01.08.2026.
Serbian Armed Forces observe their patron saint’s day – Saint Despot Stefan the Tall
On the occasion of the patron saint’s day of the Serbian Armed Forces – Saint Despot Stefan the Tall – a Divine Hierarchical Liturgy was celebrated today at the Church of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist Mark in Belgrade, with Minister of Defence Bratislav Gašić in attendance. Following the liturgy, a festive lunch was hosted at the Guard Club in Topčider.
During the celebration, Minister Gašić wished a happy patron saint’s day to the Chief of the General Staff, General Milan Mojsilović, and to all members of the Serbian Armed Forces. He said that the Serbian Armed Forces’ patron saint’s day was not only a day for spiritual gathering, but also a reminder of the values Despot Stefan Lazarević had established through his life and work. He expressed his hope that members of the Serbian Armed Forces would continue, guided by the example of their heavenly protector, to perform their duties professionally, honorably, and responsibly, making the citizens of Serbia proud.The host of the celebration, General Mojsilović, extended his congratulations to all members of the Serbian Armed Forces and to all citizens observing the Feast of Saint Despot Stefan. Highlighting that Despot Stefan Lazarević remains a role model for the Serbian soldier, uniting in his character the wisdom of a military leader and the honour of a knight, General Mojsilović noted that it is our duty to preserve and pass on to new generations the values that have graced the Serbian soldier for centuries – service to the homeland, courage, and humanity, while at the same time strengthening the Serbian Armed Forces’ ability to fulfil their constitutional role.
The Divine Hierarchical Liturgy was concelebrated by His Grace Bishop Dositej, Vicar Bishop of Lipljan and Military Bishop, and the clergy. On that occasion, he conveyed the blessings and greetings of His Holiness Porfirije, Serbian Patriarch.In his speech, Bishop Dositej noted that the example of Saint Despot Stefan, who had not only been a warrior, but also a scholar, a diplomat, a patron, and a poet, was invaluable for today’s Serbian Armed Forces. He said that the military was not called upon to be a force for its own sake, but to safeguard peace, to protect people, and to guarantee the freedom and independence of the country – a service demanding not only knowledge and skills, but also integrity, self-discipline, sacrifice, and staying true to the oath.
The Serbian Armed Forces have celebrated their patron saint’s day since 2023, following the decision of the Holy Council of Bishops of the Serbian Orthodox Church to designate Saint Stefan the Tall as their patron saint.