Saint Sava

Biography

Saint Sava, also known as Rastko Nemanjic, was born in 1176 as the son of King Stephen I Nemanya of Serbia. As a prince, he was educated in various subjects and displayed remarkable intelligence and piety from an early age. When Sava reached adulthood, he made the decision to renounce his worldly aspirations and dedicate his life to serving God. In pursuit of a deeply spiritual existence, he became a monk at Mount Athos, taking the name Sava (Sabas). This act inspired his father, King Stephen I, to follow in his footsteps and embrace monastic life as well. In 1198, Sava and his father established the monastery at Chilanari as a sanctuary for Serbs. This significant undertaking provided a safe haven and a spiritual center for their fellow countrymen. However, Sava's commitment to his people did not end there. In 1207, a bitter conflict erupted between Sava's brothers, Stephen II and Vulkan, leading to a civil war. Recognizing the urgent need for peace and stability, Sava returned to Serbia, accompanied by a group of monks. With great determination, he founded several monasteries and initiated a reformation to revive religion and education in his homeland, which had suffered a decline. Sava's efforts did not go unnoticed, as Emperor Theodore II Laskaris of Nicaea acknowledged his leadership qualities and appointed him as the Metropolitan of a new Serbian hierarchy. However, his consecration was met with reluctance from Patriarch Manuel I, showing the challenges Sava faced in his mission to strengthen the Serbian Church. In 1222, Sava played a crucial role in the political landscape of Serbia by crowning his brother Stephen II as King. This act marked the completion of his father's vision to unite their people and establish a strong Serbian kingdom. Apart from his political and religious achievements, Sava also dedicated himself to cultural and educational endeavors. Understanding the importance of native literature and religious works, he translated numerous texts into the Serbian language. By doing so, he fostered a sense of national identity and provided his people with a native clergy and hierarchy. In his pursuit of spreading Christianity, Sava embarked on a significant ecclesiastical mission to the Holy Land. Tragically, he succumbed to illness while returning home and died on January 14, 1235, in Tirnovo, Bulgaria. Saint Sava's legacy endures to this day. He is revered as the patron saint of Serbia and the Serbs, known for his tireless efforts to unite his people through religion, education, and cultural preservation. His life serves as an inspiration for individuals seeking to transform society through faith and knowledge.