On October 19, 2024, during his visit to the Eparchy of Osijek-Polje and Baranja, His Holiness Serbian Patriarch Porfirije consecrated the restored Cathedral of Saint Demetrius the Great Martyr in Dalj, Croatia, according to the Serbian Church’s official website.

Following the liturgy in the cathedral, the Patriarch addressed the faithful, emphasizing the significance of the church as a center of life, not only for individuals but for society as a whole. He noted that throughout history, people have always built churches, even during times of material hardship, because without a church and communion with God, life loses its meaning. He reminded the congregation that the ultimate goal is eternal life with God, and churches serve as places where people receive God’s grace and find the path to the Kingdom of Heaven.

Bishop Heruvim of Osijek-Polje and Baranja also spoke, emphasizing that the strength of the Church of Christ is revealed through suffering, which leads to resurrection. He urged everyone to build their lives on love for God and humanity, highlighting that true Christian philanthropy is based on a connection with God.

The consecration ceremony was attended by church representatives, clergy, monastics, and numerous faithful. Patriarch Porfirije also awarded church honors to benefactors who contributed to the restoration of the cathedral, which is the largest Serbian Orthodox church in Croatia.

The original wooden church on this site was built in 1715, later replaced by a stone structure. Like many Orthodox churches in Serbia and Croatia, Saint Demetrius’ Cathedral suffered during World War I. Its bells were confiscated and melted down for military purposes, although the main structure survived, allowing the community to continue worship after the war.

During World War II, the Serbian population was persecuted by the Ustasha regime of the Independent State of Croatia (NDH). In 1941, the church was closed, its property looted, the baroque iconostasis destroyed, and four bells stolen again. The building was severely damaged, with its walls collapsing, leaving the church in ruins.

The cathedral was restored several times after the war, but progress was slow due to political instability and a lack of resources. However, by the late 20th century, a new phase of restoration began. According to the Serbian Church’s website, restoration efforts intensified after Bishop Heruvim was elected head of the Eparchy of Osijek-Polje and Baranja.