Stična Abbey begins decade-long celebrations ahead of 900th anniversary

The Cistercian Abbey of Stična marked the beginning of a decade-long celebration leading up to its 900th anniversary in 2036. The event, themed ‘900 years of a living monastery’, featured a ‘thankful pilgrimage’ by Slovenian farmers to honor the abbey's historical contribution to agriculture and land cultivation.

During the celebrations, Apostolic Nuncio Msgr. Luigi Bianco presided over a mass in the Basilica of Our Lady of Sorrows. Abbot Maksimiljan Filein delivered a sermon reflecting on the spiritual legacy of St. Bernard and the importance of seeking divine connection over material pursuits.

Minister of Culture Ignacija Fridl Jarc also addressed the gathering, describing Stična as the ‘cultural and spiritual heart of Slovenia’ and noting its ability to survive wars and political upheavals while remaining a center for creativity and dialogue.