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Jan 05
0

Spiritual Meaning of the Badnjak

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Join us Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2025 beginning at 6:00 p.m. for Great Vespers and blessing of the Badnjak at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church located at 9191 Mississippi Street, Merrillville, Indiana.

The Spiritual Meaning of the Badnjak

The following writing titled “The Spiritual Meaning of the Badnjak” (Yule Log) was originally written by Bishop Nikolai Velimirovic and reprinted in the Tuesday, Jan. 7, 1992 issue of the American SRBOBRAN, p. 5.

Have you ever brought a Badnjak into your home?

Do you know that the Badnjak is the finest and foremost custom of all the many traditions by which our people enhance the Christmas celebration?

The Serbs begin the celebration of Christmas with the solemn ceremony of bringing in a young OAK tree to the house.

An OAK is usually the most solid tree and produces the most heat.

Have you ever anointed the Badnjak with honey?

Have you rejoiced with your children watching its light emitted in a swarm of sparks?

Have you enjoyed its heat?

The Badnjak is the tree of happiness and sweetness, the tree of health, strength and youth, the tree of life and love.

Is there a tree of happiness in this world?  Is the Badnjak that tree or is it a semblance and symbol of that tree?  Yes, it is only the symbol and semblance.  The real tree of Happiness is HE Who was born on that radiant day.

The bringing of the Badnjak into the house represents Christ’s coming into the world and His coming into our homes and our souls!

What a glorious custom and marvelous scene!

The Badnjak represents Christ.  As a young and powerful tree the King of Love gave Himself to be slain in order to rejuvenate the world by the fragrance of eteral youth; to thaw a frozen mankind by the fire of His love; to enlighten and bring joy to all men by the flame of His Divine Revelation; to annihilate the false Gods on earth by the sparks of His words; to sweeten the bitter waters by the sweet juice of His blood.

Having brought the Badnjaks into your homes, have you brought Christ into your homes and your souls?

A picture is only a picture, but Christ is the reality.  The Badnjak is a picture of the tree of happiness and as a picture is a warning and reminder that you should bring into your homes and your souls the real tree of Happiness, the Son of God, our Lord, Jesus Christ.

His teaching, His sermon on the Mount was the sermon of Happiness and contains the only charter human happiness.  He Himself represents the true and eternal Tree of Happiness.

Connect with your local Orthodox community

This is a special time of the year and a great opportunity to connect with your local Orthodox church community. Whether you are well established within your own Orthodox community or new and seeking to learn more, the holidays are great time to find fellowship and warmth with many great people and churches.

If you are in Northwest Indiana or the Chicagoland area, we welcome you to visit us at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church at 9191 Mississippi Street, Merrillville, Indiana. There are special services taking place frequently during January, please click the following link for more information and visit us to find your spiritual connections – Schedule of Services – https://www.saintsava.net/celebrations-begin-christmas-eve-at-st-sava-in-merrillville-tuesday-january-6/

Jan 05
0

Celebrations begin Christmas Eve at St. Sava in Merrillville – Tuesday, January 6

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badnjak-blessing

Join us for the celebration of Orthodox Christmas beginning with Divine Liturgy taking place at 9:00 a.m. and Great Vespers taking place at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 6 at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church at 9191 Mississippi Street, Merrillville, Indiana.

The Blessing and burning of the Badnjak will take place immediately following the Great Vespers.

Divine Liturgy will take place Christmas morning beginning at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 7.

The complete listing of services taking place during this special time of the year is listed below.

The Spiritual Meaning of the Badnjak

badnjak-st-sava-merrillville

Burning of the Badnjak outside the Pavilion at St. Sava Church, Merrillville, Indiana.

Have you ever brought a Badnjak into your home? Do you know that the Badnjak is the finest and foremost custom of all the many traditions by which our people enhance the Christmas celebration?

Click here to read an article explaining the Spiritual Meaning of the Badnjak.

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES  –   РАСПОРЕД  БОГОСЛУЖЕЊА

TUESDAY, January 6th

  • CHRISTMAS EVE:
    • Divine Liturgy at 9:00AM.
    • Great Vespers at 6:00PM. Blessing and burning of Badnjak.
  • БАДЊИ ДАН:
    • Света Литургија у 9:00 ујутру.
    • Празнично вечерње у 6:00 увече. Освећење и паљење Бадњака.

