BANJA LUKA CYCLIST EMBARKS ON PILGRIMAGE TO MOUNT ATHOS

A resident of Banja Luka, Aleksandar Đekić, set off on April 15 on a remarkable pilgrimage to Mount Athos and the Hilandar Monastery, covering a distance of approximately 1,100 kilometers by bicycle.

The journey began at the Cathedral of the Birth of the Theotokos, where, following a morning prayer, Aleksandar received a blessing from the clergy. Family members, friends, and fellow citizens gathered to see him off and show their support for this extraordinary endeavor.

Guided by faith and strong inner motivation, Aleksandar plans to reach the Greek port town of Uranopolis within 15 days, cycling an average of around 80 kilometers per day.

“There will be challenges along the way, both physical and mental, but with faith and prayer, giving up is not an option,” Aleksandar said.

Preparations for the pilgrimage lasted more than seven months. According to him, the greatest challenges will be weather conditions and unpredictable situations on the road.

This journey carries deep spiritual significance, as Aleksandar began his pilgrimage from the very church where he was baptized, adding a profound personal and symbolic dimension to his mission.