Serbian Orthodox Church

Parish in Hot Springs - Arkansas

Српска Православна Црква

Парохија у Хот Спрингсу - Арканзас

our faith

What is Orthodox Christianity?

The Orthodox Christian Church, also called the “Eastern Orthodox,” is the oldest Christian Church in the world, founded by Jesus Christ and with its beginnings chronicled in the New Testament. All other Christian churches and groups can be traced historically back to it. The Orthodox Church has deep and lasting roots in Christian antiquity and is steeped in rich Biblical tradition. It has been the context of Christian living for millions of Christians for almost twenty centuries.

Become a part of our community

Become a part of the Christian Orthodox community and joining our church family at St. Archangel Michael Serbian Orthodox Church offers a multitude of meaningful benefits and opportunities for spiritual growth and connection. Here are some reasons why you should consider being a part of our Christian Orthodox community:

our parish

Serbian Orthodox Church Parish in Hot Springs

The Serbian Orthodox Church – Parish in Hot Springs, Arkansas is a testament to the faith and dedication of our community. Thanks to the grace of God and the enthusiasm of our ancestors, our parish is blessed with two magnificent churches.

St. Archangel Michael Church

The first church, St. Archangel Michael Church, holds a special place in our hearts. Built in 1979, it stands as a symbol of our heritage and devotion.

St. George Church

The second church, St. George Church, was erected in 1992. Located 3 miles from downtown Hot Springs, it complements the beauty of our parish.

As members of the Serbian Orthodox Church – Parish in Hot Springs, Arkansas, we are proud of our rich history and the legacy left by our ancestors. These two remarkable churches serve as a testament to our faith, unity, and commitment to preserving our traditions.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Mt. 11:28-30

His Grace Bishop Longin

His Grace Bishop Longin was born on September 29, 1955 as Momir Krco in the town of Kruscanje Olovo. His parents were Stanoje and Andja (nee Jovanovic) Krco. He attended grade school in Olovske Luke from 1962 to 1970. He entered Three Hierarchs Seminary in Monastery Krka in 1970 and graduated in 1975.

Biography
of the priest

Biography of the priest

Rev. Tomislav Savić, was born on November 13, 1997, in Trebinje, Bosnia and Herzegovina. He grew up in a loving family with his parents Radmilo and Vesna, his brother Djordje, and his sisters Djordjina and Nataša. After completing elementary school in Nevesinje, Tomislav followed his calling and entered the seminary in Foca. He excelled in his studies and graduated with honors, demonstrating his dedication and passion for theology.

Church cemetery

St. Archangel Michael Serbian Orthodox Church in Hot Springs, AR, is a great place of worship and community for followers of the Christian Orthodox faith. Adjacent to the church, you will find a Christian Orthodox cemetery, a sacred and serene space for the final resting place of loved ones.

The Christian Orthodox cemetery (located next to the church,) provides a peaceful and dignified environment for burials in accordance with the traditions of the Orthodox faith. 

Support our
Church Community

Support our Church Community

Supporting our church community is very important for the revival and growth of our Serbian Orthodox Parish in Hot Springs, AR. We are excited to share that we now have a new, young priest who is dedicated to bringing new energy and vitality to our community. By giving regularly, you have the opportunity to be a part of this exciting new chapter and make a significant impact on our parish’s future.

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DONATE

Our parish is delighted to provide an autopay program for donations on our website, giving you the chance to effortlessly support our community.

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St. Archangel Michael Church

St. George Church

What is Orthodox Christianity?

The Orthodox Christian Church, also called the “Eastern Orthodox,” is the oldest Christian Church in the world, founded by Jesus Christ and with its beginnings chronicled in the New Testament. All other Christian churches and groups can be traced historically back to it. The Orthodox Church has deep and lasting roots in Christian antiquity and is steeped in rich Biblical tradition. It has been the context of Christian living for millions of Christians for almost twenty centuries.

