Donji Brčeli, Upper Crmnica Region, Montenegro, December 19, 2023
Photo: mitropolija.com
A fire broke out at a Serbian Orthodox monastery in Montenegro over the weekend.
In the fire that engulfed the Donji Brčeli Monastery complex in the village of the same name, the monastic residence building was completely destroyed. But thanks to the quick response of firefighters, no churches or any other buildings were damaged, reports the Metropolis of Montenegro.
The cause of the fire is currently unknown.
His Eminence Metropolitan Ioanikije of Montenegro spoke of the tragedy in his Sunday homily, noting that amidst the beautiful moments, God also sends us trials.
“Last night, the residence of the Brčeli monastery burned down, only the walls remained. Unfortunately, the brothers were also left without a roof over their heads,” the Metropolitan said.
“God will allow us to restore it. When temptations come, it’s from God, to test our faith and our unity and mutual love. The Lord allowed this temptation, and we should respond by coming to help.”
Significant funds were collected during the Sunday service for the restoration of the monastic quarters at Donji Brčeli.
Church destroyed in monastery fire in Russian far northTragedy struck the Holy Dormition-St. Alexander of Oshevensk Monastery on Saturday, as the holy habitation’s church went up in flames.
“>Just a week ago, the Holy Dormition-St. Alexander of Oshevensk Monastery in the Russian far north was destroyed by fire.
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In the 15th century, according to tradition, Jelena Balšić, the daughter of Prince Lazar, built the monastery in Donji Brčeli, which includes the Church of St. Nicholas, the cathedral church of the whole of Crmnica. It was restored by Prince Nikola in 1861. The church has a large wooden iconostasis with 47 icons of various shapes and dimensions.
According to historical sources, Emperor Šćepan Mali, who ruled Montenegro from 1767 to 1773, held court there and was later killed and buried there.
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