A Shepherd Who Watches From a Distance

An anonymous group (Nina Markovic and Bozo Lemajic "Boki") claims to speak for Fr. Dragoslav Kosić. Fr. Dragoslav himself has said nothing, and has said nothing from the beginning.

When a priest's transfer becomes a parish-wide controversy, the faithful look to that priest for guidance. A single statement at the outset could have shaped the trajectory of this entire dispute. He could have accepted the transfer with grace, demonstrating the obedience to episcopal authority that Orthodox clergy vow. He could have publicly opposed it and explained why. He could have stood beside those now standing in parking lots on his behalf.

He did none of these things.

Instead, others speak for him, anonymously, confrontationally—while he remains silent. Parishioners have received trespass notices. Families have fractured. Relationships with the diocese have been damaged. And through all of it, Fr. Dragoslav has not once put his name to a single public statement.

Why?

If he believes the transfer is unjust, why not say so? If he supports those protesting on his behalf, why not stand with them openly? If he opposes what is being done in his name, why not say that either?

Fr. Dragoslav cannot even be reached by phone. If those claiming to act on his behalf cannot contact him, on what basis do they claim to represent his wishes? And if they can reach him but no statement has emerged, why not?

His supporters assume his blessing - but he's never confirmed it. They put their names and faces to this cause. He hasn't put his name to a single sentence. This isn't new.

A shepherd does not send his flock into conflict and watch from a distance.

Read the full series on the St. Sava Cathedral situation: Orthodox Integrity