Father Savo Šmigić on family, marriage and forgiveness

As part of the Morava Spiritual Evenings, organized by Kosovsko Pomoravlje Humanitarian Organization and Draganac Monastery, a spiritual gathering dedicated to the topic of family was held on Sunday, May 4, 2026. The guest speaker of the evening was Father Savo Šmigić, Archpriest and Dean of Novi Pazar.

This gathering was an opportunity to openly discuss topics that concern every person, especially in a time when families face many challenges: how to preserve marriage, nurture love and forgiveness, communicate with children, and remain devoted to God and to one another in everyday life.

Marriage as a gift and sacrifice

During his talk, Father Savo especially emphasized that marriage is a great gift from God, but also a place where a person learns to put another before themselves.

“Marriage is an immense and precious gift given to us by God.”

Speaking about the common struggles in modern marriages, Father Savo pointed out that people today find it increasingly difficult to let go of their own will, pride, and vanity. According to him, this is where the first challenges in married life begin.

“Every gift is worth fighting and suffering for.”

Forgiveness as the foundation of family life

One of the most important parts of the evening was dedicated to forgiveness. Father Savo reminded everyone that searching for someone to blame does not solve problems — it often makes them deeper. Instead, a person is called to first look within themselves and seek the path toward reconciliation.

“If we find someone to blame, what have we truly achieved? Nothing.”

It was especially emphasized that love cannot exist without forgiveness, and that without a willingness to forgive, there can be no true life together.

“Forgiveness is the only way people can truly live together.”

Conversation, Prayer, and Being an Example for Children

The discussion also touched on the relationship between parents and children, as well as the importance of family conversations. Father Savo reminded everyone that children need more than words — they need living examples, attention, and time.

“We should talk with our children, but above all, we must be an example to them.”

As highlighted during the evening, a family is not preserved only through words, but through actions, prayer, and sacrifice for one another. It is often that quiet prayer within the home, unseen by others, that keeps a family together and gives it strength.

Life in Kosovo and Metohija and the Importance of Gatherings

For our people in Kosovo and Metohija, spiritual gatherings like these carry special importance. They are not simply lectures, but opportunities for the community to speak openly about the values that form the foundation of our survival: family, children, faith, mutual support, and a life rooted in love.

Morava Spiritual Evenings continue to bring people together around meaningful topics, nurturing unity and spiritual renewal. With the blessing of Abbot Justin, Draganac Monastery, and the support of the people, these gatherings are becoming places where we grow closer to one another and remember that no family is ever alone when there is community.