The Franciscans call Boulis to the tribune with the highest ranks, he refuses, instead choosing another company.

On Saturday, thousands of pilgrims gathered at the Basilica of the Most Holy Mother of God in Sinj, Croatia, for the solemn celebration of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into heaven. The event marked the feast day of the patron saint of the city, Our Lady of Sinj, drawing participants from across Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and other European countries. Pilgrims traveled long distances, some walking for hours through the night, to reach the site, which is considered one of the largest Marian shrines in southern Croatia. The procession began early in the morning, with the image of the Virgin Mary being carried through the streets of Sinj. Led by Bishop Zdenko Križić, Metropolitan Archbishop of Split-Makarska, the ceremony included representatives from the Franciscan Order, local clergy, and numerous civic and military dignitaries. Among them were members of the Croatian Armed Forces, police officers, firefighters, and representatives of cultural and sports organizations. The procession was accompanied by traditional music played by the City Band of Sinj, while the bells of the basilica rang out in solemn harmony. At 9:30 AM, the image of the Virgin Mary, along with her crown encased in a large silver frame, was removed from the altar. This sacred relic was then brought down to the main entrance of the basilica, where it was greeted by a crowd of faithful. The image was subsequently handed over to the Alkars, a group of men who traditionally carry the icon during the festival. Among them were notable figures such as Tino Radanović, Paulo Stupalo, Davor Svalina, and Branimir Vučković. These men, known as Slavodobitnik 311, transported the image to the top of Pijaca, before passing it to the Alkars' assistants, including Stjepan Pletikosić, Ante Perajica, Anđelko Vučković, and Ante Klapež, who had opted out of the traditional procession this year. The procession continued with a diverse array of participants, including members of the Croatian Police, the Fire Department, and the Youth Alkars led by Viučković. It also included the guardians of the Christ's graves, the choir of the Virgin Mary dressed in traditional attire, and representatives from numerous parishes and brotherhoods throughout Croatia. The procession was led by Father Boris Čarić and Father Stipe Buljan, with the cross carried by Brajo Babić, the banner of the Virgin Mary held by Josip Nasić, and the canopy of the basilica borne by Tomislav Panza. The flag of the Republic of Croatia was carried by two young women, Snježana and Nediljka. Among the distinguished guests present were high-ranking officials, including Nikša Peronja, an advisor to President Zoran Milanović, and several members of parliament. Also in attendance were representatives of the government, including Ivan Budalić, Gordana Jandroković, the president of the Croatian Parliament, and Ivan Šipić. General Ivan Zelić, representing the Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Tomo Medved, was also present, as well as Minister Tonći Glavina and Ivan Bota, head of the Regional Development Agency. The mayor of Sinj, Marija Gaurina, and the chief of police, Petar Tomašević, were among the municipal authorities in attendance. Military commanders, including Colonel Luka Dodig, commander of the 126th Infantry Brigade of the Croatian Armed Forces, were also part of the delegation. Notably absent from the central platform where the highest-ranking guests typically stand was Miro Bulj, the mayor of Sinj, and his deputy, Denis Bobeta. Despite being invited by the Franciscans to join the gathering alongside the most esteemed guests from both civilian and military circles, Bulj did not appear on the platform. Instead, he chose to participate in a different form of community engagement, opting for a more informal setting. This decision sparked quiet discussion among attendees, though no public commentary was made. As the festivities continued, the focus remained on the spiritual significance of the occasion, with the faithful celebrating their shared devotion to the Virgin Mary.