Caritas Nova Città celebrates 20 years of work

The Diocese of Novo mesto Caritas marked its twentieth anniversary of operations with a solemn evening held on Thursday, October 22, 2026. The celebration coincided with the twenty-year anniversary of the establishment of the Novo mesto diocese itself. Bishop Andrej Saje delivered the keynote address at the event, which took place at the Janez Trdin Cultural Center in Novo mesto. He expressed gratitude to all individuals who have assisted people in distress over the past two decades. Saje emphasized that Caritas serves as a concrete manifestation of Christian love and a space where divine love is revealed. The diocese was established by Pope Benedict XVI on April 7, 2006. A few months later, on September 15 of that year, the first bishop of Novo mesto, Msgr. Andrej Glavan, founded the local Caritas organization. During his speech, Saje noted that charitable activity is more than a response to social needs. It is a venue for bringing proximity, help, and hope to those suffering. He stated that God does not seek culprits but brings redemption, transforming suffering rather than merely explaining it. When believers bend toward the poor, lonely, or sick, they cooperate in God’s work. High-profile guests attended the ceremony, including retired Bishop Andrej Glavan and Mateja Ribić, the minister for demographics, family, and social affairs. Other attendees included Peter Tomažič, the general secretary of Slovenian Caritas, Simon Dvornik, the general secretary of the Novo mesto diocesan Caritas, and Sister Jelena Lončar, director of the Zagreb Archdiocesan Caritas. Mayor Gregor Macedoni of the City Municipality of Novo mesto was also present. The cultural program featured performances by musicians from the KUD Dobreč group and singer Lamai. Over the last twenty years, the organization has developed several programs and initiatives. These include the Skala Community Center in Semič, which supports relatives of individuals receiving palliative care. The organization also operates a multi-purpose Roma center in Šentjernej, aiming to foster mutual understanding and coexistence among diverse groups. This center connects children and families within the Roma community while highlighting their culture and talents. Additionally, Caritas organizes vacations for families and seniors, as well as camps for children, while expanding its network of parish-level Caritas units. Bishop Saje offered special thanks to employees, collaborators, and volunteers whose work often goes unnoticed. Their contributions involve visits, material support, and personal closeness, which he described as invaluable to those in need. He acknowledged ongoing challenges facing society, including wars, violence, tensions, family struggles, youth issues, and natural disasters. He posed questions regarding how to live out love for one’s neighbor today so that people recognize Jesus’ disciples. These questions addressed how to bring light to individuals and families, how to deal with new technologies that can both benefit and enslave humans, and how to strengthen compassion for the elderly and disabled. Saje quoted Pope Benedict XVI, stating that it is never too late or in vain to touch another person’s heart. He argued that these words remind us that we can answer the questions and troubles of our time only together. Caritas represents organized love that becomes a sign of the Gospel in the world. The bishop encouraged the organization to continue connecting people and bringing hope to all who require assistance in the future. He highlighted recent initiatives as fruits of persistent work by staff members. The event served as a moment of thanksgiving, encounter, and reflection on the future direction of Caritas activities within the local community and church.