The Raška-Prizren Diocese issued a statement in response to recent public criticism, asserting that it continues to stand by the Serbian people in Kosovo and Metohija, as it has for centuries. The Diocese addressed claims that it has remained silent regarding the alleged mistreatment of Serbs by both Priština and Belgrade, stating, „We are with our people, sharing in their joys and hardships, as we have always done.“
This response follows months of criticism from media and political circles accusing the Serbian Orthodox Church (SOC) of inaction on key issues affecting the survival of the Serbian community in Kosovo. The Diocese, however, adamantly refuted these claims.
„The Church has never, and will never, remain silent on issues vital to the existence of the Serbian people,“ the statement read, emphasizing its role as the cornerstone of Serbian cultural, spiritual, and national identity.
Media and Political Accusations
The Diocese has been at the center of increasing scrutiny over its alleged silence regarding the actions of both Priština and Belgrade toward Serbs. In particular, a recurring article published earlier this year in the newspaper Danas has fueled the accusations. The Diocese countered that this piece has been „recycled“ across social media, perpetuating „unverified falsehoods.“
A focal point of these accusations has been the statements of Momir Stojanović, president of the Serbian National Forum, who recently alleged the possibility of the SOC signing a fundamental agreement with Priština, likening it to previous deals with Montenegro. The Diocese firmly denied such claims, stating, „There is absolutely no truth or logic to this.“
They reiterated that such agreements are only signed with internationally recognized states.
The Church’s Active Role
The Diocese also used the opportunity to remind critics of its long-standing commitment to the Serbian people, both spiritually and materially. It highlighted its ongoing efforts to restore Serbian religious sites in Kosovo, noting that the preservation of these monuments is crucial to maintaining the Serbian identity.
Beyond spiritual support, the Church has played an active role in addressing the practical needs of the Serbian community. Through its humanitarian organization, „Majka devet Jugovića,“ the Diocese provides daily meals to about 2,000 socially vulnerable individuals across Kosovo and Metohija.
Additionally, Bishop Teodosije and other Church officials have been instrumental in supporting those imprisoned, providing legal aid, and facilitating appeals to the Constitutional Court of Kosovo regarding various violations of Serbian rights.
The Diocese has also engaged international representatives, ensuring that the plight of the Serbian community is recognized by the broader global diplomatic community. They have organized diplomatic meetings and facilitated visits by international journalists to Serbian enclaves, ensuring that the struggles of Serbs are well-documented.
No Political Platform
The Diocese addressed criticism from the Serbian National Forum and others, who have accused the Church of refusing to engage with political actors. The Diocese clarified that while the Church shares concerns about the well-being of the Serbian people, it cannot serve as a platform for political agendas.
Bishop Teodosije has personally communicated this stance to prominent figures, including Momčilo Trajković, one of the Forum’s initiators.
The statement also warned against activists with „anti-church sectarian ties“ who, despite not living in Kosovo, seek to influence the local population. These individuals, the Diocese claimed, have families safely settled outside Kosovo and are using their platforms to create division within the Church and Serbian society.
A Call for Unity
The Diocese urged Serbs to be wary of those claiming to act in the community’s best interest while supporting harmful policies, such as the partition of Kosovo. It encouraged believers to remain united, both spiritually and culturally, in the face of attempts to sow discord.
Concluding its statement, the Diocese reiterated its unwavering commitment to the Serbian people, encouraging them to trust in the Church’s actions rather than empty words.
„Those who truly care for the people will show it through their actions and solidarity with the Church,“ the Diocese said, adding that thousands of pilgrims continue to visit Kosovo, engaging with the clergy without the need for media attention.
„Christ teaches us to remain silent in the face of falsehoods and continue our pastoral and prayerful work. However, we felt it necessary to speak up this time to prevent further division among our people,“ the Diocese said in its closing remarks.
Preuzimanje i objavljivanje tekstova sa portala KoSSev nije dozvoljeno bez navođenja izvora. Hvala na poštovanju etike novinarske profesije.
