ned, 24. travnja 2022. 09:26
On April 23rd, the parish of Vitez celebrated St. George the Martyr, the heavenly protector of this, in the Vrhbosna Archdiocese, most numerous religious community.
The Holy Mass, with the concelebration of the parish priest OFM Velimir Bavrka and several priests, was led by OFM Ivan Šarčević, Professor at the Franciscan Theology in Sarajevo.
In his homily, OFM Ivan noted that St. George is one of the oldest saints with a continuity of worship in Christianity around which many legends are wrapped. He also pointed out the peculiarity that is reflected in the fact that this saint is worshiped by both Orthodox believers and Romani people. He further spoke about the historical circumstances of IV. century in which this Christian and soldier lived. “He is a protector against war, against all diseases related to war, as well as all occupations related to war and warfare. George is a soldier of knightly behaviour”, pointed out OFM Ivan and added that the legends ennoble, including the one about St. George and the dragon. “There are no more dragons, but there are other 'dragons'”, he warned and concluded that St. George did not shame Jesus and did not give up the good, but glorified Jesus with death.
After the Eucharist, a folk celebration was held in front of the church.
By the way, the parish in Vitez has 9 838 parishioners in 3 942 families, and another 1 307 members of this religious community live abroad.