A Weekend of Faith, Fellowship, and Sacred Music

The choir of St. Elijah Serbian Orthodox Church in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, was blessed to travel to Washington, D.C. as honored guests of the Serbian Singing Society Lira, St. Luke Serbian Orthodox Church Choir for their annual concert weekend, April 24-26, 2026.

The journey began on Friday, April 24, as the choir departed by bus at 11:00 a.m. Upon arrival in Washington, the group settled into the hotel, refreshed, and was warmly welcomed with a beautiful dinner graciously prepared by parishioners of St. Luke’s Church. This first evening set the tone for a weekend filled with hospitality and fraternal love.

On Saturday, guided by hosts from St. Luke’s parish, the choir explored the heart of the nation’s capital. Visiting the Washington Monument, the World War II Memorial, and the Lincoln Memorial, the group enjoyed both the beauty and historical depth of the City. Blessed with wonderful weather, the day provided a meaningful opportunity for fellowship and shared experience.

Following lunch and a brief rest at the hotel, the choir gathered for Vespers, served prayerfully with Fr. George Popovich, Parish Priest in Aliquippa, who accompanied the choir throughout the journey and also sang with them.

The highlight of the visit came Saturday evening, April 25 at 7:00 p.m., with the annual concert. The program opened with a joint performance by both choirs, singing the national anthems of the United States, Serbia, and Republika Srpska. The host choir of St. Luke, SSS Lira, along with the children’s choir Lira, under the direction of Protinica Jelena Vranic, offered beautiful selections that reflected both tradition and youthful joy.

The St. Elijah Choir then presented several pieces, followed again by performances from the host and children’s choirs. The concert concluded with a powerful and moving performance by the St. Elijah Choir under the direction of Maestro George Milosh, featuring the 11th Rukovet of Stevan Mokranjac, the song “Kozar,” and ending triumphantly with “Veseli se, srpski rode.”

At the conclusion of the concert, the host choir presented a meaningful gift to the St. Elijah Choir: a beautiful icon of St. Elijah, painted by local iconographer Dijana Douglas. The gift was received by choir representative Mr. George Milosh. Both choirs then exchanged the traditional “Mnogaja Leta,”  - Many Years, expressing gratitude, unity, and mutual respect.

The evening continued with a festive gathering featuring Serbian food, music, and joyful fellowship, strengthening the bonds between the two communities.

On Sunday morning at 10:00 a.m., the Divine Liturgy was served by Fr. George and Fr. Vasilije Vranic, Parish Priest of the Washington, DC Parish, with the faithful gathered in prayer and song. Following the Liturgy, a shared meal was enjoyed, and both choirs gathered for a group photograph in front of the church before beginning their return journey.

The St. Elijah Choir expresses heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Vasilije Vranic, Protinica Jelena Vranic, and the entire congregation of St. Luke Serbian Orthodox Church for their exceptional hospitality, warmth, and love. Special thanks are also extended to all who attended the concert and contributed to its success, as well as to our bus driver, Gary, for his care and dedication throughout the trip.

We look forward to welcoming our brothers and sisters again soon, especially at the upcoming SNF concert in Steelton, Pennsylvania.

Mnogaja leta! - Many Years!

Presbyter George Popovich