The Lord’s grace and peace be with you.
As we embark at the next exciting phase of expansion of our beloved St Sava College, we are inspired by the vision of those who paved the way before us and those who have taken up the cross to ensure the College continues to thrive. Visitors to St Sava College are immediately drawn by its serene natural environment, but also to the conceptual layout of the school which hosts a chapel at its heart dedicated to the Holy Nativity of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, having a profound significance for the future of its children and the building up of the Body of Christ, His Holy Church, the Serbian and broader Australian community in general.
Reflecting on the colossal sacrifices of our predecessors in establishing and nurturing the Serbian Orthodox Church in Australia and New Zealand, we are humbled individually and uplifted as a community. Their selfless dedication to faith, people, and country is an enduring legacy that resonates with us. In a world marked by rapid change, by ‘atomic technics and prehistoric ethics’ to use the words of St Justin Popovic, their steadfast commitment to Christian values stands as a guiding light for us all.
As we progress on the God-given mission of providing an outstanding educational institution for future generations, we do so with joy and the awareness that we tread on the path of His Holy will. We recall the words of St Luke 18:16, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God” and our hearts rejoice at the opportunity to embody this imperative of the Gospel at our school, encapsulated in the motto of St Sava College – THE PATH TO LIFE.
The pressing need for quality Christian-based education in diverse realms, including academic pursuits, sports, and the arts, is evident with the presence of Serbian children in various schools across Sydney. St Sava College represents our unique contribution to the rich mosaic of educational choices available in Sydney. It is a choice not only for our own children, families, teachers, volunteers, and donors but also for those who share in the mission and values of our school.
Together, let us walk hand in hand with our children along the path leading to Life, to and with Christ Himself, who is the Way, Truth and Life (John 14:6). May St Sava College be a testament to our commitment to preserving the Orthodox Christian values and phronema, providing a nurturing environment for the many generations to come.
With Archpastoral love and blessings,
+ S I L U A N
Archbishop of Sydney and Wellington and Metropolitan of Australia and New Zealand
The Serbian Orthodox Church