St. Bartholomew Church in Hrastovica is officially consecrated after earthquake repairs

The restored St. Bartholomew parish church in Hrastovica was officially consecrated on Sunday, September 20. The ceremony was led by Sisak Bishop Vlado Košić, who also consecrated a new altar containing the relics of Blessed Alojzije Stepinac.

The church has a history of significant damage and reconstruction. It was previously destroyed during the Homeland War and rebuilt in 2003, only to be heavily damaged again by the 2020 earthquake. Local officials, including Petrinja Mayor Magdalena Komes and Sisak-Moslavina Deputy Prefect Mihael Jurić, attended the event, emphasizing that the reconstruction serves the community and its people rather than just the physical structure.

The renovation project included new artistic elements, such as an altar and ambo designed by academic sculptor Ivan Kujundžić. The restoration was funded by the Sisak Diocese, local parishioners, and other benefactors. In addition to the church, ongoing investments in Hrastovica include improvements to roads, water supply, and social infrastructure.