Saint Sava of Serbia

A life of faith

Sava was born Rastko into the Serbian ruling family and left court life for monastic devotion on Mount Athos. His father later joined him as the monk Simeon, and together they supported Hilandar monastery. Sava became a priest and eventually the first archbishop of the Serbian Church. His work included organizing church life, visiting communities, establishing churches, and drawing on monastic experience from Athos and Palestine. He also traveled widely on pilgrimage and prepared a successor. His commemoration remembers learning and devotion put at the service of a Church growing in its capacity to govern and teach.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Consider how experience gained in one setting can serve another. Accept guidance and prepare other people to share responsibilities rather than keeping every task yourself.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.