Irinej: People have felt greatness of Patriarch Pavle

BELGRADE - An exhibition comprising books from Patriarch Pavle's personal library opened at the National Library of Serbia on Thursday, marking 100 years since the birth of the 44th head of the Serbian Orthodox Church (SPC).

Around 9,000 books in various languages have been put on display as part of the exhibition ("Cutim, a govorim"), including the works authored by Patriarch Pavle, divine service books with his notes, different editions of the Bible, books from the field of theology.

The exhibition was declared open by SPC Patriarch Irinej who said that "this is a great day for our Church and our Orthodox people".

He wished believers to spend in peace this religious holiday- the Beheading of St. John the Baptist, on which "our great Patriarch Pavle" was born in the village of Kucanci in Slavonia in 1914.

Patriarch Pavle was born at a critical time, he noted, adding that he was exactly the type of man the time needed- calm, level-headed in his approach to life and words.

He was born into a poor family and had to take care of himself since early childhood, "to try hard and work diligently, and this is the virtue that graced him throughout his life".

He was not ashamed to be a miller, to repair shoes… he respected each and every man, and his personality has resonated with people, Patriarch Irinej said.

Patriarch Pavle's personal library belongs to the Serbian Patriarchate Library, has the status of cultural heritage, and is kept in the premises belonging to the Rakovica Monastery dedicated to Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel.

The National Library of Serbia staged the exhibition in cooperation with the Serbian Patriarchate Library, with the backing of the culture ministry.