The presence of the Serbian Orthodox people in Vienna and the Austrian lands goes back centuries. Through migrations, wars, and times of peace, faith remained the bond that preserved identity and community.
XVIII century · Migrations — The first Serbian divine services in Vienna
After the Great Migration of the Serbs, Serbian Orthodox believers gather in imperial Vienna. The foundations of organized church life in the diaspora are laid.
XIX century · Community — Consolidation of the church community
The Serbian Orthodox community in Vienna grows stronger and organizes regular liturgical life, preserving faith and language among the newcomers.
XX century · Labor migration — A new wave of believers
With the arrival of a large number of workers from Yugoslavia, the need for churches and priests grows rapidly. New parishes are founded throughout Austria.
1970s · Expansion — The founding of parishes across the cities
Parishes are founded in Graz, Linz, Salzburg, and other cities, gathering believers far from the capital.
XXI century · Diocese — The modern structure of the diocese
The Diocese of Austria operates as an organized diocese of the SOC, headquartered in Vienna, with deaneries and a developed liturgical, educational, and publishing life.
Today · Future — Faith for new generations
The focus is on work with young people, religious education, publishing, and humanitarian service — so that the faith may be passed on to the new generations born in Austria.
A living community of faith in the heart of Europe
The Diocese of Austria today gathers believers in several parishes throughout Austria, continuing the centuries-old tradition of Orthodox witness.