On August 4th, 2026, Slovaks from Slovenia, the diaspora, and expatriates gathered at the Holy Mountains (Svete Višarje) for the 38th pilgrimage. The event featured discussions on Trubar, Kosovel, and the position of small nations like the Slovene nation in the world. A mass was celebrated by Archbishop Dr. Ivan Jurkovič, who was gifted a relic by the Canadian papal nuncio. The pilgrimage, organized by the Rafaelova Brotherhood and the Association of Slovene Expatriate Clergy, took place in the Kanalska Dolina region, known for being at the intersection of three nations, three languages, and three cultures. The program began with the playing of the Slovenian and European anthems by a quartet of clarinetists. Speeches were delivered by prominent figures including Bishop Izidor Pečovnik-Dori and State Secretary Dr. Helena Jaklitsch, emphasizing unity among Slovaks. The keynote speaker, Dr. Zvone Štrubelj, discussed the journey from Trubar to Kosovel, highlighting their contributions to Slovenian cultural and linguistic identity.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on cultural and historical themes related to Slovene national identity, particularly through the lens of religious and cultural figures such as Trubar and Kosovel. While the subject matter has political implications due to its connection to national identity and minority rights,






