Patriarch Irinej (Gavrilovic)

Patriarch Irinej (Gavrilović) (1930-2020)

Gavrilović may be spelt Gavrilovic, Gavrilovich

Irinej may be spelt Irinei, Ireney, Irenaeus, Irénée

Early life of Miroslav Gavrilović

On 28 August, 1930, Miroslav Gavrilović (pronouned Miroslav Gavrilovitch) was born in the village of Vidova, near the town Čačak, in the Moravica District in the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. There, he was baptised, and he was raised in the life of the Serbian Church while he completed his primary and secondary education.

In 1945, the Communist Party took control of the government of Yugoslavia. Near the home of Miroslav, a community of nuns was reduced to poverty and hunger because of the policies of the communists. As a youth, Miroslav found ways secretly to bring food to these nuns.

Higher education

After graduating from Secondary School, he enrolled and completed the courses of the Serbian Orthodox Saints Cyril and Methodius Seminary of Prizren, Kosovo and Metochia. He then enrolled in the Theological Faculty of the University of Belgrade. Upon graduation, he did his army service for a year and a half.

Student Miroslav Gavrilović

Monastic tonsure, 1959

After having completed the compulsory military service, in October, 1959, Miroslav was tonsured to be a monk by Patriarch German (Đorić) at the Rakovica Monastery near Belgrade (now a suburb). He was given the name Irinej.

This tonsure was amongst the first by Patriarch German in his programme for replenishing the number of bishops in the Serbian Church.

Diaconal ordination, 1959

On 24 October, 1959, the Monk Irinej (Gavrilović) was ordained to the Holy Diaconate.

Presbyteral ordination, 1959

On the Feast of Saint Paraskeva, 27 October, 1959, Hierodeacon Irinej (Gavrilović) was ordained to the Holy Priesthood at the Ružica Temple within the Kalemegdan old town of Belgrade.

Because of the proximity of these events, it is probable that Patriarch German was the ordaining bishop.

Pastoral service

The Holy Synod of Bishops of the Serbian Orthodox Church assigned Hieromonk Irinej (Gavrilović) to serve as a professor of the Prizren Theological Seminary. During the course of his fulfilling this obedience, Hieromonk Irinej completed postgraduate studies at the University of Athens, in Athens, Greece.

In 1969, he was assigned to serve as the Principal of the Monastic School in the Ostrog Monastery of Saint Basil of Zahumlje and Herzegovina, in Montenegro, where he served briefly until he was assigned to return to Prizren and to become the Principal of the Prizren Seminary.

At this time, the Albanian Muslim majority population of the region made everything as difficult as possible for the seminary, in order to force its closure. It was the very strict and careful policies of Hieromonk Irinej that kept the seminary functioning.

Episcopal ordination, 1974

In May, 1974, Hieromonk Irinej (Gavrilović) was elected by the Holy Synod of Bishops to become the Vicar-Bishop of Moravica, and Vicar-Bishop to the patriarch.

Soon afterwards, he was ordained to the Holy Episcopate by Patriarch German II (Đorić).

Episcopal service

In May, 1975, Bishop Irinej (Gavrilović) was elected by the Holy Synod of Bishops to become the Bishop of Niš. The enthronement took place in the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Niš on 15 June, 1975. Bishop Irinej served in the Niš Eparchy for the following 35 years.

Bishop Irinej and his mother

When the Prizren Theological Seminary was displaced from Prizren as a consequence of the Albanian revolts in 1999, Bishop Irinej, as Bishop of Niš, made it possible that a new, large building for the seminary be built in Niš, where the seminary could continue its work and service.

It is written that during his years of service in Niš, Bishop Irinej (Gavrilović) worked hard to rebuild what the communists had destroyed.

On 15 November, 2009, Patriarch Pavle (Stojčević) fell asleep in the Lord, and Metropolitan Amfilohije (Radović) (the administrator during the period of Patriarch Pavle’s fragile health) became the Locum Tenens of the Patriarchal Throne.

Election to be patriarch, 2010

On 22 January, 2010, Bishop Irinej was elected by the Holy Synod of Bishops to become the 45th Patriarch of the Serbian Orthodox Church, after the death of the previous Serbian Patriarch Pavle. He was one of the 3 candidates with the most votes from the 45 bishops eligible in the Serbian Orthodox Church, together with Metropolitan Amfilohije (Radović) and Bishop Irinej (Bulović). In the final phase, a sealed envelope contained the names of all 3 candidates. When the envelope was opened, it was his name that was pulled out from the envelope. In this way, the Serbian Orthodox Church understands and accepts that the patriarch is elected by Divine intervention, and human politics and interests are avoided.

Patriarch, 2010

On 23 January, 2010, Bishop Irinej (Gavrilović) was enthroned, in Saint Michael’s Cathedral in Belgrade.

There, this first act of the enthronement of “His Holiness Irinej, Archbishop of Peć, Metropolitan of Belgrade-Karlovci and Serbian Patriarch”, took place during the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. This solemn service was led by the newly-elected Serbian Patriarch Irinej, along with the concelebration by his brother bishops, priests, and deacons, as well as representatives of the Russian and Greek Churches.

