-and-bake homemade strudels and pre-baked nut rolls for the Thanksgiving Holiday. Our Kolo Sisters have that "magic touch", and have been busy for several weeks preparing delicious baked goods.  Pick up your order from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, November 20th in the south wing. Call in your order (219) 736-9191, or FAX it to (219) 7836.

PRICES:

Apple, Cheese, or Cherry Strudels   $10 each

Nut Rolls    $10 each

LIFELINE HUMANITARIAN ORGANIZATION PRESENTS

Flavors of Serbia in Chicago
Chicago Cultural Center
Preston Bradley Hall
Saturday, October 16, 2010
2:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Tickets are $100 per person and include food, drinks, and entertainment.
Seating is limited, reservations are required.
(Register now!) or call our Chicago office at (312) 781-9300

What a way to spend a Saturday afternoon:
while enjoying the flavors of Serbia,
help our mission of aiding the orphans.

Enjoy the talents of Serbian Choir, Tamburitza musicians, and colorful Kolo folklore dancers around the regional food and wine pairings of Serbia.

PARKING INFO:

IMPERIAL PARKING, 60 EAST RANDOLF

Attend the Diocese Bowling Tourney for a fun-filled weekend. Games start early Saturday morning at 8 am. St. Nicholas Church, 7855 Marsh Road, Indianapolis, will host this year's Bowling Tournament. St. Sava has several teams participating. Registration is Friday night with a Lenten Meal offered at the Church Hall. All day bowling starts at 8 am at PINHEADS, 13825 Britton Park Road, Fishers (317) 773-9988 (Singles & Doubles). Saturday night schedule: 6:30 pm dinner, awards, and dance at church hall, music by Sumadija. For Registration Forms and Contact Info, call or email George Stanjevich at (317) 490-4926, gstanjevic@aol.com or Daniel Stanjevich at (317) 490-4927, dstanjevich@yahoo.com.

Enjoy the sights and sounds from this year's Serb Fest. Join us next year as we host another fun weekend. Thanks to "Prazna Flasa" for providing background music.

Your Eminences, Your Graces, Revered Clergy,

Dear family and friends of our newly departed +Metropolitan
Christopher,

Allow me to express the condolences of the Executive Board
and member choirs of the Serbian Singing Federation.

With his passing, the Serbian singing community has lost one
of its staunchest supporters. It is a void which shall not easily
be filled, for his was a true love of the Federation. During
the +Metropolitan’s years as a parish priest and continuing
through his years as Bishop and Metropolitan, his love for the
choirs of the Serbian Singing Federation never waned.

+Metropolitan Christopher, when asked to speak at various
choral or Federation functions, always had the greatest praise
for our endeavors and our successes. His love of the Serbian
choral composers, not the least of which was the late +Adam N.
Popovich, was well known to all who knew him.

As a parish priest in Johnstown, Pa, “Fr Vel” joined the Josif
Marinkovich choir. From there he moved to Pittsburgh, PA,
where he became an active member of the Filip Visnich choir
at St. Sava church. At his final parish, St. Archangel Michael
parish in South Chicago, “Fr. Vel” once again became a choir
member, this time with Sloboda. He was, during those years,
what we fondly called an active “choir priest”, one of a group of
many; his kum, Fr Markovina of Milwaukee; Fr. Baich of Kansas
City; and Fr. Lunich of Schererville and Joliet to mention just
a few. Fr Vel was a willing participant in Sloboda’s concerts
and activities and was honored with a private concert by the
Sloboda members just a few days before his passing.

+Metropolitan Christopher’s love of his Serbian folk and
liturgical music has been passed on to his children, two of
whom are directors of Serbian choirs. As recently as May of
this year at the joint SSF/SOCA One Love Serbian Song Choral
Festival , the +Metropolitan gave a moving speech at the Holy
Resurrection Church on Palmer Square speaking of the glory
of the Federation and SOCA being reunited for a long overdue
festival. His words were full of praise for the choirs and their
struggles, their place in the community and in the Serbian
Orthodox Church.

We at the Serbian Singing Federation shall always hold dear
the +Metropolitan’s love of the music and his encouragement
of our efforts to remain true and strong within the Serbian
communities. He shall not be forgotten. We hope that his hand
will continue to guide us forward from his new position with
the Lord.

Vjecnaja Pamjat.

Serbian Singing Federation
Vonnie Orlich, 1st Vice President

His Eminence +Metropolitan Christopher passed away on Wednesday, August 18. As soon as it is available, information about details of funeral date and time will be posted here. He was just recently diagnosed with brain and bone cancer. Read about his life here in detail. May he rest in peace. Memory Eternal.

MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 2010

Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, 10:00 AM, Monday, August 23, 2010, at Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral, 5701 N. Redwood Drive, Chicago, IL 60631.

Funeral Matins (Burial Service), 7:00 PM, Monday, August 23, 2010, at Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral, 5701 N. Redwood Drive, Chicago, IL 60631.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 2010

Hierarchical Divine Liturgy and Requiem Service (Trisagion), 9:00 AM, Tuesday, August 24, 2010, at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Monastery 32377 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville, IL 60048, followed by burial at grave on south side of church.

A memorial lunch will be served at Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral, 5701 N. Redwood Drive, Chicago, IL 60631, following interment.

Donations in memory of His Eminence Metropolitan + Christopher may be made to the St. Sava Monastery Fresco Fund.

No wonder the food was so good.

Leave it to this group to make work so much fun that you'll want to work the food tent next year. They serve.......they sing.......they dance........who knew?

Three choirs from Merrillville and South Bend decided to join together and perform for this year's "One Love Serbian Song" Festival in Chicago during Memorial Day weekend. They had so much fun practicing and performing together, so they decided to stay together and continue performing as a group. The  dining crowd at St. Sava's Serb Fest was treated to a casual performance. Milan Medich directs, and Nick Sever, Steve Baroevich, Dan Orlich, and Mike Jaksich have all volunteered their time for this choir. Many new friendships have resulted from this effort. Membership is open. Contact your church choir director for details.

In spite of the intense heat, all 3 folklore groups entertained the crowd in full costume on Serb Fest Saturday. Several dancers were missing because of family vacations planned, and they had no formal practice all summer. Thanks to all the dancers for a great show and special treat!

He's only 3 years old and he's already comfortable playing his guitar with the seasoned band PRAZNA FLASA from Milwaukee. Lukie is the son of Adam and Beth Hayden, and grandson of Bato and Ljubi Hayden. He has also performed with DRINA Tamburitza Orchestra with his buddy George Ivancevich. "Aman" is one of Lukie's favorite songs.

Go Lukie! Go Lukie! Go Lukie!

Our sincere Thanks and appreciation are extended to everyone who visited this year's Serb Fest. It was our pleasure to serve you. We hope you had a great time and enjoyed the Serbian food, entertainment, and live music. Your support will help fund future improvements and building on our church property.

Check back daily for photos, videos, and a listing of our golf sponsors, all local businesses that need our support.

SEE YOU NEXT YEAR! ZIVELI!

Serb Fest Sunday will be full of non - stop music, dancing, and great food: cevaps, lamb, pig, raznicici, palachinke, and strudel. All this with a background of wonderful live Serbian music. You can even dance off those calories and start all over again. At 5:00 pm, the combined choirs of St. Sava and St. Elijah in Merrillville along with St. Peter & Paul from South Bend will perform a medley of Serbian Folk Songs, accompanied by tamburitza musicians. You won't want to miss this performance. Visit the historical exhibit in the north wing, featuring the Serbian Sisters Circle and Serbs in Sports. Bring the kids, there are plenty of activities for all age groups. Sunday Hours: Noon to 10 pm.

BIG CASH RAFFLE TICKETS can be purchased for the $25,000 Grand Prize, Total $50,000 Pay Out Raffle. Purchase tickets from any church member or at the food ticket tents for $100. We're very happy to see that Lucky Gordon Gerbick broke out of the hospital just in time to sell you a winning ticket wearing his lucky hat. Pictured below are National Treasures Gordon Gerbick and his buddy Milan Opacich. Visit Milan today in the north wing exhibit room (museum).

Saturday hours are from noon to midnight, so come spend a few hours relaxing with us. Enjoy live Serbian music and come hungry, we're well prepared to offer up some great Serbian specialties. There's something new this year: St. Sava Folklore Group 'Srbadija' will perform traditional dances in full costume at 5:00 pm. Church Tours schedule will be announced. The Serbian Bakery has  palachinke, strudels, and assorted pastries to satisfy your sweet tooth. Exhibits honoring our hard - working Serbian Sisters Circle (Kolo),  Serbian athletes, Mile Kosanovich, Karl Malden, and our music can be seen in the North Wing from noon to 10 pm. Please join us, everyone's welcome!

Little Lukie Hayden accompanied "Prazna Flasa" Friday and received his first $1 tip. The boys in the band want him to join them, but he'll just start his own band Prazna Drink Box. Just wait til you see the video!

Get ready for the main event: SERB FEST 2010. Find your dancing shoes and cameras, and start dreaming about cevaps, raznici, lamb, and palachinke. Bring all your non-Serb friends to this great celebration of culture. Golf foursomes and sponsorships still available. Check back daily for event info. Everyone is welcome!

