The Serbian community in Auckland gathered in front of Saint King Milutin Church to mark a significant jubilee – ten years since the historic triumph of the Serbian U20 football national team, which became world champions in 2015 at the championship held in New Zealand.
A festive atmosphere, red-blue-white colors, and a large Serbian fan flag dominated the churchyard, commemorating the day when the young Serbian team, led by fighting spirit, faith, and talent, stood on the world football throne. In the presence of community members, this event was more than just a sports celebration – it was a return to the days when young Serbia astonished the world.
What makes this celebration particularly significant is the symbolic connection to the very beginning of that golden campaign. It was precisely in the Saint King Milutin Church in Auckland, just before the start of the championship, that the Serbian footballers had their first encounter with our people in the diaspora. On that occasion, Archpriest Sava Antić blessed all the young national team members. With that blessing, carrying the prayers of the Serbian people from New Zealand, our boys went all the way to the gold medal.
“It was a special occasion. It was visible in their eyes that they came not just to play, but to defend the honor of Serbia. We blessed them in the name of the entire nation, and I believe that this spiritual support followed them to the very top,” recalls Father Sava.
This year’s gathering highlighted a new, important goal of the Serbian community in New Zealand – the construction of a new Saint King Milutin Church. The existing church, although a symbol of our presence, is too small for the needs of the growing community. Therefore, an initiative has been launched to build a larger, more beautiful church that will be a new spiritual and cultural center for Serbs in Auckland.
“Just as our young team took a blessing from this church ten years ago and conquered the world, we believe that in the new church, future generations will gain strength for their victories – be it on the field, in science, art, or life. That’s why we invite all Serbs, wherever they may be, to help our mission,” the organizers stated.
The symbolism is strong – ten years after the football triumph, the Serbian community is building a new foundation at the site of that success. This celebration was not only a remembrance of victory but also a call for new beginnings. Just as the golden generation of 2015 left a deep mark in the history of our sport, so too does this community in New Zealand want to leave a lasting mark for the future.
And just as ten years ago one generation showed what it means to play with heart for Serbia, today the Serbian community in Auckland shows how to build a future on the foundations of faith and pride.
All who wish to support the construction of the new Saint King Milutin Church in Auckland can contact the Church Board or through the official website and social media of the community. Every donation, big or small, represents a brick in the spiritual home of our children and descendants.
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Source: Sportal, Photo: Ustupljena fotografija