Yet one cannot understand the Orthodox Church merely by reading about it. Just as reading a biography about someone is no substitute for knowing the biography’s subject personally, Orthodox Christianity must be experienced firsthand to be understood. We welcome and invite you to come worship with us, to “come, taste and see” (Psalm 34:8).

Orthodox Christianity is not that familiar to most Americans, even though the community of the Orthodox has existed for some 2,000 years even though there have been Orthodox Christians in America since its founding as a nation.

So, what is Orthodox Christianity? It is the life in faith of the Orthodox Church, inseparable from that concrete, historic community and constituting its whole way of life. The Orthodox Christian faith is the faith “handed once to the saints” (Jude 3), passed on to the apostles by Jesus Christ, and then handed down from one generation to the next within the Church, without adding anything or taking anything away.

The purpose of Orthodox Christianity is the salvation of every human person, uniting us to Christ in the Church, transforming us in holiness, and giving us eternal life. This is the Gospel, the good news, that Jesus is the Messiah, that He rose from the dead, and that we can be saved as a result.

Historically, the Orthodox Church is the oldest of all Christian churches. Ultimately, all Christian communities can trace their own history back to the Orthodox Church. In the pages of the New Testament we read the beginnings of the Orthodox Church, and even today Orthodox Christianity continues to live on in most of the places mentioned in the New Testament where the Apostles first preached the Gospel. This is the Church that wrote, compiled and canonized the Holy Scriptures, that formulated the traditional doctrines of Christianity, and that has believed and lived the same faith for 2,000 years.

Become a part of our community

Become a part of the Christian Orthodox community and joining our church family at St. Archangel Michael Serbian Orthodox Church offers a multitude of meaningful benefits and opportunities for spiritual growth and connection. Here are some reasons why you should consider being a part of our Christian Orthodox community:

 

  1. Deep Spiritual Traditions: The Christian Orthodox faith is rooted in ancient traditions and practices that have been passed down through generations. By becoming part of our community, you will have the opportunity to engage in rich and meaningful rituals, prayers, and sacraments that have stood the test of time. These traditions provide a strong foundation for spiritual growth and a deeper connection with God.

 

  1. Sense of Belonging: Our church family offers a warm and welcoming environment where you can find a sense of belonging and community. We believe in supporting one another, sharing in each other’s joys and sorrows, and offering a network of care and love. Being part of our Christian Orthodox community means being surrounded by people who understand and share your faith journey.

 

  1. Spiritual Guidance and Education: Our church provides a wealth of resources for spiritual guidance and education. Through regular worship services, Bible studies, and religious education programs, you will have the opportunity to deepen your understanding of the Christian Orthodox faith and grow in your relationship with God. Our clergy and knowledgeable members of the community are always available to offer support and guidance on your spiritual journey.

 

  1. Opportunities for Service and Outreach: Being part of our Christian Orthodox community means actively engaging in acts of service and outreach. We believe in living out our faith through acts of love and compassion towards others. Our church offers various opportunities to serve those in need, both within our community and beyond. By joining our church family, you will have the chance to make a positive impact on the lives of others and contribute to the greater good.

 

  1. Cultural Heritage and Identity: The Christian Orthodox faith is deeply intertwined with rich cultural heritage and traditions. By being part of our community, you will have the opportunity to celebrate and preserve your cultural identity while embracing your faith. Our church regularly hosts cultural events, festivals, and celebrations that allow members to come together and honor their heritage.

 

Becoming part of our Christian Orthodox community at St. Archangel Michael Serbian Orthodox Church is not just about attending services, but about forming meaningful connections, deepening your faith, and living out the teachings of Christ. We invite you to join our church family and embark on a journey of spiritual growth, fellowship, and service.

St. Archangel Michael Church

The first church, St. Archangel Michael Church, holds a special place in our hearts. Built in 1979, it stands as a symbol of our heritage and devotion. This Byzantine-style church is adorned with intricate details and exudes a sense of serenity. Alongside the main church, there is a church hall, a cemetery, and a playground for the children, creating a welcoming and inclusive space for all.