SERB FEST HOURS

FRIDAY, NOON TO MIDNIGHT

SATURDAY, NOON TO MIDNIGHT

SUNDAY, NOON TO 10 PM

Get ready for the MAIN EVENT: SERB FEST 2010. Let's use our social networking tools to help get the word out. Simply copy this link

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83YFYOfB230

to an email or post to your Facebook videos to help get the word out. Invite all your friends and family for a weekend of great food, music, dancing, and Serbian culture. Welcome to Serb Fest 2010!

ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE

Friday, July 30

PRAZNA FLASA Tambura Band

Golf Luncheon 1:30pm - 3:30pm, and 7pm  - Midnight, Patio Area

Milana Anicic & Deki Petrovic 6 pm - Midnight, Bar Tent

ORCHESTRA SUMADIJA 7pm - Midnight, South Tent

Saturday, July 31

DUNAV Tambura Band    2pm - 6 pm, Patio Area

Milana Anicic & Zoran Miletic 6pm - Midnight, Bar Tent

UNITED SERBS 7pm - Midnight, South Tent

DUNAV Tambura Band 7pm - Midnight, Patio Area

Sunday, August 1

KRILICH BROTHERS Tambura Band  3:30pm - 10pm, Patio Area

Neda Gorancic & Milan Spase Spasojevic 4pm - 10pm, Bar Tent

ORCHESTRA SUMADIJA 6pm - 10pm, South Tent

Enjoy the sounds of great Serbian Music daily at Serb Fest!

All week long, volunteers will be needed for general cleaning, set - up, and preparation. Call the church office, or just show up, we'll be glad to see you. Snezana has a list of committee chairmen, and you can reach her at (219) 736-9191. We need everyone's help. If you can't do physical work, perhaps you can sell raffle tickets to friends and family,  sell golf sponsorships, sell food tickets, or bake for the fantastic Serbian Bakery. We appreciate everyone's effort in making this year's festival a huge success. Thank you all in advance.

Our sincere Congratulations and best wishes go out to all the high school graduates from  St. Sava, St. Elija, St. George, and other nearby churches. We wish them continued success in their college years and encourage them to remain active in their church communities. The graduates are listed alphabetically. If we missed a name, please let us know and we will add it. Use the contact button above or email us at stsavachurch@gmail.com.

Niki Ajder

Djurica Bukur

Nina Damjanovich

Erin DeVaney

Alyssa Grkinich

Jelena Grozdanich

Daniel Grubisich

Daniella Hojnacki

Nina Karas

Milana Katic

Marina Milutinovic

Michael Radjenovic

Dusan Simic

Petar Todorovic

Cristiana Vukobratovich

Eric Wise

With over 70 videos created about church events, Serb Fest, Serbian Historical Society displays, church services, and more...........follow the link and watch at your leisure. Put us in your favorites, subscribe or become friends, or share on your facebook page. Once there, select UPLOADS at the top of the page to see the complete listing. To watch any of our previously featured videos, here's the link:

http://www.youtube.com/user/stsavachurch#p/u

You'll notice the new tool on the right where you can also click on the photo to go directly to the channel.

ONE LOVE SERBIAN SONG - JEDNA LJUBAV SRPSKA PESMA Chorus performed their theme song flawlessly and set the tone for an incredible concert weekend. The combined choirs of S.S.S. Branko Radichevich and Stevan Stojanovic Mokranjac planned an event that will be remembered for years to come. With 30 choirs in attendance, everything from housing to the Ad Book was done in perfect detail. A casual idea of combining all the choirs and performing together became a dream come true for the organizers. It wasn't easy, but they made it happen by working together for 2 years. Congratulations to all volunteers, organizers, and singers for their outstanding efforts. Enjoy a sampling below, and as soon as the professionally edited complete Concert CD and DVD are available for sale, we'll let you know how to purchase these items.

To share this blog, simply click on the blog title: it is a permanent link and will turn blue. Now copy and paste the URL from your address bar and send it in an email or link on your facebook. You can also click on the video and go to YouTube for the video link.

Young voices filled the room and our hearts with songs. The next generation of singers has reassured us that we will not lose our musical traditions. The junior choirs stole the show during the concert and brought many in the audience to cheers and tears. Congratulations to the Mass Junior Chorus and Junior Brankies for sharing their talents.

Below is just a sampling of the Sunday concert. As soon as they are available, we will let you know how to purchase the professionally produced complete Concert CD and DVD.

To share this blog, simply click on the blog title: it is a permanent link and will turn blue. Now copy and paste the URL from your address bar and send it in an email or link on your Facebook.

