The Head of the Serbian Orthodox Church (SPC), Patriarch Porfirije, warned in his Christmas message that internal political tensions in Serbia have led to deep social divisions, calling on citizens to overcome polarization and mutual distrust.
“Let us extend a hand to one another, because we need one another,” Patriarch Porfirije said, stressing that political divisions have fostered deep mistrust and growing hostility, where differences in opinion increasingly turn into irrational hatred. He described the current situation in Serbia as complex and difficult, noting that it is being closely watched by the entire Serbian people.
Throughout 2025, the Serbian Orthodox Church commented several times on student protests and political divisions in the country. Some senior clergy openly criticized the protests, while a smaller number of church representatives expressed support for students, highlighting internal divisions within the Church itself.
Call for Unity Amid Divisions
Patriarch Porfirije reiterated his appeal for reconciliation, urging society to move beyond conflict.
“Christian faith does not teach us to wait for better times during crises, but to become living signs of the Kingdom of God ourselves — people who do not heal fear with fear, nor hatred with hatred,” he said.
He also warned of a loss of national and cultural identity, stating that this trend threatens the historical and spiritual continuity of the Serbian people and cannot be explained solely by external influences.
In addition, the Patriarch highlighted economic insecurity, demographic decline, and rapid depopulation, noting that Serbia faces one of the fastest population declines in the world, coupled with an aging population.
Global Instability and Rising Tensions
Addressing the broader international context, Patriarch Porfirije said the world is experiencing deepening religious, ethnic, and cultural divisions, alongside escalating geopolitical tensions.
“Changes in the global order and struggles among major powers are generating instability, security crises, and fear of an uncertain future,” he said, warning that wars are increasingly being used as tools to resolve economic and political disputes.
Position on Kosovo
At the same time, Patriarch Porfirije has consistently maintained that Kosovo should remain an integral part of Serbia, presenting the issue as a spiritual, historical, and national question, rather than merely a political one. On multiple occasions, he has called on the Serbian people to remain united and steadfast in preserving Serbia’s claim over Kosovo, urging perseverance and national solidarity. His statements have positioned the Serbian Orthodox Church as a significant moral authority in matters related to Kosovo’s status, encouraging Serbs not to abandon their aspirations regarding the territory.
