The Catholic Church in Croatia is hoping the Pope visits the country next year, sources say.The Croatian daily Vecernji List writes that Pope Benedict XVI could be coming next year in order to make Croatian cardinal Aloysius Stepinac a saint and visit the sanctuary of the Precious Blood of Christ in Ludbreg.
The cardinal’s canonization, however, must take place before the Pope’s visit. The Church authorities have turned in all needed documentation, including evidence of performed miracles and supernatural healing which had to be medically certified. Pope John Paul II beatified Cardinal Stepinac in 1998.
As a political gesture, the anticipated papal visit would be seen as the Vatican’s final support for Croatia’s entrance into the European Union, the daily writes. Sources close to the Church say however the Pope’s schedule could prevent his coming.
"The Holy Father would surely like to come to our country because he used to visit Croatia when he was a cardinal. But it was easier to organize at that time," the sources said, adding: "But we hope that he will come."
SIC: CTCom