Summer is also the time for the transfer of priests

In early summer 2026, the Diocese of Koper announced a series of clergy reassignments, marking a notable shift within the region’s religious landscape. The changes include the relocation of St. Primož Krečič, the long-serving parish priest of Koper Cathedral, who will move to the parish of Šežana. Krečič confirmed his departure, stating he would be leaving after 13 years in Koper. His replacement will be Luka Tul, currently head of the diocesan archive. The decision comes amid broader restructuring efforts within the diocese, with several other priests set to change parishes, including those in Šmari, Pivka, Tolmin, Drežnica, Bertoki, and Šežana. The reassignments were made public through informal channels before official decrees are expected to be released in early July. These decisions typically follow a pattern, with announcements coming in mid-July followed by the actual movements later in the month. Last year saw fewer reassignments due to the presence of Bishop msgr. Peter Štumpf, who had recently taken up his role. This year, however, the number appears higher than in previous years, though exact figures have yet to be officially disclosed. Primož Krečič has left a lasting legacy in Koper, particularly through his involvement in major projects such as Carpaccio 500 and Koper-Capodistria 1500. These initiatives helped elevate the city's cultural and historical profile, notably through the installation of grand church organs in the cathedral and the return of Giorgione’s painting to its original location. Krečič’s leadership was instrumental in these developments, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in the region’s religious and cultural life. His successor, Luka Tul, brings a different set of experiences to the role. As head of the diocesan archive, Tul has been responsible for preserving and managing the diocese’s historical records, a position that requires both administrative skill and deep knowledge of ecclesiastical history. The transition from Krečič to Tul represents a shift in focus, moving from active community engagement and cultural promotion to more archival and institutional management. Other notable moves include the transfer of Father Aleksander Skapin from Šežana to the parish of Posočje. This reshuffling affects multiple communities across the diocese, each experiencing some form of change in their spiritual leadership. While the reasons behind these decisions remain undisclosed by the bishop, they are part of a routine process aimed at ensuring balanced pastoral care across all parishes. The reassignments highlight the dynamic nature of diocesan administration, where strategic reallocations are periodically necessary to address evolving needs within the Catholic Church. Such moves often involve careful consideration of individual talents, regional requirements, and the overall structure of the diocese. Despite the lack of public commentary from either the affected clergy or the bishop, these changes reflect ongoing efforts to adapt to new challenges while maintaining traditional values and practices. The impact of these reassignments will become evident over time, as new priests settle into their roles and communities adjust to their new spiritual leaders. With the formal decrees expected soon, the diocese prepares for another phase of transformation, continuing its tradition of adapting to changing circumstances while upholding its core mission.