Later, on 3 October, 2010. Patriarch Irinej was formally enthroned to the ancient throne of the Serbian Patriarchs in the Patriarchal Monastery of Peć (formerly of the Patriarchate of Peć. At this time, there was participation of the representatives of all the sister Orthodox Churches.

Patriarch Irinej (Gavrilović)

Saint Michael's Cathedral, Belgrade

Patriarchal service

Although during a very difficult time, from the very beginning of his patriarchal service, Patriarch Irinej advocated peace and stability in the entire region. Indeed, his name, "Irenej", is derived from the Greek word for "peace". In particular, the “difficult time” has to do both with the aftermath of the Kosovo War of 1998-1999 and the subsequent Europe-and-USA enforced independence of Kosovo from Serbia (which was accomplished between 2000 and 2010). Additional difficulties stem from the desire of Serbia to participate in the European Union.

The following comments produced some controversial reaction ; however, the statements cannot be properly comprehended without having a good understanding of the overall history of Serbia and the Balkan countries (although the countries now included in the term “Southeast Europe” may be a more accurate description).

On 28 January, 2010, at his first news conference, Patriarch Irinej stated that “Islam’s philosophy was that Muslims, when they are in small numbers, can behave well and be fair, but that once they become superior, they start to exert pressure”. The Islamic Community of Serbia (IZuS) said that it found the remarks to be “insulting Islam” and responded with a letter to the Serbian Orthodox Church requesting an official interpretation of his statement. The Islamic Community in Serbia (IZuS) condemned what they called “insulting and false accusations”.

On 4 October, 2010, Patriarch Irinej said that international recognition of Kosovo was a “sin”.

On 10 November, 2010, Patriarch Irinej stated in an interview that “the Drina River (between Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina) is not a border but a bridge that connects us. Although, in a way, we are one even today, God willing, we will soon really be one”. Patriarch Irinej elaborated that for now “it is enough that we are one as a nation, as the Orthodox Church, and that we are on the same path of Saint Sava and Christ”. He praised the Serbs of Banja Luka, and stated that “[they fight] to preserve the Serb name. Although this is not at all an easy task, they are succeeding”.

Award by Prince David of Georgia, 2011

On 15 December, 2011, Patriarch Irinej was decorated by His Royal Highness Prince David Bagration Mukhraneli Batonishvilli of Georgia with “The Grand Collar of The Order of the Eagle of Georgia and The Seamless Tunic of Our Lord Jesus Christ”. The former royal family of Georgia was now able to visit in the country again, but they have no political authority.

In January, 2012, Patriarch Irinej referred to “Republika Srpska”, one of 2 entities comprising Bosnia and Herzegovina, as “the youngest Serbian state”. The Office of the High Representative (OHR) responded and stated that the “Republika Srpska” is not a state but rather an entity within Bosnia and Herzegovina. The OHR noted that Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Constitution “left no room for any kind of the entity’s sovereignty” and that “the entity’s jurisdiction was not an indication of any sort of statehood”.

Visit of Patriarch Irinej to the Serbian Canadian Diocese, 2012

On Thursday, 19 April, 2012, Patriarch Irinej began his first canonical visit to the Serbian Diocese of Canada. He arrived on that day in Toronto, Ontario, where he was met by many Serbian Orthodox Faithful under the leadership of Bishop Georgije (Đokić) of the Serbian Canadian Diocese, and many priests, as well as representatives of the Toronto Consulate of the Republic of Serbia.

Patriarch Irinej, his entourage and all the others travelled to the Diocesan Centre at the Monastery of Holy Transfiguration near Campbellville, at Milton, Ontario (on the Niagara Escarpment), where they first offered a Doxology service in the Chapel of the Three Hierarchs (led by Syngelos Vasilije (Gavrilović), the head of the monastery). After the formal greetings by Bishop Georgije, Patriarch Irinej blessed all those present, and he then preached a homily. This was followed by a dinner.

On 20 April, Patriarch Irinej led the events marking the 25th anniversary of the Diocesan magazine and the publishing house “Istocnik”, which are housed at the monastery of Holy Transfiguration. On Sunday, 22 April, the patriarch blessed a new fresco in the Serbian Orthodox Cathedral of All Saints of Serbia in Mississauga (in the western part of Toronto. After that, the patriarch participated in services and meetings in Hamilton, Kitchener and Waterloo, Ontario, where there was a major Serbian population.

Return of the coffin of King Peter II (Karađorđević) to Belgrade, 2013

On 22 January, 2013, the remains of King Peter II (Karađorđević) of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia were returned to Belgrade, Serbia. His body lay in state in the Royal Chapel in Dedinje before being buried in the Royal Family Mausoleum at Oplenac on 26 May, 2013, along with his wife, Queen Alexandra. The remains of his mother, Queen Marie, and his brother, Prince Andrej, rest nearby. The Serbian Royal Regalia were placed over King Peter’s coffin. Present at the ceremony were the Serbian Patriarch Irinej, the Prime Minister Ivica Dačić, and King Peter’s son Alexander with his family. After the Divine Liturgy on the occasion of the transfer of the remains of King Peter II to Serbia, Patriarch Irinej openly advocated for the restoration of the Serbian monarchy.

