Arsenije Sremac facts for kids

Saint Arsenije Sremac (also known as Arsenius the Syrmian) was a very important leader of the Serbian Orthodox Church. He was the second Archbishop, serving from 1233 to 1263. He was also a close student and helper of Saint Sava, who was the first Archbishop.

Who Was Saint Arsenije Sremac?

Arsenije was born in a village called Dabar, near Stari Slankamen, in what is now Serbia. We don't know the exact year he was born. He decided to become a monk, probably at a monastery in Sremska Mitrovica.

When he learned about the work of Saint Sava, he was very impressed. He then went to the monastery of Žiča. There, he quickly became a trusted student and assistant to Saint Sava. Because of his strong religious life, he became a leader at the monastery.

Finding a Safe Place

At one point, the Kingdom of Hungary invaded Serbia. Saint Sava asked Arsenije to find a safer place in the south. This new place would be for an important church center. Arsenije chose a town called Peć.

In Peć, he helped build a new monastery and a church. This church was first dedicated to the Holy Apostles. Later, it was dedicated to the Lord's Ascension.

Becoming the Archbishop

Archbishop Arsenije Sremac, a painting from the Church of the Holy Apostles, Patriarchal Monastery of Peć.

When Saint Sava decided to step down from his role, he chose Arsenije to take his place. Arsenije was then made a bishop. He continued the important work that Saint Sava had started.

He helped build the Monastery of Peć. He also helped move Saint Sava's holy relics from Trnovo to the Mileševa Monastery. Saint Arsenije also crowned King Stefan Uroš I. He worked with King Stefan Uroš I and Queen Saint Helene. Together, they helped build the monasteries of Sopoćani and Gradac.

His Later Years and Legacy

In 1263, Saint Arsenije had a stroke. After this, Saint Sava II took over as Archbishop. Saint Sava II was the nephew of the first Saint Sava.

Saint Arsenije passed away on October 28, 1266. His holy remains were first buried at the Peć monastery. Today, they rest in the Ždrebaonik monastery in Montenegro. His special day, called a feast day, is celebrated on October 28. This is according to the Orthodox church calendar.

See Also

• List of Serbian saints
• Saint Arsenije Sremac Serbian Orthodox Church