One of them is Ivan Šreter, the doctor who was extremely professional, diligent and respected in his work, and thus deserved to become the director of the hospital in Lipik. In the multinational environment, he excelled in sacrifice and was constantly available to all residents without distinction. Since the childhood his professional growth was accompanied by the spiritual one. He attended religious education with father Tomislav Ivančić, a well-known Croatian and world theologian and the founder of the hagiotherapy. It is he who testifies for Dr. Šreter as he was: “…especially strong in this: never hate your enemies – even if they harm me, I will love them! That was his greatness. He was extraordinary person.” He loved the enemy who broke his bones and covered his body with bruises. Beyond the framework of Jesus’ life, it is difficult to comprehend this kind of love, a love that willingly suffers to save mankind. “Ivan Šreter is a hero who will surely remain in the hearts of many, and we believe that his acts of love that have been accomplished on earth will continue to be performed in heaven”, says father Ivančić.
Guided by an expert local guide, you will have the opportunity to get to know what other beauties are hidden in the town of Lipik. Interesting, this was the first liberated town in the Croatian Homeland War and the only place in the occupied area where the Midnight Christmas mass was celebrated despite the difficult war conditions. Although the church was completely demolished, a mass for soldiers was held in the restaurant of the Lipik spa, where they had the opportunity to confess and receive holy communion. In the hell of war, only faith, an act of true human freedom, has given strength to our defenders and the people of this region.
The parish church of St. Francis in the centre of Lipik was completely destroyed in the war. Afterwards, under the ruins of the church has been found an undamaged and completely preserved statue of Our Lady of Fatima, which was recognized as a miracle among parishioners. The tireless core of the local residents still stands upright, struggles for a better life after war and testifies to the importance of people’s persistence.
After Lipik, you will visit Stražeman, a small place located on the slopes of the Papuk hill, which hides many secrets. You will have the opportunity to meet renowned Catholic parish priest Josip Devcic, who brings the testimony of a difficult time, the testimony of people who were full of faith, pride and creativity and responded well, quickly and decisively to the challenges of communist era. Church of St. Michael in Stražeman will reveal to you the courage of father Devcic, who ended up in prison because of the wall mosaic comprising the memory of the Croatian greats. His character and work deserved a film adaptation. After visiting the church, you will be able to taste local foods and enjoy an oasis of peace and quiet among untouched nature. With a strong message from Father Devcic, let’s be like a waterfall: “Everyone can be that one small drop, in nobility, beauty and love, and thus create that magnificent waterfall, that incomprehensible plan of God!”. Empowered and new, you will return to your homes.
