The Mohorjeva Society celebrated its 175th anniversary on June 22, marking a significant milestone in the history of Slovenian publishing. The celebration took place in the hall of the Celjska Mohorjeva družba in Celje, where a press conference was held as part of the commemorative event. This gathering brought together the leadership of all three Mohorjeva societies—Celovc, Celje, and Gorica—to reflect on their shared heritage and ongoing mission.
Representatives from each society attended the event, including Msgr. Ivan Olip, president of the Mohorjeva society in Celovc, Dr. Karl Hren, director of the Celovc branch, Msgr. Renato Podbersič, president of the Goriška Mohorjeva družba, Marko Tavčar, secretary of the Goriška Mohorjeva družba, Lojze Kozar, president of the Društvo Mohorjeva družba, Dr. Tanja Ozvatič, managing director of the Celjska Mohorjeva družba, and others. Together, they presented the work of the publishing houses and answered questions from journalists during the event.
According to a joint statement delivered by Dr. Tanja Ozvatič, the oldest Slovenian publisher will complete its 175 years of operation in July. On July 27, 1851, the declaration of the establishment of the Society of Saint Mohor was signed in Celovc, marking the beginning of organized Slovenian publishing. The Mohorjeva Society was the first organization to connect and spiritually unite Slovenians throughout their entire ethnic territory. It played a crucial role in encouraging reading, prayer, and guiding them toward progress. Mohorjeva books contributed significantly to literacy, education, understanding of the Holy Scripture, deepening Christian faith, school materials, professional and general economic knowledge, scientific literature, entertainment, and overall cultural enrichment in the native language.
The spiritual and cultural vision of Bishop Anton Martin Slomšek, who lived over 175 years ago, inspired the founding of the Mohorjeva Society. Throughout various crises, the society has continuously sought and found answers to its mission through books, aiming to awaken love for one's language, nation, and faith among Slovenians. Today, due to new borders formed after World War I, three separate Mohorjeva societies operate independently in Celovc, Celje, and Gorica, functioning as distinct legal entities within three countries but maintaining a collaborative connection rooted in their common origins.
Each of the three societies presented their respective missions and challenges in the contemporary era. They emphasized the importance of the book as a valuable asset to Slovenian culture, noting that its significance is not dependent on changing perceptions. Efforts are needed to preserve and cultivate literacy while highlighting the importance of the Slovenian book as a guardian of the language. It is also essential that the Mohorjeva Society remains a responsible advocate for quality, classical, and traditional literature, bridging the past and future with literary modernization grounded in spiritual roots, inheritance, and tradition of Slovenian culture in all ethical dimensions.
Dr. Ozvatič further highlighted that the Mohorjeva Society does not submit to all modern trends and technological developments that might diminish the value of the book. She stressed that the book and reading remain a "safe takeoff" for humanity, especially in childhood. Quality literature and meaningful content creation are prioritized over mere business results. Success requires careful planning, a quality relationship with creators, and active presence among readers. It is important for publishers to remain publishers rather than just book traders or importers of foreign literature.
The event underscored the enduring legacy of the Mohorjeva Society, which continues to play a vital role in preserving and promoting Slovenian language, culture, and spirituality through printed books. Despite operating in three different countries, the three societies maintain a strong sense of unity and shared purpose, reflecting on their historical contributions and looking forward to future endeavors in the world of publishing.
3 reports
DemokracijaParty-alignedCenterFactual 90Objective 7513 days agoThe article discusses the 175th anniversary of Mohorjeva družba, the first Slovene publishing house, which marks the beginning of organized Slovene publishing. The three branches of Mohorjeva družba—based in Celje, Celovo, and Gorica—gathered to commemorate this milestone. Founded in 1851 by Anton Martin Slomšek, Anton Janežič, and Andrej Einspieler, Mohorjeva has operated continuously for over 175 years despite historical challenges such as World War I, World War II, and political restrictions. During these periods, the publishing house adapted by relocating and continuing its work across different regions, including Italy and Austria. In Gorica, the Goriška Mohorjeva branch was established in 1924 during a time of repression against the Slovene language, with the mission of preserving Slovene identity while promoting cultural unity among Slovene, Friulian, and Italian communities. Despite being banned by Nazi authorities in 1940, Mohorjeva was re-established in 1947 and continues to play a vital role in preserving Slovene culture and language.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced overview of the historical significance of Mohorjeva družba, highlighting its role in Slovene cultural preservation and its adaptation through various political and historical challenges. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, nor does it favor one perspective.
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 75): This article provides detailed historical context and confirms the 175-year anniversary. It includes specific dates and names of founders. However, it uses more emotive language and emphasizes the significance of the publishing house in shaping national identity, which introduces some bias.
DružinaParty-alignedCenterFactual 88Objective 8213 days agoThe article discusses the 175th anniversary of Mohorjeva družba, the first Slovene publishing house and organizer of Slovene publishing. On June 22, representatives from the three separate branches of Mohorjeva družba—Celovc, Celje, and Gorica—gathered for a press conference to celebrate this milestone. The event highlighted the historical significance of Mohorjeva, which has been instrumental in promoting literacy, education, and cultural development among Slovenians since its founding in 1851. The organization emphasized its ongoing mission to preserve and promote Slovenian literature and language, despite operating in three different countries today. The article notes the challenges faced by the publishing houses in modern times but underscores their commitment to maintaining their legacy.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced overview of the historical and cultural significance of Mohorjeva družba, focusing on its role in Slovenian society without overtly favoring any political perspective. It emphasizes the organization’s contributions to education and culture rather than engaging in pole
Why these scores (Factual 88 · Objective 82): The article accurately describes the events of the conference and the anniversary. It provides clear information about the organization and its history. Objectivity is high as it presents facts without strong emotional language.
DeloIndependent🔒CenterFactual 85Objective 8013 days agoThe oldest Slovenian publishing house, Mohorjeva družba, celebrates its 175th anniversary. Founded on July 27, 1851, in Celje, it was the first Slovenian publishing house and has since expanded into three sister companies across three countries. The organization emphasizes its mission of promoting the development and preservation of the Slovenian language, cultural, and spiritual heritage through printed books. Despite historical divisions caused by borders after World War I, the publishing houses continue to collaborate and share publications.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual overview of the history and current operations of Mohorjeva družba, focusing on its cultural and linguistic contributions. There is no overt ideological framing, and the content remains neutral, emphasizing the organization’s role in preserving Slovenian heritage.
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): The article accurately reports the history of Mohorjeva družba, including the founding date and current operations. It mentions the three branches and their roles. Objectivity is slightly lower due to some emotionally charged language about the cultural and spiritual impact of the publishing house.
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €5/month.
Become a Supporter
Slovenia
