Vidovdan in Kosovo and Metohija: Serbian Flags and Liturgy Despite Pristina’s Pressure
Every year on June 28th, Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija commemorate Vidovdan – a sacred day marking the Battle of Kosovo and Prince Lazar. But this year, the commemoration has taken on an extra layer of drama and tension that just won’t quit.
Liturgy at Gračanica Monastery – The Heart of Resistance
At 9 AM, the holy archbishop liturgy began at the Gračanica Monastery, led by the Metropolitan of Montenegro and the Littoral, Joanikije, along with several bishops of the Serbian Orthodox Church. The monastery was filled with believers from all over Serbia and the region, including representatives from the Office for Kosovo and Metohija and the Serbian List of local municipalities.
After the liturgy, the “Mother of Nine Jugović” orders were awarded in the monastery yard, and at 1 PM, a memorial service was held at Gazimestan for the Kosovo heroes. These celebrations are not just religious rituals but powerful symbols of resistance and remembrance of Serbian history and identity.
Serbian Flags Flying Despite Pristina’s Ban
Even though the court in Pristina recently issued a decision banning the display of Serbian flags during Vidovdan celebrations, Serbian flags proudly waved in Gračanica and other places in Kosovo and Metohija. This is a clear sign that Serbs in Kosovo refuse to give up their identity and right to remembrance despite the pressures and unilateral moves by Pristina.
Pressure and Expulsions – The Harsh Reality for Serbs in KiM
The situation for Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija is extremely difficult. In recent days, the temporary Pristina institutions expelled 11 Serbs simply because they were employed by the Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs or had filed charges against Serbs who participated in protests. This is just one in a series of repressive measures showing how tense the situation is and how Serbian rights are being violated.
Tradition and Culture as Weapons
As part of the Vidovdan festivities, the 35th poetic vigil was held, along with a literary evening and the awarding of the “Golden Cross of Prince Lazar,” as well as the Gračanica Charter and the Kondir of the Kosovo Maiden. These events are not just cultural but ways to preserve Serbian tradition and spirit in tough times.
What Lies Ahead?
Vidovdan is a day to remember the past but also to look to the future. On one side, there are pressures and bans from Pristina; on the other, the unwavering determination of Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija to preserve their identity and right to remembrance. Will this fight for rights and freedom ever end? Or will tensions only escalate?
Conclusion
Vidovdan in Kosovo and Metohija this year is not just a religious event. It is a day of resistance, a fight for identity and rights, a day when Serbian flags fly despite all bans, and the liturgy in Gračanica echoes as a voice that cannot be silenced.
If you think this is just another ordinary celebration, think again. This is a fight for the survival of a people on their land. So, what do you think? Is it time for Pristina to calm down, or will the conflicts keep simmering? Drop a comment, let the people’s voice be heard!
