The Crown Prince and Crown Princess of Serbia traditionally celebrate orthodox Christmas at the Royal Palace in Belgrade, and this year they were joined by the Crown Princess’ sister, Mrs. Betty Roumeliotis.
On the morning of Christmas Eve, January 6th 2023, the Crown Prince participated in the centuries-old tradition of cutting the Yule log and bringing it in front of the palace. That evening, the Yule log was burned in front of the palace and blessed by the local priest.
The ceremony was attended by members of the Crown Council, the Crown Prince’s Foundation for Culture and Education, the Royal Medical Board, the Kingdom of Serbia Association and many other friends of the royal family.
Following the burning of the Yule log, there was a traditional reception at the Royal Palace. In his remarks, the Crown Prince expressed his wish for the citizens of Serbia, the Republic of Srpska, and all people worldwide who celebrate Christmas to spend as much time as possible with their families and to enjoy good health, love, and prosperity.
In his Christmas speech, the Crown Prince said: “The birth of the Son of our Lord, our Saviour Jesus Christ, is one of the holiest days in the entire history, and on the occasion of this great holiday, I extend my warmest congratulations to all citizens of Serbia, the Republic of Srpska, and all people around the world who celebrate this sacred day tomorrow. We live in restless times, that are difficult for the entire world, where our people are also facing many challenges. Sometimes it may seem that we don’t know anything other than living in difficult times. But there is something that always keeps us and leads us, and that is our faith and our hope.”
The Crown Prince continued: “Faith in our Lord, who sent his son to all of us on this day more than two millenniums ago, to bring us hope and salvation. Carried by the same faith that our ancestors had, which guided them through difficulties and challenges, we send our prayers to the Almighty God to give His blessing to all the people around the world. These blessings bring warmth into our hearts, fill them with the love of our Lord, and remind us of the importance of following his holy words, and his path.”
His Royal Highness concluded: “Most of all, my family and I wish you good health, much love, and prosperity. Let your home and your family be a source of peace, warmth, and love. On this Holy Day, each Orthodox home is a small sanctuary, and the love should be spread from them around the world. When we spend this glorious day with our families and friends, that love will be much stronger.”
