The public announcement of names and monetary donations after house blessings by a priest is currently causing a stir in Croatia.
The local priest in the Sisak-Moslavina region south of the Croatian capital Zagreb had published a list on which not only the amount of the respective donation of 10 to 200 euros, but also the first and last name and the exact address were noted, Croatian media report.
The priest's action angered many in the parish, which has around 2,500 believers, as it is a region that was devastated and partially impoverished by the 2020 earthquake.
This was indecent and scandalous, said one parishioner.
Among other things, he explained that since his arrival, the pastor had introduced the new practice of reading out the respective monetary donations during the service.
"For me, this is unacceptable," criticised another parishioner. "Many here live hard and have given as much as they can to the church, now they are ashamed."
Similar case on Epiphany
A price list for house blessings by priests in a parish in Virovitica-Podravina County had already caused displeasure and anger on Epiphany.
According to reports, the faithful were recommended to donate at least 30 euros, and up to 100 euros for those with higher incomes.
This is not the first time the issue has polarised opinion in Croatia.
There is no church tax or contribution system in Croatia like in German-speaking countries.
The church is financed by donations, collections, mass stipends and state contributions.