Croatians in Melbourne celebrate life of Blessed Alojzije Stepinac
- by croatiaweek
- in News
(Photo: F.A Hrvatska Zora, Melbourne)
The Croatian Catholic community of Melbourne came together at St Patrick’s Cathedral on Saturday, February 10th, to honour the feast of Blessed Alojzije Stepinac.
Approximately 1500 people joined in the celebration, marking a significant gathering for the community.
The event was characterised by a poignant Croatian tradition in the community and a deeply moving mass, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all in attendance.
“Kad vam otmu sve, ostat će vam dvije ruke; sklopite ih na molitvu, pa ćete tada biti najjači”! A beautiful Croatian tradition and mass that will never be forgotten. Thank you to all our members, parents and sister clubs Hrvatski Folklorni Ansambl Zvonimir Folklorna Grupa Mladi Hrvati – Clifton Hill HKUD LADO Geelong” said F.A Hrvatska Zora, Melbourne.
(Photo: F.A Hrvatska Zora, Melbourne)
Blessed Alojzije Stepinac, born in 1898, embarked on a remarkable journey that led to his ordination in 1930 and his appointment as the youngest bishop globally by Pope Pius XI in 1934. Later, in 1937, he assumed the role of Archbishop of Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, and was elevated to the rank of cardinal in 1953.
(Photo: F.A Hrvatska Zora, Melbourne)
Stepinac’s legacy is complex, as he navigated the tumultuous period of World War II. He was tried by the communist Yugoslav government after the war and convicted of treason and collaboration with the Ustaše regime. Stepinac was sentenced to 16 years in prison, but served only five at Lepoglava before being released.
(Photo: F.A Hrvatska Zora, Melbourne)
(Photo: F.A Hrvatska Zora, Melbourne)
Despite his conviction, Stepinac was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1998.
(Photo: F.A Hrvatska Zora, Melbourne)
(Photo: F.A Hrvatska Zora, Melbourne)
In reflecting on Stepinac’s life and principles, Pope John Paul II emphasised his unwavering commitment to faith, human dignity, love, forgiveness, and unity with the Church. Stepinac’s steadfastness in upholding truth and conscience, even in the face of suffering, continues to inspire generations.
(Photo: F.A Hrvatska Zora, Melbourne)
(Photo: F.A Hrvatska Zora, Melbourne)
During his tenure as Archbishop of Zagreb, Stepinac played a crucial role in assisting Jewish individuals, with estimates suggesting that nearly 6,000 lives were saved through his efforts during the Holocaust.
(Photo: F.A Hrvatska Zora, Melbourne)
The celebration at St. Patrick’s Cathedral served not only as a commemoration of Blessed Alojzije Stepinac but also as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Croatian Catholic community in Melbourne and their commitment to honour the values he cherished.
