Bishop Saja at the Mass for the Fatherland called for decisions that will serve future generations

On June 23, 2026, just before Slovenia’s Independence Day, a special Mass for the Homeland was held in Ljubljana Cathedral. The ceremony took place at 8:14 PM local time and was led by Bishop Andrej Saje of Novo Mesto, who also serves as President of the Slovenian Bishops' Conference. This event marked one of several ceremonies planned to commemorate the day, which celebrates the adoption of Slovenia's key documents of independence.

Bishop Saje delivered a message emphasizing the importance of justice, dialogue, mutual respect, and patient construction of trust among people and nations. He stated that peace is not self-evident but rather the result of these values. His speech called for efforts toward a just peace, security based on respect for human dignity, and decisions that would benefit future generations. He highlighted that each person carries responsibility for the spiritual image of Slovenia, noting how prayers, acts of forgiveness, honest decisions, encouraging words, and compassionate actions all contribute to the common good.

He further explained that the future of the nation does not solely develop within parliaments, institutions, and the economy, but begins in families, parishes, schools, workplaces, and human hearts. In his address, he quoted the words of the Church bishops in Slovenia, delivering a message of hope derived from divine word, echoing the testimony of John the Baptist and reiterated by Saint John Paul II to the world: "Do not be afraid!" He encouraged people to live their faith courageously and with trust, loving their homeland responsibly and gratefully. He urged building the common good with honesty, fairness, and mutual respect, seeking truth and remaining faithful to it even when it is difficult. He called for opening doors to Christ, who remains the source of hope and the future, and for being brothers and sisters to one another, bringing more listening, dialogue, trust, and readiness for cooperation into society.

In his remarks, Bishop Saje expressed gratitude for those who have given their lives for the homeland and were bearers of steadfastness and the voice of conscience throughout history. He acknowledged individuals who, in critical moments, recognized what is truly right, fair, and good, and inspired others to follow suit. He thanked the bishops, clergy, monks, and nuns who have preserved faith, culture, and hope over centuries, as well as politicians, poets, writers, national awakeners, teachers, scientists, and parents and many unnamed men and women who remained loyal to truth, justice, and their conscience during difficult times.

The Mass for the Homeland, organized by the Slovenian bishops, drew attendance from numerous notable figures. Among them were President of the Republic Nataša Pirc Musar, Prime Minister Janez Janša, President of the National Council Marko Lotrič, several ministers, MPs, representatives of the opposition, and figures from civil and political life, the diplomatic corps, and other religious communities. These gatherings are part of a series of celebrations marking the day of independence, which commemorates the acceptance of key documents of independence.

In the days leading up to the main state celebration, various events will take place. The central state commemoration will occur on the eve of the holiday in Republic Square, where both President Pirc Musar and Prime Minister Janša will deliver speeches. Before the main state ceremony, the National Assembly and the National Council will hold solemn sessions.

As the country prepares for its official celebrations, the Mass for the Homeland served as a reminder of the values that underpin national identity and unity. It brought together diverse groups, including political leaders, religious figures, and members of the public, highlighting the shared commitment to the principles of justice, peace, and mutual respect. The event underscored the role of religion and spirituality in shaping the cultural and moral fabric of Slovenian society, while also reinforcing the importance of civic responsibility and collective effort in maintaining national cohesion and progress.