Ivana Alpeze's Testimony Inspires Youth at Mladifest in Međugorje

Ivana Alpeze (née Rajič), a mother of three from Mostar, is the founder and director of the Powerella Pilgrim agency and an active member of OFS Mostar. She also belongs to the Third Franciscan Order, living the Franciscan spirituality within her family life.

At the fourth‑day gathering of Mladifest in Međugorje, Alpeze shared a personal testimony about her early involvement with the Frami community, her pilgrimage to Assisi, and the strong call she felt toward missionary work. She explained that, after returning from Assisi, she discerned a different path: marriage to her husband, whom she met through Frami, and raising their children in the faith. Alpeze emphasized that God’s plan for her was larger than a monastic vocation, highlighting the importance of responding to divine invitation within marriage and family.

Her remarks resonated with the young audience, who heard her describe Međugorje as her “second home” and recall the many graces she experienced there. She urged the youth to stay faithful to prayer, community, and God’s guidance, stressing that holiness is attainable for families and laypeople alike.