The Ecumenical Humanitarian Organization organized a visit to the Monastery of Saint Prohor of Pčinjski for 47 users of the Vranje Reception Center, including adults and children, on April 16, 2025. This one-day excursion was an opportunity for users to discover the spiritual and cultural treasures of southern Serbia in the natural setting of Mount Kozjak and the banks of the Pčinja River. The visit was organized in cooperation with the Serbian Commissariat for Refugees and Migration.

The monastery is located in the area of the village of Starac, 30 kilometers south of Vranje, and is one of the most important spiritual and cultural and educational centers in the region. According to tradition, it was built by the Byzantine emperor Romanos Diogenes in the 11th century, as a sign of gratitude to Saint Prohor of Pčinjski, who prophesied to him that he would become emperor. Today, the monastery is protected as a cultural monument of exceptional importance, and a theological school, an icon painting workshop and a copying workshop of old manuscripts are actively operating there.

The users had the opportunity to see the crypt where the relics of Saint Prohor of Pčinj are kept and to hear more about the history of the monastery from the priests themselves. Afterwards, the users headed along the forest path to the nearby spring of healing water, enjoying the nature and peace that surrounds this holy place.

This visit was not only a spiritual experience, but also an opportunity to relax, connect and learn about the rich cultural heritage of Serbia.

The activity is part of the project "Empowering Refugees in Serbia", funded by the United Methodist Committee on Relief of Global Ministries (UMCOR), which aims to strengthen the capacities, integration and support of refugees and asylum seekers through educational, psychosocial and cultural activities.