Our Clergy
Our clergy serve the parish of St Lazarus through the Divine Liturgy and other services, the Holy Sacraments, pastoral care and the spiritual guidance of our community.
They are available to support parishioners and those seeking to learn more about the Orthodox Christian faith.
Very Rev. Fr.
Miodrag Peric
Dean and Parish Priest
Ordained as a priest in 1981, Fr Miodrag’s extensive career spans both overseas appointments and service within Australia. He commenced his service at Lazarica at the beginning of 2002, officially taking on the role of Dean and Parish Priest of St Lazarus Parish in Alexandria on 15 February 2002.
With more than twenty years of broad pastoral and administrative experience, Fr Miodrag has played a pivotal role in nurturing the parish’s growth and ensuring its stability, thereby strengthening both the church and its surrounding community. His leadership has been critical in guiding the parish’s activities and initiatives.
Fr Miodrag acknowledges and honours the significant contributions of his predecessors but also brings his unique perspective and vision to the parish. His ongoing service is a testament to his steadfast commitment and genuine care for Lazarica Parish. His devotion is especially reflected in the dignified traditional liturgical services he leads, which are marked by deep reverence. His commitment and dedication have brought renewed vitality to the parish, ensuring that it remains an open and compassionate community for everyone.
Under Fr Miodrag’s dedicated service, St Lazarus Parish has thrived as a lively and inclusive community, noted for its warm, family-like atmosphere. He has placed particular emphasis on fostering a strong sense of belonging among parishioners, enhancing pastoral care, and improving internal communication. These efforts have contributed to the creation of a supportive and nurturing environment for all church members.
Rev. Fr.
Jovan Jovic
Secretary and Parish Priest
Fr Jovan Jovic arrived from Belgrade, Serbia, in April 2024 to assume the role of the second priest at Lazarica church in Alexandria. His appointment was made with the blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Siluan. Fr Jovan is anticipated to succeed the current priest in due course.
Having been raised in a family with a clerical tradition, Fr Jovan has had extensive involvement in the Orthodox Church from an early age. He holds a master’s degree in theology and is married to Marija; together they have three children.
Since joining the parish, Fr Jovan has integrated effectively into Parish and community life, providing enthusiastic support for the spiritual and social initiatives of Lazarica Parish. His perspective, enthusiasm, and commitment have been positively received by parishioners, who value his approachable nature and dedication to fostering faith among younger generations. Working closely with Fr. Miodrag and the Parish Board, Fr. Jovan has begun to contribute significantly to pastoral care, educational programming, and outreach activities, thereby enhancing the parish’s reputation for hospitality and unity. His appointment signifies a promising new chapter for Lazarica Parish, building on its established traditions and strong foundation.
Very Rev. Fr.
Rade Radan
Attached
After spending six years in his first parish in Adelaide, South Australia, the then-Bishop Longin transferred Fr Rade and family to St Lazarus in 1991. His Grace insisted that something be done to accommodate the developing parish, and following comprehensive planning and a successful legal battle in the Land and Environment Court, St Lazarus won the right to construct its current facilities. At the same time, Fr Rade re-established the St Lazarus Choir and was committed to its continued growth and development.
During the tragic wars of the 90s in the Balkans and culminating with the bombing of Serbia, St Lazarus Church became a hub of activity every day of the week, as the breath of the Sydney community banded together to protest gross violations of truth and to raise humanitarian aid for the homeland. During this time, the youth fellowship of the Church grew exponentially, and the frescoing of the Church was completed.
Since his appointment by Bishop Nikanor to Project Director of St Sava College in 2002, Fr Rade has remained liturgically attached to St Lazarus Church to the present day.