WEDNESDAY, January 7th

  • CHRISTMAS: Divine Liturgy at 10:00AM
  • БОЖИЋ: Света Литургија у 10:00 ујутру

THURSDAY, January 8th

  • ALL HOLY MOTHER OF GOD FEAST: Divine Liturgy at 9:00AM
  • САБОР ПРЕСВЕТЕ БОГОРОДИЦЕ: Света Литургија у 9:00 ујутру

FRIDAY, January 9th

  • ST. STEPHEN THE ARCHDEACON: Divine Liturgy 9:00AM
  • СВЕТИ АРХИЂАКОН СТЕФАН: Света Литургија у 9:00 ујутру
  • Cutting of Slava Kolach after Holy Liturgy
Nov 07
0

Historical Society at St. Sava Merrillville celebrates St. Varnava Slava – Sunday, Nov. 9

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The Historical Society at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church in Merrillville, IN will celebrate their patron saint, St. Varnava, with a special luncheon following the Divine Liturgy Sunday, November 9.

The luncheon celebrates our Historical Society and their Patron Saint, St. Varnava, the first American Born Serbian Saint who originated from Gary, Indiana where St. Sava Church was his home parish.

The Divine Liturgy will at 10:00 a.m. with Blessing of the Slava Kolach immediately following the Liturgy. After the blessing of the Slava Kolach, a luncheon in the south wing.

Information about St. Varnava

  • Saint Varnava is the first American-born Serbian to be proclaimed an Orthodox Saint.
  • Born Vojislav Nastich on Jan. 31, 1914, St. Confessor Varnava spent his early years in Gary as a student at Froebel Elementary before his father moved the family back to Yugoslavia in 1923, settling in Sarajevo.
  • After finishing high school and the Theological Faculty in Belgrade, he took his vows at Mileshevo Monastery in 1940. Shortly afterward, World War II came to Yugoslavia, and Varnava was highly critical of the Yugoslav National Liberation Army, which wanted to establish power in the country and abolish the church.
  • Once he was ordained a priest in 1944 and Bishop of Hvosno in 1947, the Communists, who’d now taken control, said Varnava could head the church, but he would have to support the party. Varnava refused and was subsequently tried as a traitor. He was imprisoned for many years and eventually died under mysterious circumstances on Nov. 12, 1964, though some sources say he was poisoned.
  • St. Varnava was the first child baptized in St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church on 13th Avenue and Connecticut Street in 1914, and served as its first altar boy.
Oct 30
0

Sunday, Nov. 2 celebrate the 111th Anniversary of St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church – Merrillville, Indiana

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Please join us Sunday, November 2 to celebrate the 111th Anniversary of St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church – Merrillville, Indiana.

Divine Liturgy will begin at 10:00 a.m. and will include parastos for all deceased members.
Celebration in the Pavilion will follow church services. Baked goods are greatly appreciated.

We are deeply honored to welcome The Honorable Aleksandra Dimitrijevic, Judge of the Lake County Superior Court, as our distinguished guest speaker.

Having dedicated her career to justice and public service, she will share words of wisdom and inspiration on this special occasion reflecting the values of justice, service, and spiritual devotion.

With over 15 years of service in the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office, Judge Dimitrijevic was appointed to the bench in 2019 by Governor Eric Holcomb. She holds a degree in Broadcasting and Film from Boston University (1995) and earned her Juris Doctor from Indiana University McKinney School of Law (2000).

Her dedication to service extends far beyond the courtroom. As President of the Kolo Srpskih Sestara (KSS) at St. George, Judge Dimitrijevic – fondly known as Sasha – continues to nurture the traditions and values that shaped her. With unwavering compassion, integrity, and a deep reverence for the spiritual heritage of the Serbian Orthodox community, she leads by example.

Through her generous support of Lifeline Chicago and countless quiet acts of kindness, Judge Dimitrijevic embodies faith in action. Her presence is a blessing to all who gather here, reminding us,that true leadership is rooted in love, humility, and service.
“Praising God for the journey of faith we’ve shared! This anniversary reminds us , of our rich spiritual legacy and the foundation of faith on which our church stands.”

Oct 29
0

Radmila “Millie” Milivojevic – Memory Eternal ✝ Vjecnaja Pamjat

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The Clergy, Executive Board, and Members of St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church express condolences to the friends and family of Radmila “Millie” Milivojevic. Memory eternal.

Radmila “Millie” Milivojevic

Radmila “Millie” Milivojevic was born on October 24, 1930, in Kucevo, Serbia, and left this earthly life on October 24, 2025. She was an extraordinary seamstress, master baker, loving wife, devoted mother, and proud grandmother and great-grandmother. Radmila held roles as treasurer and president within the Serbian sisters’ circle, earning the affectionate title of “palacinka queen” among her friends and family. At age 26, she bravely left her homeland to marry Milivoje Milivojevic, who had immigrated to the United States and returned to Serbia to find his wife. Their journey together brought two children, Milan and JoAnn, who were raised to cherish their Serbian heritage through trips to Serbia and learning the language from an early age.