Proposed visit of Pope Benedict XVI to Serbia, 2013

In an interview, Patriarch Irinej indicated he would not oppose the first-ever visit by the Roman Catholic Pope to Serbia in 2013, which was being proposed to be a part of celebrations of the 1,700th anniversary of the Edict of Milan. This edict refers to that through which the Roman Emperor Constantine (who was born in Niš) ended the persecution of Christians. Patriarch Irinej said that “there is the wish of the Pope” for a meeting in Niš and that it would be a chance “not just for a meeting, but for a dialogue”. The pope to which the comments referred was Pope Benedict XVI.

However, because of old age, fragility and other considerations, Pope Benedict was unable to make this proposed trip.

Visit to the Patriarch of Moscow, 2013

On 17 July, 2013, Patriarch Irenej (together with his entourage) met with Patriarch Kirill (Gundyaev) of Moscow and All Russia at the Patriarchal Residence on the territory of the Saint Daniel Monastery in Moscow, Russia. The substantial visit included Patriarch Irenej's participation in the 1025th anniversary of the Baptism of Rus' which was being celebrated at that time in the capital of the Russian Federation.

Patriarch Irinej was accompanied by Metropolitan Amfilohiy (Radović) of Montenegro and Primorsky ; Bishop Longin (Krčo) of New Gračanica, Middle and Western America ; Bishop Iriney (Bulovich) of Bačka ; Bishop Theodosius (Šibalić) of Rashska-Prizren ; Archimandrite Arseniy (Glavčić), resident of the Žiča Monastery, professor in the Orthodox Theological Faculty ; Archpriest Radomir Popović of the University of Belgrade ; Archpriest Gojko Perović, Rector of the Cetinje Seminary. The meeting was also attended by Bishop Anthony (Pantelić) of Moravia, rector of Saints Peter and Paul Temple in Moscow, the metochion of the Serbian Orthodox Church.

Participating with Patriarch Kirill at the meeting were : Metropolitan Hilarion (Alfeyev) of Volokolamsk (Chairman of the Department for External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate (DECR)) ; Bishop Sergiy (Tchashin) of Solnechnogorsk (Head of the Administrative Secretariat of the Moscow Patriarchate) ; Bishop Savva (Mikheev) of the Voskresensk Vicariate and Namestnik of the Novospassky Monastery ; Archimandrite Alexei (Polikarpov) (Vice-Chairman of the DECR) ; Archpriest Nikolai Balashov (DECR Secretary for Inter-Orthodox Relations) ; Archpriest Igor Yakimchuk.

Patriarch Kirill commented that the Russian and Serbian Orthodox Churches have had special relations that extend back to the time of Saints Cyril and Methodius, that their common liturgical tradition strengthens their peoples spiritually and prayerfully in a special way, and that they have much more in common. He underscored the fraternal love and support of the Church of Russia for the Church of Serbia. He emphasised the kindness of the Serbian Church in giving shelter to the Russian refugees following the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution. He further pointed out how great have been the changes for good in both Churches following the fall of Communism.

Patriarch Irenej responded to the words of Patriarch Kirill with gratitude, and he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to venerate the Holy Relics of the many saints in that part of Russia. He expressed the hope that this visit would strengthen the spiritual bonds that unite the 2 Churches, and he also commented about past events and holy persons who have contributed to this harmony. He then outlined some of the current concerns which would be discussed at the meeting that day. Most particular were concerns regarding the unity of the Orthodox Churches, and the situation in the Kosovo and Metohija region (the region of origin of the Serbian Church, and the heartland of the Serbian people). Despite the activities of certain countries to separate Kosovo from Serbia, he explained how impossible it is that the Serbs renounce their history, their holy places, and their historical monuments. He cited the statement (which he repeated frequently to Serbian politicians) of Nikola Pasić, who said that the small boat of the Serbian Orthodox Church must be tied to the ship of the Russian Orthodox Church. He particularly expressed the hope that the Church of Russia might support the Church of Serbia in these concerns.

Patriarch Kirill responded that that Church of Russia was aware that 2013 had become a year of special trials for the Serbian people, that Temples were desecrated, tombstones destroyed, and threats made against Orthodox Serbs. He expressed the respect felt for the Serbian nation, and he expressed support for the Serbian Orthodox Church regarding Kosovo and Metohija. He offered the support of the Church of Russia through her international contacts, and with the local Russian government. After a day of conversations about these and other subjects, Patriarch Kirill presented the Order of Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Prince Vladimir (first degree) to Patriarch Irenej, and various other awards to the members of the entourage. Patriarch Irenej expressed gratitude on behalf of those accompanying him, and on behalf of the Church of Serbia.

Locum-Tenens of the Diocese of Canada, 2015-2016

From May, 2015, until May, 2016, Patriarch Irinej, in addition to his other responsibilities, served as the Locum-Tenens and the Administrator of the Serbian Diocese of Canada after the retirement of Bishop Georgije (Đokić).

In association with his responsibilities as Locum-Tenens and Administrator of the Serbian Orthodox Diocese of Canada, Patriarch Irinej made a long visit to the diocese during June, 2015, and then also to Canada and to the USA in the latter part of the year.

