Fr. Srebrenko, our beloved Orthodox priest, baptized me into the Orthodox Christian faith and has tirelessly guided families across Charlotte and the Carolinas to become good moral citizens grounded in our ancient faith. He stands as our spiritual father, teaching love, integrity, and civic responsibility through liturgy, sermons, classes, and personal counsel. His steady presence has been central in strengthening marriages, raising faithful children, and uniting the Serbian, Greek, and broader Orthodox communities throughout our region.

However, our spiritual community now faces a grave threat: Fr. Srebrenko is at risk of having to self-deport in April due to the five-year cap on the R-1 visa. This visa, currently at its limit, does not allow for an extension while his green card application is pending. The abrupt departure of Fr. Srebrenko would fracture our parishes and undo years of spiritual growth.

There is a solution that Congress can deliver swiftly. Senate Bill S.1298, championed with bipartisan support, proposes essential extensions for religious workers like Fr. Srebrenko whose green card applications are in process. Passing this bill would ensure our priests can continue to care for and nurture their communities without the looming threat of forced self-deportation.

We urge Congress, particularly members of the Judiciary Committees, to prioritize the passing of S.1298. It is vital to uphold the spiritual and community bonds that clergy like Fr. Srebrenko have built over the years in cities like Charlotte, NC, and beyond.

To all who cherish their spiritual leaders and the deep-rooted communities they have fostered, your support is crucial. Please sign this petition and share it across your parishes, in Orthodox groups, and on social media requesting for others to sign. Additionally, auto-email your representatives to amplify our collective voice. Let’s act urgently to protect the leaders who have done so much to guide us.

Sign now to help us secure 50,000 signatures in the next 30 days and make our message heard in Congress.