Faith Keeps Croatian Communities Connected Across South America

Faith has connected Croatian emigrants for generations, even on the other side of the world. But how strong is that bond today? 

As Argentina prepares for the announced arrival of the Holy Father, an increase in religious tourism is also expected. How are faith, tradition and Croatian identity intertwined?

On Sunday morning, as generations of Croatians before them have done, emigrants gathered for Mass. It was an opportunity to pray in their native language and meet fellow believers from different parts of the continent.

Marko Jukić, delegate of the Croatian overseas flock for South America, told Glas Hrvatske:

“At these gatherings, we come together and thank God for all the blessings we receive. We priests in Latin America – in Peru, Bolivia and other parts of the region – work together not only for our communities but also for the people among whom we serve. Seeing more than 200 people here today, at the end of this gathering, is something special. We want to share this joy with our people, so they know that someone is praying for them on the other side of the world.”

Monica Schochter, a member of the Croatian community in Brazil, shared her impressions:

“I was deeply moved by taking part in this Mass. Hearing it in Croatian, and especially listening to Croatian songs, filled my heart with warmth. It felt as though I had reconnected with a part of my heritage – something we carry in our genes, our cultural heritage. I was very happy and truly overjoyed to be here.”

With the recent departure of the last Croatian Franciscan from Argentina, the number of Croatian priests serving in South America has dwindled even further. Communities are therefore finding different ways to maintain their religious life.

Mario Detelić, a member of the Croatian community in Buenos Aires, explains:

“We now gather in Buenos Aires every three Sundays. We invite an Argentine priest who has learned a few words in Croatian and says the prayers in our language, while the rest of the Mass is in Spanish. That's how we manage here in Buenos Aires. We hope dear God will send us another priest.”

Although only a few members of the younger generations still speak the language of their ancestors, many remain actively involved in the religious life of their Croatian communities. Croatian religious traditions are also being kept alive through lay groups.

“We pray that another priest will answer the call to serve in the Lord's vineyard on the other side of the world, helping not only with the pastoral care of Croatian communities but also local churches facing a shortage of priests,” said Marko Jukić, delegate of the Croatian overseas flock for South America.