Archpastoral visitation to the Serbian Diocese of Canada, 2015

On 9 June, 2015, the First Sunday after Pentecost, Patriarch Irinej of Serbia, Administrator of the Diocese of Canada, officiated at the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at Holy Transfiguration Monastery at Milton, Ontario. Concelebrating with Patriarch Irinej were Bishop Mitrofan (Kodić) of the Diocese of Eastern America ; Archpriest Stavrophor Vasilije Tomić, the Episcopal Deputy ; Archpriest Stavrophor Milovan Sredojević ; Archpriest Stavrophor Zivorad Subotić ; Archpriest Stavrophor Prvoslav Purić ; Archpriest Stavrophor Vojislav Pavlović ; Archpriest Stavrophor Dragomir Ninković ; Archpriest Milojko Dimitrić ; Archpriest Dusan Gnjatić ; Archpriest Milan Jovanović ; Protosindjel Vasilije (Gavrilović), abbot of the monastery ; Priest Ivan Radović ; Priest Jovan Marijanać ; Protodeacon Damjan Bozić ; Deacon Djuradj Kojić. Present at the liturgy was also Bishop Georgije who had been retired. The diocesan choir "Kyr Stefan the Serb" under the direction of Jasmina Vucrović, sang the responses and hymns at the Liturgy.

In his homily, Patriarch Irinej blessed the people of God and called on them to follow the path of Saint Sava. This path is the path of mutual love, forgiveness, unity, and harmony. He stressed especially that we are called to be the light of the world in this far-off country, that others might look to as an example. After the service, many of the Faithful wished His Holiness a warm welcome. A meal was served in the monastery hall for all present, through the goodness of the Circle of Serbian Sisters.

Holy Transfiguration Serbian Orthodox Monastery

On Friday, 19 June, 2015, at 7:00 p.m., Patriarch Irinej visited the Church-School Congregation Temple of Saint Nicholas on Barton Street in Hamilton, Ontario. This Temple is the spiritual core of the oldest Serbian Orthodox parish in Eastern Canada (it was first organised in 1913). The rector of the parish, Archpriest-Stavrophore Vojislav Pavlović, greeted him on this, his fourth archpastoral visit to this parish. Approximately 900 persons attended this service of the Akathist Hymn to the Theotokos (Mother of God). At the conclusion of the service, Patriarch Irinej gave a homily to those gathered. After the conclusion of the Akathist Service, a dinner had been prepared in the parish hall for the patriarch, his entourage, and for those attending.

Patriarch Irinej leading the Akathist Hymn to the Theotokos

On Saturday, 20 June, 2015, Patriarch Irinej visited the Serbian community in Mississauga, Ontario. The Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was served in the Church of the Synaxis of Serbian Saints (sanctified in 2012). Many of the Faithful gathered in front of the Temple in advance, so that they might welcome their Patriarch and receive his blessing on his arrival. The Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was served by Patriarch Irinej of Serbia, along with Bishop Mitrofan (Kodić) of Eastern America. They were assisted by Archpriest Stavrophor Vasilije Tomić, Episcopal Deputy ; Archpriest Stavrophor Lazar Vukojev ; Archpriest Stavrophor Milutin Veljkov ; Archpriest Stavrophor Prvoslav Purić ; Archpriest Stavrophor Dragoslav Ninković ; Archpriest Stavrophor Milojko Dimitrić ; Protosindjel Vasilije (Gavrilović) ; Protodeacon Damjan Bozić ; Deacon Djuradj Kojić. The "Saint Sava" choir sang the responses (a choir of 46 years' experience). Archpriest Stavrophor Ljubomir Rajić was the pastor of this parish. At the end of the liturgy, Patriarch Irinej delivered words of support to the people about how they are to endure all the temptations which persue them in this distant land. He supported their efforts and works, and he expressed his hope that they would continue on this path, on the path and footsteps of Saint Sava : we have a model and an example, we only need to follow him.

This Church-School Congregation consisted of 2 parishes : the first and third Toronto parishes. Construction of the Temple began in 1994. The cornerstone was sanctified by Patriarch Pavle (Stojčević) of Serbia. Twelve hierarchs of the Serbian Orthodox Church took part in the sanctification of this largest Serbian Temple in Canada on 15 June, 2002.

All Saints of Serbia Serbian Orthodox Cathedral, Mississauga

Visit to Metropolitan Sotirios (Athanassoulas), Greek Orthodox Archbishop of Canada

On Monday, 22 June, 2015, Patriarch Irinej visited Metropolitan Sotirios (Athanassoulas) of Canada at his residence in the Metropolis of Toronto headquarters. Metropolitan Sotirios was serving also as Exarch in Canada of the Patriarchate of Constantinople. On this visit, Bishop Mitrofan (Kodić) of Eastern America accompanied the patriarch, as did Archpriest Vasilije Tomić, Episcopal Deputy and parish priest in north Toronto ; Protosindjel Vasilije (Gavrilović), abbot of the Holy Transfiguration Monastery in Milton ; Protodeacon Damjan Bozić from Belgrade ; Milan Lesić, president of the Saint George Church-School Congregation in Waterloo, Ontario. Patriarch Irinej and his entourage were warmly received by Metropolitan Archbishop Sotirios, together with Vicar-Bishop Christophoros (Rakintzakis) of Andida. The Metropolis building also includes the Saint John the Theologian Seminary, a library, amphitheatre and the diocesan offices. There followed a substantial conversation between the patriarch and the metropolitan.