Good things do come in three's; three choirs of course. Aleksa Shantich from South Bend, SSS St. Elijah and SSS Karageorge, both from Merrillville, were directed by Milan Medich of South Bend. We all know how much fun they had at practice, especially at Nick and Melanie Sever's house. The historic ONE LOVE SERBIAN SONG Festival did much more than unite choirs for 3 days of fabulous music to warm our hearts. It brought new friendships and hopes for future generations of singers as we witnessed the children's choirs. This event was so well planned and we congratulate both parishes for their hard work and hospitality.

Below is just a sampling of the Sunday concert. As soon as they are available, we will let you know how to purchase the professionally produced complete Concert CD and DVD.

To share this blog, simply click on the blog title: it is a permanent link and will turn blue. Now copy and paste the URL from your address bar and send it in an email or link on your Facebook.

It was OCE NAS like you've never heard it before at the start of Saturday's concert and once again Sunday as performed by St. Elijah's Church Choir from Aliquippa, Pennsylvania.  Enjoy this sampling of the ONE LOVE SERBIAN SONG combined choir festival performances. Very soon we will let you know how to purchase the professionally edited CD and DVD. To share this blog, simply click on the blog title: it is a permanent link and will turn blue. Now copy and paste the URL from your address bar and send it in an email or link on your Facebook.

Mom - Mama - Mommy - Ma - Mother; no matter what you call her, she is very loved. Our church board hosted this year's Mother's Day Luncheon. It's always a treat to get Mom out of the kitchen for the day, so Thanks to all the men who served. Perhaps you'll notice that up to three generations attended this wonderful celebration.  Borka Grimsgard took these lovely photos........Thanks, Borka!

Pictured below are Karen and Lazo Knezich. Too cute!

RENAISSANCE SUITES HOTEL
Registration Area for Badge Pick-Up: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Badges can be picked up after this time at Holy Resurrection Church, 3062 W. Palmer Square

HOLY RESURRECTION CHURCH (3062 W. PALMER SQUARE, CHICAGO)
Vespers: 5:30 p.m.
Concert: 6:30 p.m.

Welcome Dance: 8:00 - 12:00 p.m.
Entertainment: Sumadija Orchestra indoors in the main hall & Prazna Flasa Tambura of Milwaukee in the outside tent

In case you missed the final game of this year's basketball tournament, you can watch it now. Fr. Marko Matic opened the game with a prayer, followed by National Anthems. Thanks to all players from both teams for an exciting game. You can share these videos all at once by clicking on the blog title, copy the URL at the address bar, and send it to your friends and family. You'll have to watch the game to see the final score!

The next issue of the SRBOBRAN will have photos and results from all game divisions plus trophy winners.

Lake Michigan's Ogden Dunes shore on a rainy Sunday afternoon - could this be choir practice? Nick and Melanie Sever opened their home and hearts once again to host a practice session for the combined choirs of Merrillville and South Bend, Indiana. Two different time zones and up to 90 minutes of travel can't discourage this group. St. Elijah Cathedral Choir, Aleksa Shantich Choir, and S.S.S. Karageorge will perform together for the first time at the upcoming "One Love" Choir Festival in Chicago. Two hours of intense practice were followed by a little kolo dancing, great food, and lots of hugs and kisses. Oh, yes, and John Japa's homemade goulash was incredible. New friendships are the best result of this combined effort. If you have the opportunity to participate next year, you certainly won't regret it.

Steve Baroevich, Dan Orlich, Mike Jaksich, and Nick Sever accompany the choir on their tamburas........Thanks, guys!

(Click photo to enlarge)

Full-time deda, part-time choir director, Milan Medich is obviously very loved!

Mark your calendar! You won't want to miss this exciting event. Join us Saturday, April 24 for Srbadija's Spring Spectacular Folklore Festival at St. Elijah's Hall at 8700 Taft Street in Merrillville.  The Concert starts at 6 pm, ending at midnight. Live music will be provided by "Sumadija" for dancing after the program. Food and drinks are available, so bring the entire family. Nenad Nikolic is the new Instructor  for Srbadija dancers, and you'll be quite impressed with the results! Several guest dance groups will perform. Enjoy the slide show from their recent performance at St. Archangel Michael Church in Lansing. Congratulations to Daniella Hojnacki on her final performance before she leaves to attend Indiana University. We'll truly miss her!

Photos provided by Finn and Borka Grimsgard.

The doors of the Iconostasis and Church are left open during the entire Liturgy on Easter Sunday, proclaiming the "Light and Joy of the Resurrection". At the conclusion of Divine Liturgy the priest proclaims "Christ is Risen!" and the people respond "Indeed, He is Risen!". Also sung throughout the service is The Paschal Troparion, the Great Hymn of the Resurrection of Christ. This Great Hymn of Pascha will be sung repeatedly in the weeks to come.  (Info from www.babamim.com and www.lasvegasorthodox.com)