Dragi Kotevski, known for helping families through the Barešani monastery, has died
He was known for bringing hope to families who visited the monastery in Barešani and for his devotion to the Church of St. Merkurij.
Dragi Kotevski has died; he was widely known in the community for his faith in the holy stone at the Church of St. Merkurij and for the support he offered to families who sought help at the nearby monastery in Barešani.
For years Kotevski served as godfather to several couples who, after visiting the monastery and partaking of the holy water and touching the stone, went on to have children — a fact many in the town recall as a source of hope and gratitude.
A farewell message read: “We say goodbye to a wonderful man with a big heart who left an indelible mark on the lives of many families. There are not enough words to describe his kindness. He was a man who always knew how to help, to encourage and to bring hope where it was most lacking. Through his selflessness he helped numerous families through the good deeds he performed in the monastery. He asked for nothing in return — his greatest reward was someone else's smile and the feeling that he had eased someone's life.”
Those who knew him describe Kotevski as quietly devoted to the church and to the families who turned to the monastery in searching for consolation and help. His presence became a steady point of trust for many who believed in the sacred practices linked to the site.
Members of the local community remembered his willingness to assist without seeking recognition, and they emphasize the personal, non-institutional role he played in connecting people to the religious rituals at Barešani.
Details about funeral arrangements have not been publicized. Neighbours and visitors to the monastery say his memory will remain connected to the place and to the many families who credit his help with bringing new life into their homes.
Photo: press material from the event