Second archpastoral visitation of Patriarch Irinej to the Diocese of Canada, 2015

On Saturday, 19 September, 2015, Patriarch Irinej visited the Milton Monastery in Ontario. There, he officiated at the Holy Hierarchal Liturgy in the Monastery of the Holy Transfiguration of the Lord. He was assisted by Protosyncelos Vasilije (Gavrilović), Protodeacon Damjan Bozić, and Deacon Djurad Kojić. Patriarch Irinej baptised a boy, Gavrilo Zubac, the tenth grandson of Archpriest Vasilije Tomić, parish priest of the Temple of Saint Gabriel in Richmond Hill (north of Toronto) and deputy of His Holiness. Following the end of the Vespers service, Mr. Mihajlo Papazoglu, Ambassador of Serbia to Canada, visited Patriarch Irinej.

On Sunday, 20 September, 2015, in the morning, Patriarch Irinej served the Divine Liturgy in the Temple of Saint Nicholas in Hamilton (Barton street) on the occasion of the "Slava" of the Circle of Serbian Sisters of the local congregation/parish.

Later on Sunday, 20 September, after the Vespers service in the monastery of the Holy Transfiguration of the Lord, the patriarch attended a premiere of the movie of the Foundation "The Friend of God" (about the life and sufferings of Saint Mardarije (Uskoković)).

On Monday, 21 September, 2015, Patriarch Patriarch Irinej visited the Church-School Congregation in Hamilton, Ontario for the the "Slava" of the Circle of Serbian Sisters. Their name-day ("Slava") is the the Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos. In the morning, Patriarch Irinej served the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy for the Feast-day in the Temple of Saint Nicholas (Barton Street). He was assisted in serving by : Archpriest Vasilije (Gavrilovic) ; Archpriest Steva Stojisavljević ; Archpriest Vojislav Pavlović ; Protodeacon Damjan Bozić. The "Stevan Mokranjac" choir sang the responses and hymns during the Divine Liturgy. Many children and adults received Holy Communion on this day. At the end of the service, Patriarch Irinej gave a homily in which he paid special attention to the importance of regular attendance at services in the Temple, and the perpetuating of Serbian and Orthodox traditions in this country.

Following the Holy Liturgy, in the parish hall, Patriarch Irinej blessed the Slava Bread, wheat, and wine. After the festal meal, Mr. Jovan Djurdjević, the manager of the bookstore, informed all those who were present of a recent publication on the 2 new Serbian Saints : Saint Mardarije (Uskoković) and Saint Sebastian (Dabovich). Then Patriarch Irinej blessed all those present, and he drew the attention of all to the importance of the work of the Serbian Sisters Circles in Canada and on the continent. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of keeping unity, love and mutual respect in the forefront of the priorities and personal awareness of everyone.

Honourary Doctorate, New York, 2015

On Friday, 11 September, 2015, the Board of Trustees and Faculty of Saint Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary in Crestwood, New York, bestowed a Doctor of Divinity degree, “honoris causa”, upon Patirarch Irinej (Gavrilovic), Archbishop of Peć, Metropolitan of Belgrade-Karlovci, and Patriarch of Serbia. The doctorate was given in view of his “lifelong commitment to the discipline of theology, to teaching and research, while pastoring his flock, working to bring peace after many years of conflict, and to ensuring that the spiritual and cultural treasures of the Serbian Church remain a living and powerful witness”.

Impression of Saint Vladimir's Seminary, New York

In response, Patriarch Irinej said :

 True theology — through patristic and liturgical foundations — offers a vision of cosmic 
 transfiguration.  We cannot train theologians without opening up their eyes to all aspects of existence, 
 and this cannot be done without a sound theological foundation.  The Holy Eucharist demonstrates that the
 Church exists for the whole of creation and not just for itself ; therefore, seminaries should be open
 to all human concerns of everyday life.
 
 The Church is the work of God in history : within itself, it must be a reflection of the Triune God.  
 The Church receives the tragic, sinful experiences and failures of men.  In order to save the world the 
 Church must pass through the reality of death.  This is what real saints do ; without this, there is no 
 salvation.
 
 It is important today to move from mimicking tradition and recycling theology to opening our ears, so 
 that we may hear what the Spirit says to the Church.  All of this was the task of Father Georges Florovsky, 
 Father Alexander Schmemann, and Father John Meyendorff.

Then Patriarch Irinej exhorted those assembled to "remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God ; consider the outcome of their life, and imitate their faith" (Hebrews 13:7).

