5th National Meeting of Croatian Catholic Families Held in Osijek

In Osijek, around 3,000 Catholic families from Croatia and abroad gathered for the start of the fifth National Meeting of Croatian Catholic Families. The two-day event, organized by the Croatian Episcopal Conference and the Đakovo, Osijek Bishopric, began with a variety of activities including workshops, concerts of sacred music, cultural programs, and presentations by family associations and communities. The focus this year was on families with members who have disabilities. The meeting took place in central Osijek and around the cathedral, with key activities held at several locations. At the cathedral, confession services were conducted, while Eucharistic celebrations occurred at the Capuchin Church. Workshops on marriage and family counseling were held at St. Anne Primary School. The first day concluded with a spiritual program at the cathedral. Father Pavao Mikulčić, president of the organizing committee and coordinator of the Diocesan Pastoral Center, stated that approximately 3,000 families had registered for the event. He emphasized the importance of highlighting the dignity and equality of individuals with disabilities and their families within the life of the Church and society. The event aims to promote the inclusion of these families in church and community life, addressing barriers such as architectural limitations and ensuring participation in parish activities and liturgical life. Bishop Đuro Hranić, metropolitan bishop of the Đakovo, Osijek Bishopric, expressed satisfaction that the fifth national meeting is taking place in his diocese. He noted that the first such meeting was held in Zagreb in 2011, accompanied by Pope Benedict XVI's visit. Hranić highlighted that the Osijek gathering marks the culmination of a three-year cycle focusing on families with disabled members. He stressed that individuals with disabilities possess equal human dignity and needs, and should be viewed not merely as recipients of aid but as active participants in both religious and social life. He called for continued efforts to remove obstacles to their full involvement. The main part of the meeting will take place on Sunday at the shrine of Our Lady of the Fortress in Aljmaš, where Bishop Hranić will lead a communal Mass attended by priests and bishops from across Croatia. The prayer service begins at 9 a.m., during which attendees from different dioceses will contribute offerings and participate in singing, emphasizing the national character of the event. Participants shared personal reflections, noting the importance of family support for individuals with disabilities and the enduring role of prayer in overcoming challenges. One attendee, Marija Glavaš, emphasized that prayer is essential throughout life, especially during difficult times.