ST. GEORGE CHURCH

The second church, St. George Church, was erected in 1992. Located 3 miles from downtown Hot Springs, it complements the beauty of our parish. With its own church hall, it serves as a gathering place for our community. Both churches are open to worshipers and offer regular church services, providing spiritual nourishment and guidance to all who seek it.

His Grace Bishop Longin

His Grace Bishop Longin was born on September 29, 1955 as Momir Krco in the town of Kruscanje Olovo. His parents were Stanoje and Andja (nee Jovanovic) Krco. He attended grade school in Olovske Luke from 1962 to 1970. He entered Three Hierarchs Seminary in Monastery Krka in 1970 and graduated in 1975.

During this time he was tonsured a monk and received the small schema as a fifth year student. The tonsuring was done by Bishop Stefan of Dalmatia on the eve of the school Slava of the Holy Three Hierarchs on February 11, 1975. At the Divine Liturgy on February 12th he was ordained a deacon by Bishop Stefan. On February 13th, he was ordained a priest.

He entered the Moscow Theological Academy in 1975 where he graduated in 1979. From October 1980 to April 1981, he served in the Diocese of Zvornik-Tuzla as secretary of the Executive Board. He was also administrator of two parishes. On the decision of the Holy Synod of Bishops he was appointed as lecturer of the Holy Three Hierarchs Seminary in 1983 for two years.

At the Sabor of May 1985 he was elected Vicar Bishop of Morava to the Patriarch. He was consecrated on October 20, 1985. His Holiness served the Divine Liturgy along with Metropolitan Vladimir of Rostov and Novo Cerkay (now Metropolitan of Kiev) who had been Dean of the Moscow Theological Academy while Bishop Longin was a student. Also serving were Bishop Nikolaj of Dalmatia, who had been Dean at the Seminary in Krka Monastery where the young Bishop had begun his theological education; and Bishop Vasilije of Zvornik-Tuzla.

Present at the services were the following bishops of the Serbian Church: Metropolitan Vladislav of Dabro-Bosna, Metropolitan Jovan of Zagreb and Ljubljbana, Bishop Chrysostom of Branicevo, Bishop Pavle of Ras and Prizren, Bishop Stefan of Zica and Bishop Jefrem of Banja Luka. As guests present were the Archimandrite Platon, professor of the Moscow Theological Academy, Canon Dr. Colin Hikling, professor of Holy Scriptures at the London University, where the new bishop had done post graduate studies. In May of 1986 he was elected Bishop of Australia and New Zealand, where he spent six and a half years. Besides serving the great territory of Australia he also built churches and was involved in work with the youth. Bishop Longin was known especially as a fighter for unity of the Serbian Church.

At the Sabor in 1992 at the request of His Holiness and brother hierarchs, Bishop Longin accepted the duty of being bishop of Dalmatia. He was not able to enter his residence in Sibenik, but had to reside in Monastery Krka, where he lectured at the seminary. With the blessing of His Holiness Patriarch Pavle, he journeyed to Canada and Australia where he collected donations for the suffering Serbian people. After the tragic occurences in August of 1995, Bishop Longin and the entire seminary from Monastery Krka stayed at Divcibare near Valjevo. At the same time he helped Bishop Lavrentije of Saba-Valjevo in diocesan matters. Along with Bishop Nikanor of Gornji Karlovac, he worked with refugees, visited the camps and delivered help which had been sent mainly by the Serbs in the Diaspora.

With the decision of His Holiness Patriarch Pavle, he was appointed on July 31, 1997 as auxiliary in the administration of the Diocese of America and Canada – New Gracanica Metropolitanate. On May 23, 1998, he was appointed as Administrator of the Diocese of America and Canada -New Gracanica Metropolitanate, while on May 5, 1999, he was elected at the Holy Assembly of Bishops of the Serbian Orthodox Church, Sabor, as Bishop of the Diocese of America and Canada, New Gracanica Metropolitanate. This fulfilled the request of the Diocesan Council and the Ecclesiastical Court as well as the desire of the clergy and delegates of the Seventh Church National Sabor held on April 23 – 24, 1999.

