Nicholai Velimirovich: The Great War and America 1915–1918

The unique and broadly encompassing embrace of Nicholai Velimirovich, an inspired, charismatic and erudite individual, is difficult to succinctly present within the limitations of a single essay. Therefore, his religious and socio-political witness to America, concerning the plight of the Serbs during The Great War, as well as the response of his American contemporaries, institutions and media to him the person and to his message, shall be the focal point of this presentation. Nicholai’s distinct mission to America in 1915 must be understood in its proper historic context, as aspects of the same do remain as relevant today, as they were in their day.