The Gudelj Family Celebrates Church Feast in Andalusia: Serbia’s Football Pride in a Holy Atmosphere
Picture this: the family of Serbian national footballer Nemanja Gudelj celebrating the church feast of Saints Peter and Paul right in the heart of Andalusia. Yes, you read that right! While many footballers just train and play, Nemanja and his family raise their hands in prayer and honor a tradition that connects them to their roots.
Where is this happening? In Fuengirola, near Malaga, at the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, on July 12th, the Gudelj family was the church’s godparents. A Serbian Orthodox Church priest gifted Nemanja’s mother Olivera, while his father Nebojša stood proudly nearby, and Nemanja wore the Sevilla jersey with number six — symbolizing their bond with sport and faith.
Who was there? The holy liturgy was led by Bishop Petar of Toplica, vicar of the Serbian Patriarch, with the presence of Bishop Justin of Paris and other high-ranking church officials. The Serbian Republic ambassador, Irena Šarac, also attended, highlighting the event’s importance for the Serbian community in Spain.
Why does this matter? Nemanja Gudelj is not just a Sevilla player, a club that won the Europa League twice (in 2014 and 2020). He is also a Serbian national team player with over 70 caps and a participant in the 2022 Qatar World Cup. His family shows that success on the field can go hand in hand with deep respect for tradition and faith.
What’s behind this feast? The feast is a chance for family and community to gather and honor the patrons — apostles Peter and Paul. Bishop Petar blessed the feast gifts, and after the liturgy, a festive lunch followed, thanks to the efforts of the Gudelj family. All this in faraway Andalusia, where the Serbian Orthodox community preserves its customs and identity.
Football and faith — an odd combo? Maybe at first glance. But Nemanja Gudelj and his family prove that sport and spirituality can perfectly blend. While he defends the colors of Sevilla and Serbia, his family keeps tradition and faith alive, reminding us that behind every great athlete is a big story about roots and identity.
The bottom line? In a world where football is often seen just as a job or business, the Gudelj family reminds us of something deeper. Tradition, faith, community. And that, dear readers, is not something you see every day. If you’re tired of football clichés, here’s a story to warm you up and make you smile — who would’ve thought a football star could so proudly pray and celebrate in faraway Spain?
So, what do you think? Is football just a game or something much more? Drop a comment, share your story, or just crack a joke — let’s see who’s here for football with soul!
