What is Slava? 

Each Serbian Orthodox family has a patron saint who protects and guides the household. The family gathers every year on that saint’s feast day to give thanks to God and to honor their saint.
The tradition dates back to when Serbs first accepted Christianity in the 9th century. When a family was baptized, they took the saint celebrated on that day as their heavenly protector. That saint then became the family's Slava for generations. 

Slava is first and foremost a religious observance. It reminds us that the home is a small church and that Christ is the center of family life. Through prayer, thanksgiving, and hospitality, families honor God and the saint who intercedes for them.
The celebration includes prayer, blessing of special foods, and fellowship with relatives, friends, and neighbors.

Key Elements of Slava
Several sacred items are traditionally prepared for the celebration:
Slava Bread (Slavski Kolač)
A round ceremonial bread prepared especially for the feast. It is decorated with Christian symbols and blessed by a priest. During the celebration the bread is cut and turned together with the priest or family members as prayers are offered.
Kolivo (Boiled Wheat)
Sweetened boiled wheat symbolizes both resurrection and eternal life, reminding us of Christ’s Resurrection and the promise of life in God’s Kingdom.
Slava Candle
A large beeswax candle is lit during the celebration. The light represents Christ as the Light of the World and symbolizes the family's prayer rising to God.
Icon of the Patron Saint
The icon of the family's saint is placed in a place of honor in the home, reminding the family of their heavenly protector.
Blessing of the Slava
The Slava is blessed by a priest either at church or in the family home. 
 The priest blesses the bread, wheat, and wine while prayers are offered for the family’s health, peace, and salvation.
Hospitality and Fellowship
After the blessing, family and friends gather to share a festive meal. Hospitality is an essential part of Slava, reflecting Christian love and generosity. Guests are welcomed throughout the day, and it is common for people to visit multiple Slava celebrations.
If the Slava falls during a fasting period of the Church, the meal is prepared according to the fasting rules.
A Tradition Recognized Worldwide
Slava is unique to the Serbian Orthodox people and was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2014. It is a living tradition that continues to unite families, communities, and parishes throughout the world.
Slava in Our Parish
Our church celebrates its own patron saint feast day, known as the Parish Slava. Ours is St. George. On this day we gather for Divine Liturgy, the blessing of the Slava bread and wheat, and a joyful meal together as one parish family.
Visitors are always welcome to join us and experience this beautiful expression of Orthodox faith and Serbian heritage!