Archpastoral visit to Australia, England, Cyprus, 2016

On Tuesday, 1 March, 2016, Patriarch Irinej arrived in Melbourne, Australia, as he began his first archpastoral visitation to the Serbian Diocese of Australia and New Zealand. The visitation progressed from 2-13 March. Patriarch Irinej was accompanied by an entourage formed of Metropolitan Amfilohije (Radović) of Montenegro and Littoral ; Protopresbyter Stojadin Pavlović (director of the administrative office of the Serbian Patriarchate) ; and Deacon Aleksandar Sekulić (co-ordinator of the office of the Serbian Patriarch). Bishop Irinej (Dobrijević) of the Metropolis of Australia and New Zealand, together with clergy and many Faithful, welcomed the Serbian delegation at Melbourne Airport.

On Wednesday, 2 March, the Primate of the Serbian Orthodox Church, with his entourage, visited Saint George Temple, in Saint Albans (a suburb of Melbourne), Victoria. On the initiative of the parish pastor, Priest Borislav Petrović, the Faithful had gathered $10,000 (AUD) for the needs of young people and vulnerable persons from Kosovo and Metohija. As an element of the assistance, part of the contribution was intended for a kitchen. These funds were formally transferred to Patriarch Irinej during his visit.

Saint George Temple, Saint Albans, Victoria

In the afternoon of the same day, the Serbian delegation visited the Greek Orthodox Monastery of the Mother of God "Gorgoepikoos" (She who is quick to hear), where they were welcomed by Bishop Ezekiel (Tsoukalas) of Dervis and Bishop Iakovos (Tsigounis) of Militoupolis (Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia), as well as by Abbess Kalisteni.

On Thursday, 3 March, Patriarch Irinej officiated at the Primatial Divine Liturgy at the Saint Sava Monastery in the town of Elaine, Victoria. He was assisted by hierarchs, priests, and deacons of the Serbian Metropolis of Australia and New Zealand, as well as of the dioceses of the sister Orthodox Churches.

On Sunday, 6 March, (the Sunday of the Last Judgement), Patriarch Irinej officiated at the Primatial Divine Liturgy at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Brunswick East (suburb of Melbourne, the capital of the Australian State of Victoria). He was assisted by Metropolitan Amfilohije (Radović) of Montenegro and Littoral ; Bishop Longin (Krčo) of the Serbian Orthodox of New Gračanica and Midwestern America ; and Bishop Irinej (Dobrijević) of the Metropolis of Australia and New Zealand. On this occasion, Patriarch Irinej had sanctified the cathedral Temple in advance of the serving of the Divine Liturgy.

A great number of Faithful took part in this event (mainly those who had contributed to the restoration and the embellishment of the building, which had been purchased in the 1970s from the Anglican Church). At the end of the Divine Liturgy, Patriarch Irinej offered gratitude, awards, and medals to the parishioners who (through their donations and personal endeavours) had given a good example to their neighbours, and who were participating actively in the liturgical life of the Church.

Holy Trinity Cathedral, Brunswick East

On 7 March, in the evening, at the Saint Sava Temple in Greensborough, Victoria, Patriarch Irinej met the members of the Serbian Orthodox Youth Association, and he held spiritual conversations with young people.

During the following days, Patriarch Irinej visited the major Serbian Orthodox communities in the Perth-Adelaide, Sydney, and Brisbane-Wellington Deaneries.

In the evening of Friday, 11 March, Patriarch Irinej attended the festivity dedicated to Saint Nikolaj (Velimirović) (patron saint of the Serbian Orthodox Youth Association in Australia), which was organised by the Saint Nicholas parish in Blacktown.

On Sunday, 13 March, the canonical visit of Patriarch Irinej concluded after the celebration of the Patriarchal Divine Liturgy at Saint Nicholas Temple in Woolloongabba (which was followed by a festal Luncheon). Patriarch Irinej and the entourage departed for Serbia that Sunday evening.

Visit to England and to Cyprus, 2016

In October, 2016, Patriarch Irinej visited London, England, where he gave a sermon at Saint Paul's Cathedral.

In November, 2016, he made a fraternal visit to the Cypriot Orthodox Church.

Visit by the President of Russia to Belgrade, 2016

In January, 2019, President Vladimir V Putin of Russia made an official visit to Serbia, and he met Patriarch Irinej at Saint Sava's Church, which was then still under construction (although nearing completion). Significant attention was paid to the mosaic icons which were being installed, and which were being made in Russia.

Tenth anniversary as patriarch, 2020

In January, 2020, the patriarch solemnly celebrated 60 years of monastic tonsure, 45 years of episcopal ordination, and 10 years of patriarchal service. A film about him was presented on that occasion.

Construction of Saint Sava's Church, Belgrade

The construction of the Saint Sava Church in Belgrade continued throughout the years of the primatial service of Patriarch Irinej. By the last months of 2020, the construction was very nearly completed. Many mosaics and frescoes adorned the interior of the cathedral, which had been decorated with some help from sister Orthodox Churches.

Saint Sava's Church, Belgrade

Illness from the pandemic, 2020

In November, 2020, Patriarch Irinej (Gavrilović) began to suffer the effects of the Covid-19 virus in the midst of the pandemic of that year. It seems that he may have been infected by the virus when he attended the funeral of Metropolitan Amfilohije (Radović) of Montenegro (who had reposed from the effects of that same virus). He was taken to a military hospital and treated, where it was later reported that the virus had begun to affect his heart. Despite every attempt, the virus caused too much damage for the patriarch to survive.