Throughout her life, Radmila was deeply involved in church and community, always nurturing love for her culture and faith. She is survived by her children, grandchildren Michael and Lana, and several great-grandchildren. Her legacy lives on in all those she touched. Radmila will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and the joy she brought to everyone who knew her.

The family welcomes messages of condolence and gratitude for those who supported and cared for Millie throughout her life. Funeral and Memorial service at St. Sava Church 9191 Mississippi St, Merrillville, IN, Saturday Nov.1, 2025. Visitation from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.; service at 10:00, 11:00 dacha, followed by a drive to the burial site, Gracanica Serbian Orthodox Monastery, 35240 W Grant Ave, Lake Villa, IL. V. Rev Marko Matic and V. Rev Dragan Petrovic officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St Sava Serbian Orthodox Church, 9191 Mississippi St, Merrillville, IN 46410 or https://www.saintsava.net For further information please

Oct 27
0

Desanka “Desa” Radovich – Memory Eternal ✝ Vjecnaja Pamjat

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The Clergy, Executive Board, and Members of St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church express condolences to the friends and family of Desanka “Desa” Radovich. Memory eternal.

Desanka “Desa” Radovich

Desanka “Desa” Radovich, age 85 of Crown Point, passed away October 24, 2025 peacefully, surrounded by her loving family. Desa was born in the village of Nedakusi in Bijelo Polje, Montenegro to parents Jovo and Ikonija Jevric. She came to the United States in 1963 with her husband Vukosav Radovich. They made their home in Gary, Indiana before moving to Crown Point in 1979. She was a devoted and life long member of St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church and it’s Kolo Sestara.

Desa was known for her mild nature, kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith. She joyfully prepared pastries for Serb Fest and countless other church events, always offering her time and heart to hep others. She found great joy in her garden, her flowers, her family but most of all her grandsons.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Vukosav, cherished daughter Mirjana and her parents and siblings.

Desa is survived by her three loving sons, Ranko Radovich, Miladin Radovich, and Rade (Natasha) Radovich; her cherished grandsons Maksim Radovich and Stevan Torrez; and many other relatives and Kumovi both here and in Crna Gora (Montenegro).

Visitation will take place Thursday, October 30, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church, 9191 Mississippi St., Merrillville, IN with Funeral Service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment Calumet Park Cemetery. V. Rev. Marko Matic officiating. For further information please call Mileva Savich at Calumet Park Funeral Chapel (219) 736-5840. Vecnaja Pamjat!

Oct 23
0

Fragment of the True Cross of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ at St. Sava Serbian Church in Merrillville, Indiana – October 24

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Father John of the Greek Orthodox Church, visiting from Greece will be present to bless and cross all who wish to come and venerate the Cross of Christ during special hours Friday, October 24 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church, Merrillville, Indiana.

  • St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church
    9191 Mississippi Street
    Merrillville, Indiana 46410

Fr. John has been granted the high honor of carrying a fragment of the True Cross of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ, which has worked and continues to work miracles amongst the faithful, and through God’s Providence even those who are found lacking of such faith.

During the period of Greek captivity under the Ottoman Turks, and prior, many monasteries, Churches, and places of worship were desecrated and destroyed, resulting in the destruction and loss of many priceless spiritual relics and treasures from amongst the glory of Christendom.  This reality encouraged the priests, hierarchies, and Holy Fathers of the Great Church of Christ, that is the Orthodox Church, to distribute these holy artifacts amongst the faithful, entrusting to them the safeguarding of such spiritual gifts until the time was fulfilled and they were instructed on how to act with regards to these articles, icons, relics, and even pieces and fragments of the True Cross of Christ.

One fragment of the True Cross, embedded also with the sacrificial blood of our Lord, was found to be with a pious woman in Greece.  The Mother of God appeared to her instructing her to deliver the Cross to Fr John when he was still a young priest, which this pious soul was faithful to do, according to our Lady’s instructions.  Surrendering the Cross, it is until this day under the care of Father John.

The gift of the Lord’s Salvation has come to grace St. Sava’s Church.  This Friday the Cross will be present for all those who are able and willing to come to the Lord and turn to Him that they should be healed.  All who are able and all who ail are encouraged to come.

Oct 23
0

Ljuba Kesic – Memory Eternal ✝ Vjecnaja Pamjat

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The Clergy, Executive Board, and Members of St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church express condolences to the friends and family of Ljuba Kesic. Memory eternal.

Ljuba Kesic

Ljuba Kesic, age 84 of Portage passed away, October 21, 2025, with her family by her side.

