SARAJEVO, January 7 (FENA) – A holy liturgy was held at the Cathedral Church of the Nativity of the Theotokos in Sarajevo, and the Christmas message from the Patriarch of the Serbian Orthodox Church was read.

Among other things, it emphasized the need to abandon aggression and violence as a way of resolving problems and disagreements and to build bridges of understanding, love, and peace at all costs.

The liturgy was led by the Metropolitan of Dabar-Bosna, Hrizostom. The morning liturgy for Christmas is the largest and most important liturgy held on this holiday.

In the message, delivered by Protojerej-Stavrofor Vladimir Stupar, the head of the Cathedral Church, it was emphasized that the Church does not condemn, divide, or make distinctions among brothers but reminds everyone that we are all in need of each other and calls for peace and a community of love.

“Let us not forget that many disasters, conflicts, and wars begin with the dehumanization of others by erasing humanity and the personhood of another human being. Therefore, it is crucial that all of us stop using a language where others are first called strangers, then opponents, then enemies, and finally inhumane beings,” the message stated.

It was also reminded of the catastrophic consequences of such actions in human history, which, unfortunately, have been numerous.

The message also mentioned that wars in Syria, Lebanon, and between Ukraine and Russia cause terrible losses, with the most horrific being the killing of children.

From all these tragic events, the message conveyed that we must learn the lesson: that we must be brothers to each other, have understanding, forgive, and show compassion.

A prayer was also offered for those who perished in the collapse of the Novi Sad railway station.

Orthodox Christians around the world celebrate Christmas today. Christmas liturgies were held in all churches in Bosnia and Herzegovina.