As part of the NevskyTalks project, the Section for External Mission of the Missionary Department of the Archdiocese of Belgrade–Karlovci organized another in a series of regular lectures in English, intended primarily for foreign nationals residing in Serbia who have shown interest in Orthodox Christianity.
The lecture titled “The Icon of Pentecost – A Brief Introduction to the Birth of the Church” was held on Sunday, 30 November 2025, at 11 a.m., immediately after the Divine Liturgy, on the premises of the Missionary Department located within the parish home of the Church of St. Alexander Nevsky in Belgrade.
The lecture was delivered by Deacon Dr. Đorđe Petrović, professor of Dogmatics at the St. Sava Seminary in Belgrade. The moderator was David Đorđević, a permanent associate of the Section for External Mission, who, in his introductory remarks, presented the lecturer and the overall concept of the event.
In his inspired presentation, Deacon Dr. Đorđe Petrović emphasized that the Descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles is symbolically depicted on the Icon of Pentecost through three semicircles, the first of which—although the smallest—is also the most significant. From this first semicircle descends the fire of Divine grace upon the disciples, who represent the pillars of the Church, that is, the Body of Christ. Through the commandment of baptism given to the whole world, the icon invites us to participate in the Mystery of salvation, while simultaneously opening the circle toward the believer who venerates it with a kiss.
The lecture was attended by listeners originating from several foreign countries who regularly participate in NevskyTalks, as well as attendees from distant Burundi.
The audience displayed a high level of interest in the topic, actively taking part in the discussion and posing questions. This contributed to the engaging atmosphere and confirmed the importance of such gatherings for the missionary work of the Church.
