Three-day spiritual preparation begins on Tuesday, with a large number of pilgrims expected on the feast day itself. Nearly 80 police officers are ensuring their safety, and two vessels have been prepared for those arriving by the Danube.
All preparations in Aljmaš have been completed for the traditional pilgrimage marking the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The rich spiritual program begins on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, and will culminate on the feast day itself, August 15, when six Masses will be celebrated throughout the day.
According to HRT's report, parish priest Tomislav Ćurić expressed satisfaction that many pilgrims are expected to come to Aljmaš again this year and thanked all volunteers and collaborators involved in the preparations.
The spiritual preparation begins on Tuesday, August 11, and lasts for three days. Each evening, Holy Mass will be celebrated at 7:00 PM, with appropriate devotions before Mass. Following the Masses, Eucharistic adoration is planned, along with prayers for healing and spiritual renewal.
The program on the eve of the feast, Friday, August 14, is particularly rich. At 5:30 PM, the Stations of the Cross devotion begins at the Aljmaš Calvary. The evening Mass is scheduled for 7:00 PM, while at 9:00 PM, the traditional large candlelight procession will set off from the Church of Our Lady to the Chapel of Our Lady under the Linden Tree. A Mass for young people, animated by members of the Cenacolo community, is scheduled for 10:00 PM.
On the feast day itself, August 15, Masses will be celebrated at 6:00, 8:00, 10:00 AM, 12:00, 4:00, and 6:00 PM. The main celebration at 10:00 AM will be led by Đakovo-Osijek Archbishop Đuro Hranić. The noon Mass will be dedicated to the victims of the Homeland War and deceased Croatian veterans, while the evening Mass at 6:00 PM is intended for young families, parents, and children and will include a special blessing.
Nearly 80 police officers and 30 vehicles have been deployed to ensure the safety of pilgrims. Special attention has been given to those arriving in Aljmaš by the Danube, two vessels have been secured for their safe arrival. The security of the event will be further monitored by drone systems. For those arriving on foot or by bicycle, a new safe path has been provided.
Organizers appeal to all pilgrims to be cautious, patient, and to follow the instructions of the services, so that the celebration of the Assumption passes in a safe and dignified atmosphere.