After the administrative arrondation of our Church on the North American Continent in May 2009, a better and canonically more correct organization of our faithful people was achieved. In the same year, Bishop Longin was elected Bishop of New Gracanica-Midwestern America. Since then, His Eminence has resided in Libertyville, retaining offices at Pokrov-Protection Monastery. The intention is for our oldest Monastery to be renovated in many ways, so that all monasteries and parish churches can successfully continue the mission of salvation and deliverance from all evil! For this, we pray to the Lord!

 

Biography of the priest

Rev. Tomislav Savić, was born on November 13, 1997, in Trebinje, Bosnia and Herzegovina. He grew up in a loving family with his parents Radmilo and Vesna, his brother Djordje, and his sisters Djordjina and Nataša. After completing elementary school in Nevesinje, Tomislav followed his calling and entered the seminary in Foca. He excelled in his studies and graduated with honors, demonstrating his dedication and passion for theology.

Tomislav continued his education at The St. Sava School of Theology in Libertyville, IL, USA. There, he deepened his knowledge of theology and spirituality, successfully graduating in 2021. Following his graduation, Tomislav received the blessing of Bishop Longin of the Serbian Orthodox Church – Diocese of Midwestern-America to begin his service in the church. He started working as a secretary in the Church of St. Nicholas in Indianapolis, where his hard work and devotion caught the attention of the faithful.

At the beginning of the year, Tomislav Savić was appointed as the parish priest in the Serbian Orthodox Parish in Hot Springs. Alongside his wife Marina, he is committed to shaping the future of this parish and guiding its members towards spiritual growth and prosperity.

Tomislav Savić is an exemplary figure of dedication, faith, and love for God and humanity. His biography testifies to his deep commitment to the Orthodox faith and his desire to serve and bring the light of God’s love into the lives of the faithful.

Church Cemetery

St. Archangel Michael Serbian Orthodox Church in Hot Springs, AR, is a great place of worship and community for followers of the Christian Orthodox faith. Adjacent to the church, you will find a Christian Orthodox cemetery, a sacred and serene space for the final resting place of loved ones.

The Christian Orthodox cemetery (located next to the church,) provides a peaceful and dignified environment for burials in accordance with the traditions of the Orthodox faith. The grounds are meticulously cared for, reflecting the deep respect and reverence we hold for those who have passed on.

We are available to provide you with more information and guide you through the process of securing a grave place. We understand the importance of finding a final resting place that aligns with your Christian Orthodox beliefs, and we are here to assist you with compassion and sensitivity.

At St. Archangel Michael Serbian Orthodox Church, we strive to honor the memory of our loved ones and provide a place of solace, prayer, and remembrance. The Christian Orthodox cemetery is a testament to our commitment to upholding the traditions and customs of our faith, ensuring a place of eternal rest for those who have departed.

For more information about purchasing a grave place within the Christian Orthodox cemetery at St. Archangel Michael Serbian Orthodox Church in Hot Springs, AR, please reach out to us at 708-369-2827. We are here to support you and provide you with the necessary information and guidance during this difficult time.

Support our Church Community

Supporting our church community is very important for the revival and growth of our Serbian Orthodox Parish in Hot Springs, AR. We are excited to share that we now have a new, young priest who is dedicated to bringing new energy and vitality to our community. By giving regularly, you have the opportunity to be a part of this exciting new chapter and make a significant impact on our parish’s future.

It is crucial that we come together and support our church financially, as the parish has two churches, two church properties, two church halls, and a cemetery, all of which come with significant monthly expenses. Your generous donations will enable us to cover these expenses and provide the necessary resources for our priest to lead meaningful worship services, engage the congregation, and implement programs that enrich the spiritual lives of our members. Every donation, regardless of its size, has a profound impact on our community and symbolizes your dedication to our parish’s growth and well-being. Together, we can create a vibrant and thriving church community that serves as a beacon of faith and support for all who seek solace and guidance.