Repose

On Friday, 20 November, 2020, Patriarch Irinej (Gavrilović) fell asleep in the Lord in Belgrade (Beograd), Serbia.

On Saturday, 21 November, 2020, the body of Patriarch Irinej was taken to Saint Michael's Cathedral in Belgrade. The coffin was in the midst of the Temple on the occasion of the Altar Feast-day of the Cathedral. Prayers for the departed and a memorial service were added to the festal services.

Later, his body was transferred to the Church of Saint Sava in Vračar, Belgrade. In the evening, a memorial service was offered.

The coffin of Patriarch Irinej at Saint Michael's Cathedral

On Sunday, 22 November, 2020, the Funeral Service for the Burial of a Hierarch was served following the Sunday Divine Hierarchical Liturgy at the Temple of Saint Sava. The service was led by Locum-tenens of the Patriarchal Throne, Metropolitan Hrisostom (Jević) of Dabro-Bosnia, and he was assisted by bishops of the Serbian Orthodox Holy Synod and bishops representing other Orthodox Churches.

After the conclusion of the funeral obsequies, the body of Patriarch Irinej (Gavrilović) was interred in the floor of the ambulatory of the Saint Sava Temple's Crypt Chapel, with the singing of a final Litya (short memorial service).

The Faithful attending the services numbered in the thousands (inside and outside the Temples).

Divine Liturgy and Funeral in Saint Sava's Church

— Vicar-Bishop of Moravica 1974. Preceded by : ___. Succeeded by : ___.

— Bishop of Niš 1975-2010. Preceded by : ___. Succeeded by : Bishop Jovan Purić.

— Archbishop of Peć, Metropolitan of Belgrade and Karlovci, and Patriarch of Serbia 2010-2020. Preceded by Patriarch Pavle II (Stojcevic). Succeeded by : Patriarch Porfirije (Perić).

Patriarch Irinej in age

Reflections

Patriarch Irinej has been considered, both abroad and at home, as a moderate traditionalist, open to global inter-religious dialogue. It is important to comprehend that for a true traditionalist, dialogue of any sort does not imply compromising the Orthodox Christian Faith in any way. Rather, the dialogue is a witness to the Truth of Christ.

In Belgrade, during the years of his service, dozens of new parishes and Temples were constructed in the city. In the Orthodox College of the Belgrade University, 6 secularist professors were dismissed (with the approval of the Holy Synod) because of their non-Orthodox teaching.

It was written about Patriarch Irinej that

 he was always calm ; he never raised his voice. [...] The Patriarch rarely showed 
 emotions, and never cared for popularity amongst today's impious people.

It is significant that it was during his time of service as patriarch that the construction of the Saint Sava Cathedral in Belgrade was very nearly completed. It was already in regular use.

Regarding the accession of Serbia to the European Union (EU), Patriarch Irinej said that “Serbia should not look with suspicion at the EU, if the EU respects Serbian identity, culture, and religion. We believe that we are an historical part of Europe, and we want to be in this family of peoples. In the accession we will accept everything that is not in contradiction with our cultural and historical identity”.

Under the current of Patriarch Irinej’s words may be the assumption that not only the Serbs, but also the Western Europeans would recall the fact that it is the Serbs who repeatedly kept Islam (that is, in particular, the Ottoman Empire) from penetrating into the central part of Europe. This was done at a huge cost of Serbian lives, and about this Saint Nikolaj (Velimirović did not hesitate to remind the British on some great occasions in speeches in London, England, during World War I (with little concrete result then or since then).

As the leader of the Serbian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Irinej represented the highest spiritual authority amongst the Serbian people in Serbia and abroad. Under his leadership, the Serbian Patriarchate published an exceptional number of academic, liturgical, religious, and also popular books for the education and spiritual uplifting of the Faithful. Patriarch Irinej was well-known as a great preacher, and he used every opportunity to preach the Word of God to all people. Most recently, the Diocese of Niś has published a collection of his sermons delivered in the Diocese of Nić while he was the Diocesan Bishop there.

Some of Patriarch Irinej’s inter-Ortho dox and ecumenical activities :

• In 2010, immediately after his enthronement. Patriarch Irinej paid an irenic and canonical visit to
His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople Bartholomew.

• In 2013, he participated in the celebration of the 1025th anniversary of the Baptism of Rus'.

• In October, 2012, he paid an irenic and canonical visit to the Patriarchate of Alexandria and All Africa.

• In 2013, he paid a visit to Mount Athos and the Chilandar Monastery.

• In October, 2013, he led a delegation from Serbia that participated in the Second Inter-religious Dialogue
in Jakarta, Indonesia, between the countries of Serbia and Indonesia.

• He supported actively the inter-Christian dialogue between Christian communities of East and West ; and he
communicated at the highest level with heads, leaders, and church dignitaries of other confessions and religions.

• In March, 2014, Patriarch Irinej took an active part in the Pan-Orthodox gathering in Constantinople,
when it was decided to begin the preparations for a Great and Holy Pan-Orthodox Council to be held in 2016.

• In May, 2014, upon the invitation of Archbishop Anastasios (Yannoulatos) of Albania, Patriarch Irinej visited Tirana,
on the occasion of the consecration of the Cathedral Church of the Holy Resurrection.

