Rafailo Momčilović facts for kids
Quick facts for kids SaintRafailo Momčilović Рафаило Момчиловић |
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| Holy hieromartyr | |
| Born | Georgije Momčilović 23 April 1875 Deronje, Austria-Hungary |
| Died | 3 September 1941 (aged 66) Požega, Independent State of Croatia |
| Venerated in | Eastern Orthodox Church |
| Canonized | May 2000, Belgrade by Serbian Orthodox Church |
| Feast | 3 September (O.S. 21 August) |
Rafailo Momčilović (Serbian Cyrillic: Рафаило Момчиловић; 23 April 1875 – 3 September 1941) was an important Serbian Orthodox priest. He was the head (abbot) of the Šišatovac Monastery and also a talented painter. He lived during a very difficult time in history and sadly lost his life during World War II.
Today, the Serbian Orthodox Church honors him as a saint and a martyr. His special day is celebrated on September 3rd each year.
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Who Was Rafailo Momčilović?
Rafailo Momčilović was born Georgije Momčilović on April 23, 1875. He grew up to become a dedicated priest in the Serbian Orthodox Church. As an abbot, he was the leader of the Šišatovac Monastery, a place of worship and learning.
He was also known for his artistic skills, especially in painting religious pictures called icons.
Life During World War II
During World War II, many parts of Europe faced big changes and conflicts. The region where Rafailo lived, known as the Independent State of Croatia at the time, became a very dangerous place for Serbs.
Groups called the Ustasha took control of many areas. They often took over Serbian Orthodox monasteries. Monks who could, tried to escape to safer places like Serbia or Montenegro.
Rafailo Momčilović was taken by the Ustasha on August 25, 1941. He passed away shortly after, on September 3, 1941, in a town called Požega. His final resting place is still unknown.
What Is His Legacy?
Rafailo Momčilović left behind an important legacy, especially through his art and his dedication to his faith.
His Artistic Contributions
Rafailo learned how to paint icons from Russian artists. He painted the beautiful icons for the iconostasis (a screen with icons) inside the Ružica Church in Belgrade. What's even more amazing is that he gave all the money he earned from his paintings to help build the huge Church of Saint Sava in Belgrade. This church project had started before World War II.
He also painted icons for the Orthodox church in Gornji Kovilj.
Honoring His Memory
To remember his contributions and his life, there is an art colony in Vojvodina that is named after him. This helps keep his memory alive and inspires new artists.
See also
- List of Serbian saints
- List of painters from Serbia
