CONCERT HELD IN GRAZ FOR THE STANKOVIĆ FAMILY FROM VRANJE

GRAZ, MAY 17 /SRNA/ - The musical ensemble “Fenečki biseri” performed in Graz at a humanitarian concert, where funds were raised for the Stanković family from Vranje.

The concert was held last night on the occasion of the church patron saints' day, Saints Cyril and Methodius, organized by the Serbian Orthodox Church municipality in Graz and the humanitarian organization “Srbi za Srbe”, and gathered more than 250 people. Priest Nemanja Mićić told SRNA that the liturgy is the foundation of the gathering of the faithful, but that special spiritual strength was also brought by the songs performed by “Fenečki biseri.” “Many people did not come here only as migrant workers, but have put down roots. In the heart of these people, who are far from their homeland, the homeland still lives, whether it is Kosovo and Metohija, Republika Srpska, or Serbia. That is precisely what the Church is for, so that through prayer, comfort, and community, people can feel as if they are at home,” Mićić said. The president of the humanitarian organization “Srbi za Srbe” and head of the Serbian Orthodox Church parish committee in Graz, Stefan Koprivica, emphasized the importance of such gatherings, noting that the funds raised will be directed to the Stanković family. He added that cooperation with the parish will continue with the aim of organizing similar events that bring people together and promote a spirit of solidarity. Members of the ensemble “Fenečki biseri,” sisters Jana and Dunja, told SRNA that their performances in the Diaspora always bring them special emotions, as they are warmly welcomed by the people, which means a great deal to them. They especially rejoice in seeing many children listening to this kind of music, and a special beauty of such gatherings lies in the fact that music conveys emotions, memories, and the spirit of one’s homeland to people who are far from their native region. They added that this is not their first visit to the Diaspora, and that each time it becomes even more beautiful. Nikola and Milica Stanković, with their five children, are one of the larger families in Poljanica, a hilly and mountainous area near Vranje. They are also living with their grandfather, Dragan, and grandmother, Blagica. Their biggest problem is a landslide that is gradually destroying their already old house, the humanitarian organization “Srbi za Srbe” reported.