• In October, 2014, Patriarch Irinej hosted the Pan-Orthodox 1700th anniversary of the Edict of Milan
in Niš, Serbia, the birth-place of the Emperor Constantine.

As an honest and straightforward man, Patriarch Irinej spoke in terms of being a traditional Orthodox Christian. For those who were less committed to the Orthodox Christian Faith, his comments and teachings were sometimes criticised.

In the West, where the general attitude towards Serbia has been negative, the published reports after his repose did not resist the temptation to comment in a critical and disrespectful manner about Patriarch Irinej and about the Orthodox Christian customs which they (without understanding the Orthodox) blame for spreading viruses. The reports also misrepresented the very many who did wear masks, who kept social distance, and the other precautions that were taken. The reports also greatly understated the number of people who came to show their love and respect for their patriarch.

Vladika Patriarch Irinej listening

Vladika Patriarch Irinej speaking

Patriarch Irinej serving

Patriarch Irinej blessing

Patriarch Irinej

Honours and awards :

Orthodox Church

• Order of the Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Prince Vladimir, 1st Degree (ROC, 2013)

• Order of Saint John of Shanghai and San Francisco, Wonder-worker, 1st degree (San Francisco and Western American Diocese, Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia, 2015)

• Order of Saint Nicholas the Wonder-worker (Šabac Diocese, Serbian Orthodox Church, 2016)

State

• Order of the Republika Srpska on the ribbon (Republika Srpska, 2011)

• Grand Collar and Chain of the Order of the Eagle of Georgia, Bagrationi dynasty (Georgian royal house, 15 December, 2011).

• Grand Cross of the Order of the Star of Karađorđe, Karađorđević dynasty, 1st Degree (Serbian royal house, 2013).

• Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise, 1st Degree (Ukraine, 27 July, 2013) : For outstanding Church activities aimed at raising the authority of Orthodoxy in the world, and on the occasion of the celebration of the 1025th anniversary of the baptism of Kievan Rus in Ukraine.

Other

• Diploma of the Catholic fund "Pro Oriente" (Austria, 2010).

• Tesla Medal (Serbian Royal Society of Academicians, Innovators and Scientists, 2013).

• Honourary citizen of Zemun (5 November, 2013).

• Honourary Doctor of Divinity of Saint Vladimir Theological Seminary in New York (USA, 2015).

• Prize of the International Public Foundation for the Unity of Orthodox Peoples (2018).

References

Wyrwoll, Nikolaus ed., “Orthodoxia 2014-2015" (Regensburg : Ostkirchliches Institut, 2015). ISBN 978-7245-1959-1.

Wikipedia biography

Patriarchate biography

Orthodoxwiki biography

Serbian Wikipedia biography

Russian Wikipedia biography

Orthodox Encylopaedia biography

Drevo Encyclopaedia biography

Additional information :

Cox, John, “The History of Serbia” (Westport, CT : Greenwood Publishing Group, 2002). ISBN10 : 03133112907. ISBN13 : 978-0313312908.

Kašić, Dušan, ed. “Serbian Orthodox Church : Its Past and Present”, vols. 1-6 (Belgrade : Serbian Orthodox Patriarchate, 1965-1983)

Pavlovich, Paul, “The History of the Serbian Orthodox Church” (Serbian Heritage Books, 1989). ISBN-10: 096913312X, ISBN-13: 978-0969133124.

Trubetskoi, G N, translated by Elizabeth Saika-Voivod, edited by Borislav Chernev, "Notes of a Plenipotentiary : Russian Diplomacy and War in the Balkans, 1914-1917" (DeKalb, Illinois : Northern Illinois University Press, 2016). ISBN : 978-0-87580-726-3.

Vuković, Sava, “History of the Serbian Orthodox Church in America and Canada 1891-1941” (Kragujevac, Serbia : Kalenić, 1998)

West, Rebecca, introduction by Geoff Dyer, "Black Lamb and Grey Falcon: A Journey Through Yugoslavia" (Edinburgh, 2006. First published 1941). ISBN 978-1-84195-787-6.

Encyclopaedia Britannica article about the Serbian Orthodox Church

“Vladika niški Irinej novi patrijarh” (In Serbian)

“Enthronement of Patriarch Irinej of Serbia” Patriarchate article

“Primate of The Russian Orthodox Church sent the following greeting to Patriarch Irinej of Serbia on the occasion of the seventh anniversary of his enthronement” : Pravmir article.

Serbian Orthodox Church web-site

Orthodoxwiki article about the Church of Serbia

Wikipedia article about the Serbian Orthodox Church

Sermon of Patriarch Irinej at his Enthronement in the Patriarchal Cathedral, Belgrade (24 January, 2010)

Meeting of the Primates of the Russian and Serbian Orthodox Churches in Moscow (17 July, 2013)

Patriarch Irinej visited the Serbian Community in Mississauga, Ontario (20 June, 2015)

Patriarch Irinej’s visit to San Francisco, September, 2015

Patriarch Irinej received Honourary Doctor of Divinity Degree at Saint Vladimir’s Orthodox Seminary (11 September, 2015)