On Saturday, November 7, 2026, a major jubilee—the 170th anniversary of the construction of the Orthodox Church of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos in Perast—will be solemnly celebrated. The Holy Hierarchical Liturgy, beginning at 9:00 AM, will be officiated by His Eminence, the Archbishop of Cetinje and Metropolitan of Montenegro and the Littoral, Joanikije.

Speaking on the *Radio Svetigora* morning program, Priest Jovan Vasić—parish priest for Orahovac and Perast—discussed the history of the church, the significance of the jubilee, and the celebration program. He noted that preparations for the event are taking place amidst a profound sense of spiritual joy.

"This is truly a joyous occasion, and these days of preparation for Saturday’s celebration simply radiate an atmosphere of joy. Everything is unfolding in that spirit, and everything feels effortless. For me, as a priest, these preparations have never been more joyful; one can truly sense a great grace surrounding this jubilee," said Father Jovan. Speaking about the history of this sacred site in Perast, he noted that Orthodox Christians had lived in Perast for centuries; however, historical circumstances—particularly during the era of the Venetian Republic—prevented them from constructing a church in the form we recognize today.

According to preserved tradition, Orthodox believers previously possessed a place of worship—likely a chapel or a designated space where they gathered for prayer. It was only after a shift in political conditions that the necessary circumstances for building a church finally emerged.

Father Jovan explained that a pivotal role in the construction of the church was played by Đorđe—known among the people as Đuro Đuranović—who, in 1849, petitioned the Austrian monarch for permission to build an Orthodox church.

This event is documented in an account by Archimandrite Gerasim Petranović (who later became a bishop), published in 1864 in the *Serbian-Dalmatian Magazine* (*Srpsko-dalmatinski magazin*). Based on this historical record, a short monograph on the history of the church in Perast was prepared and printed.

"Đorđe 'Đuro' Đuranović will be remembered as the primary founder (*ktitor*) of this holy church and as an exceptional benefactor of the Church," Father Jovan said, referencing the account provided by Archimandrite Gerasim Petranović. Construction of the church began on January 14, 1856, and the foundation stone was laid on January 30 of the same year. In just six months—by July—the main construction work was completed, and the church was consecrated the following year, in 1857.

It is particularly noteworthy that the Serbian Choral Society "Jedinstvo" from Kotor sang at the church's consecration—a fact documented in the society's chronicle.

Regarding the church's architecture, Father Jovan explained that it features a blend of Baroque and Byzantine styles. He noted that the iconostasis, icons, and liturgical objects—preserved since the time of the church's construction—are of special value.

He pointed out that many of these sacred items are still used in divine services today. Furthermore, the church houses a diptych—a list—containing the names of the founders and donors who contributed to its construction.

"To this day, we continue to use for liturgical purposes everything that those Christians and benefactors—foremost among them Đorđe 'Đuro' Đuranović, along with others—donated 170 years ago. We have preserved a diptych of the founders and donors who dedicated themselves to and participated in the building of this church," said Father Jovan, emphasizing that their names are commemorated during every Divine Liturgy.Speaking about the celebration program, the parish priest of Orahovac-Perast announced that the Saint Sava Choir from Herceg Novi would sing during the Holy Hierarchical Liturgy. Following the divine service, a memorial service (*pomen*) will be held for Đorđe Đuro Đuranović, as well as for all the founders, benefactors, and donors of the church in Perast.

After the service, refreshments will be served in the church courtyard, followed by a "feast of love" (*trpeza ljubavi*) at the Parish House in Risan, to which all participants of the celebration are invited.

Father Jovan also spoke about the need to renovate the church, as well as the Đuranović house—also known as Njegoš’s House—where, according to him, Saint Peter II Petrović Njegoš stayed as a guest of Đorđe Đuranović during the summer of 1845. This house, which Đuranović bequeathed to the Church, is currently not in a condition suitable for use.

He expressed hope that, in the near future, the necessary conditions would be met for its restoration, as well as for essential work on the church itself.

Recalling the words of Archimandrite Gerasim Petranović—who described the Orthodox inhabitants of Perast as few in number, yet full of zeal and piety—Father Jovan emphasized that their faith, dedication, and love for this holy place can still be felt today. "Over these 170 years, many have contributed through their prayers, good deeds, love, and zeal. This church, its grounds, and the entire Orthodox complex radiate that grace, that peace, and that beauty—a beauty that is both natural and, above all, spiritual," said Father Jovan.

At the end of the conversation, he invited the faithful to come to Perast on Saturday, November 7, to take part in the celebration of this significant jubilee.

"This is the right moment and a perfect opportunity—for those who have visited before and for those who haven't—to celebrate together. Both our ancestors and the great grace of this holy place deserve for us to gather, to rejoice in the name of the Lord, and to meet one another," stated Priest Jovan Vasić in an interview for Svetigora.