Visitation for Ljuba will take place Monday, October 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church, 9191 Mississippi St, Merrillville, IN 46410 with funeral services beginning at 12:00 Noon. Interment Memory Lane Memorial Garden Cemetery in Schererville, IN with V. Rev Marko Matic officiating.

For further information please call Mileva Savich at Calumet Park Funeral Chapel, 219-736-5840.

Sep 22
0

Mary Ann “Marija” Djankovich – Memory Eternal ✝ Vjecnaja Pamjat

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The Clergy, Executive Board, and Members of St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church express condolences to the friends and family of Mary Ann “Marija” Djankovich. Memory eternal.

Mary Ann “Marija” Djankovich

Mary Ann “Marija” Djankovich, age 77, of Hobart, IN passed away peacefully with her family by her side on September 21, 2025.

Mary Ann was a lifelong resident of Hobart as well as a Hobart High School Graduate of 1966. Mary Ann was a hardcore Brickie fan as she used to say “once a Brickie always a Brickie” and her favorite Brickie of all time was her grandson Miki Djankovich. She was a member of St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church and SSS Karageorge Choir.

Mary Ann is preceded in death by her husband Bozo Djankovich and her parents.

She is survived by her three loving children, Magda “Melody” (Mico) Serdar, Milan (Milanka) Djankovich and Vesna (Stevan) Gagic; four cherished grandchildren, Aleksandra Serdar, Aleksandar (Kaylee) Serdar, Marina (Andrew) Enslen, and Miki Djankovich; her adored great granddaughter Alena Rae Enslen; and many other relatives, Kumovi and friends.

Mary Ann had a spirit for loving others and always greeted you with a smile to be remembered. May her memory be eternal.

Visitation take place Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church, 9191 Mississippi St, Merrillville, IN with Funeral Services beginning at 11:00 a.m. V. Rev. Marko Matic officiating. Internment St. Sava Holy Cross Cemetery.

For further information please call Mileva at Calumet Park Funeral Chapel (219) 736-5840.

Aug 27
0

Barbara Skala – Memory Eternal ✝ Vjecnaja Pamjat

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The Clergy, Executive Board, and Members of St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church express condolences to the friends and family of Barbara Skala. Memory eternal.

The link to the funeral services video stream, at the request of the family, for extended family and friends not able to be at the services in person is available at: https://fb.watch/BNynaMadsY/

Barbara Skala

Barbara Skala, age 79, of Ogden Dunes, passed away Monday, August 25, 2025, with her family by her side.

Barbara was born January 12, 1946, in Port Colborne, Ontario, Canada, to Nikola and Jagoda Sever. After World War II, the family moved to Gary, IN, when her father, Nikola, was discharged from the U.S. Army Air Corps. She attended Gary Public Schools from kindergarten through her graduation from Horace Mann High School. Barbara then went on to Indiana University in Bloomington and later completed her nursing degree at Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago.

On May 23, 1987, Barbara married the love of her life and soul mate, Frank Skala. They spent six years living in California before returning to make their home in Ogden Dunes, IN. More recently, they enjoyed winters together at their second home in Bonita Springs, Florida.

Barbara was a lifelong church member of St. Sava and supporting member of the St. Sava Kolo, St. Sava Choir, and previous member of the St. Sava Historical Society. Frank and Barbara are devoted supporters of the children in Serbia through Lifeline Chicago. Inspired by her own joyful experiences at St. Sava Camp in Libertyville, IL, she extended her generosity to help sponsor a camp in Serbia for children from orphanages as well as those living in Kosovo.

During her professional career, she was Vice President of Nursing at several hospitals in California and Indiana.  She was also the Team Nurse of the Oakland Raiders Football team.

Barbara took great pride in being a Teta to her nieces and nephew and had a strong and positive influence on their lives and her Kumovi’s lives.

Barbara is preceded in death by her parents Nikola and Jagoda. She is survived by her husband, Frank Skala; sister, Ruth Ann Sever; brothers, Dan (Linda) and Nick (Melanie); along with her nephew, Brent; and nieces, Tasha, Brianna and Brooke.  She will be missed by family, Kumovi, and friends.

Visitation will take place Friday August 29, 2025 at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church, 9191 Mississippi St., Merrillville IN. 46410 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Funeral Services will begin at 11:00 a.m.with  V. Rev, Marko Matic officiating; entombment to follow Calumet Park Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Sava Church, Lifeline Chicago, or charity of your choice: www.lifelinechicago.org Lifeline Chicago, 401 N Michigan Ave. Suite 1200 – 1092, Chicago, IL  60611; St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church, 9191 Mississippi St, Merrillville, IN 46410. For further information please call Mileva at Calumet Park Funeral Chapel, 219-736-5840.