The feast of St. John of Rila, the Heavenly protector of the Bulgarian people and founder of the Rila Monastery, was solemnly celebrated on October 19 at the historic monastery bearing his name.
His Eminence was consecrated to the episcopacy on October 20, 1985. He has served in Serbia, Australia, Croatia, and America since 1998.
Both saints made significant contributions to the spiritual education of the peoples of the Russian Far East and to the missionary activity of the Russian Orthodox Church within and beyond Russia.
“Metropolitan Amfilohije left an indelible mark on the spiritual and social life of Montenegro during his almost three decades at the head of the Metropolitanate of Montenegro and the Littoral,” Pres. Milatović stated.
Parishes throughout the diocese will begin organizing clothing, food, and supply drives in the coming days. The cathedral has already delivered the first round of donations to those in need. Volunteers will also provide transportation from shelters to churches for those wishing to attend services or receive support.