The Birth of Saint Jovan Krstitelj – July 7

On July 7 according to the Gregorian calendar (corresponding to June 24 in the Julian calendar), the Serbian Orthodox Church celebrates the Feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist . This feast is one of the major feast days of the Church and one of the few that celebrates not the death but the birth of a saint.

Saint Jovan was the son of the priest Zacharias and his wife Elizabeth. His birth was announced by the Archangel Gabriel and was a miracle, as his parents were already elderly and childless. While still in his mother's womb, he recognized the presence of the coming Savior when the Most Holy Theotokos visited his mother Elizabeth.

His entire life was dedicated to serving God. He lived an ascetic life in the desert, wore a garment made of camel's hair, lived on locusts and wild honey, and preached repentance. Saint Jovan called people to repentance and prepared them for the coming of the Messiah. He baptized Jesus Christ himself in the Jordan River—an event that marked the beginning of Christ's public ministry.

The Orthodox Church celebrates only three births in the entire liturgical year: that of Christ, that of the Theotokos, and that of St. John the Baptist. This prominent position emphasizes the spiritual greatness of the Baptist. Christ himself says of him:
“Among those born of women there is no one greater than John the Baptist” (Luke 7:28).

In Serbian tradition, this day is known as Ivanjdan (Ивањдан) . In many regions, it is accompanied by traditional customs. These include gathering St. John's wort as a symbol of blessing and protection, lighting purifying fires the night before, and holding festive services in monasteries and churches dedicated to him. Many families also celebrate their Slava on this day, as St. John is one of the most beloved patron saints among the Serbian people.

The spiritual significance of this day extends far beyond the historical event itself. St. John stands for humility, clarity, and uncompromising faithfulness to God. His words, "He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30), are a guiding principle for every Christian who truly desires to draw closer to Christ. He shows us that spiritual greatness lies not in outward splendor, but in the willingness to withdraw oneself so that the Lord can work in us.

The Feast of the Nativity of St. John is therefore an invitation to conversion, spiritual vigilance, and renewal of heart. It calls us not only to reflect on a past event, but to make room for Christ in our own lives—just as the holy forerunner did.