Blessing of new paintings

In the village of Sveti Križ - Podbočje, local clergy and parishioners celebrated the blessing of new paintings during the preparations for the golden jubilee of Msgr. Francet Novak. The event took place within the framework of spiritual renewal activities held over three days in the parish church. On the feast day of Saint Thomas, the retired Bishop of Nova Gorica, Andrej Glavan, presided over the Mass, during which he blessed two new depictions of the Last Supper and the Ascension of the Lord, created by the painter Žiga Hriberšek. These works are part of the ongoing decoration of the parish church and have been placed in the side altars. The paintings were inspired by well-known figures from Slovenian culture for the depiction of the Last Supper, while the Ascension was drawn from the life of the Church. According to the retired bishop, the painting of the Ascension includes recognizable figures such as Novak and himself. The event highlighted the importance of spiritual renewal and the need for new vocations in the Church. It also served as an opportunity to honor long-standing service, particularly highlighting the work of Msgr. Novak in restoring a former forestry hut in the Krka Forest, now used as a retreat center for spiritual exercises. Msgr. Francet Novak has dedicated much of his career to pastoral care and community engagement. His efforts in renovating the historical forestry hut in the Krka Forest reflect his commitment to preserving cultural heritage and providing spaces for spiritual reflection. This project, located in the vicinity of Lencev Dom, has become a vital resource for those seeking deeper faith experiences. The restoration work, undertaken over many years, underscores the dedication of individuals who contribute to both the physical and spiritual landscape of their communities. The blessing ceremony drew participation from members of the parish and local religious leaders. The presence of the retired bishop, known for his leadership and pastoral guidance, added significance to the occasion. The new artworks are intended to enrich the liturgical environment of the parish church, offering visual inspiration for worshippers and visitors alike. The inclusion of familiar cultural references in the Last Supper painting aims to connect the faithful with their national identity through shared artistic expression. The Ascension painting, rooted in ecclesiastical tradition, serves as a reminder of the central role of the Church in the lives of its followers. The depiction of key figures such as Novak and Glavan adds a personal dimension to the artwork, reinforcing the sense of continuity and legacy within the parish. The event also emphasized the broader context of spiritual renewal, which is essential for maintaining the vitality of the Church in contemporary society. Looking ahead, the newly blessed paintings will remain on display in the parish church, contributing to the ongoing mission of fostering devotion and contemplation among the faithful. The continued involvement of artists and clergy in such projects highlights the collaborative nature of religious life and the shared responsibility of nurturing spiritual growth. As the parish moves forward, these new works stand as a testament to the enduring relationship between art, faith, and community.