On June 7, 2009, St George Serbian Orthodox Church held Divine Services for the Great Feast of Pentecost.  The day began with Divine Liturgy presided over by Proto Dragoljub (Dennis) Pavichevich and co-officiated by Rev Aleksa Pavichevich.  This was the first time Fr Aleksa was able to serve with his uncle, Fr Dennis, since his ordination to the Holy Priesthood in September.

Father Aleksa delivered the sermon at Divine Liturgy, speaking of the gifts each of us have been given by God, including the gift of the Holy Spirit.  Father Aleksa emphasized that these gifts are not simply for our own enjoyment, but are to be used to carry on the mission of Christ’s Holy Church.

Immediately following Liturgy, the Vespers of Pentecost took place.  This service, which differs from regular Vespers with the inclusion of kneeling prayers, included the chanting and singing of the Great Prokeimenon by Frs Dennis and Aleksa:  “Who is so great a God as our God? You are the God Who works wonders!” During the service the faithful in attendance wove crosses and wreaths out of grass and sang responses.

The day concluded with the baptism of Fr Aleksa and Popadija Emily’s infant son, Lazar, named for the Great Martyr Prince from the battle of Kosovo.  Proto Dennis and Fr Aleksa served together, and Lazar’s kuma, Ana Karlicic, flew in from New York to join in the services.  The Kolo hosted a wonderful luncheon afterwards for all in attendance.  May God grant Lazar, his parents Fr Aleksa and Emily, and his godparents Ana and Nemanja Karlicic, many years!

Click here to see a gallery of photographs from Divine Liturgy and Vespers of Pentecost.

Click here to see a gallery of photographs from the Baptism of Lazar Pavichevich.