Eparchy appeals for help for families in Kosovo who lost their homes in fires

In light of the devastating fires that have recently swept through many areas of central Serbia, Kosovo, and the entire Balkans, destroying dozens of homes, properties, and other possessions, the Eparchy of Raska and Prizren expressed its deepest sympathy with all the families affected by the tragedy. The Eparchy issued a call to humanitarian organizations, charitable funds, church communities, and people of goodwill to organize, within their means, fundraising and provide other necessary aid for the families who lost everything in the fires.

In its statement, the Eparchy especially draws attention to the suffering of believers in the municipality of Zubin Potok and the returnee village of Osojane in Metohija, where fires broke out a few days ago and completely destroyed four family homes, burned wheat ready for harvest, and endangered an entire community that already lives in extremely difficult conditions.

"The villagers, together with the nuns from the Gorioc Monastery, risked their own lives to save the surrounding houses from destruction. Without hesitation, they carried fire extinguishers through smoke and flames, persisting in their efforts to contain the blaze and prevent even greater damage to their community. Their selfless example awakened in many a renewed sense of unity, responsibility, and hope," the statement says.

Despite all these efforts, the damage is described as enormous.

"Families who had rebuilt their homes after the suffering of 1999 have now once again been left without a roof over their heads. Many elderly and most vulnerable residents lost not only their houses but also small personal valuables, family photographs, and memories that no restoration can replace. The villagers bitterly testified that their homes have now burned down for the second time in one generation, further deepening their trauma and memories of displacement," the statement continues.

The Eparchy therefore reiterated its call to humanitarian organizations, charitable funds, church communities, and people of goodwill to organize, according to their capabilities, the collection of funds and other needed assistance for the families who have lost everything in these fires.

They particularly emphasize the need for help in Osojane and other affected villages to rebuild homes, restore electricity connections and basic infrastructure, and regain a sense of safety and dignity.

"At the same time, we call on the relevant institutions to take urgent and effective measures to eliminate the causes of these tragedies, including unsafe and outdated electrical power networks in returnee areas, which, according to residents’ testimonies, directly contributed to the outbreak of the fires. Many electrical poles are damaged and leaning, held up only by wires, posing a constant danger to people and property," the statement stresses.

In conclusion, the Eparchy praised the courage of all the volunteers, villagers, and nuns who, through their solidarity, compassion, and fearless action, demonstrated what it means to live as one body in Christ, where the suffering of one is shared by all with compassion.

"May their testimony of love, sacrifice, and humanity inspire all of us to help our neighbors in need. May the Lord protect all who are suffering, give strength to those rebuilding their homes, and warm our hearts with acts of mercy, kindness, and peace," the Eparchy's statement concludes.