Đurđevdan – A day of faith, hope and victory

On May 6, the Serbian Orthodox Church celebrates one of the brightest and most profound holidays of the church year: Đurđevdan – the Day of Saint George ( Sveti Đorđe ).
This day is far more than a commemoration: it is a living testimony of faith, steadfastness and divine love that burns in the hearts of believers.

The significance of Sveti Đorđe for the Serbian Orthodox soul

Sveti Đorđe, the great martyr and victor, lived in the 3rd and early 4th centuries AD.
He was a Roman officer who was persecuted for his Christian faith and eventually executed around the year 303. His courageous faith, his willingness to sacrifice, and his legendary victory over the dragon—a symbol of evil—made him one of the most venerated saints of the Orthodox Church.

For the Serbian Orthodox community, St. Djordje remains a symbol of courage, unwavering faith, and divine protection. Many families honor him as their patron saint and celebrate their Slava on this day.

Đurđevdan – Tradition that touches the heart

With the awakening of nature, when the earth shines in springtime splendor, Serbian Orthodox Christians celebrate Đurđevdan.
Traditionally, houses and yards are decorated with fresh green branches, especially willows. These customs symbolize the renewal of life and the blessing of God's creation.

In many regions, it is customary to draw fresh water early in the morning and wash in it to ask for health and blessings for the coming year.
Communal prayer, church attendance and sharing a feast – often with lamb – are at the heart of the celebrations.

For families whose Slava is Sveti Đorđe, Đurđevdan is one of the holiest days of the year.
A Slava bread (Slavski Kolač) is baked, a candle is lit and the family and house are blessed together with the priest or in prayer.

How we celebrate Đurđevdan today

Today, too, the celebrations begin with participation in the divine liturgy.
According to ancient custom, icons, candles and holy water are venerated in the house.
The celebratory meal in the family circle represents gratitude and the awareness that all good things come from God’s hand.

Đurđevdan calls us to witness our faith fearlessly, to live with joy and confidence, and to pass on the light of Christ.

The spiritual message of Đurđevdan

When we think of Sveti Đorđe, we realize that true victory lies not in external successes, but in the quiet, courageous holding on to our faith, even in times of trial.

May Sveti Đorđe guide our paths, strengthen our hearts and bless our families.

Sveti Đorđe, moli Boga za nas!