Zagreb, (IKA) – Pope Benedict XVI has accepted the invitation from the Croatian Conference of Bishops, the President of the Republic of Croatia and the Prime Minister of the Republic of Croatia to visit Croatia, as announced today, October 29, by the President of the CCB, Archbishop Marin Srakić of Đakovo-Osijek, Archbishop Josip Cardinal Bozanić of Zagreb and President Ivo Josipović of the Republic of Croatia at the Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia.
“This is a great event for Croatia,” said the President of the Republic of Croatia, Dr. Ivo Josipović, who expressed considerable satisfaction about the forthcoming visit by the Holy Father, observing that this visit will provide impetus for perseverance in reforms as well as a clear message to Europe that Croatia is a European country and will contribute to the betterment of the continent through the culture and traditions.

“The visit by the Holy Father to a country and Church is always joyful news, especially for the faithful,” said Cardinal Josip Bozanić, noting that the invitation to the Pope was extended by the Croatian Conference of Bishops, the President of the Republic of Croatia and the Prime Minister of the Republic of Croatia. The cardinal added that the Pope will most probably visit Zagreb in the first half of the year 2011, and that National Family Day will be celebrated during his visit. Cardinal Bozanić also mentioned that the Pope had emphasized in his letter that he intends to make a pilgrimage to the tomb of the Blessed Alojzije Stepinac.

The President of the CCB, Archbishop Marin Srakić, said that the Croatian bishops had invited the Pope to visit during the Year of the Family and in this respect the Pope’s visit will be a great sign and provide encouragement to our families. “The Pope is coming to encourage us, to inspire priests, the Church and our people, and to provide us with support on our path toward Europe,” said Archbishop Srakić, emphasizing that this visit, like the three previous visits by the Venerable Servant of God Pope John Paul II, will be inscribed in golden letters in the history of our people.