We, Catholic bishops, once again would like to remind the members of God's people, as well as all other people who care about the Croatian homeland, that the election of representatives to the Croatian Parliament is an important event that affects our personal, family, political, cultural and economic reality.

Exhibition on Blessed Alojzije Stepinac Opened in the Domitrović Tower

A formal procession and Mass in the year of the 300th anniversary of the coronation of the painting of Our Lady of Sinj, led by Archbishop Marin Barišić, assembled over a hundred thousand of the faithful from all over Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and elsewhere.

The main Eucharistic celebration was led by Cardinal Josip Bozanić.

The bishops focused discussion on the current social situation in Croatia, the processes taking place in the political arena, and noted that it is important for a political party to present the value system that it represents with clarity, its foundations in our national heritage and the specific factors that enrich the community of European nations. They also stressed that after the parliamentary elections in September of this year, the new government should devote serious attention to the grave social situation in Slavonia and take steps to halt poverty and emigration.

Blessed Alojzije does not need what the commission is doing but we do and, therefore, it is essential to examine who he was, what happened and what Blessed Stepinac actually did. We have heard much about him but there have been different narratives influenced by various ideologies, starting with communist ideology. The purpose of the commission is to go to the sources and come even closer to appreciating the greatness of Blessed Alojzije.

The meeting was held in an atmosphere of good spirits, mutual respect and concern to discuss all the issues in a dignified and reasoned manner, without creating tension, aggravating divisions or spreading intolerance.

On the occasion of the Ultra Europe Festival, which will take place at the Poljud Stadium in Split, we shall open the doors of our churches for prayer and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and with open hearts will be present among the young people in order to bear witness to Christian hope.