On October 14, 2024, Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia, along with Archbishop Stefan of Ohrid, led the Divine Liturgy in honor of the Feast of the Elevation of the Holy Theotokos.
Patriarch Porfirije highlighted, “The power and love of God are manifested where we find the miracle, the miracle of God. Therefore, everything in creation serves as evidence and expression of God’s power and love, making it a profound miracle for the human mind. However, the greatest miracle of all is humanity itself, as it is the ultimate reflection of God’s love and strength, being created in His image and likeness. The inner world of an individual is also a miracle. Thus, everything we perceive, as well as what is beyond our sight, guides us towards God, offering us the opportunity to acknowledge His power, love, and magnificence,” following the Gospel reading.
“Today, as we celebrate the Elevation of the Theotokos, we recognize her as the most profound miracle. From the miraculous Annunciation to her Dormition, every aspect of her life is a testament to the miraculous. Just like in the lives of all of us, her miracles are not only a result of God’s love and power but also of her own faith. The Theotokos represents the epitome of God’s love and power, as well as her unwavering faith, trust, and dedication to God and humanity. Those devoted to God are inevitably devoted to their fellow human beings. The Theotokos, through her complete dedication of mind, heart, body, and soul to God, exemplifies the ultimate miracle,” Patriarch Porfirije emphasized.