date: 28.11.2016.
On Sunday, November 27, the first encounter this Advent was held on the grounds of the old parish church in Medjugorje. As in the previous year, the hosts of this first gathering were parishioners from Miletina hamlet. Medjugorje parish priest, Fr. Marinko Sakota, lit the first candle of the Advent Wreath.
The whole atmosphere was more special thanks to the singing of the parish choir “The Queen of Peace”, Croatian musician and artist Tedi Spalato, Croatian artistic group Dream team Babe, Croatian Cultural Art Association Mokro and a capella vocal group Dobrkovići from Široki Brijegi, Mandoline orchestra Misericordia from Šurmanci and sisters Ramljak.
Thanks to the last year’s initiative of the young parishioners from Medjugorje, the idea for a bit different Advent became a reality. The purpose of these encounters was for parishioners to spend time together, to invoke old tradition, but also to help those in need. The encounters have also humanitarian part, as all who come can leave their contribution which will be used for humanitarian association “Mary’s Hands”, ran by Jakov Colo. More than 60 volunteers joined this Association in a short period of time. So far, they were able to refurbish many homes, arranged gardens and house space of many houses, they also visit homes for elderly people and hospitals. They help families with many children, they are paying bills to those who are poor and they buy medications for those who do not have insurance and cannot pay their medical bills. More than 200 users take food packages each month from them. The following Sunday, second Sunday of Advent, will be hosted by parishioners from Vionica hamlet. (photos)
